Darling River Run

Day 1 Monday: Bourke (LD)

Tour Start Time: 9.00am

Our adventure along the Darling River Run begins bright and early today as we depart from the vibrant city of Dubbo and make our way to the historic river town of Bourke. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy lunch before visiting the Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre and the town's historic cemetery. Here, we’ll honour the legacy of the celebrated Professor Fred Hollows and reflect on inscriptions that tell stories of bushrangers, drovers, cameleers, riverboat men, lost children, and local legends.

(Please ensure you arrive in Dubbo the day before the tour begins. If you need assistance with booking accommodation for the night prior, we’re happy to help.)

Day 2 Tuesday: Bourke and Brewarrina (BD)

We start the day with a visit to the historic town of Brewarrina, home to the ancient Fish Traps, often called the "Oldest Manmade Structure in the World." Viewing these remarkable traps depends on the river levels. After exploring the Aboriginal Cultural Museum, we’ll return to Bourke, once a bustling hub of wool, cotton, and citrus production. Lunch will be at your leisure at a local bakery (own expense). In the afternoon, we’ll board the paddle steamer PV Jandra for a cruise, offering a glimpse into the Darling River's storied past.

Day 3 Wednesday: Bourke and Trilby station (BLD)

Our journey down the iconic Darling River begins with a relaxing morning tea, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the river and its ever-changing landscape. As we follow the river downstream, we’ll stop to take in a few hidden gems along the way before arriving in the charming outback town of Louth for a delightful lunch. After an insightful tour of Louth, rich with history and character, we continue on to our destination for the next two nights—Trilby Station, a working sheep station where the spirit of the outback comes to life.

Day 4 Thursday: Trilby Station (BLD)

After breakfast we'll visit the historic Dunlop Station, which was originally over a million acres for morning tea and a tour of the historic shearing shed, that was the first shed in the world to complete a mechanical shearing back in 1888. Back to Trilby for lunch and this afternoon we embark on a discovery tour of Trilby with Liz Murray. Trilby Station is a 320,000 acres property, running Merino sheep and an extensive goat enterprise. The Murray family can trace their settlement on the Darling River near Louth back seven generations to 1860. 

Day 5 Friday: Trilby/Menindee (BLD)

This morning, our journey resumes as we return to Louth and follow the scenic route along the East side of the Darling River, pausing for a delightful morning at one of the best pubs in the outback, Tilpa Pub. Our path then leads us to Wilcannia, once hailed as the "queen of the west," boasting impressive sandstone structures and a pivotal role in the 1800s as a bustling port for paddle steamers. Today, it stands as a vital service center for the rural population.

Continuing our exploration along the West side of the Darling River, we head towards Menindee with lunch en-route. We visit Copi Hollow, part of the Menindee Lakes System, offering a picturesque setting. In the afternoon, a Wetlands Cruise beckons, allowing us to delve into the beauty of the Lakes. The day concludes with dinner at the charming Maiden's Hotel, promising an enriching blend of history, nature, and local hospitality.

Day 6 Saturday: Menindee/Mildura (BL)

We'll leave Menindee and head to Pooncarie for a morning tea break. Pooncarie is a beautiful historic village and river port, where you can enjoy the unhurried pace, conversations with friendly locals, and possibly see kangaroos along the riverbank. 

We then make our way to Wentworth and stop at the junction of where the mighty Darling and Murray Rivers meet on our way to Mildura. Dinner will be at your leisure, with options such as Stefano de Pieri's restaurant or The Province by Matt De Angelo.

Day 7 Sunday: Mildura/Mungo (BL)

Today we enjoy the day at Mungo. Embark on a journey to the World Heritage Listed Mungo National Park, where a mesmerizing landscape of ancient dry lake basins and intricate sand formations awaits. Mungo is not just a place; it's a living testament to the rich Aboriginal history embedded in the heart of New South Wales, holding profound significance for the local indigenous people as the sacred home of Mungo Woman and Mungo Man.

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring scenery surrounding the Walls of China, a distinctive feature nestled on the southeastern fringe of the Lake Mungo lunette. This natural wonder stands as one of Australia's most indelible sights, captivating all who lay eyes on it. Today promises a journey of genuine wonder and discovery, offering a profound connection to the ancient tales woven into the fabric of Mungo National Park.

Day 8 Monday: Mildura/Wentworth/Broken Hill (BD)

After breakfast, our journey takes us to Broken Hill via Wentworth with a stop at the junction of where the mighty Darling and Murray Rivers meet offering a tour of this quaint gem nestled beside Australia’s two mightiest rivers. Now, unwind, have some lunch (own expense) and contemplate the enriching seven days of discovery across this expansive Australian terrain. This afternoon we will explore Broken Hill and finish the day with a sunset at the Sculpture Symposium

Day 9 Tuesday: Departure (B)

Silver City Tours bid you a fond farewell and transfer you to your departure point.

2025 Prices

$4495.00 per person Twin Share

$5395.00 per person Single