Outback Spirit
Outback Spirit
4.5
Multi-day ToursCultural Tours4WD, ATV & Off-Road ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
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About
Explore the Kimberley with the Outback's Number 1 small group tour operator. Travel this rugged frontier staying in the best wilderness camps and lodges, including our exclusive Ngauwudu Safari Camp on the Mitchell Plateau. Discover pristine gorges, view ancient rock and marvel at the mighty Mitchell Falls and massive tides of the Kimberley Coast. Join us for an epic 4WD wilderness adventure!
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
98 reviews
Excellent
88
Very good
4
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
4
Gary L
1 contribution
June 2021
We have just returned from a Kimberley/Faraway Bay trip from Broome to Darwin.
A once in a lifetime trip that was perfect in every sense.
Firstly, our driver, Greg. He made the trip so enjoyable, nothing was too much trouble and had a wonderful sense of humour, knowledge and manner. His inpu made a great trip even more memorable.
Secondly, Outback Spirit. This company were sensational and produced an itinerary that exceeded expectation at all turns. I would have no hesitation in booking with them again. I should also mention the staff at the Outback Spirit office who were always pleasant even through the most trying of circumstances.
Thirdly, the wonderful group we travelled with. The atmosphere of the group was relaxed with wonderful humour and fun.
And lastly, the Kimberley. The last great Aussie adventure. What a magic part of Australia. The highlights are too many to list but a couple need special mention. The Bungle Bungles and gorges were spectacular. The accommodation and food was excellent - at times it was hard to believe we were in such a remote location.
Thank you making our bucket list trip a reality and providing us with such lovely memories.
A once in a lifetime trip that was perfect in every sense.
Firstly, our driver, Greg. He made the trip so enjoyable, nothing was too much trouble and had a wonderful sense of humour, knowledge and manner. His inpu made a great trip even more memorable.
Secondly, Outback Spirit. This company were sensational and produced an itinerary that exceeded expectation at all turns. I would have no hesitation in booking with them again. I should also mention the staff at the Outback Spirit office who were always pleasant even through the most trying of circumstances.
Thirdly, the wonderful group we travelled with. The atmosphere of the group was relaxed with wonderful humour and fun.
And lastly, the Kimberley. The last great Aussie adventure. What a magic part of Australia. The highlights are too many to list but a couple need special mention. The Bungle Bungles and gorges were spectacular. The accommodation and food was excellent - at times it was hard to believe we were in such a remote location.
Thank you making our bucket list trip a reality and providing us with such lovely memories.
Written 11 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your enthusiastic response Gary. You've said it all and we're delighted to hear you found the trip perfect!
Sharing your comments with our staff will be a pleasure.
Written 1 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
lird5
Brisbane, Australia375 contributions
July 2022
Our Outback Spirit Kimberley Delights tour was well organised to cover all the “must sees” of the Kimberley. Chappy, our driver/guide, was informative without (thankfully) talking non-stop. His years of living in the Kimberley provided us with many insights we may have missed otherwise. He made sure we got the most out of our trip, even going beyond what was required to make sure we saw some things not on the itinerary. The accommodation ranged from basic to luxurious but in all cases was “best available”. Ngauwadu on the Mitchell plateau was amazing – luxury in a remote location – and the staff there were excellent. On some days we arrived too late to enjoy features of the accommodation, such as having a swim in the pool. There were many early starts and long days on the bus but with the vast distances in the Kimberly this had to be.
Written 8 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you lird5 for your 5 star review. It sounds like you had an amazing time and learnt so much about the Kimberley region from our guide Chappy. The Kimberley is a place like no other and our guides are truly passionate about showcasing its raw beauty. It is still a remote destination however and the varied facilities and some long touring days are all part of the experience. We would be thrilled to have you join us on another Outback Spirit tour.
Written 21 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Barbara4212
Brisbane, Australia108 contributions
May 2021 • Friends
We have travelled extensively both overseas and in Australia and were very impressed with our first tour with Outback Spirit.
We travelled from Perth, up the West Coast to Broome via the Pilbara. Covering nearly 5000kms this was such an enjoyable way to see remote parts of Australia. We had a very compatible group and Scott, our tour leader, proved to be extremely knowledgeable as well as an excellent driver. There were long distances travelled and 60 metre road trains to pass. All was done with commendable ease and safety. Gus, his assistant, was fabulous especially considering it was his first trip. He was always at hand and equally adept at grating carrots at lunch or providing little pavlovas for morning tea.
The coach was not only comfortable but always vacuumed, clean and tidy. The accidental eucalyptus spill made for a wonderful refreshing smell as we climbed on board.
We travelled from Perth, up the West Coast to Broome via the Pilbara. Covering nearly 5000kms this was such an enjoyable way to see remote parts of Australia. We had a very compatible group and Scott, our tour leader, proved to be extremely knowledgeable as well as an excellent driver. There were long distances travelled and 60 metre road trains to pass. All was done with commendable ease and safety. Gus, his assistant, was fabulous especially considering it was his first trip. He was always at hand and equally adept at grating carrots at lunch or providing little pavlovas for morning tea.
The coach was not only comfortable but always vacuumed, clean and tidy. The accidental eucalyptus spill made for a wonderful refreshing smell as we climbed on board.
Written 27 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your 5-star review Barbara. We're delighted to be back on the road!
I’m glad you enjoyed the adventure and thought so highly of your tour guides, Scott & Gus. They do a terrific job and work tirelessly to ensure everyone's safety and comfort.
We hope to see you back onboard with us in the future.
Written 8 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hans
25 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
What an amazing experience under different circumstances. The crew at Outback Spirit Amazing especially Michael (Chappy) who did his utmost to give us an adventure of our great land that will be hard to beat. The Kimberley region is amazing and a must see and with this company and the experience of someone like Chappy, you get to see it in every way possible - by road, by trail, by boat and air. The cost is higher than your overseas trips but 5 star and remote is not cheap. The Outback Spirit camp at Mitchell Plateau was wondering due to location, staff and first class facilities. Depth of knowledge by our guide Chappy throughout and Lochlan at Mitchell Plateau was outstanding.
Written 14 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bronwyn G
Brisbane Region, Australia41 contributions
May 2024 • Family
My trip with Outback Spirit on their Exquisite Kimberley Adventure was amazing and thoroughly enjoyable. Our Tour leader and also Bus Driver Drew was so professional and helpful providing me with just the right amount of information. Yes, there are long distances involved and some pretty rough roads but the scenery and experiences in the Kimberley were great; exceeding all expectations. I particularly enjoyed the stay at Ngauwudu Safari Camp at Mitchell Falls and also the Savannah Lodge at Purnululu National Park. The all inclusive price also meant no out of pocket expenses apart from souvenirs. The helicopter flights over Mitchell Falls and theBungle Bungles with Helispirit were great; the trip to Horizontal Falls by seaplane and jet boat with Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures was another highlight of the trip. Thankyou Outback Spirit and Drew, the whole experience was fantastic!
Written 10 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wow, thank you bronwyng268 for your 5 star review of your Kimberley adventure with Drew. We really appreciate it. Our driver/guides like Drew put their heart and soul into showcasing the majesty of Australia's outback regions. He'll be thrilled to know you enjoyed the tour so much. Hope to see you again soon onboard one of our 4WD coaches in another stunning part of Australia.
Written 11 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
chris M
Melbourne6 contributions
June 2023
Our first stage, 5 days with Outback from Alice Sprigs to Uluru and Kings Canyon etc
was excellent 10/10. Great guide Andy and driver Nobby, great commentary informative, humorous with excellent communication with passengers. Nothing was too much trouble to Andy. All accomodation and food very good except for Hilton Alice Springs where we had stained sheets and no hot water, unbelievable !!.
Our 2nd stage with Outback, Darwin to Kakadu and Litchfield was the complete opposite, not very helpful guide, some of our 1st stage group put on another Outback bus when asked if we could stay together on same bus given a blunt NO , commentary
bland. Hot water dispenser for tea / coffee not working and the air conditioning on half the bus not working with 33 deg heat. For what we paid we would have thought Outback would have sent a replacement bus or sent a mechanic out to fix problems 24 passengers in a hot bus for a few days obviously did not seem to mater, very disappointing
was excellent 10/10. Great guide Andy and driver Nobby, great commentary informative, humorous with excellent communication with passengers. Nothing was too much trouble to Andy. All accomodation and food very good except for Hilton Alice Springs where we had stained sheets and no hot water, unbelievable !!.
Our 2nd stage with Outback, Darwin to Kakadu and Litchfield was the complete opposite, not very helpful guide, some of our 1st stage group put on another Outback bus when asked if we could stay together on same bus given a blunt NO , commentary
bland. Hot water dispenser for tea / coffee not working and the air conditioning on half the bus not working with 33 deg heat. For what we paid we would have thought Outback would have sent a replacement bus or sent a mechanic out to fix problems 24 passengers in a hot bus for a few days obviously did not seem to mater, very disappointing
Written 5 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you chrismK533LP for your review. Whilst your first Red Centre tour with Outback Spirit seemed to run without a hitch, we are sorry to hear your second Kakadu tour did not. In relation to the mechanical issues, we do our best to resolve these issues without the need to cancel the tour altogether. However it is not always possible to obtain a replacement coach at short notice. As this tour is just two and a half days long, by the time a mechanic can be arranged, the coach could be on the way back to Darwin. Outback Spirit tours in some of the most remote places in Australia and whilst our operational team is always on hand should interruptions occur, there are times when it is not possible to solve issues with the same efficiency and timeframes you might expect in city areas. To address your concern over travelling with new-found friends, although we often run two coaches on the same departure date for this tour, they are separate tours with their own tour driver/guide. Manifests and accommodation lists are secured 30 days prior to the tour departure date. If a group is travelling together we will put them on the same tour coach at the time of booking, however for guests meeting each other on another tour prior to their Kakadu tour, as it is within the 30 day cut off, we cannot swap guests over to the other coach. I'm sorry this was not explained clearly to you at the time of your tour departure to Kakadu. We do appreciate you taking the time to outline your concerns and your feedback has been forwarded to our operations team for review.
Written 19 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Doreen A
Greater Sydney, Australia4 contributions
July 2021
This tour covered most parts of the Kimberley region from Broome to Horizontal Falls to Kununurra & back to Broome. It is such a beautiful area. The accommodation & meals were first class & we wanted for nothing. We had a couple of hiccups along the way but they were handled very professionally by the Outback Spirit team & we were soon on our way again & kept to our itinerary. I’d definitely recommend Outback Spirit as the best tour company to travel with in outback areas.
Written 11 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your 5 star review Doreen. This has been a season like no other! It's great to hear that changes to the trip didn't impede your enjoyment of the adventure.
All staff are working tirelessly to ensure our guests enjoy the best experience.
We appreciate you recommending Outback Spirit!
Written 1 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jotravel
11 contributions
June 2024 • Couples
Exceeded expectations
June 2024
My husband and I have just completed an Exquisite Kimberley Adventure Tour (Broome-Broome). We were warned on the first day that we would be up with the birds and in bed by sunset and we were, but in between we had quite an adventure.
The truck was comfortable even on the rough roads . There was a lot of driving, we travelled over 3,700 kms but we had frequent breaks to stretch our legs and the scenery was ever changing and we were never bored. .
Our driver/guide Dale was a true professional, looked after us exceedingly well and provided knowledgeable commentary throughout our journey. Dale ensured there was an endless supply of snacks at the front of the bus and provided delicious morning and afternoon teas. At meal times he was ever attentive ensuring the special diets were correctly allocated and that we were all happy.
The accommodation and the meals were first rate , The tented accommodation was slightly cold in some places so I would advise taking some warm gear. The Camp staff worked hard and ensured our stay was comfortable.
The itinerary was well thought out, highlighting what a special place the Kimberley is. The highlight for me was the flight to the Horizontal Falls , certainly a tick off my bucket list.
This was our second trip with Outback Spirit and we would certainly travel with them again
June 2024
My husband and I have just completed an Exquisite Kimberley Adventure Tour (Broome-Broome). We were warned on the first day that we would be up with the birds and in bed by sunset and we were, but in between we had quite an adventure.
The truck was comfortable even on the rough roads . There was a lot of driving, we travelled over 3,700 kms but we had frequent breaks to stretch our legs and the scenery was ever changing and we were never bored. .
Our driver/guide Dale was a true professional, looked after us exceedingly well and provided knowledgeable commentary throughout our journey. Dale ensured there was an endless supply of snacks at the front of the bus and provided delicious morning and afternoon teas. At meal times he was ever attentive ensuring the special diets were correctly allocated and that we were all happy.
The accommodation and the meals were first rate , The tented accommodation was slightly cold in some places so I would advise taking some warm gear. The Camp staff worked hard and ensured our stay was comfortable.
The itinerary was well thought out, highlighting what a special place the Kimberley is. The highlight for me was the flight to the Horizontal Falls , certainly a tick off my bucket list.
This was our second trip with Outback Spirit and we would certainly travel with them again
Written 10 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much Whyredfu01 for your 5 star review of your Kimberley tour with Dale. He will be thrilled to read that you enjoyed your tour so much and were able to see places you've dreamed about for years. The Kimberley region is indeed expansive and travelling these outback roads and seeing the communities along the way opens one's eyes to a whole other Australia. We look forward to seeing you onboard a future Outback Spirit tour!
Written 11 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marksouthperth
Perth, Australia33 contributions
June 2022
Great Company to go with. We did the 16 day Kimberly tour over June & July 2022 The driver Peter was unbelievable! His knowledge of the locations, history, animals, bird and stars was amazing. He was passionate friendly and punctual. I'd give him 6 stars if I could. The places you go to an the camps are fantastic. Not the cheapest but you get more than what you pay for because they really put so much into what they do and they stay at the best places. Throw in a couple of helicopter, boat and plane flights, it quickly adds up but it was all included. The Mitchell Falls accommodation was superb and the chef was incredible. The Mercedes bus was very comfortable and cleaned every day. When we had an issue with the bus (as some of the terrain is pretty rough) they flew in a technician to make sure we didn't miss out on any part of the tour. It was a full on 16 days with lots of early starts but it was truly AMAZING. I know everybody on our tour (20 pax) were over the moon with the experience. Thank Pete and Angie & Tash at the camps. You went above and beyond to make my wife & I feel like a million dollars on this tour.
Written 9 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Snuggles12
Brisbane Region, Australia3 contributions
July 2021
These are difficult times for all travel companies…however most have allowed refunds even though a non refundable booking..I am very disappointed that Outback Spirit will not consider a refund for a trip the second time around. We have travelled with this company before and the service is exemplary, but it seems when it comes to looking after their customers during Covid…they are seriously lacking. Disappointing in the extreme .
Written 1 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We appreciate your feedback Snuggles12.
COVID-19 has certainly wreaked havoc for tourism and hospitality businesses.
We are aware that travel companies in Australia are providing CREDIT for tours/flights/accommodations/attractions where travel cannot go ahead due to restrictions imposed with the pandemic.
At Outback Spirit we are offering credit for 24 months from the date of the tour departure date. You can use this credit for our small group coach tours, or any Journey Beyond experience for example, the Indian Pacific or The Ghan.
If you would like to discuss your personal situation, please contact our office info@outbackspirit.net.au
Written 2 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We are rescheduled to tour Kimberley in April. Last years tour was cancelled. Boarders are still not open. What happens to our full tour payment?
Written 10 February 2021
We are considering the Kimberley and top end adventure. It seems pretty pricey can you tell me if the price quoted is the full price or if there are extras and optionals? Is the luggage as restricted as the Kim & Faraway bay tour? We are considering a late may or early June date. When will the dates for 2020 be available and how quickly do they fill up (I am seeing that you have last minute fare reductions for the rest of 2019). I see a swimming towel was suggested for Faraway Bay do we need to bring that sort of stuff or do the camps supply them? Finally how does this differ from the 15 day adventure called the exquisite?
Thanks
Written 22 May 2019
We just did Jewels of the Kimberley & Faraway Bay 5/6/2019 to 19/6/2019 our tour commenced in Broome & finishing in Darwin, with 20 people but only 13 did the Faraway Bay component, the other 7 left Mitchell Falls for Darwin, & we flew to Faraway Bay. The plane only takes 14 people, so one person was seated in the right pilot seat up front. We were restricted to 6kg luggage - the driver gave us a bag ($2 shop style bag) the night before & the 6kg was all our things including the backpack. We opted out of the Horizontal Falls tour as we had done this tour previously. You only need the micro-fibre towel that is provided by Outback Spirit in their backpack through the trip. You’ll be amazed how much 16kg is when you get the appropriate soft duffle bag (we purchased Black Wolf Duffel Pak 150L for $40 from Snowys online also available at Strandbags), although everyone else seemed to have the fabric normal check in luggage bags with wheels. We only needed 1 set of warm clothes (tracksuit top & bottom) to sleep in the first night at Bungle Bungles. Reef shoes for Tunnel Creek. And just wore our socks to walk across Mitchell Falls. We lived in hiking boots, joggers & thongs, 5 days of outfits comprising of polo t-shirts, shorts, underwear, light hiking socks; and swimming costume, sunglasses, hat & I threw in 2 dresses for dinner, but partner wore his shorts & polo t-shirt. So, each of our duffle bags were about 10kg (thereabouts). You will definitely need a torch for tunnel creek and some of the camps (head or small hand held is enough – just to see where you are going). Several people had fly nets over their hats, but we survived fine without one. Lots of places to do washing and get it dried, or just hand wash items as you go. We only used the washing machine Kununurra stay for one large wash and this venue also have clothes dryers.
Written 27 June 2019
What clothes to bring on Jewels of the Kimberley& Faraway Bay Tour in June/July? Hiking boots & socks, swimming costume, wide brimmed hat, shorts, t-shirts, warm coat for cold nights. Anything else?
Written 8 July 2018
Thanks for your enquiry. Further suggestions include:
Sunglasses, Small backpack, Camera, Lightweight clothing, neat casual clothes for evenings, a warm top and pants for evenings, Swimming Towel, aqua/reef shoes for walking through water at Tunnel Creek, Torch, Bonoculars, Fly net (optional), Water bottle carrier sling (optional), Seat belt cover (optional), Photo ID for airline tickets, Mosquito repellent - tropical strength.
If you have any further queries, please don't hesitate to contact our Reservations team on 1800 688 222.
Written 8 July 2018
If you are limited to 16kg of luggage is there somewhere to wash/dry clothes during the 15 day/14 night jewels of the Kimberley & Faraway Bay tour?
Written 8 July 2018
Laundry facilities on Jewels of the Kimberley & Faraway Bay are currently available at:
Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa
Fitzroy River Lodge
Kununurra Country Club Resort
El Questro Wilderness Park
Faraway Bay
DoubleTree by Hilton Darwin
Please note, these facilities are a combination of self-serve coin operated facilities and full-service user pay laundry services.
Kind regards
Outback Spirit Guest Relations
Written 9 July 2018
Hi, what is the average age of people who go on Outback Spirit trips? I wonder if anyone can compare to similar trips with APT? Thanks
Written 14 June 2018
Hello. Most of our guests are semi-retired or retired and have the availability to travel. Some of our older guests are just as active and adventurous as those 50+. If you have any other queries, don't hesitate to call our reservations team on 1800 688 222 who can assist you.
Written 18 June 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.