Join our signature 10-day Hay River 4WD adventure from Birdsville (QLD) to Arltunga (NT). This classic outback route traverses the remote Simpson Desert and the unique Hay River floodplain. Unlike any other tour, you’ll actually drive upstream into what would normally be an ocean – the head of a desert river. Each day brings new scenery – conquer red sand dunes and remote tracks, camp beneath magnificent desert stars, and finish in the rocky East MacDonnell foothills.
Don’t dream it – do it. This is not 5-star camping; this is million-star camping under the outback sky.
Few places capture the wild soul of Australia like the Hay River Track. Hidden within the Simpson Desert, this 350-kilometre route traces the dry channel of an ancient inland river once teeming with life. Today it winds through ochre dunes, mulga woodland and shimmering salt pans—an untouched corridor of desert beauty rarely seen by travellers.
This track was first mapped in modern times by outback adventurer Lindsay Bookie, a respected Eastern Arrernte Traditional Owner, and legendary bush explorer Jol Fleming. Together they worked to open the route responsibly so visitors could experience the country while respecting its deep cultural significance. Travelling here is more than a drive—it’s a journey through living Indigenous land that holds stories tens of thousands of years old.
You’ll pass through Atnetye and Wangkangurru–Yarluyandi country, where the river once linked ceremonial sites across the desert. Olsen’s Tours works closely with Traditional Owners and follows strict permit processes so that your visit supports community stewardship of this fragile region.
After days of open desert, the East MacDonnell Ranges rise in red-rock splendour. Here the landscape changes dramatically—towering cliffs, white ghost gums and dry creek beds glowing in the afternoon light. You’ll explore:
Arltunga Historical Reserve – once Central Australia’s first official town and goldfield, now a fascinating ruin of stone buildings and mine relics.
Ruby Gap Nature Park – a remote gorge where early prospectors mistook glistening garnets for rubies. The drive in is rugged, but the reward is solitude, ancient rock faces and the purest night skies you’ll ever see.
This combination of desert isolation and mountain grandeur makes the Hay River 4WD Tag-Along Tour one of the most diverse 4WD adventures in the country.
Begins Birdsville
Ends Arltunga (Alice Springs)
2026 Dates: 14 June – 23 June
2028 Dates: TBA
Our Simpson Desert tours have sold out every year since 2004. With rare spots now open for 2027, we recommend securing your vehicle early.
Pricing from $3,195.00 per vehicle.
Remote Desert Driving: Tackle iconic dunes like Big Red, visit Peopple corner and travel north into the mouth of a rive. Follow First Nations trails as old as time into the northern Simpson.
Hay River Exploration: Follow the Hay River Track north from Batton Hill through the floodplain channels of an ancient desert river. Explore Lake Caroline.
Finish in the East MacDonnell Ranges – a lesser-known but spectacular part of Central Australia. Towering red cliffs, dry creek beds, and ghost gum-lined gorges offer a striking contrast to the wide-open desert behind you.
Campfires & Stargazing: Evenings around the campfire beneath the Milky Way – unforgettable skies in the heart of the desert.
Expert Guides & Inclusions: Experienced 4WD instructors lead the trip. All national park permits, indigenous land passes, and camping fees included.
Authentic Leadership: Guided by seasoned instructors who have led expeditions across the Canning Stock Route, Simpson Desert and Hay River Track for over 40 years.
Respectful Access: All necessary Aboriginal Land and National Park permits arranged on your behalf—no shortcuts, no guesswork.
Education on the Move: Every day includes practical 4WD coaching and cultural insights shared around the campfire.
Sustainability First: Small-group convoys, waste-minimisation practices and a leave-no-trace ethic protect the delicate desert ecosystem.
Community Connection: A portion of each permit fee supports Traditional Owner ranger programs maintaining access to the Hay River corridor.
Small-group travel – no crowded convoys
Gain real desert driving skills
Incredible scenery every day
Relaxed, friendly guides with deep local knowledge
Finish with confidence and unforgettable memories
Professional 4WD guide (40 years experience) and support vehicle
Recovery Equipment and expertise- you should bring some additional
All park and Indigenous land permits
Group cooking gear
Safety and comms equipment
Reliable high-clearance 4WD
Tent or swag and sleeping gear
Food and water (15L per person per day recommended)
Fuel for long-range outback travel
Warm layers for cold desert nights
“The highlight of our trip to Australia! Every day was unique, every night around the fire was magical. Thank you to the team – we’ll be back!”
“Driving Big Red and the Hay River was a lifelong dream. Olsen’s made it stress-free, fun and totally unforgettable.”
From AUD $3,195.00 per vehicle (2 people sharing)
Additional occupants pricing available
Travel insurance strongly recommended
Book per vehicle. Secure online payment via Rezdy. Contact us if you’d like to customise the trip or book as a group.
