The Outback is a bucket-list destination for many who visit the island nation of Australia. You’ll likely catch a glimpse of it as you fly overhead to a more populated destination, like Sydney or Melbourne, particularly if you have come from an Asian or European destination. 

The term Outback or ‘the bush’ actually defines any geographical part of Australia that is removed from highly settled landscapes in the continent, such as the cities that are popular for holidaymakers. Indeed, this seemingly otherworldly landscape is vastly different from anywhere else on earth, with scorching red sand, remote landscapes, and geological formations that captivate visitors. 

While you’re visiting Australia, you may want to see what the Outback is all about. This blog will help you decide on some Australian bush experiences so that you'll have an unforgettable trip should venture from the main tourist route.

The Ghan is an Australian train that journeys 2,979 kilometres, or 1,861 miles through the middle of the continent. It heads from the South Coast to the North Coast, travelling through many landscapes and terrain. You can board the train in Adelaide, a metropolitan city in South Australia, before journeying up to Darwin in the Northern Territory. 

The Ghan is named after the Afghan camel drivers who once explored this area. Passengers can expect a comfortable journey; with only a maximum of 330 passengers per train journey, this three-day trip features fine dining, comfortable cabins, and plenty of excursions too. 

Indeed, the difference between this train journey and others you’ve likely heard of is that while you’re passing through these iconic landscapes, you can disembark the vessel to enjoy activities. The highlights of this trip include a tour of Katherine and Alice Springs, Coober Pedy, a cruise of Katherine Gorge, and a helicopter flight too. It’s certainly a once in a lifetime experience. 

Coober Pedy remains a mysterious yet iconic town in the red desert of South Australia. Coober Pedy translates to “white man in a hole” from the Arabana language, which is apt considering the town itself is mostly underground. Formed in 1916, the self-styled ‘Opal Capital of the World’ has captivated minds worldwide, as its otherworldly form is truly different from anywhere else on earth. 

With plenty of films and documentaries taking turns to film in this location, there is no end to the mystery and intrigue surrounding this underground town. The population here live in subterranean dugouts, with some homes having indoor pools and luxury living. The temperature here soars to 50 degrees celsius in the summer months, so the lifestyle certainly makes sense. Nevertheless, it’s a fascinating place. We recommend visiting the Umoona Opal Mine and Museum to learn about the town and its history with opal mining. 

The Kimberley is one of the last places on earth to truly connect with the wilderness. Set in the northwestern corner of the continent of Australia, the Kimberley is a bucket-list destination for many people worldwide. This national park is the same size geographically as Great Britain, which should give you some insight into just how large it really is. The Kimberley has an incredibly varied landscape, with freshwater rivers, rugged gorges, waterways, iconic geological formations, and beautiful terrain. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the Kimberley, from a guided tour to explore it on horseback. It’s wise to book ahead with this venture, as its remoteness means there are limited places to stay. To explore the Kimberley, hire a car at Broome Airport or Kununurra Airport.

Easily the most famous landmark of Australia, Uluru has undeniable magic about it. It’s a geological phenomenon at 358-metres above the ground. Watching the sunset here should be on your bucket list; the colours change from orange to a vivid pink, before settling at a dusky violet at sundown. Watch for a few key moments when Uluru begins to glow - this is a sight that will be unforgettable. There are many ways to enjoy Uluru, from walking around its base to enjoying a scenic helicopter flight from high above it. Once night falls, look up. The stargazing here is out of this world.

Bush experiences in Australia are truly one of a kind. While you’re on holiday in Australia, we recommend breaking away from the cityscapes common for holidays and venturing to the Outback. It’ll be an unforgettable trip.