Aussie Outback Gap Year: Melbourne to Darwin

Week 1: Melbourne  
Welcome to Australia! A friendly face will meet you at the airport and whisk you away to one of Melbourne’s most buzzing hostels, where you’ll meet other newly arrived backpackers for a week exploring Victoria’s hotspots and hidden gems with your local guide. Then, head out of the city and breathe the fresh mountain air of the Grampians, see the stunning cascades of MacKenzie Falls and venture into the rainforest of Great Otway National Park – look out for koalas!  

Week 2: The Great Ocean Road to Adelaide  
Swap socials with your new mates and hit the road – and not just any old road… Pick up your Mighty Camper for the drive of your life, meandering around sweeping coastline with the freedom to stop off whenever you like along the epic Great Ocean Road. As well as admiring the endless ocean views and crumbling Twelve Apostles, scout the arty beachside towns of Apollo Bay and Lorne, hit the surf in Torquay and fire up the barbie for spontaneous roadside feasts. Say a fond farewell to your home on wheels and spend a few days chilling out in vibrant Adelaide, known for gourmet treats, world-renowned wine and nearby white sand beaches.  

Weeks 3-4: The Red Centre to Darwin  
When you’re ready for a dramatic change of scenery, activate your Greyhound Whimit Travel Pass, put your headphones on and select a soundtrack, watching the wilderness go by as you head north into the open outback. Join a small group tour in Alice Springs to experience the legendary wonders of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, walk through the towering crevices and plateaus of Watarrka (aka Kings Canyon) and marvel at the Milky Way enveloping the night sky from your cosy swag sleeping bag. Continue to the tropical Top End, where relaxed Darwin is the gateway to the beautiful billabongs and waterfalls of Kakadu and Litchfield National Park – so don’t forget your swimmers!  

The Rest of Your Gap Year!  
Wherever you want to spend the rest of your gap year in Australia, the crew at Ultimate will help you get settled with a 12 month membership to an online job database, and friendly guidance is just a phone call away. Alternatively, perhaps explore Australia’s stunning east coast or laidback west coast, speak to your TTA consultant for details.