Lightning Ridge Blue Mountains Hunter Valley Outback NSW Tour

This 3 day Lightning Ridge Blue Mountains Hunter Valley Outback NSW Tour from Sydney gives you the real outback and country NSW experience plus Blue Mountains with Katoomba, Echo Point and Govetts Leap, wine tasting in Hunter Valley, and Mudgee wine and gold country.

Lightning Ridge Opals Tour

Sydney to Outback New South Wales ( NSW ) tour via Blue Mountains, Mudgee wines, Wollomi National Park, Warrumbungle Mountains, Lightning Ridge opals, hot springs, Mt Kaputar, Hunter Valley 

• Wildlife in the wild. See emus, kangaroos, reptiles, wallabies, stunning native birds and much more
• Buy opal at traders prices from the source at Lightning Ridge
• Meet real Australian’s and local Aboriginal people in communities
• Silo Art Trail art includes Dunedoo, Gulargambone, Coonamble, Walgett, Gunnedah, Quirindi 
• John Murray Art Gallery at Lightning Ridge
  
• Other tour options include Broken Hill, Lake Mungo NP, Gundabooka National Park, Bourke

 3 day Lightning Ridge Blue Mountains Hunter Valley Outback NSW Tour

– itinerary

Day 1 – Depart your Sydney hotel or accommodation at 730 am and enjoy the fresh early light and air of the spectacular Blue Mountains. Visit Katoomba, Leura, Echo Point, Three Sisters, Jamieson Valley (Grand Canyon) and Cliff Drive over Megalong Valley before a morning tea at Govett’s Leap near Blackheath, overlooking the Grosse Valley and spectacular Blue Gum Forest in the Blue Mountains.

Descent the 1500 metres of the Great Dividing Range and from Pearson’s Lookout view the Blue Mountains region and Wollomi National Park in this World Heritage area. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a Winery in Mudgee and enjoy wine  tasting. Travel on through old gold mining towns, and historic Gulgong – the town on the $10 note. Travel via Dunedoo to Coonabarabran for overnight.. Dine at own expense in town (numerous options) and consider a visit to the Sky Watch Observatory to view the night sky through their giant telescope. This area experiences some of the clearest skies in the world, hence the nearby Siding Springs Observatory. Enjoy motel style accommodation this evening.

Day 2: After a healthy breakfast see wild kangaroos and emus as we travel through Warrumbungle National Park. We take a short bushwalk to see the spectacular view of the Breadknife and surrounding mountains in this unique volcanic region. Consider a close-up visit to the large 3.9-metre diameter optical telescope at the Anglo-Australian Telescope facility at Siding Springs in the Warrumbungles. Siding Spring Observatory houses over 60 telescopes from institutions across the world including, Korea, America, the UK, Poland, Hungary, Germany and Russia. Travel through rural grain producing towns, and see the innovative and large water tower and silo artworks Arrive Lightning Ridge, home to Australia’s beautiful black opal. Visit an underground mine and see how the mining community lives. Buy your opals direct from the Opal Cutters and Wholesalers at huge discounts to City  prices.

Day 3: Depart Lightning Ridge for the 800 km return journey to Sydney via huge sheep stations and some of the largest fields of wheat and cotton in the world. Witness the majestic 1520 m high Mt Kaputar dominating this ancient volcanic landscape.  Lunch in a “Country Pub”. Travel on through the Liverpool Ranges, and Scone, the heart of horse breeding country in Australia. Time permitting enjoy some wine tasting in the Hunter Valley before arrival in Sydney approximately 7:00 pm

Inclusions –

• Motel style en-suite accommodation
• All meals except 2 dinners own cost in restaurants
• Silo Art Trail art includes Dunedoo, Gulargambone, Coonamble, Walgett, Gunnedah, Quirindi 
• John Murray Art Gallery at Lightning Ridge
• Wine tastings
• Wild wildlife!!
• Discount opal buying
• Aboriginal art and real Aussie county folk
• National Parks entry fees.
• Tour price supports Outback Kids Fund & Nature Care projects.

BOOK HERE Or Call 0417 244 600 or 1300 763 188

Lightning Ridge Blue Mountains Hunter Valley Outback NSW Tour

This 4 day Lightning Ridge Blue Mountains Hunter Valley Outback NSW Tour from Sydney gives you the real outback and country NSW experience plus the Blue Mountains with Katoomba, Echo Point and Govetts Leap, wine tasting in Hunter Valley, and Mudgee wine and gold country.

The 4 day tour is more relaxed than the 3-day tour and has an extra night allowed on return from Lightning Ridge giving an extra 1/2 day for opal shopping and a mine tour, plus overnight in rural NSW New England region

Lightning Ridge Opals Tours

Sydney to Outback New South Wales ( NSW )  tour via the Blue Mountains, Mudgee wines, Wollomi National Park, Warrumbungle Mountains, Lightning Ridge opals, hot springs, Mt Kaputar, Hunter Valley 

• Wildlife in the wild. See emus, kangaroos, reptiles, wallabies, stunning native birds and much more
• Buy opal at traders prices from the source at Lightning Ridge
• Meet real Australian’s and local Aboriginal people in communities
• Other tour options include Broken Hill, Lake Mungo NP, Gundabooka National Park, Bourke

 4 day Lightning Ridge Blue Mountains Hunter Valley Outback NSW Tour

– itinerary

Day 1 – Depart your Sydney hotel or accommodation at 730 am and enjoy the fresh early light and air of the spectacular Blue Mountains. Visit Katoomba, Leura, Echo Point, Three Sisters, Jamieson Valley (Grand Canyon) and Cliff Drive over Megalong Valley before a morning tea at Govett’s Leap near Blackheath, overlooking the Grose Valley and spectacular Blue Gum Forest in the Blue Mountains.

Descent the 1500 metres of the Great Dividing Range and from Pearson’s Lookout view the Blue Mountains region and Wollomi National Park in this World Heritage area. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a Winery in Mudgee and enjoy wine tasting. Travel on through old gold mining towns, and historic Gulgong – the town that was on the $10 note. Dine at own expense in town (numerous options) and consider a visit to the Sky Watch Observatory to view the night sky through their giant telescope. This area experiences some of the clearest skies in the world, hence the nearby Siding Springs Observatory. Enjoy motel accommodation this evening.in Coonabarabran

Day 2: After a healthy breakfast see wild kangaroos and emus as we travel through Warrumbungle National Park. On the 4 day tour we have time to take a short bushwalk to see the spectacular view of the Breadknife and surrounding mountains in this unique volcanic region. Also available is a close-up visit to the large 3.9-metre diameter optical telescope at the Anglo-Australian Telescope facility at Siding Springs in the Warrumbungles. Siding Spring Observatory houses over 60 telescopes from institutions across the world including, Korea, America, the UK, Poland, Hungary, Germany and Russia. Travel through rural grain producing towns, and see the innovative and large water tower and silo artworks Arrive Lightning Ridge, home to Australia’s beautiful black opal. Visit an underground opal mine and see how the mining community lives. Buy your opals direct from the Opal Cutters and Wholesalers at huge discounts to City prices. Enjoy a swim in the healing waters of the hot Artesian spring baths. Overnight Lightning Ridge motel.

Day 3: Depart Lightning Ridge for the 650 km return journey to the Hunter Valley, via huge sheep stations and some of the largest fields of wheat and cotton in the world. Witness the majestic 1520 m high Mt Kaputar dominating this ancient volcanic landscape.  Lunch in a “Country Pub”. Travel on through the Liverpool Ranges, and Scone, the heart of horse breeding country in Australia. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon wine tasting before overnight in Hunter Valley 

Day 4: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in the Hunter Valley - or consider a dawin hot air Balloon Flight over the Hunter Valley (see details in booking process) Then options include more wine tasting, or visit the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park to see Koalas, Kangaroos, Wombats and many more Aussie wildlife favourites. Then  travel the 2 hours via freeway and scenic Hawkesbury River crossing to Sydney arriving at a time that suits you

Inclusions –

• Sydney CBD or CBD hotel or airport pickup and return
• 3 nights Motel style accommodation
• All meals except 3 dinners own cost in restaurants
• Wine tastings
• Wild wildlife!!
• Discount opal buying
• Aboriginal art and real Aussie county folk
• National Parks entry fees.
• Tour price supports Outback Kids Fund & Nature Care projects.

BOOK HERE Or Call 0417 244 600 or 1300 763 188

9 Day NSW Outback Lightning Ridge Bourke Broken Hill Mungo Silo Art

Explore the Far West of NSW with Silo Art, Mungo National Park, Broken Hill, Darling River Run from Wilcannia to Bourke with a visit to White Cliffs opals fields, Bourke river cruise, Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina Sydney Return 9 DAYS

Highlights

• Sydney to Mungo & Gundabooka National Parks & Aboriginal rock art,  Broken Hill, Bourke, Lightning Ridge and return to Sydney 
• Blue Mountains & Three Sisters
  
• Portland Silo Art
• Grenfell Silo Art
• Weethalle Silo Art
• Mungo National Park & China Walls sunset tour
• Menindee – Lakes & Burke & Wills Camp
• Broken Hill & Silverton - Pro Hart Gallery, mine tour, history, Mining & railway museums
• Return optional tours or meets rail to Sydney or Adelaide
• White Cliffs Opal fields
• Darling River Run via Pooncarie, Menindee Lakes, Wilcannia Tilpa & Louth
• Burke and Wills campsite Menindee Lakes
  
• Gundabooka National Park & Aboriginal rock art
• Bourke - river cruise and history
• Brewarrinna - ancient fish traps 40,000 years old
• Siding Springs Telescope
  
• Warrumbungle Ranges
• Coolah and the Black Stump
  
• Goulburn River National park
• Hunter Valley 

Our tours are small group adventures for people who love to connect with regional Australia and particularly regional and outback New South Wales. Our small group tours travel in Land Cruiser vehicles or we do have a comfortable minibus for groups up to 10 people

We explore some of The Silo At Trail which is transforming Australian regional towns. Join us on an adventure through rural Australia to witness these great masterpieces and the local hospitality.

Options include a day tour to Mutawintji National Park for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history.

Day 1 –  Our tour takes us through some lovely country towns and regional areas, from Sydney to Broken Hill and return includes stunning views from Echo Point and the Three Sisters at Katoomba (always a marvellous delight) then to decent Victoria Pass to Lithgow. Moving on to Bathurst and home of the fascinating history of the gold rush and Cobb & Co coaches.

We visit  Canowindra, ballooning capital of Australia and the Museum of Fishes – viewing ancient fish fossils from this area that was once an inland sea. Then Cowra (and railway roundhouse for the keen). Onwards we travel via Weddin Mountains National Park, visiting the popular Grenfell Wheat silos completed in 2019.  Driving West toward Rankin Springs the country spreads and the sky seems to get bigger we know the perfect place to see our first Big Sky sunset. Overnight West Wyalong

Day 2 – Weethalle Silos Rankine Springs Hay Balranald Mungo National Park

Beyond West Wyalong to the well-known Weethalle Silos. then Rankine Springs, Hay and Balranald. Hay was one of Australia’s major wool growing areas, and a visit to the Shear Outback centre takes to you into the rich life in the wool industry in early NSW. From historic Balranald into the desert region and Mungo National Park to explore this ancient lakebed environment. Here the stories of the oldest known ritual burial in the world. Discover the Walls of China and megafauna history of the area, explore the ancient Willandra Lakes and the historic sheep station and large and impressive shearing shed that served the area for around 100 years. Overnight Mungo Lodge, Mungo National Park.

Days 3 – Travel the Darling River via Pooncarie, Menindee and Kinchega National Park. Explore the memorial to Burke & Wills at their campsite on the lakeshore and a haven for wetland birds. Into Broken Hill and dinner at the famous & delicious Mario’s Palace Hotel (full of the original murals from Priscilla Queen of the Desert fame) Overnight Broken Hill.

Day 4 – Explore Broken Hill highlights (your choice) options include Pro Hart Gallery, The Line of Lode Lookout, a mine tour, and Miners Memorial plus Desert Sculptures or Mutawintji National Park (optional extra day tour) for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history.

Day 5 - Depart Broken Hill through to White Cliffs and explore the opal mines history, and maybe find some local opal bargains. Now to the Darling River Run via Wilcannia, once a bustling port for the wool laden paddle steamers, now with its beautiful and historic sandstone public architecture. On up the Darling River Run to river towns of Louth & Tilpa - with a cuppa and tour at the famous Dunlop Station (locals willing). Dunlop Station is an historic sheep station property located on the Darling River. Once a million acres it has a 45 stand shearing shed which was the first shed to have mechanical shears. Check out the paddle boat and big wool and sheep station history of this region. following the Darling, we visit the historic towns of Tipla and Louth before Gundabooka National Park. The park surrounds Mt Gundabooka and has unique Aboriginal Rock art to explore, including a pleasant and easy walk through this isolated National Park. Back on the main track, we head for Overnight in Bourke BLD

Day 6 - Bourke

The impressive ‘Back O’Bourke’ centre showcases the early days of Bourke and beyond. Discover the Outback life of Henry Lawson, and the search for an inland sea. Marvel at the stories of the ‘women of the west’ including Nancy Bird Walton, who flew an air ambulance here in the 1930’s. Stop by the 110 year old Morrall’s bakery for a pie or pastry, follow the Heritage Trail through town, or visit the grave of Fred Hollows. Cruise along the Darling on the Jandra, a historic paddleboat to recall the river boat history. In recent years Bourke has undergone a remarkable revitalisation and is now a shining light in the remote west of NSW. Take a cultural walk to learn about the history of Aboriginal people in Bourke and the personal connection formed with the land and it’s richness. Tonight we’ll join a campfire dinner under a coolabah tree, (if available) under a starlit sky, with plenty of music, poetry, and storytelling all about outback of Australia. Overnight Bourke. Meals: BLD

Day 7 - We head for Brewarrina on the Barwon River, and the 40,000-year-old Aboriginal Fish Traps - still working. The Brewarrina fish traps are one of the oldest man-made structures on earth. This elaborate network of rock weirs and pools stretches for around half a kilometre along the riverbed and was built by ancient tribes, to catch fish as they swam upstream. Travel on via Walgett, and visit the local museum with its wool industry heritage, then to Lightning Ridge for an afternoon experience of the Chambers of the Black Hand Opal Mine Art Carving Tour and a tour of the region and opal traders in this fascinating outback town. Overnight Lightning Ridge  Meals: BLD

Day 8 - Heading south to Macquarie Marshes a UNESCO registered site of outstanding value as one of the most important wetland areas in the world. It is one of the most crucial breeding sites for waterbirds in Australia, with 77 species, along with over 150 other birds, as well as fish, turtles, frogs, snakes and mammals. We travel on to another  Silo Art in Coonamble then take the scenic road to the beautiful Warrumbungles for a delightful bush walk with wonderful views of The Breadknife. We have a tour of Siding Springs Observatory, home to Australia’s largest telescope. We have an optional extra cost guided tour of the night sky this evening. The Warrumbungles is Australia’s only Dark Sky Park, meaning it is our only Internationally recognised park with an exceptional quality of starry nights and an environment specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and public enjoyment. Overnight Coonabarabran Meals: BLD

Day 9 - Coonabarabran Black Stump Coolah Goulburn River NP, Hunter Valley Sydney

Drive through Coolah, one of several towns to claim bragging rights as the home of the legendary Black Stump. It was here that the colloquial saying ‘Beyond the Black Stump’, meaning ‘beyond the limits of civilisation,’ is said to have originated.

On the way to Denman, we pass through Cassilis and Merriwa, passing Collaroy, a once-grand sheep station of this productive area,. Merriwa has more silo art, then on via spectacular rock formations, Sandy Hollow and the winding Goulburn River to Denman, the Hunter Valley and return to Sydney by approx 7 pm (delivered to your door if pre-arranged)

All tours require a minimum of 2 passengers for departure. If you require a booking for 1 person please call us directly to confirm minimum numbers have been met prior to booking online.

Inclusions –

• 8 nights superior Motel Accommodation - twin share or single supplement available - see booking link details
  
• Genuine small group tour vehicle - usually 2-4 people in 4WD GXL Landcruisers
• Professional Driver Guide
• All meals
• Jandra Paddleboat cruise at Bourke
• Wild wildlife!!
• National Parks entry fees.
  
• Tour price supports Outback Kids & Nature Care projects.

• BOOK HERE Or Call 0417 244 600 or 1300 763 188

Note video on this page may show some locations from 12 day tour not incuded in this 9-day tour

Tour may run in the opposite direction

8 Day NSW Outback Lightning Ridge Bourke Broken Hill Mungo Silo Art

Explore the Far West of NSW with Silo Art, Mungo National Park, Gundabooka Rock Art, Mootwingee NP option, Broken Hill, Darling River Run from Wilcannia to Bourke with a visit to White Cliffs opals fields, Bourke river cruise, Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina Sydney to Broken Hill timed with rail return option. 8 days

Our tours are small group adventures for people who love to connect with regional Australia and particularly regional and outback New South Wales. Our small group tours travel in Land Cruiser vehicles

Highlights

• Sydney to Mungo & Gundabooka National Parks & Aboriginal rock art,  Broken Hill, Bourke, Lightning Ridge
• Return by Rail from Broken Hill or on to Innaminka and the Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Cameron Corner or Wilpena Pound & Lake Eyre
  
• Blue Mountains & Three Sisters
  
• Portland Silo Art
• Mungo National Park & China Walls sunset tour
• Menindee – Lakes & Burke & Wills Campsite
  
• Broken Hill & Silverton - Pro Hart Gallery, mine tour, history, Mining & railway museums
• Return optional tours - Meets rail to Sydney or Adelaide
• White Cliffs Opal fields
• Darling River Run via Pooncarie, Menindee Lakes, Wilcannia Tilpa & Louth
• Gundabooka National Park & Aboriginal rock art
• Bourke - river cruise and history
• Brewarrinna - ancient fish traps 40,000 years old
• Siding Springs Telescope
  
• Warrumbungle Ranges NP
• Optional day tour to Mutawintji National Park for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history.

Day 1 —- SYDNEY, MUDGEE GULGONG, COONABARABRAN

Depart Sydney via Bells Line of Road, via Mt Tomah with spectacular views of the Grose Valley, and look at the Zig Zag Railway at Clarence. From Lithgow we are now a short drive to Mudgee where we'll taste some local wines and have lunch in a vineyard. BL

Check out Poets Corner, on the way to Gulgong - the town that was on the $10 note. This small village from the gold rush days is a delight to take in the regional history and historic buildings. We travel via Dunedoo, known for its poetry, hospitality, and name, then check out the murals of Mendooran before overnight Coonabarabran LD

Day 2 — Warrumbungle Bushwalk, Macquarie Marshes,

The Warrumbungles are calling and we take an approximate 1 hour walk with views of the spectacular breadknife from Camp Blackman. Burbie Canyon walking track is a gentle 2km stroll through a sandstone gorge and is particularly popular for birdwatching. On return we have a tour of Siding Springs Observatory, home to Australia’s largest optical telescope.

Heading west now via silo art in Coonamble then to Macquarie Marshes a UNESCO registered site of outstanding value as one of the most important wetland areas in the world. It is one of the most crucial breeding sites for waterbirds in Australia, with 77 species, along with over 150 other birds, as well as fish, turtles, frogs, snakes and mammals. Travel on via Walgett, and visit the local museum with its wool industry heritage, then to Lightning Ridge for an afternoon experience of the Chambers of the Black Hand Opal Mine Art Carving Tour and a tour of the region and opal traders in this fascinating outback town. Overnight Lightning Ridge  Meals: BLD

Day 3 - Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina fish traps, Bourke

Discover more of Lightning Ridge, check out the opal dealers and famous bore baths. We head for Brewarrina on the Barwon River, and the 40,000-year-old Aboriginal Fish Traps - still working. The Brewarrina fish traps are one of the oldest man-made structures on earth. This elaborate network of rock weirs and pools stretches for around half a kilometre along the riverbed and was built by ancient tribes, to catch fish as they swam upstream. Overnight Bourke. Meals: BLD

Day 4— BOURKE, Cruise on The Darling On The Jandra paddleboat, Gundabooka National Park

The impressive ‘Back O’Bourke’ centre showcases the early days of Bourke and beyond. Discover the ‘Outback’ life of Henry Lawson, the search for an inland sea. Marvel at the stories of the ‘women of the west’ including Nancy Bird Walton, who flew an air ambulance here in the 1930’s. Stop by the 110 year old Morrall’s bakery for a pie or pastry, follow the Heritage Trail through town, or visit the grave of Fred Hollows. Cruise along the Darling on the Jandra, an historic paddle boat to recall the river boat history. In recent years Bourke has undergone a remarkable revitalisation and is now a shining light in positive indigenous opportunities. Take a cultural walk to learn about the history of Aboriginal people in Bourke and the personal connection formed with the land and it’s richness. Now to Gundabooka National Park which surrounds Mt Gundabooka and has unique Aboriginal Rock art to explore, including a pleasant and easy walk through this isolated National Park.Overnight Bourke. Meals: BLD

Day 5 — Darling River Run to White Cliffs

From here to the Darling River Run to Wilcannia, once a bustling port for the wool-laden paddle steamers, now with its beautiful and historic sandstone public architecture. Follow the Darling River Run down stream via river towns of Louth & Tilpa - with a cuppa and tour at the famous Dunlop Station if operating. Dunlop Station is an historic sheep station property located on the Darling River. Once a million acres it has a 45 stand shearing shed which was the first shed to have mechanical shears. with the check out the paddle boat and big wool and sheep station history of this region. Travel to White Cliffs and explore the opal mines history, and maybe find some local opal bargains. overnight White Cliffs. BLD

Day 6 -  White Cliffs, Burke & Wills camp, Kinchega National Park, Mungo National Park, Wilcannia, Menindee Lakes

Explore White Cliffs opal fields and maybe pick up a few bargains from the numerous opal dealers in town. We then head for Wilcannia and Menindee Lakes via the 2nd leg of the Darling River Run to Menindee. Explore the memorial to Burke & Wills camp on the lakeshore and a haven for wetland birds. We visit the picturesque lakes and the grand and restored Kinchega  Woolshed in Kinchega National Park with beautiful sweeping river bends. We follow the river further south to Pooncarie and Mungo National Park. Optional Sunset tour overlooking the Mungo lunar landscape Overnight Mungo Lodge, Mungo National Park. Meals: BLD

Day 7 - Mungo National Park, Broken Hill 

Explore Mungo National Park including the Walls of China and this ancient lakebed that was home to megafauna of the area. Learn of Mungo man and Mungo Woman, known as the oldest known ritual burial in the world. We travel the Mungo circuit to explore the ancient Willandra Lakes and the historic sheep station and large and impressive shearing shed that served the area for around 100 years. After lunch, we travel to Broken Hill for a view from The Line of Lode Lookout and Miners Memorial above Broken Hill, before dinner at the famous & delicious Mario’s Palace Hotel (full of murals from Priscilla Queen of the Desert fame) Overnight Broken Hill. Meals: BLD

Day 8 – Broken Hill highlights

Explore Broken Hill highlights (your choice) including Pro Hart Gallery, plus Desert Sculptures or extra cost for an optional tour to Mutawintji National Park for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history. Meals: BL

Tour completes this evening so accommodation own arrangements, or we can book you in. Ask for us for a farewell meal. Ask about add on tours

Train to Sydney departs weekly on Tuesday (usually the next day after 2 nights in Broken Hill)

This tour often Links with our Cameron Corner Country tour on to Innaminka and the Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Cameron Corner or Wilpena Pound & Lake Eyre.

All tours require a minimum of 2 passengers for departure. If you require a booking for 1 person please call us directly to confirm minimum numbers have been met prior to booking online.

Inclusions –

• 7 nights Motel Accommodation - twin share or single supplement available - see booking link details
  
• Genuine small group tour vehicle - usually 2-4 people in 4WD GXL Landcruisers
• Professional Driver Guide
• All meals
• Jandra Paddleboat cruise at Bourke
• Wild wildlife!!
• National Parks entry fees.
  
• Tour price supports Outback Kids & Nature Care projects.

• BOOK HERE Or Call 0417 244 600 or 1300 763 188

Note video on this page may show some locations from 12 day tour not included in this tour

10 Day NSW Outback Lightning Ridge Bourke Broken Hill Mungo Silo Art

Explore the Far West of NSW with Silo Art, Mungo National Park, Gundabooka Rock Art, Mootwingee NP option, Broken Hill, Darling River Run from Wilcannia to Bourke with a visit to White Cliffs opals fields, Bourke river cruise, Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina Sydney to Broken Hill timed with rail return option. 8 days or return by Cobar, Nyngan, Dubbo to Sydney 10 days

Our tours are small group adventures for people who love to connect with regional Australia and particularly regional and outback New South Wales. Our small group tours travel in Land Cruiser vehicles

Highlights

• Sydney to Mungo & Gundabooka National Parks & Aboriginal rock art,  Broken Hill, Bourke, Lightning Ridge
• Return by 4WD or Rail option from Broken Hill or on to our 4 day tour to Innaminka and the Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Cameron Corner or Wilpena Pound & Lake Eyre
  
• Blue Mountains & Three Sisters
  
• Portland Silo Art
• Mungo National Park & China Walls sunset tour
• Menindee – Lakes & Burke & Wills Campsite
  
• Broken Hill & Silverton - Pro Hart Gallery, mine tour, history, Mining & railway museums
• Return optional tours - Meets rail to Sydney or Adelaide
• White Cliffs Opal fields
• Darling River Run via Pooncarie, Menindee Lakes, Wilcannia Tilpa & Louth
• Gundabooka National Park & Aboriginal rock art
• Bourke - river cruise and history
• Brewarrinna - ancient fish traps 40,000 years old
• Siding Springs Telescope
  
• Warrumbungle Ranges NP
• Optional day tour to Mutawintji National Park for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history.

Day 1 —- SYDNEY, MUDGEE GULGONG, COONABARABRAN

Depart Sydney via Bells Line of Road, via Mt Tomah with spectacular views of the Grose Valley, and look at the Zig Zag Railway at Clarence. From Lithgow, we are now a short drive to Mudgee where we'll taste some local wines and have lunch in a vineyard. BL

Check out Poets Corner, on the way to Gulgong - the town that was on the $10 note. This small village from the gold rush days is a delight to take in the regional history and historic buildings. We travel via Dunedoo, known for its poetry, hospitality, and name, then check out the murals of Mendooran before overnight Coonabarabran LD

Day 2 — Warrumbungle Bushwalk, Macquarie Marshes,

The Warrumbungles are calling and we take an approximate 1 hour walk with views of the spectacular breadknife from Camp Blackman. Burbie Canyon walking track is a gentle 2km stroll through a sandstone gorge and is particularly popular for birdwatching. On return we have a tour of Siding Springs Observatory, home to Australia’s largest optical telescope.

Heading west now via silo art in Coonamble then to Macquarie Marshes a UNESCO registered site of outstanding value as one of the most important wetland areas in the world. It is one of the most crucial breeding sites for waterbirds in Australia, with 77 species, along with over 150 other birds, as well as fish, turtles, frogs, snakes and mammals. Travel on via Walgett, and visit the local museum with its wool industry heritage, then to Lightning Ridge for an afternoon experience of the Chambers of the Black Hand Opal Mine Art Carving Tour and a tour of the region and opal traders in this fascinating outback town. Overnight Lightning Ridge  Meals: BLD

Day 3 - Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina fish traps, Bourke

Discover more of Lightning Ridge, check out the opal dealers and famous bore baths. We head for Brewarrina on the Barwon River, and the 40,000-year-old Aboriginal Fish Traps - still working. The Brewarrina fish traps are one of the oldest man-made structures on earth. This elaborate network of rock weirs and pools stretches for around half a kilometre along the riverbed and was built by ancient tribes, to catch fish as they swam upstream. Overnight Bourke. Meals: BLD

Day 4— BOURKE, Cruise on The Darling On The Jandra paddleboat, Gundabooka National Park

The impressive ‘Back O’Bourke’ centre showcases the early days of Bourke and beyond. Discover the ‘Outback’ life of Henry Lawson, the search for an inland sea. Marvel at the stories of the ‘women of the west’ including Nancy Bird Walton, who flew an air ambulance here in the 1930’s. Stop by the 110 year old Morrall’s bakery for a pie or pastry, follow the Heritage Trail through town, or visit the grave of Fred Hollows. Cruise along the Darling on the Jandra, an historic paddle boat to recall the river boat history. In recent years Bourke has undergone a remarkable revitalisation and is now a shining light in positive indigenous opportunities. Take a cultural walk to learn about the history of Aboriginal people in Bourke and the personal connection formed with the land and it’s richness. Now to Gundabooka National Park which surrounds Mt Gundabooka and has unique Aboriginal Rock art to explore, including a pleasant and easy walk through this isolated National Park.Overnight Bourke. Meals: BLD

Day 5 — Darling River Run to White Cliffs

From here to the Darling River Run to Wilcannia, once a bustling port for the wool-laden paddle steamers, now with its beautiful and historic sandstone public architecture. Follow the Darling River Run down stream via river towns of Louth & Tilpa - with a cuppa and tour at the famous Dunlop Station if operating. Dunlop Station is an historic sheep station property located on the Darling River. Once a million acres it has a 45 stand shearing shed which was the first shed to have mechanical shears. with the check out the paddle boat and big wool and sheep station history of this region. Travel to White Cliffs and explore the opal mines history, and maybe find some local opal bargains. overnight White Cliffs. BLD

Day 6 -  White Cliffs, Burke & Wills camp, Kinchega National Park, Mungo National Park, Wilcannia, Menindee Lakes

Explore White Cliffs opal fields and maybe pick up a few bargains from the numerous opal dealers in town. We then head for Wilcannia and Menindee Lakes via the 2nd leg of the Darling River Run to Menindee. Explore the memorial to Burke & Wills camp on the lakeshore and a haven for wetland birds. We visit the picturesque lakes and the grand and restored Kinchega  Woolshed in Kinchega National Park with beautiful sweeping river bends. We follow the river further south to Pooncarie and Mungo National Park. Optional Sunset tour overlooking the Mungo lunar landscape Overnight Mungo Lodge, Mungo National Park. Meals: BLD

Day 7 - Mungo National Park, Broken Hill 

Explore Mungo National Park including the Walls of China and this ancient lakebed that was home to megafauna of the area. Learn of Mungo man and Mungo Woman, known as the oldest known ritual burial in the world. We travel the Mungo circuit to explore the ancient Willandra Lakes and the historic sheep station and large and impressive shearing shed that served the area for around 100 years. After lunch, we travel to Broken Hill for a view from The Line of Lode Lookout and Miners Memorial above Broken Hill, before dinner at the famous & delicious Mario’s Palace Hotel (full of murals from Priscilla Queen of the Desert fame) Overnight Broken Hill. Meals: BLD

Day 8 – Broken Hill highlights

Explore Broken Hill highlights (your choice) including Pro Hart Gallery, plus Desert Sculptures or extra cost for an optional tour to Mutawintji National Park for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history. Meals: BLD

Day 9 - Now to Wilcannia, with once a bustling port on the Darling River for
the wool trade of paddle steamers, now with its beautiful and historic
sandstone public architecture. Heading east we visit the Aboriginal rock art site of Mt Grenfell, before Cobar where we check out the mining museum, before overnight in the historic flood town of Nyngan, close to Macquarie Marshes.

Day 10 - Travel through NSW heartlands on the Great Western Highway via Dubbo "the Hub of the West ", scenic Orange, and historic Bathurst. We take the scenic route via via Lithgow, and Victoria Pass before arrival back in Sydney around 6 pm

This tour can be 8 days to Broken Hill and often links with our 4 day Cameron Corner Country tour from Broken Hill to Innaminka and the Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Cameron Corner or Wilpena Pound & Lake Eyre.

All tours require a minimum of 2 passengers for departure. If you require a booking for 1 person please call us directly to confirm minimum numbers have been met prior to booking online.

Inclusions –

• 9 nights Motel Accommodation - twin share or single supplement available - see booking link details
  
• Genuine small group tour vehicle - usually 2-4 people in 4WD GXL Landcruisers
• Professional Driver Guide
• All meals
• Jandra Paddleboat cruise at Bourke
• Wild wildlife!!
• National Parks entry fees.
  
• Tour price supports Outback Kids & Nature Care projects.

• BOOK HERE Or Call 0417 244 600 or 1300 763 188

Note video on this page may show some locations from 12 day tour not included in this tour

8 Day NSW Outback Lightning Ridge Bourke Broken Hill Mungo Silo Art

Explore the Far West of NSW with Silo Art, Mungo National Park, Gundabooka Rock Art, Mootwingee NP option, Broken Hill, Darling River Run from Wilcannia to Bourke with a visit to White Cliffs opals fields, Bourke river cruise, Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina Sydney to Broken Hill timed with rail return option. 8 days

Our tours are small group adventures for people who love to connect with regional Australia and particularly regional and outback New South Wales. Our small group tours travel in Land Cruiser vehicles

Highlights

• Sydney to Mungo & Gundabooka National Parks & Aboriginal rock art,  Broken Hill, Bourke, Lightning Ridge
• Return by Rail from Broken Hill or on to Innaminka and the Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Cameron Corner or Wilpena Pound & Lake Eyre
  
• Blue Mountains & Three Sisters
  
• Portland Silo Art
• Mungo National Park & China Walls sunset tour
• Menindee – Lakes & Burke & Wills Campsite
  
• Broken Hill & Silverton - Pro Hart Gallery, mine tour, history, Mining & railway museums
• Return optional tours - Meets rail to Sydney or Adelaide
• White Cliffs Opal fields
• Darling River Run via Pooncarie, Menindee Lakes, Wilcannia Tilpa & Louth
• Gundabooka National Park & Aboriginal rock art
• Bourke - river cruise and history
• Brewarrinna - ancient fish traps 40,000 years old
• Siding Springs Telescope
  
• Warrumbungle Ranges NP
• Optional day tour to Mutawintji National Park for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history.

Day 1 —- SYDNEY, MUDGEE GULGONG, COONABARABRAN

Depart Sydney via Bells Line of Road, via Mt Tomah with spectacular views of the Grose Valley, and look at the Zig Zag Railway at Clarence. From Lithgow we are now a short drive to Mudgee where we'll taste some local wines and have lunch in a vineyard. BL

Check out Poets Corner, on the way to Gulgong - the town that was on the $10 note. This small village from the gold rush days is a delight to take in the regional history and historic buildings. We travel via Dunedoo, known for its poetry, hospitality, and name, then check out the murals of Mendooran before overnight Coonabarabran LD

Day 2 — Warrumbungle Bushwalk, Macquarie Marshes,

The Warrumbungles are calling and we take an approximate 1 hour walk with views of the spectacular breadknife from Camp Blackman. Burbie Canyon walking track is a gentle 2km stroll through a sandstone gorge and is particularly popular for birdwatching. On return we have a tour of Siding Springs Observatory, home to Australia’s largest optical telescope.

Heading west now via silo art in Coonamble then to Macquarie Marshes a UNESCO registered site of outstanding value as one of the most important wetland areas in the world. It is one of the most crucial breeding sites for waterbirds in Australia, with 77 species, along with over 150 other birds, as well as fish, turtles, frogs, snakes and mammals. Travel on via Walgett, and visit the local museum with its wool industry heritage, then to Lightning Ridge for an afternoon experience of the Chambers of the Black Hand Opal Mine Art Carving Tour and a tour of the region and opal traders in this fascinating outback town. Overnight Lightning Ridge  Meals: BLD

Day 3 - Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina fish traps, Bourke

Discover more of Lightning Ridge, check out the opal dealers and famous bore baths. We head for Brewarrina on the Barwon River, and the 40,000-year-old Aboriginal Fish Traps - still working. The Brewarrina fish traps are one of the oldest man-made structures on earth. This elaborate network of rock weirs and pools stretches for around half a kilometre along the riverbed and was built by ancient tribes, to catch fish as they swam upstream. Overnight Bourke. Meals: BLD

Day 4— BOURKE, Cruise on The Darling On The Jandra paddleboat, Gundabooka National Park

The impressive ‘Back O’Bourke’ centre showcases the early days of Bourke and beyond. Discover the ‘Outback’ life of Henry Lawson, the search for an inland sea. Marvel at the stories of the ‘women of the west’ including Nancy Bird Walton, who flew an air ambulance here in the 1930’s. Stop by the 110 year old Morrall’s bakery for a pie or pastry, follow the Heritage Trail through town, or visit the grave of Fred Hollows. Cruise along the Darling on the Jandra, an historic paddle boat to recall the river boat history. In recent years Bourke has undergone a remarkable revitalisation and is now a shining light in positive indigenous opportunities. Take a cultural walk to learn about the history of Aboriginal people in Bourke and the personal connection formed with the land and it’s richness. Now to Gundabooka National Park which surrounds Mt Gundabooka and has unique Aboriginal Rock art to explore, including a pleasant and easy walk through this isolated National Park.Overnight Bourke. Meals: BLD

Day 5 — Darling River Run to White Cliffs

From here to the Darling River Run to Wilcannia, once a bustling port for the wool-laden paddle steamers, now with its beautiful and historic sandstone public architecture. Follow the Darling River Run down stream via river towns of Louth & Tilpa - with a cuppa and tour at the famous Dunlop Station if operating. Dunlop Station is an historic sheep station property located on the Darling River. Once a million acres it has a 45 stand shearing shed which was the first shed to have mechanical shears. with the check out the paddle boat and big wool and sheep station history of this region. Travel to White Cliffs and explore the opal mines history, and maybe find some local opal bargains. overnight White Cliffs. BLD

Day 6 -  White Cliffs, Burke & Wills camp, Kinchega National Park, Mungo National Park, Wilcannia, Menindee Lakes

Explore White Cliffs opal fields and maybe pick up a few bargains from the numerous opal dealers in town. We then head for Wilcannia and Menindee Lakes via the 2nd leg of the Darling River Run to Menindee. Explore the memorial to Burke & Wills camp on the lakeshore and a haven for wetland birds. We visit the picturesque lakes and the grand and restored Kinchega  Woolshed in Kinchega National Park with beautiful sweeping river bends. We follow the river further south to Pooncarie and Mungo National Park. Optional Sunset tour overlooking the Mungo lunar landscape Overnight Mungo Lodge, Mungo National Park. Meals: BLD

Day 7 - Mungo National Park, Broken Hill 

Explore Mungo National Park including the Walls of China and this ancient lakebed that was home to megafauna of the area. Learn of Mungo man and Mungo Woman, known as the oldest known ritual burial in the world. We travel the Mungo circuit to explore the ancient Willandra Lakes and the historic sheep station and large and impressive shearing shed that served the area for around 100 years. After lunch, we travel to Broken Hill for a view from The Line of Lode Lookout and Miners Memorial above Broken Hill, before dinner at the famous & delicious Mario’s Palace Hotel (full of murals from Priscilla Queen of the Desert fame) Overnight Broken Hill. Meals: BL Dinner own purchase at Mario's Palace Hotel restaurant.

Day 8 – Broken Hill highlights

Tour completes after breakfast with hotel checkout at 10am. Join a Lake Eyre Tour with flights or free time to explore Broken Hill highlights (your choice) including Pro Hart Gallery, plus Desert Sculptures or extra cost for an optional tour to Mutawintji National Park for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history. Meals: B

Train to Sydney departs weekly on Tuesday or daily flights or coach services to capital cities

This tour often Links with our Cameron Corner Country tour on to Innaminka and the Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Cameron Corner or Wilpena Pound & Lake Eyre.

All tours require a minimum of 2 passengers for departure. If you require a booking for 1 person please call us directly to confirm minimum numbers have been met prior to booking online.

Inclusions –

• 7 nights Motel Accommodation - twin share or single supplement available - see booking link details
  
• Genuine small group tour vehicle - usually 2-4 people in 4WD GXL Landcruisers
• Professional Driver Guide
• All meals
• Jandra Paddleboat cruise at Bourke
• Wild wildlife!!
• National Parks entry fees.
  
• Tour price supports Outback Kids & Nature Care projects.

• BOOK HERE Or Call 0417 244 600 or 1300 763 188

Note video on this page may show some locations from 12 day tour not included in this tour

Cameron Corner Country with Mungo Lightning Ridge Dig Tree Innamincka Cooper Creek Eromanga Dinosaurs Macquarie Marshes, Hay, Darling River  Tibooburra  Bourke Darling River cruise Brewarrina Fish Traps Silo Art Outback NSW Tour 10 days from Sydney return Outback NSW Tour 12 days.

This is our poular 10 day tour with Mungo National park and Lightning Ridge overnights added

Note tour runs reverse of below

Small group (max. 4 per 4WD) to explore the Far West of NSW, South Australia and South Western Queensland.

Highlights

• Sydney to Broken Hill and return to Sydney
• Follow the Indian Pacific Rail route
• Parkes Radio Telescope  – The Dish
• Lake Cargelligo central NSW
• Menindee Lakes & Burke & Wills Campsite
• Packsaddle & Milparinka historic sites
• Tibooburra granites, pastoral, art and mining history
• Sturt National Park
• Cameron Corner Country - NSW SA QLD borders
• Innamincka overnight
• Burke and Wills Dig Tree and grave sites and Cooper Creek walks
• Dog Fence & SA/QLD/NSW State border
• Darling River via Menindee Lakes, Wilcannia
• Macquarie Marshes - great bird spotting and special extra time here
• Gulgong historic village
• Mudgee winetasting
• Silo Art Trail
  
• Blue Mountains

Itinerary -

add Mungo NP and Lightning Ridge2 nights + in reverse

Day 1 – Depart Sydney for the Blue Mountains with morning tea at stunning views from Govetts Leap over the Grose Valley. Moving on via Lithgow to Bathurst and the fascinating history of the gold rush and Cobb & Co coaches. We travel via Orange to near Parkes to visit The Dish Exhibition Centre at the giant CSIRO operated radiotelescope that brought the 1st moon landing images to Earth. Back in Parkes, and less famous is the King's Castle, Australia's very own Elvis Presley museum created by the original yellow Wiggle Greg Page.

Heading west we travel beside the Indian Pacific railway route and visit Manildra, Bogan Gate and Condobolin, in extensive Murray Darling Basin wheat, grain, sheep and cattle producing areas with a taste of the far west of NSW. Arrive for overnight at Lake Cargelligo.

Day 2 - We depart for Hillston, once an important stop for the stagecoaches of Cobb and Co. then on via Ivanhoe on the Cobb Highway, part of the Kidman Way. Arriving in Menindee we visit Kinchega National Park, to view the birdlife of Menindee Lakes then to nearby Burke and Wills camp on the banks of the Darling River. It's now a short hop to Broken Hill for dinner at the famous & delicious Mario’s Palace Hotel (full of the original murals from Priscilla Queen of the Desert fame) Overnight Broken Hill.

Day 3 – Explore Broken Hill highlights (your choice) options include Pro Hart Gallery, The Line of Lode Lookout, a mine tour, and Miners Memorial plus Desert Sculptures or Lake Mungo or Mutawintji National Parks (optional extra day tour) for exceptional rock art rich in Aboriginal history.

Day 4  -  Depart Broken Hill through the Barrier Range on the Silver City Highway via Packsaddle for Milparinka Appreciate this once thriving gold mining town at the restored Milparinka Heritage Precinct withh impressive new displays of early life and Sturts expedition. This area has been extensively mined for tin, lead and gold and operated large sheep stations. 

We can also visit Poole's Grave and Depot Glen, where explorer Charles Sturt spent 6 months in 1845 with a team of men, waiting for rain and cooler conditions. T. Time to explore Tibooburra, and the Outdoor Pastoral Museum. Flat-topped mesas and fantastic views characterise the central Jump-Up country while 450 million-year-old granite tors surrounding Tibooburra form part of the southern boundary of the Sturt National Park. We check out the impressive National Parks display and explore the nearby Granites walking track at the Dead Horse campground, and considerable town and mining history before overnight here at the Family Hotel or Granites Motel BLD

Day 5 - Heading into the Sturt Desert we cross the Grey Range with a stop and walk to the lake at Fort Grey. The park protects an enormous arid landscape of space and solitude. The rolling red-sand dunes of the Strzelecki desert ripple through the western section, graduating past surprising wetlands surrounded by white sands. After some great opportunities for photos, and to explore the work of the Wild Deserts project reintroducing locally extinct mammals to Sturt National Park in the far corner of outback NSW.

We cross through the dingo fence (Earths largest man made structure) to arrive at Cameron Corner on the 3 states corner (NSW, SA & QLD). After some refreshments at the "Corner Store" we travel via Bollards Lagoon, the Yellow Bus and Merty Merty station, crossing the sand hills of the Strzelecki Desert, and Strzelecki Creek as we head up the Strzelecki Track through the uncanny Moomba oil & gas fields. We pass the location of the now decommissioned geothermal power plant / hot rocks project of Geodynamics where Australia has the hottest rocks on Earth, outside of volcanic areas.

Geologists think that 10 million years ago, the granites in the Cooper Basin, South Australia, were exposed at the surface. Since that time they have been covered by a sedimentary layer, four kilometres thick, that acts as an overlying blanket; trapping the heat and preventing it from escaping to the atmosphere.

The heat is created by naturally occurring radiogenic decay that heats the granite to more than 250 degrees Celsius. The granite temperatures in Europe are only 180 degrees Celsius. The granite belt in the Cooper Basin is fractured in horizontal layers and these fractures naturally contain water at very high pressures – up to 5, 000 pounds per square inch.

Check out the birdlife at sunset on the flooding Cooper Creek before dinner at the Innamincka Hotel, adjacent the famous old Mission station, restored as National Parks offices.Overnight in Innamincka by the Cooper Creek

Day 6 - A chance for an early walk and look at creek side birdlife - and quirky Innamincka - before we visit Burke's Grave site.   We then drive approximately 70km further upstream crossing the SA/ QLD border and Nappa Merrie Station (once owned by S Kidman & Co) to the Burke & Wills Dig Tree.

Here Burke & Wills support team waited 4 months before departing, even though intsructed by Burke to wait 3 months. Provisions were buried for the northern explorers before the support group left only hours before Burke & Wills return, who were so weak they chose not to pursue. Lots of history, and birdlife here on the infamous Cooper Creek.

After a reflective look around here, we head for Eromanga and the Eromanga Natural History Museum where nearby Australia’s largest dinosaur was carefully excavated from the dirt and a raft of other dinosaurs followed, all species that had never been seen before. The discoveries made southwest Queensland the country’s newest palaeontology frontier. We take a museum tour and meet the discovered remains of dinosaurs "Cooper" and "Zac" and many other species.

Day 7 -  Today our destination is Bourke, back in NSW via Thargomindah, Lake Bindegolly National Park which conserves one of the most important wetland systems in south-west Queensland and is often home to prolific birdlife. Then on via Yowah and Eulo with unique Boulder opals. Cunnamulla is next where we learn of the Cunnamulla Fella (a song of a drover written by Slim Dusty) We cross the border to NSW and follow the Warrego River south for our overnight and dinner in Bourke.

Day 8 - In Bourke we take a cruise along the Darling River on the Jandra, a rebuilt historic paddleboat to recall the river boat history. In recent years Bourke has undergone a remarkable revitalisation and is now a shining light in the remote west of NSW. The impressive ‘Back O’Bourke’ centre showcases the early days of Bourke and beyond. Discover the Outback life of Henry Lawson, and the search for an inland sea. Hear the stories of the ‘women of the west’ including Nancy Bird Walton, who flew an air ambulance here in the 1930’s. Stop by the 110 year old Morrall’s bakery for a pie or pastry, follow the Heritage Trail through town, or visit the grave of Fred Hollows.  Overnight Bourke.

Day 9 - We head for Brewarrina on the Barwon River, and the 40,000-year-old Aboriginal Fish Traps - still working. The Brewarrina fish traps are one of the oldest man-made structures on earth. This elaborate network of rock weirs and pools stretches for around half a kilometre along the riverbed and was built by ancient tribes, to catch fish as they swam upstream. Heading south to Macquarie Marshes a UNESCO registered site of outstanding value as one of the most important wetland areas in the world. It is one of the most crucial breeding sites for waterbirds in Australia, with 77 species, along with over 150 other birds, as well as fish, turtles, frogs, snakes and mammals. We travel on via silo art in Coonamble then take the scenic road to the beautiful Warrumbungles for a delightful bush walk with wonderful views of The Breadknife.

The Warrumbungles is Australia’s only Dark Sky Park, meaning it is our only Internationally recognised park with an exceptional quality of starry nights and an environment specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and public enjoyment. Tonight you can book a Star gazing session with local expert and high powered telescopes Overnight Coonabarabran

Day 10 - In Coonabarabran  view the Diprotodon fossil remains discovered at nearby Tambar Springs. Back in the 'bungles take a tour of Siding Springs Observatory, home to Australia’s largest optical telescope. Since opening in 1964, The Australian National University has operated the observatory site hosting research telescopes from the ANU's Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics (RSAA), Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO) and many other institutions from around the world. Research is varied, from probing the depths of the cosmos in search of "Dark Energy" to searching the Milky Way for other planets and signs of life. We tour inside the dome of the largest telescope and learn of its workings plus visist the adjacent astronomy exhibition centre.

We depart the region mid morning and drive through Dunedoo, known for its poetry, hospitality, and name, or alternatively via Coolah, one of several towns to claim bragging rights as the home of the legendary Black Stump. It was here that the colloquial saying ‘Beyond the Black Stump’, meaning ‘beyond the limits of civilisation,’ is said to have originated.

On the way to Gulgong - the town that was on the way to Gulgong - the town that was on the $10 note. This small village from the gold rush days is a delight to take in the regional history and historic buildings. We are now a short drive to Mudgee where we’ll taste some local wines and have lunch in a vineyard. Travel via Lithgow and the Zig Zag railway and back to Sydney via spectacular Grose Valley views and Mt Tomah on Bells Line fo Road to Sydney and tour completion.

All tours require a minimum of 2 passengers for departure. If you require a booking for 1 person please call us direct to confirm minimum numbers have been met prior to booking online.

Inclusions –

• 11 nights Hotel Motel Accommodation - twin share or single supplement available - see booking link
• Genuine small group tour vehicle - usually 2-4 per 4WD Landcruisers
• Professional Driver Guide
• All meals except 3 meals 1 day in Broken Hill
• Wild wildlife!!
• National Parks entry fees.
• Eromanga Museum entry
• Dig Tree Entry fees
• Tour price supports Outback Kids & Nature Care projects.

BOOK HERE Or Call 0417 244 600 or 1300 763 188