OVERVIEW

Solos Only

Outback Queensland Solo Travel Tour

Longreach is one of those places that often surprises people, not just for its history, but for how much there is to experience once you arrive. This region is more than a stop in the outback, it’s a destination in its own right, where a few days quickly fills with stories, characters and unforgettable moments.

Explore Outback Queensland

Based in the heart of Queensland’s outback, this journey brings together the best of small group touring with a unique stay rich in character, local hospitality and a genuine sense of place. From evenings under the stars and station hospitality to immersive museums and iconic outback experiences, each day reveals a different side of the region.

We explore the heritage of the Australian Stockman, the story of QANTAS, and journey west to Winton, home to dinosaurs and bush legends. Along the way, we share local dining experiences, connect with the people who call this region home, and take in the wide open landscapes that define outback Australia.

With touring, transfers and highlight experiences arranged, this is a relaxed and rewarding way to discover Longreach and Winton, with everything taken care of so we can simply enjoy the journey together.

PACKAGE DETAILS
  • Ages:
    40+
  • Duration:
    6 Days
  • Status:
    Early bird offer
  • Region:
    AustraliaNZPacific
  • Destinations:
    Australia
  • Travel Style:
    Discovery
  • Accommodation:
    Hotel
  • Prices from:
    $5290 own room
  • Transport:
    Boat, Private vehicle
  • Pace:
    2
  • Max Group Size:
    20
REVIEWS

"The trip to Longreach was amazing .There were so many interesting things to see that I never knew about.The visits to the outback stations were so lovely .I would really urge anyone to visit this part of the world."

Cathy, 69 yrs, Sydney, NSW

'I have just done my first holiday with Encounter Travel - Outback Longreach Explorer. What an awesome holiday. We saw so many and varied things and had a true Australian Outback Experience with the people, their stories and the landscape. The places we visited were varied and all had something interesting. The holiday was jam packed with things to do but we also had a nice amount of downtime to explore on our own or rest if we wished. This tour was absolutely fabulous and for a city girl was really interesting to see what the Outback of Australia is really like. I highly recommend this tour.'

Leilani, 57 yrs, Brisbane, QLD
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INCLUSIONS

Accommodation & Meals

  • 5 nights unique accommodation
  • 5 breakfasts
  • 1 morning tea
  • 1 lunch
  • 4 dinners

Sightseeing & Guides

  • Local hosts & guides during included touring
  • Encounter Travel group host *
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

Transport

  • All transport within the itinerary
  • River cruise
  • Heritage rail journey
  • Airport transfers on arrival & departure, Longreach

Additional Inclusions

  • Small group experience, maximum 20 travellers

 

* Groups of 13 or more
Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory requirement and is in addition to the tour price.

Not included: 

  • Airfares (unless requested)
  • Travel insurance
  • Excess baggage
  • Visa fees if applicable
  • Any tips 
  • Meals and beverages not specified on itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry & medical expenses
  • Incidental expenses such as taxi fares, telecommunications

Departure Dates for this tour

Departure
Status
Price from
Get a quote
27 APR - 2 MAY 2027
Early bird offer
AUD$5290 own room
REQUEST QUOTE

Early Bird Offer
Save $200 when you book and pay your deposit by 31 August 2026 

PER PERSON AUD$

OWN ROOM

Tour with Slab Hut accommodation

AUD $5290

Upgrade Option:

Tour with Homestead Stable accommodation

AUD $5440

 

PRE OR POST TOUR STAY

PRE OR POST TOUR: Slab Hut with continental breakfast

AUD $320

Upgrade Option:

PRE TOUR: Homestead Stable Hut with continental breakfast

AUD $350


Trip Code: long27-4

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Itinerary

Highlights 

  • 6-day outback escape based in the heart of Queensland’s outback
  • Unique stay at Saltbush Retreat, rich in character and outback charm
  • Welcome dinner and show at Smithy’s, an evening under the stars by the Thomson River
  • Visit the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame with immersive exhibits and live storytelling
  • Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show at the QANTAS Founders Museum
  • Full day journey to Winton, including the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum and Dinosaur Canyon, and the Waltzing Matilda Centre
  • Heritage rail journey through the outback
  • Explore the small outback town of Ilfracombe, known for its heritage and local character
  • QANTAS Founders Museum, showcasing the story of Australia’s national airline
  • Sunset experience at Camden Park Station with drinks and hosted outback dinner
  • Thomson River cruise with breakfast, taking in the quiet beauty of the outback
  • Visit Rosebank Station with morning tea and insights into station life

 

DAY 1
Longreach – Arrival Day

Arrive into Longreach where your outback journey begins. On arrival, we are met and transferred as a group into town. There’s a short orientation tour of Longreach, offering an introduction to the town’s history, heritage, and role in shaping outback Australia.

Settle in for a memorable evening under the stars beside the coolibah-lined Thomson River at award-winning Smithy’s. Enjoy a hearty two-course camp-oven themed dinner, followed by freshly baked damper served with billy tea and coffee.

As the evening unfolds, a live performer shares songs and stories that reflect the spirit and heritage of the region, a relaxed and authentic introduction to outback life.

Encounter Moment
Our first group dinner together, a relaxed evening to connect, share stories, and settle into the experience ahead.

Meals: Dinner

Snapshot - What’s Included

·         Arrival transfer

·         Town orientation

·         Dinner and show

Special Notes

A selection of wine, cold beer, soft drinks and select pre-mixers are available for purchase from the licensed bar at Smith’s Outback show. 

DAY 2
Longreach – Stockman’s Hall & Light Show

Today we begin exploring the heart of Longreach’s identity and its deep connection to the Australian outback.

We visit the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, where immersive galleries, storytelling and live demonstrations bring to life the resilience, innovation and spirit of those who shaped the land. The experience blends history with modern multimedia to create a deeper understanding of outback life.

As the day winds down, we come together again in the evening at the QANTAS Founders Museum for the Luminescent Light Show. The evening continues with a group dinner at the local tavern.

Encounter Moment
The Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show, where stories of the outback are brought to life through light and sound under the open sky.

Meals: Continental Breakfast, Dinner

Snapshot - What’s Included

  • Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame including live show and immersive experience
  • Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show
  • Dinner in town

DAY 3
Longreach – Winton – Dinosaurs & Legends

We set out early for a full day journey west to Winton, travelling through landscapes rich in history and prehistoric significance.

At the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, we explore one of the world’s most important fossil sites, including Dinosaur Canyon, gaining insight into the discovery and preservation of Australia’s ancient past.

We continue into Winton, with time to take in the town’s character, including a stop at the historic North Gregory Hotel, before visiting the Waltzing Matilda Centre to uncover the story behind Australia’s most iconic bush ballad.

Encounter Moment
A shared day of discovery as we explore the stories of dinosaurs, pioneers and bush legends in one of Australia’s most fascinating outback regions.

Meals: Continental Breakfast, Dinner

Snapshot - What’s Included

  • Full day Winton touring
  • Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum and Dinosaur Canyon
  • Waltzing Matilda Centre
  • Group dinner, Longreach

DAY 4
Longreach – Rail Heritage & Outback Touring

Today we experience Longreach from a different perspective, stepping aboard for a full-day rail journey through the surrounding outback.

Travelling in heritage rail motors, we follow historic lines through open landscapes where waterholes, scrub and grasslands stretch into the distance. Along the way, we step off the train for a guided mulga walk, learning about bush plants, local landscapes and life in this region.

We pause for a classic outback smoko beside the Darr River before continuing on to Ilfracombe. Here, we explore this small outback town, visit the Wellshot Centre, wander along Machinery Mile, and enjoy lunch at the Wellshot Hotel.

We return to Longreach mid-afternoon, with time to relax before an evening transfer to the Longreach R.S.L.

Encounter Moment
Sharing the rail journey together, from stories on board to smoko by the river, offering a relaxed and social way to experience the outback landscape.

Meals: Continental Breakfast, Lunch

Snapshot - What’s Included

  • Outback rail touring experience
  • Guided mulga walk and local insights
  • Visit to Ilfracombe including Wellshot Centre and Machinery Mile

Free Time Extras
Free evening to enjoy a casual dinner in town

DAY 5
Longreach – QANTAS & Station Sunset Experience

Today we explore one of Longreach’s most significant landmarks, the QANTAS Founders Museum. Here, the story of Australia’s national airline unfolds through historic aircraft, interactive exhibits and guided touring of the Airpark.

We return to our accommodation mid-afternoon with some free time to relax before heading out for a signature outback experience at Camden Park.

Encounter Moment
An unforgettable evening at Camden Park Station, with sunset drinks followed by a hosted dinner, offering a genuine connection with local graziers and life on the land.

Meals: Continental Breakfast, Dinner

Snapshot - What’s Included

  • QANTAS Founders Museum and Airpark tour
  • Camden Park Station visit
  • Sunset drinks and hosted outback dinner

Free Time Extras
Some free time in the afternoon to relax or explore town.

DAY 6
Longreach – Departure Day

This morning we begin with a peaceful cruise along the Thomson River aboard the M.V. Longreach Explorer. As the day starts, we take in the quiet beauty of the river and surrounding floodplains while hearing stories of the region’s history and watching for local birdlife.

We enjoy breakfast on board before stepping ashore to view the area’s scar trees and learn about its cultural significance.

We then continue to historic Rosebank Station, where we are welcomed for morning tea and hear stories of life on this long-standing outback property. There is a break for lunch before we transfer to the airport for our onward journey home.

We then transfer to the airport for our onward journey, taking with us the stories, landscapes and shared moments of our time in the outback.

Encounter Moment
A final shared morning on the Thomson River, a relaxed way to reflect on the journey and enjoy the last moments together in the outback.

Meals: Breakfast, Morning Tea

Snapshot - What’s Included

  • Thomson River cruise with breakfast
  • Rosebank Station visit with morning tea
  • Group airport transfer @ 1PM 

View Full Itinerary

ACCOMMODATION

SALTBUSH RETREAT, LONGREACH

Staying at Saltbush Retreat, a boutique-style property set in the heart of Outback Queensland and close to the town centre of Longreach. Designed to reflect the character of the region, the retreat offers a relaxed and welcoming base to unwind after a day of touring.

We have selected premium accommodation, with the choice to stay in the beautifully appointed Slab Huts or the Homestead Stables. Both are considered deluxe outback stays, offering comfort and a strong sense of place. If you’re seeking a little extra indulgence, the Homestead Stables provide that added level of comfort and style.

Each is self-contained, including your own bathroom and small kitchen facilities. A breakfast basket is delivered to your room, allowing you to prepare a light breakfast each morning at your own pace.

Slab Huts
These luxurious studio rooms are crafted with traditional outback building techniques and recreate an early settler’s home. They feature a canopied bed, kitchenette, TV, DVD player, air-conditioning and a private verandah. Free parking is in a separate park adjoining the Pioneer Slab Hut complex.

The Homestead Stables
These luxurious rooms recreate the outback stable-boy’s accommodation but with deluxe 4.5-star comfort. They feature air conditioning and well-equipped kitchens plus many authentic outback touches. Flat-screen TVs and DVD players are included. Free parking is behind the stable blocks.

Encounter Travel in Longreach @ Saltbush Retreat

Slab Hut, Saltbush Retreat

Encounter Travel in Longreach @ Saltbush Retreat

Stables, Saltbush Retreat

Encounter Travel in Longreach @ Saltbush Retreat

Kitchen, Slab Hut, Saltbush Retreat

Encounter Travel in Longreach @ Saltbush Retreat

Bathroom, Saltbush Retreat

Encounter Travel in Longreach @ Saltbush Retreat

Exterior, Slab Hut, Saltbush Retreat

Encounter Travel in Longreach @ Saltbush Retreat

Kitchen, Saltbush Retreat


More About Accommodation

GETTING THERE

Starts In: Longreach, QLD Australia
Ends In: Longreach, QLD Australia

Arrival Day
Arrival day commences with a ‘meet and greet’ at Longreach airport and transfer to your accommodation.  Tour commences in Longreach and arrival by own arrangement. 

Final Day Information
An airport transfer is included to meet your departure flight. Consider the hotel check in time on arrival and the hotel check out time on departure. If you arrive prior to the check in time, the hotel will store your luggage until the check in time and can also store your luggage until you are ready to depart for your onward journey. Departure day ends after accommodation check out and a transfer to the airport for your onward journey home on the nominated group flight.    

FLIGHT INFORMATION

FLIGHT SCHEDULES
There is a daily flight between Brisbane and Longreach, Queensland. Some days the flight is direct and others days the flights is via Barcaldine. There is the option to book an overnight (sleeper) train journey between Brisbane and Longreach but additional nights of stay may be required as the train is not daily.

FLIGHT ASSISTANCE
We are able to provide flight advice and booking services. A small service fee applies, due in advance.   

TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION 

If joining from outside Australian, most passport holders from other countries must hold a valid passport with a minimum of six 6 months validity from your return date to your home country. Ensure you have at least two blank pages in your passport. See 'VISA' information in our MORE INFORMATION section below. 

PASSPORTS
If travelling/joining from outside your home country, most countries require visitors to hold a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity from your return date to your home country. Ensure you have at least two blank pages in your passport.

Always check your destination country for their Customs policies for prohibited or restricted items. Products or legal medications in your country may not always be permitted in other countries.

 

DETAILS

 

Trip Availability

We recommend booking early as group sizes are limited and popular departures fill quickly.

Fellow Travellers

This is a Solos Only tour, designed exclusively for solo travellers. Couples do not join this group.

Fit To Travel - The Pace

This tour is rated 2 out of 5.

You will experience a full and rewarding itinerary, with touring based in Longreach, and surrounds.  As a result, there are no long days of road travel, with the exception of the day to  Winton, which involves a few hours on the road each way.

The itinerary includes mostly full days, balanced with some lighter periods to rest and recharge. The overall pace suits travellers with an average level of fitness, and above.

Touring is always more enjoyable when you have a good level of fitness. A minimum average level is recommended. In the lead-up to your tour, we suggest regular activity a few times a week, such as walking for around 40 minutes at a time.

Travellers aged 75 years may be required to complete a Fit to Travel form with their doctor.

Visit Travel Fitness

Group Leader & Guides

For groups of 12 or fewer, your tour will be led by local guides. For groups of 13 travellers or more, an Encounter Travel group host will also join the tour to support the group throughout the journey.

Your group leader, whether a local guide or Encounter Travel host, is responsible for leading the group and managing the day-to-day logistics of the tour. Their role is to ensure everything runs smoothly so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

While this is a private group tour, some included experiences may be shared with other travellers. This can include certain dining experiences or touring components that operate on a broader basis.

As with any travel, there may be times when unexpected changes occur, such as delays due to traffic or weather conditions. In these situations, your group leader will manage any adjustments and make the best possible alternative arrangements. We ask that you remain flexible and trust their guidance, as these circumstances are outside anyone’s control.

Meals & Dining

It’s a regular part of our tours to include welcome and farewell dinners, along with additional group dining experiences throughout the journey. These shared meals are a highlight, offering the chance to connect, unwind and enjoy the day’s experiences together.

On this tour, meals are included from dinner on Day 1 through to breakfast on the final day.

Dining throughout the tour may include a mix of set menus, alternate drop menus or buffet-style meals, depending on the venues we visit. The style of dining reflects the region, with a focus on relaxed, Australian-style cuisine and local hospitality.

We cater for vegetarian and gluten-free requirements. For any other dietary needs, please check with us in advance and advise no later than 30 days prior to travel

Tipping

Tipping is not included in your tour package. If you feel your tour leader, driver or local guides have provided excellent service, tipping is always appreciated and entirely at your discretion.

Transport

Travel throughout the tour is by comfortable mid-size or full-size coach, depending on the group size.

Your journey also includes a river cruise and a day travelling on a heritage rail journey, offering a different perspective of the outback landscape.

Luggage

Maximum tour luggage.

Checked Luggage: 1 piece up to 23 kgs.
Hand Luggage:      1 piece up to 7kgs such as daypack and 1 small piece such as a handbag.

TRAVELLER REVIEWS

"The trip to Longreach was amazing .There were so many interesting things to see that I never knew about.The visits to the outback stations were so lovely .I would really urge anyone to visit this part of the world."

Cathy, 69 yrs, Sydney, NSW

'I have just done my first holiday with Encounter Travel - Outback Longreach Explorer. What an awesome holiday. We saw so many and varied things and had a true Australian Outback Experience with the people, their stories and the landscape. The places we visited were varied and all had something interesting. The holiday was jam packed with things to do but we also had a nice amount of downtime to explore on our own or rest if we wished. This tour was absolutely fabulous and for a city girl was really interesting to see what the Outback of Australia is really like. I highly recommend this tour.'

Leilani, 57 yrs, Brisbane, QLD

'Come to the Outback Longreach Tour in Queensland it’s a trip of a lifetime you’ll never forget.'

Kieran, 57 yrs, Brisbane, QLD

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