A huge intriguing expanse of desert and wilderness, the outback is uniquely Australian and tourists flock there to encounter the true Australian spirit. The outback is a vast attraction in itself, but what are the must see attractions hiding within its boundaries?

Uluru - Ayers Rock

The jewel of the outback and an Aussie icon. Uluru is an ancient mystical monolith rising out of the desert, rich in dreamtime tales of the local Aboriginal Anangu. Attracting more than 400,000 visitors annually, Uluru is one of the worlds great wonders, and undoubtedly the number one tourist attraction in the Australian Outback.

Kings Canyon

Also sitting in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta region, about a four hour drive from Uluru, Kings Canyon is a truly impressive natural attraction, with huge vertical red sandstone walls towering above dense forests of palms and ferns. There are several walks which take you through the Canyons exquisite valleys and domes.

Katherine Gorge

A series of dramatic sandstone gorges carved over a billion years by the Katherine River, Katherine Gorge is a spectacular natural formation. Visitors can admire this attraction by canoe, and also explore the many Aboriginal rock art sites dotted throughout Nitmiluk National Park.

Alice Springs Desert Park

This cultural centre is an effortless and enjoyable introduction into the Australian Outback. Experience desert habitats, wildlife, and Aboriginal culture in this desert park which sits at the base of the stunning MacDonnell Ranges.

The Olgas - Kata Tjuta

Uluru's ancient and less famous neighbour. The Olgas are a group of 32 large dome rock formations centred around the highest point, Mount Olga. A natural wonder and cultural landmark, The Olgas are at their most spectacular when viewed at sunrise or sunset.

The Devils Marbles

The remarkable landscape of the Devils Marbles attracts visitors from all over the world, and holds great poignancy within local Aboriginal communities. The huge rounded giant boulders, precariously balanced on one another are a spectacular sight.

Coober Pedy

This curious underground outback town fascinates visitors from all over the world. Coober Pedy is the worlds largest opal mining town, and it is also largely composed of underground buildings, created by locals to contend with the scorching desert heat.

Kakadu

Kakadu National Park is a landscape of contrasts with lush rainforests, jagged peaks, peaceful swimming holes, and raging waterfalls. Roughly the size of Israel, Kakadu is a huge adventure lovers paradise.

Mataranka Bitter Springs and Thermal Pools

A trip to the Mataranka areas thermal pools is a delicious break on the long trek from Alice Springs to Darwin. Enjoy a relaxing swim in either the main Mataranka Thermal Pool or the quieter nearby Bitter Springs Thermal Pools, and be soothed by the natural warm spring water.

Birdsville
A small and remote outback town, Birdsville is big in character, and widely considered Australia's 'must visit' outback town. Starting point to the famous Birdsville Track, Birdsville sits in remote Queensland near the South Australia border. Birdsville is perhaps best known for its famous pub, as well as the annual race meeting - when the population grows from 120 to 6,000 in two days.