The Outback

The Territory’s Outback invokes a spirit of exploration and freedom – experience this diverse region’s wide open spaces and cobalt blue skies.

The Outback is what defines the Northern Territory as one of the most unique environments on the planet. The vast ochre deserts, spectacular skies, surreal rocky outcrops and deep, snaking canyons of this sparse and iconic landscape reward visitors with an unforgettable Territory experience.

Sunrise & sunset

Witness the red desert sands and famous rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta/The Olgas as their colours shift with the rising and setting sun. Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park presents sheer red rock faces towering above dense forests of palms along with a wide range of native plants and animals.

Ancient lands

Venture out from Alice Springs to the remote Finke Gorge National Park, home to ancient Aboriginal sites and the 350 million year-old Finke River – one of the oldest rivers in the world. On either side of Alice, the hiking trails, four-wheel drive tracks, swimming holes and camping spots of the MacDonnell Ranges also make for an enormous adventure playground.

Adventure bound

Learn about the indigenous culture, mining history and original cattle kings of Tennant Creek and the Barkly Tablelands. Discover the iconic Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles, or head off for adventure, camping under the stars, exploring the network of bush tracks, and cooling off in the peaceful waterholes of the Davenport Range National Park.

Discover the depth and diversity of the Outback by 4WD or on two feet. The lunar landscapes, lush forests and remote waterholes teeming with native wildlife all make for a long list of must-do adventures and must-see Territory destinations.