— the real back of beyond... —

So where is the outback? For some ‘outback Australia’ can mean anywhere beyond the urban city metropolitan, although it is really anywhere that is inland of Australia and a long way from the coast and ocean. It is where down the road can be a couple hundred kilometres or more.

So what is the outback? It is a place out of which myths have arisen. A place of inspiration for poets, artists and writers. Associated with vast open spaces, it is a place that evokes freedom and spirituality.

The outback is also a place that is home to colourful characters, outback hospitality and Aboriginal people. With vast outback stations and outback towns, it offers the visitor a unique experience.

The outback is more than just red sand and desert, gorges and waterholes, it is centred around Alice Springs spreading out through the vast Central Australia region. It is a region that extends south through the Flinders Ranges, north through the Barkly region, east and west along the fabulous MacDonnell Ranges and beyond. This wonderful outback region crosses borders into Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.

So if you are a city slicker or a visitor from overseas, come and explore beyond our main cities, there is much to see here in the heart of the Northern Territory Outback region, a region that encompasses a number of towns, roadhouses and other localities including Alice Springs, Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. For the self-drive tourist, you can experience this wonderful region by following the ‘Red Centre Way’. For further information contact your tourist information centre or travel agent.

Many tourist like the freedom of the self-drive tours, but don't forget that there are many guided tours, some of which include the tag-along for those bringing their own vehicles. Some tours and charter operators may be listed here under specific destination. Don’t forget to visit the National Outback link and other categories for more tour operators and check out our Motor Vehicles sections, for local clubs.