The 7 Best Outback & 4WD Tours in Australia

1.Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation 4WD Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,521 reviews · 8 hours · from $162Our pick

Ride from Cairns, the Northern Beaches, or Port Douglas into the Daintree with guides such as AJ, Daniel, Mel, and Graeme. Expect a crocodile cruise, rainforest boardwalk, lunch, freshwater swim, Cape Tribulation Beach, and a scoop of unusual tropical-fruit ice cream. The 8-hour tour is active, informative, and weather dependent.

“Daniel was a fun, kind, and knowledgeable guide. The different excursions were great. I really enjoyed the ice cream at the end!”

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2.Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 974 reviews · 2 hours · from $84

Spend two hours at Australian Outback Spectacular near the Gold Coast, following two farmers through a moving Heartland story while horses, acrobats, comedy, music, and special effects fill the arena. Your ticket includes a three-course dinner, beer, wine or soft drinks during the show, bush tea, a stockman’s hat, and parking.

“Nothing your staff are so professional there polite, courteous and always willing to help if needed”

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3.Dingos 3 Day K’Gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag-Along Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 939 reviews · from $443Top rated

Spend three days exploring K’Gari by guided 4WD convoy, with driving lessons, Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, the Maheno wreck, Champagne Pools, and Lake Wabby. You camp in twin-share tents, eat included meals, and learn from guides such as Wade, Lee, Rhett, Amy, Pete, and Paul. The tour is for ages 18 to 35.

“We had an awesome group, and Dan, our guide, made it truly special. He showed us around the island with so much enthusiasm, and on day two, we jammed to some great tunes. Food was also good and make sure to bring lots of alcohol. Every moment was filled with good vibes, making it a trip to remember.”

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4.Drover’s Sunset Cruise includes Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 665 reviews · from $121

You’ll cruise the Thompson River aboard the Longreach Explorer, with sunset views, wildlife stories, Indigenous heritage, shared savoury snacks, and a licensed bar. Then you’ll dock at Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show for a two-course camp-oven meal and live entertainment, including performances by Drew Blundell on some evenings.

“A beautiful calm and relaxing cruise along the the river. Welcoming crew and knowledgeable information about the river and surrounding areas. Beautiful wildlife along the way. Fantastic dinner with wonderful entertainment.”

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5.Rainbow Beach: 3-Day K’gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 635 reviews · 3 days · from $438

Spend three active days on K’gari with Dingo’s K’gari Adventures, driving 4WDs along the beach behind guides such as Amy, Rhett, Paul, and Arty. Swim at Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby, float down Eli Creek, visit Champagne Pools, and sleep in a simple beachside camp. You must be 21 or older with a full manual license to drive.

“We really enjoyed our 3 days on K’gari and we can’t thank Dingoes enough for allowing us to enjoy the island! They showed us some great sights, overall it was a great experience, we’ll definitely be coming back!”

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6.Unlimited Sandboarding & 4WD Sand Dune Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 540 reviews · 1h 30m · from $30Best value

Meet at Birubi Beach for a short, bouncy ride in an air-conditioned 4WD to Stockton’s huge moving dunes. Learn the basics, then climb and slide as often as you like for up to 90 minutes. Guides including Shaq and Isaac have helped riders of all ages, but bring water, sunscreen, and energy for the soft-sand climbs.

“Great activity for our large family. We had a mix of ages from 9-70 and everyone had a great time. Check in was easy and fast, activity was as described and transportation and sand boards were in good condition.”

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7.Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 426 reviews · from $225

From Ayers Rock Resort, you’ll watch sunset over Uluru with sparkling wine and snacks, then dine near the rock on sausages, meats, salads, bread, and drinks. An expert star guide points out the Southern Cross and planets, weather permitting. Guides such as Rachel, Kevin, Karen, and Odin have earned praise for their friendly, engaging talks.

“Lovely experience overall. Sunset Viewing was dramatic and the bubbly made it toast worthy. Dinner under the stars will be a cherished memory.”

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