Reasons why you need to visit Outback Queensland
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By Kim Barnard
A trip to the Aussie Outback, where there are almost no buildings in sight and the serenity is palpable, is an experience that has to be lived to be believed.
The awe-inspiring landscape, boasting rich red sand, cute critters, starry nights and golden sunsets, creates the ultimate backdrop for the trip of a lifetime. Besides feeling a million miles from the city, walking on the ancient land of Indigenous custodians, and experiencing adventure around every corner, here's why you need to visit Outback Queensland.
Road trips will show you Australia's heart and soul
Jumping in the 4WD with good company and travelling through the most remote (and untouched) places in Queensland is a sure-fire way to make lifelong memories, while witnessing endless blue skies and red desert landscapes.
You don’t need to be an expert off-roader to explore the legendary land; as long as you’ve got a full tank of petrol and a trusty map, you’ve got all you need.
From driving through the heart of the outback all the way to the Gulf of Carpentaria along Matilda Way or exploring our Gulf Savannah, there’s so many epic road trips to take in Outback Queensland. Whichever one you choose will be an unforgettable journey.
Uncover ancient landscapes
It's not all dusty plains out here. From desert oases and giant sand dunes to towering gorges formed over millions of years, you'll be in awe nomatter where you visit.
Remote North West Queensland holds many natural wonders - and Lawn Hill Gorge in Boodjamulla National Park is a place you need to experience in your lifetime. Canoe through sparkling emerald waters that meet stark, ancient rock; explore the walking trails to spot local wildlife; then spend the night camping under the stars. The World Heritage-listed Riversleigh Fossil Site is close by too.
Marvel at the Milky Way
There’s no better place to enjoy some serious stargazing than Outback Queensland. With wide open spaces and skies free from the light pollution that plagues city skies, you’ll have an unbeatable view of the night sky in all its glory.
Few places compare to Winton: the skies here are so clear it's one of only ten places in the world that have international recognition as a Dark Sky Sanctuary. Want to grab a telescope for a closer look? Head to Charleville's Cosmos Centre or take an incredible Indigenous-focused tour to the salt pans outside of Burketown.
Take this galactic experience to the next level by pitching a tent and camping under the stunning skies. Porcupine Gorge National Park is an excellent base; when the sun rises, you’ll see part two of nature’s show with sandstone pyramids and towering cliffs.
Join the party at some of the most remote events on the planet
You’ve ventured this far, why not stay and raise a glass with the locals?
Located at the edge of the Simpson Desert, the Birdsville Big Red Bash brings thousands of event goers to the tiny town (occupied by just over 100 residents) every year. It’s not hard to see why crowds flock to this music festival—with awesome artists, people with a mutual love of music, and camping under the stars all merged into the one epic party.
This is just one of many incredible outback events held each year: come for camel races, film festivals, and even tee off at the Outback Masters golf tournament that sees a million dollars prize money up for grabs.
Experience authentic Outback life
The character and charm of our outback goes even further than the sights and rich history: it's the people. And while you're sure to have a yarn with the locals over a beer, there's opportunity to go deeper and explore what life out here is really life.
Sit shotgun on the local mail run through outback properties, go fishing and 4WDing with the Gangalidda People, or fully immerse yourself on an outback station. Stay for the day, or check in and give farm life a real go - some experiences are way more luxurious than you'd think.
It’s easier to reach than you think
Taking a trip to the Aussie Outback can seem daunting, but if you plan your trip and know what things to do, you’ll have all you need for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
You don't need to drive, either. Outback Queensland is well-connected to our coastal cities, with major airlines flying into destinations including Mount Isa, Longreach and Charleville, plus many more smaller airports serviced by regional airlines.
If you want to start off small, take three-day trip flying over outback Queensland and dropping into some iconic spots along the way—Birdsville, Lake Eyre, William Creek, Innamincka and Cunnamulla. Seair Touring runs this incredible tour to give guests a true taste of the Aussie Outback without them having to spend weeks on the road to see it. Tours depart from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
