An iconic exploration of Australia by air
You will love
- Exceptional dining experiences beneath vast star studded skies
- Ride camels on Cable Beach & cruise billabongs in Kakadu
- Gain fascinating insight into local Aboriginal culture & mythology
- Circumambulate Uluru & explore the Olgas
- Travel by private plane & whet your whistle in iconic outback pubs
- So many memories will be made
TRAVERSE AUSTRALIA IN STYLE
SYDNEY TO BROOME & BACK AGAIN!
DAY 1 | SYDNEY - LONGREACH | 2 NIGHTS
Be welcomed by our crew at Bankstown Airport (Sydney) before boarding our private aircraft for this unforgettable Outback adventure. Enjoy morning tea in the agricultural centre of Moree and lunch in the Queensland Outback town of Charleville before arriving at our destination, the pioneering town of Longreach. Take in the stunning Outback views from your deluxe tent at the Mitchell Grass Retreat. Unwind as we glide down The Thomson River at Sunset. There are endless photo opportunities of water colour skies and wildlife, before we go ashore for a traditional campfire dinner with live entertainment.
Accommodation: Mitchell Grass Retreat, Longreach – Luxury Outback Glamping Experience
Flight Times: 5h30 – 3 flights – Flying from Bankstown to Moree (2hrs) to refuel, then onto to Charleville (2hrs) for lunch and finally onto Longreach (1h30).
DAY 2 | LONGREACH
Today we swap our wings for wheels and set off in our private coach for a day of exploring. Enjoy Outback big sky scenery as we head to The Age of Dinosaurs experience, painting a picture of what this area looked like 90 million years ago. At the historic town of Winton we will enjoy lunch at the newly rebuilt Waltzing Matilda Museum. This afternoon we visit the legendary Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame which showcases the history and culture of rural Australia.
Enjoy dinner surrounded by aviation history at the Qantas Founders Museum.
Accommodation: Mitchell Grass Retreat, Longreach
DAY 3 | LONGREACH - KATHERINE | 1 NIGHT
This morning our private aircraft takes us to Katherine in the Northern Territory. This region is renowned for its magnificent gorges and we will enjoy an afternoon cruise of exploration. Along the way cultural guides will share their knowledge about the surrounding landscape and its inhabitants, dreamtime stories and culture. Our evening will be highlighted by a very unique dining and entertainment experience – an authentic stockman’s bush camp tucker evening under the stars. Dine by the campfire in tranquil surroundings listening to the sounds of the wildlife. A variety of Indigenous herbs, spices and fruits are used in this original menu.
Accommodation: Knotts Crossing Resort, Katherine
Flight Times: 6h45 – 3 flights – Flying from Longreach Mt Isa (2h15) then Tennant Creek or Brunette Downs (2h10) and finally onto Tindal in Katherine (2h20).
DAY 4 | KATHERINE - KAKADU | 2 NIGHTS
Today we fly to the world heritage listed national park, Kakadu. The best way to see this magnificent country is to get out on the water. Our local Indigenous guides will be showcasing the rich wildlife of the wetlands as we cruise leisurely along The Yellow Water Billabong. Look out for giant crocs, water buffalo and the amazing bird life as we enjoy a stunning sunset over the wetlands.
Accommodation: Cooinda Lodge, Kakadu
Flight Times: 40 mins – 1 flight – Flying from Katherine to Cooinda, Kakadu
DAY 5 | KAKADU IMMERSION DAY
Waking up in Kakadu National Park is the unforgettable Australian experience. Hundreds of species of wildlife exist within the park, making it one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness as we gently cruise up stream on the East Alligator River. Our Indigenous guide provides us with an insight into the local aboriginal culture and mythology. Back on land, marvel at some of the world’s finest examples of aboriginal rock art – gunbim, dating back 20,000 years.
Accommodation: Cooinda Lodge, Kakadu
DAY 6 | KAKADU - DARWIN | 1 NIGHT
Today we explore more of the Kakadu National Park, before making our way back to Darwin in the afternoon. This evening our group will meet up for fine dining on the Darwin waterfront.
Accommodation: Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel
Flight Times: 45 mins – 1 flight – Flying from Cooinda, Kakadu to Darwin.
DAY 7 | DARWIN - KUNUNURRA | 2 NIGHTS
Explore this tropical capital at your leisure before flying to Kununurra, the gateway to The Kimberley, in far northern Western Australia. At noon we board our private coach to the vast freshwater, Lake Argyle, known as paradise in the Outback. On the way we will stop to visit an historic homestead built by the famous pioneering Durack family. Experience the true diversity of the ever changing landscape as we explore the vast lake (21 times the size of Sydney Harbour) by boat. Don’t forget to bring your camera and swimmers.
Accommodation: Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments, Kununurra
Flight Times: 1h40 – 1 flight – Flying from Darwin To Kunnurra.
DAY 8 | KUNUNURRA
This morning is yours to either relax or take an optional flight to the magnificent El Questro Station or the amazing landform of the Bungles Bungles (Please note these optional trips are not part of the Outback By Air itinerary and are at guests’ own cost). This evening we are delighted to invite you to dine at the renowned Pump House restaurant which has a culinary philosophy that focuses strongly on fresh local produce of the Kimberley region.
Accommodation: Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments, Kununurra
DAY 9 | KUNUNURRA - BROOME | 1 NIGHT
As our aircraft departs Kununurra marvel at the incredible landscape as we fly over the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park before heading down the west coast to the tropical town of Broome. We have the opportunity to explore this unique port, steeped in pearling history, or take a stroll along the world famous Cable Beach to Gantheaume Point, home of dinosaur footprints. A camel safari along the beach is not to be missed, before experiencing the spectacular sunset overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Accommodation: Oaks Cable Beach Resort, Broome
Flight Times: 2h50 – 2 flights – Flying from Kununurra to Derby (2h10) to refuel, then onto Broome (40min).
DAY 10 | BROOME - ULURU | 1 NIGHT
We farewell The Kimberley to fly to the heart of Australia’s red centre, Uluru. We will check into our five star hotel with free time to unwind or start exploring this unique location. We will regroup to witness the ever changing colours of the world famous landmark, Uluru, as the sun sets. Luxuriate with canapés and chilled sparkling wine served on a viewing platform overlooking the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Tonight we enjoy the acclaimed Field of Light Dinner under the stars – a night to remember.
Accommodation: Sails In The Desert, Uluru, Five Star Hotel
Flight Times: 5h – 3 flights – Flying from Broome to Balgo Hill (2h30) to refuel and then onto Ayers Rock – Uluru (2h30).
DAY 11 | ULURU - WILLIAM CREEK | 1 NIGHT
A morning to experience Uluru and the nearby soaring rock domes of the Olgas/Kata Tjuta up close. Feeling energetic? Enjoy the beautiful 11km walk around the rock’s perimeter. Back on our private plane we witness more mesmerising images as we fly towards William Creek. Here we have the opportunity to explore the history of this remote Outback post at the start of the Oodnadatta Track. This evening we enjoy true Outback hospitality with drinks and dinner at The William Creek Hotel.
Accommodation: William Creek Hotel
Flight Times: 2h35 – 1 flight – Flying from Ayers Rock – Uluru to William Creek.
DAY 12 | WILLIAM CREEK - BIRDSVILLE | 1 NIGHT
Today we fly over Australia’s largest inland lake, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, to the iconic Outback town of Birdsville. Our plane can taxi us right up the front door of the famous pub. Enjoy a refreshment on the verhanda and a traditional counter lunch. The afternoon is yours before our four wheel drive collects us for another golden hour. We will drive to “Big Red” – the largest sand dune in the Simpson Desert. On top of the dune we will enjoy nibbles and drinks while experiencing yet another stunning desert sunset. Enjoy dinner back at the atmospheric pub.
Accommodation: The Birdsville Hotel
Flight Times: 1h45 – 1 flight – Flying from William Creek to Birdsville.
DAY 13 | BIRDSVILLE - MUNGO | 1 NIGHT
Our day of exploration sees us flying over four states, Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria. As we head south from Birdsville in our private aircraft, we pass over the famous Birdsville Track, through the extensive dunes of the Strzelecki Desert and The Moomba gas fields. We will stop in the mining Outback town of Broken Hill before reaching Lake Mungo. Our local guide will take us through one of the most spectacular Outback landscapes with immense cultural significance.
Accommodation: Mungo Lodge, Lake Mungo
Flight Times: 3h40 – 2 flights – Flying from Birdsville to Broken Hill (2h45) to refuel and then onto Mungo Park (55mins).
DAY 14 | MUNGO - SYDNEY |
Our last day in The Outback and more time to explore this world heritage national park, rich in Aboriginal history. We will enjoy our farewell lunch in this ancient landscape before a relaxing last leg in the air on our return to Sydney.
Flight Times: 2h50 – 2 flights – Flying from Mungo Lodge to Griffith (1h10) and then onto Bankstown (1h45).
PLEASE NOTE :
The content of this itinerary is based on a set departure, however if it provides the perfect inspiration for your very own Outback by air adventure we can tailor a journey to suit your preferred style and pace. Please get in touch with us to design a bespoke flying safari for you, your friends or family.
This set departure itinerary may vary slightly should factors beyond our control arise.
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
13 nights / 14 days | 19 May - 01 June 2021
13 nights / 14 days
19 May - 01 June 2021
AUD $19,900 pp twin share | Single supplement AUD $1,750
AUD $19,900 pp twin share | Single supplement AUD $1,750
START: Bankstown, NSW | Finish: Bankstown, NSW
Destinations : Longreach & Winton | Katherine | Kakadu | Darwin | Kununurra | Broome | Uluru | William Creek | Birdsville | Mungo National Park
Inclusions
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner each day
- Wine included with dinner (only)
- Private chartered aircraft transportation, fuel & airport fees throughout
- Services of a qualified pilot/s and tour director
- All accommodation as listed in the itinerary – in twin share rooms (double beds on request and en suite is usually available, however cannot be guaranteed in all rooms in all properties)
- Excursions & activities as per the itinerary (and as detailed below)
- Services of qualified and/or indigenous guides on all excursions
- Private transportation provided to and from daily excursions & accommodation
- National Park Fees & Permits for daily excursions
- Bottled water onboard the aircraft
Exclusions
- Transport to and from Bankstown Airport
- Additional food and beverages other than specified
- Accommodation upgrades
- Any additional or optional excursions and/or transfers other than specified
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance
- Items and/or purchases of a personal nature
- Any item not specified
Minimum – 10 travellers
Maximum – 11 travellers
COVID19 : A FULL REFUND WILL BE PROVIDED IF THE TRIP IS UNABLE TO PROCEED DUE TO COVID19 GOVERNMENT IMPOSED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDED IN YOUR ITINERARY :
SPECIAL DINNERS : Sunset cruise, then traditional camp fire dinner and entertainment, Longreach | Lunch at the Waltzing Matilda Museum, Winton | Private dinner at the Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach | Authentic stockman’s bush camp tucker evening under the stars, Katherine | Fine dinning on the Darwin Waterfront | Pump House Restaurant, Kununurra | Field of Light dinner, Uluru | Outback hospitality dinning at the William Creek Hotel and the Birdsville Hotel
EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES : Cruise the Thomson River, Longreach | Age of Dinosaurs Tour & Waltzing Matilda Museum tour, Winton | Tour the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Longreach | Tour the Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach | Top Didj Cultural Experience, Katherine | Stockman’s bush camp tucker evening, Katherine | Yellow Water Billabong adventure, Kakadu | Indigenous guided tour of the East Alligator River, Kakadu | Rock Art tour, Kakadu | Visit Argyle Homestead Museum & cruise Lake Argyle with drinks and canapés, Kununurra | Fly over the Bungle Bungles, Purnululu NP | Camel Safari along Cable Beach, Broome | Experience Uluru and the Olgas up close | Fly down the Oodnadatta Track | Scenic flight over Lake Eyre | Taxi to the front door of the iconic Birdsville Hotel |Sunset drinks from ‘Big Red’ the largest sand dune in the Simpson Desert | Fly over extensive sand dunes of the Strzelecki Desert and Moomba gas fields | Tour Mungo National Park with a local guide
YOUR AIRCRAFT :
Travel is in a privately chartered Cessna Grand Caravan turboprop aircraft. Capable of landing on gravel and remote airfields, where other aircraft cannot, the Cessna Grand Caravan is a fast, reliable machine ideal for flying in the Australian Outback. The aircraft is operated by our trusted partners Outback by Air who hold an Air Operators Certificate issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). All highly experienced Outback by Air pilots carry a Commercial Pilots License. The Cessna Grand Caravan is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and impressive safety features. The interior is comfortable, climate controlled and has large windows, making inflight viewing a joy.
YOUR GUIDE
PHIL HINES
Phil (pictured in plane) has been flying since 1990 and holds licences for both fixed wing and rotary aircraft as well as a commercial helicopter licence. He has flown multi engine charters, scheduled Regular Public Transport flights, and also has agricultural ratings in both aeroplane and helicopters. Outback and bush flying has been a big part of his aviation history and he has placed second in the Royal Flying Doctor Service Outback Air Race - twice! There’s barely a patch of our great land he hasn’t seen from the air. Safe to say he knows his stuff. On top of all that he’s just a bloody good bloke – a cheerful ‘salt of the Earth’ type from a farming background with plenty of tales to tell. A great host!
Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth MackintoshJulia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford familyWe are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad BalanceThe trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree familyClassic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain JonesWe loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi CunninghamAn amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert TaylorThank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul CozziVery knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert HappellEverything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim BradleyYou can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham FamilyThe trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma JeffcoatAbsolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie AdamsClassic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros WheelerTheir experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip StevensIf you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph HarrisonClassic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison GuthrieClassic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley YatesThe Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette WhileyIt certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean MifsudWould do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan TribeAn absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williams
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