Outback New South Wales Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Outback New South Wales, Australia.


Introduction to Outback New South Wales

Outback New South Wales is a vast area encompassing 60% of New South Wales’s landmass. It stretches from the rugged mountain ranges of the Great Dividing Range to the vast arid plains of the Australian Outback. This region is home to a diverse range of attractions, from historic towns and museums to stunning natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your Outback New South Wales journey.

List of Places to Visit in Outback New South Wales

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Broken Hill

Broken Hill is located in the far west of the state and is known as the Silver City. It is home to many historically significant mines, museums, and art galleries. The town is also famous for its beautiful architecture, including the Broken Hill Mosque and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

White Cliffs

White Cliffs is a remote opal mining town located in the north of the region. It is famous for its unique and quirky underground homes, which provide a unique experience for visitors.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre

The Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre, located in Dubbo, is an award-winning museum dedicated to showcasing the work of this iconic organization.

Natural Attractions of Outback New South Wales: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Warrumbungle National Park

Warrumbungle National Park is located near Coonabarabran and is known for its rugged and scenic beauty. It is a great place to go hiking, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. The park also offers stargazing opportunities, with the Siding Spring Observatory located within its borders.

Mungo National Park

Mungo National Park is a remote but stunningly beautiful park located in the southern part of the region. The park’s centerpiece is the famous Walls of China, a sight to behold at sunrise or sunset. Visitors can also learn about the area’s indigenous history and culture at the visitor center.

Menindee Lakes

The Menindee Lakes, located in the state’s far west, are a series of interconnected freshwater lakes that provide a home for a variety of birdlife. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by boat, with opportunities for fishing and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Outback New South Wales

The Explorers’ Way

The Explorers’ Way is a 1,500km trail that takes visitors through some of the region’s most iconic landscapes. It follows in the footsteps of the explorers who first mapped the area, with landmarks including Mount Isa, Lake Eyre, and the Flinders Ranges.

The Darling River Run

The Darling River Run is a 950km trail that follows the Darling River from Walgett to Wentworth. Along the way, visitors can explore historic towns and stunning landscapes, with opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing.

Best Things to Do in Outback New South Wales: Activities and Tours

Bush Tucker Tours

Bush Tucker Tours offer visitors the chance to learn about native Australian foods and how they were traditionally used by indigenous people. Visitors can sample foods such as emu, kangaroo, and bush tomatoes and learn about their nutritional and medicinal properties.

Outback Ballooning

Outback Ballooning offers visitors a unique perspective on the region’s stunning landscapes. Tours take place at sunrise and provide fantastic views of the outback’s color and majesty.

Week-Long Itinerary for Outback New South Wales

Day 1: Arrive in Broken Hill and visit the city’s many museums and galleries.

Day 2-3: Explore the beauty of the Warrumbungle National Park, with hiking and stargazing activities.

Day 4-5: Discover the remote beauty of Mungo National Park, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.

Day 6-7: Relax at the Menindee Lakes and enjoy water sports and fishing activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Outback New South Wales

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the must-try dishes in Outback New South Wales include:

  • Damper: a traditional Australian bread made from flour, water, and salt.

  • Barbecued Kangaroo: a delicious and sustainable alternative to beef or lamb.

  • Crocodile Skewers: a rare and exotic dish that can be found in some restaurants and pubs in the region.

Local Beverages

Outback New South Wales’s wine region is located around the town of Orange, and visitors can enjoy a range of world-class wines, including cool-climate Chardonnay and Shiraz.

Where to Stay in Outback New South Wales: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Outback New South Wales offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, guesthouses, and hostels. Some of the top-rated accommodations include:

  • The Imperial Hotel: a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Broken Hill and offering stunning views of the town.

  • The Corner Store Guesthouse: a charming and rustic guesthouse located in the popular town of Orange and offering excellent food and wine.

What to Buy in Outback New South Wales: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Outback New South Wales include:

  • Opals: Outback New South Wales is famous for its opal mining, and visitors can find unique and beautiful opals in many of the region’s towns.

  • Local Wines: take home a bottle (or several!) of the region’s world-class wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Outback New South Wales

Outback New South Wales has a rich Aboriginal history and culture, with many opportunities for visitors to learn about and experience traditional indigenous ways of life. Visitors should be respectful of traditional customs and respect any sacred sites and artifacts they may encounter.

Best Time to Visit Outback New South Wales

The best time to visit Outback New South Wales is during the autumn or spring when temperatures are mild and comfortable. The winter months can be cold, and the summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees Celsius.

Do’s and Don’ts of Outback New South Wales

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

  • Bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.

  • Try the local cuisine and wines.

Don’t:

  • Disturb any wildlife or natural habitats.

  • Ignore warnings about extreme heat and weather conditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Outback New South Wales

Visitors should be aware of potential hazards in the region, including extreme heat, wildlife, and remote and rugged terrain. Visitors should also take precautions against sun exposure and always carry plenty of water and other essential supplies.

Health in Outback New South Wales

Visitors should ensure that their vaccinations are up to date and take precautions against the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Ross River virus.

Getting to Outback New South Wales: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Outback New South Wales

The main airports servicing Outback New South Wales are:

  • Broken Hill airport

  • Dubbo airport

  • Mildura airport

Bus Stations Near Outback New South Wales

Greyhound buses offer regular services to towns throughout the Outback New South Wales region, including Broken Hill, Dubbo, and Orange.

Other Options

Driving to the region is a popular option, with well-maintained highways and roads connecting the region’s towns and attractions.

How to Get Around in Outback New South Wales

Car rental companies operate at most regional airports and in the larger towns throughout the region. Visitors should ensure that they have a valid driver’s license and that their vehicle is appropriately equipped for the terrain and distances in the region.

Where to Go Next from Outback New South Wales: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations and excursions from Outback New South Wales include:

  • The Blue Mountains: located to the east of the region, the Blue Mountains offer stunning scenery and world-class hiking opportunities.

  • The Hunter Valley: located to the south of the region, the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions, with many vineyards and tasting rooms to explore.

Conclusion

Outback New South Wales is a vast and beautiful region, offering visitors a range of unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply soaking up the region’s stunning scenery, Outback New South Wales is a must-see destination for any traveler to Australia.

The Walls of China in the world-heritage Mungo National Park The Walls of China in the world-heritage Mungo National Park Cities and towns in Outback NSW Cities and towns in Outback NSW The Cobb Highway is one of the last two remaining state highways that have unsealed sections (with the other being the Silver City Highway) The Cobb Highway is one of the last two remaining state highways that have unsealed sections (with the other being the Silver City Highway)


    Far West
    Lower Darling
    Northwestern New South Wales