Journey of the Gulf Savannah

Embark on one of Australia’s most iconic Gulf Savannah tours with Outback Aussie Tours. Journey aboard the legendary Savannahlander train, explore rugged outback landscapes, visit ancient lava tubes and enjoy warm country hospitality. This small-group adventure promises unforgettable sights, premium comfort, and genuine outback experiences.

You will be met by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host at the Longreach Airport or Train Station and transferred to your accommodation.

2 Nights Longreach Motor Inn, Longreach.

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast cruise aboard the M.V Longreach Explorer. Discover the sacred scar trees and the magic of being on the water in the heart of the Outback. Explore the fascinating themed galleries at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and enjoy the Stockman’s Live Show, showcasing outstanding horsemanship in action.

After lunch, visit the Qantas Founders Museum to uncover the remarkable story of Australia’s national airline. In the late afternoon, step aboard the Silver Tails Rail Sunset experience and soak in sweeping views of the floodplains at sunset while enjoying signature canapés, drinks, and warm Outback hospitality aboard a beautifully restored heritage rail motor. Following the journey, you’ll be transferred to the unforgettable Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show for an evening of delicious dining and entertainment.

After a relaxed breakfast, we follow the Matilda Way to Kynuna and the iconic Blue Heeler Hotel for a slice of Australian folklore. It was here that Banjo Paterson is said to have brokered a truce with the shearers responsible for burning down the Dagworth Woolshed and 143 jumbucks. Rather than continue their conflict, the swagmen and squatters reportedly raised a final glass together and sang Waltzing Matilda at the bar.

Enjoy lunch at the legendary Walkabout Creek Hotel, made famous by the blockbuster film Crocodile Dundee. Later this afternoon, arrive in Cloncurry to explore one of Australia’s most comprehensive gem and mineral collections at the Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre. Continue with a visit to John Flynn Place Museum, where you’ll discover the remarkable story of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, one of the world’s largest and most respected aeromedical organisations.

After checking in to your accommodation, join your fellow travellers for a relaxed pre-dinner drink, followed by dinner at the onsite Gidgee Inn Restaurant.

Overnight Gidgee Inn, Cloncurry

This morning, we travel north along the Burke Developmental Road to the Burke & Wills Roadhouse, where we stop for morning tea. Along the way, enjoy the ever-changing colours of Queensland’s rugged cattle country, from the blackened trunks of Gidgee scrub and golden Mitchell grass plains to the striking rust-red termite mounds that dot the landscape.

Arriving in Normanton, take time to stroll the historic streets, visit the iconic Purple Pub, and snap a selfie with Krys the Crocodile, the life-size statue commemorating the largest saltwater crocodile ever captured. After lunch, we continue on to Karumba, where a relaxing dinner awaits at your accommodation. 

2 Nights End of the Road Motel, Karumba

Discover the fascinating world of the mighty barramundi at the Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only hatchery in the world breeding the Southern Gulf strain of this iconic fish. Your guided tour of this state-of-the-art interpretive centre includes the chance to hand-feed a barramundi, offering a memorable close-up encounter with one of Australia’s most celebrated species.

Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch of freshly prepared fish and chips before spending the afternoon at leisure. Explore the charming township, browse local attractions, or simply unwind at your accommodation.

As the day draws to a close, step aboard a sunset cruise on the spectacular Gulf of Carpentaria. Journey to a remote sand island where you’ll raise a toast to the setting sun and indulge in a feast of fresh local seafood while brilliant twilight colours fill the evening sky. 

This morning, set out on a nostalgic rail journey aboard the famous Gulflander—affectionately known as the “Tin Hare”—travelling from Normanton to Critters Camp. Originally built to link the once-bustling river port of Normanton with the goldfields of Croydon, this historic line offers a unique glimpse into Queensland’s outback heritage.

Enjoy lunch at the historic Croydon Club Hotel. Built in 1887, it is the last remaining hotel of the original 37 that once served the thriving gold rush town. Next, travel to another former gold-mining township, Georgetown, where you’ll explore the impressive mineral collection at the Terrestrial Centre.

After a full and rewarding day, arrive at the secluded Outback oasis of Cobbold Gorge in time to enjoy a sunset drink overlooking the tranquil infinity pool. Dinner this evening will be served at the Cobbold Gorge Resort Restaurant. 

2 Nights Cobbold Gorge Village, Forsyth

This morning, enjoy a cruise through the stunning sandstone gorge at Cobbold Gorge, located on a privately owned cattle station. The gorge is home to a range of native fish and freshwater crocodiles. You’ll glide quietly between towering cliff walls in a specially designed battery-powered punt.

There is also an optional guided walk to the top of the escarpment, offering sweeping views from the striking Glass Bridge. After lunch, the afternoon is yours at leisure. You might unwind beside the infinity pool, take an optional scenic helicopter flight, or explore marked bushwalking trails in search of local wildlife and birdlife. Dinner tonight will be served at the Cobbold Gorge Resort Restaurant. 

This morning we visit one of Queensland’s most extraordinary geological wonders, set in the heart of Gulf Savannah country, Talaroo Hot Springs. Here, we take a guided tour along the elevated boardwalk and enjoy a delicious morning tea while soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

Leaving Talaroo Hot Springs, we continue with a scenic drive to Mount Surprise before heading on to the Undara Experience for lunch and check-in. This afternoon, we join a guided tour of the remarkable Undara Lava Tubes, part of the world’s longest lava flow from a single volcanic crater. Throughout the tour, a Savannah Guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s environmental, geological, and historical significance.

Tonight, we dine in a truly unique setting among restored antique railway carriages at the Fettler’s Iron Pot Bistro. 

Overnight Undara Experience, Mount Surprise

Boarding the famous Savannahlander this morning, we embark on an adventurous journey from Spring Creek to Mount Surprise. Travelling through contrasting landscapes and Forty Mile Scrub National Park, we continue to Woodleigh Station.

Relax and enjoy lunch in view of the 100-year-old bougainvillea, with time for a stroll around the expansive gardens. We then continue through the Atherton Tablelands for a short stop at Lake Barrine, an enchanting natural lake surrounded by World Heritage-listed rainforest.

Arriving in Cairns late afternoon, we enjoy a farewell dinner at your accommodation. 

Overnight Rydges Esplanade, Cairns

After breakfast at Rydges Esplanade Resort, your Journey of the Gulf Savannah adventure comes to an end. Please make your own arrangements for your connecting flight or rail journey home, or you may wish to extend your stay in Cairns. Please contact us for more information.