The Northern Territory is a remarkable region of contrasts—from vast, sunburnt outback to lush gorges, waterfalls and swimming holes. Teeming with unique flora and fauna and rich with 40,000 years of human history in the hands of Australia’s Indigenous custodians, this is a region of staggering beauty and significance.

The red heart of Australia is a magnificent desert wilderness. Out here you’ll find some of Australia’s most iconic images, including the sacred monolith of Uluru (Ayers Rock), the striking rock domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and the rugged peaks and ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges.

Following the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges and passing dramatic rock formations and tranquil waterholes, the famous Larapinta Trail is one of the greatest desert treks on Earth. Being the first to operate treks on the Larapinta in 1996, World Expeditions has pioneered sustainable adventure treks on this incredible trail ever since, offering everything from Larapinta experiences to the full 223 km trail.

And in the tropical ‘Top End’ of Australia, you’ll find lush landscapes alive with unique Australian flora, fauna and culture. Hike through the breathtaking Kakadu National Park, an expansive World Heritage Listed habitat littered with ancient rock art galleries and home to sacred gorges, lush wetlands and waterfalls; canoe along the spectacular Katherine River; or tackle the Jatbula Trail, our outstanding full-pack trek along the stone edge of the Arnhem Land escarpment, one of Australia’s most exceptional wilderness areas.

Our pioneering small group eco adventures are designed to get you deep into the heart of this incredible state. Join us as we explore the dramatic Red Centre and tropical Top End of Australia!

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Why travel with us

Exceptional Leadership

As our client feedback will attest to, there is no better team of leaders than those at Australian Walking Holidays. Their expertise & knowledge is matched only by their friendly nature and their desire to impart everything they know about the Australian landscape to you.

Small Groups

We think small is good; it limits the environmental impact and allows you to forge life-long friendships with like-minded travellers. Feedback from our clients attests to the appeal of the small group dynamic – our clients say it's this that makes it special.

Exceptional Value

We aim to include as much as possible in the tour price, so that all you need to think about is being in the moment. We include meals & all park fees on our Larapinta Treks. Our inclusions are displayed against each trip in our brochures, on our website and in our trip notes.

Your Comfort

The best available food, warmth and shelter is standard on our active wilderness holidays, with selected character lodgings as well as quality camp craft and equipment. This ensures that you have the most rewarding and memorable experience.

Climate

The Northern Territory has two main climates zones: the northern end, including Darwin, has a tropical climate; and the southern end, namely the red centre, which has an outback climate.

In the Red Centre, the four traditional seasons are more distinct and temperatures are more extreme than in most other parts of Australia. Trekking in winter (June to August) is very pleasant with light winds, and daytime temperatures averaging 15-25C or 60-80F. However, winter nights often plummet below freezing and there are frequent frosts; please make sure that you prepare for the cold evenings on winter treks. The shoulder seasons of April, May and September are also wonderful for walking: nights are milder and frosts are unlikely. Temperatures during the day are generally hotter which sometimes requires an adjustment to the itinerary, ie: less walking and more swimming! Though rain is not common in the Red Centre, it is necessary to be prepared for all weather at all times. Extreme wet, dry, hot and cold conditions are all part of the experience of Outback Australia.

In the Tropical Top End, generally speaking, it is fine, rain-free and there is plenty of sun between May and October. Our trips operate in the coolest months from June to August. The days are quite warm (tops of around 30C to 35C) and evenings can be cooler (down to around 15C). On occasion it can be cold at night down to around 5°C in June and July. From September onwards the “Build-up” to the wet season leads to oppressive heat and humidity and is unsuitable conditions for trekking.

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Central Australia's West MacDonnell Ranges - why it's so special