Longreach is a treasure trove for travelers who want to experience the Australian outback beyond just looking at it. With its sprawling floodplains, historic stations, and vibrant local culture, the town offers a variety of tours that bring the region to life. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset cruise along the Thompson River, a lively outback dinner and show, or a train journey through rugged landscapes, Longreach has something for every type of traveler. One standout is the Drover’s Sunset Cruise with its stunning river views and camp-oven dinner, perfect for those who want a combination of scenic beauty and cultural storytelling.
If you’re interested in exploring the region’s history and wildlife, options like the Nogo Station Experience or the Longreach Town Tour offer deep dives into local heritage. For a taste of authentic outback entertainment, the Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience or Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show promise lively performances and interactive experiences. Whatever your passion—be it history, wildlife, or just good old-fashioned fun—Longreach’s tours are designed to give you a genuine taste of outback life.
1. Drover’s Sunset Cruise includes Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show
At number 1 on our list, this 4-hour 30-minute experience offers a magical sunset cruise along the Thompson River. The Longreach Explorer boat provides sweeping views of floodplains and wildlife, while the crew shares stories about the river’s connection to Indigenous culture and local wildlife. During the cruise, you can purchase cold drinks from the licensed bar and enjoy complimentary snacks, making it a relaxing prelude to the evening.
The highlight is docking at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show, where you’ll indulge in a delicious two-course camp-oven-style dinner under the stars, accompanied by lively entertainment. Reviewers consistently praise this tour for its friendly hospitality and memorable storytelling, with many calling it a “must-do” experience. Its combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and authentic outback cuisine makes it perfect for couples or anyone wanting a well-rounded evening in Longreach.
Bottom line: This cruise is ideal for those who love nature, local stories, and a cozy dinner under the night sky. The experience’s high ratings and warm reviews attest to its popularity and value.
2. Starlights Cruise Experience
Number 2 features a 4-hour evening adventure on a small paddlewheeler designed for intimate groups. Starting with a sunset cruise on the Thompson River, you’ll watch the sky change color as native birds settle in for the night. The cruise then shores at a bush campground to continue your outback experience with live performances around a campfire.
This tour’s standout is the story of Captain Starlight, presented through an outdoor movie in a natural riverbank setting. You’ll also enjoy a traditional stockman’s dinner of damper and tea under the moon and stars. The tour includes convenient door-to-door transfers from Longreach motels, making it very hassle-free. Reviewers highlight its relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery, calling it an “authentic outback experience.”
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who enjoy storytelling, outdoor performances, and intimate settings, this tour offers a genuine taste of the outback with a cozy campfire finish.
3. Nogo Station Experience
Number 3 is a 3 to 4-hour open-top safari that showcases life on a working station. The tour kicks off with a heritage tour of Longreach, then heads out to Nogo Station, where you’ll explore historic shearing sheds and learn about Merino wool production.
Beyond the sheds, you’ll go on a safari across the plains, encountering desert camels, wild donkeys, kangaroos, and wedge-tailed eagles. The tour culminates at Captain Starlight’s Camp, where you’ll enjoy a pioneer-style smoko of billy tea and damper under the gum trees. The guide shares insightful stories about the station’s history and wildlife, making this a well-rounded adventure.
Reviews note the knowledgeable guides and authentic station experience, with particular praise for the open-air safari and the chance to see regional wildlife up close. It’s suited for those who like hands-on, immersive experiences in rural Australia.
Bottom line: Excellent for nature lovers and history buffs, this tour offers a genuine look at station life paired with scenic outback vistas.
4. Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience in Longreach
At number 4, this 4-hour adventure takes you back in time on a restored stagecoach along the Longreach-Windorah mail route. You’ll ride in a genuine Cobb & Co coach, reliving the pioneering days of Australian settlement.
The tour includes a live outdoor cinema screening of a classic bush movie and a traditional smoko of scones with jam and tea. The highlight is the Old Time Tent Show, a lively vaudeville-style performance filled with slapstick humor, animal antics, and old-fashioned entertainment. Many reviews mention how fun and immersive this experience is, with some calling it “a great way to understand frontier life.”
Bottom line: Perfect for families and history enthusiasts, this tour combines nostalgia, storytelling, and active participation in a historic stagecoach ride.
5. Longreach: Drover’s Sunset Cruise & Outback Dinner & Show
Number 5 offers a 4.5-hour sunset cruise that captures the colors of the outback as the river reflects the sunset. Alongside scenic views, you’ll hear stories about wildlife, river history, and Indigenous culture from your captain. Complimentary homemade nibbles and a two-course camp oven dinner under the stars complete the experience.
This tour’s value lies in its perfect blend of relaxation and culture, with many travelers noting the outstanding sunset photos and friendly atmosphere. The musical entertainment adds a lively touch, making it suitable for couples or small groups who want an authentic evening.
Bottom line: A well-priced option for those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and culturally rich evening in Longreach.
6. Longreach History and Town Tour
Number 6 is a quick 1-hour guided tour exploring Longreach’s town highlights. Led by a local guide, it offers a compact but insightful look into local landmarks and stories. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but wanting a taste of the town’s character and history.
Reviews praise its personalized approach and local insights, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want context for their other explorations. It’s also a good primer before heading out on more intensive tours like the Winton Discovery Day.
Bottom line: A practical option for a quick orientation, especially if you’re curious about Longreach’s past and want to make the most of your day.
7. Great Darr River Rail Run Outback Rail Adventure
Number 7 features a 3-hour train journey through floodplains and open landscapes aboard a heritage rail motor. You’ll enjoy native flora and fauna as your driver shares interpretive commentary, and there’s a stop at Darr River for billy tea and a guided Mulga Walk.
This tour is appreciated for its relaxing pace and the opportunity to see the Outback from a rail perspective. It’s great for those who want to experience the landscape without strenuous activity and enjoy storytelling on board. Reviewers note the informative narration and the chance to spot wildlife.
Bottom line: Suited for quiet, contemplative travelers with an interest in rail history and scenic outback views.
8. Longreach: Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show
Number 8 offers an outdoor dinner experience with live entertainment under the stars. For around $65, you’ll enjoy a two-course camp oven meal featuring traditional Australian bush foods, plus authentic storytelling and music.
The setting beside the Thomson River provides a peaceful backdrop, and the performances by resident artists add a lively, genuine flavor of outback culture. Reviewers highlight the friendly staff, delicious food, and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a more casual choice but equally immersive.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking an authentic, laid-back evening with good food, music, and stunning river scenery.
9. Longreach: Qantas Founders Museum First Class Experience
Number 9 offers a full-day immersion into aviation history. You’ll explore the museum, walk on the 747 wing, and visit the flight deck. The guided tours include a 1.5-hour Airpark Tour and a 45-minute flight deck experience, making it perfect for aviation enthusiasts.
Guests rave about the “fantastic” insight into Qantas’ first 100 years, and the chance to sit in the captain’s seat is an added thrill. The tour is ideal for families, history buffs, and anyone curious about Australian aviation milestones. The price reflects a deep dive into the airline’s legacy, making it a good value for a full day.
Bottom line: A standout for plane lovers and history buffs wanting an active, educational experience.
10. Great Darr River Rail Run
Number 10 is a heritage rail motor experience that combines scenic landscape views with storytelling. Traveling over floodplains, you’ll enjoy billy tea at Darr River and learn about local life through interpretive commentary.
Its short, 3-hour format makes it a relaxed option for those craving a scenic ride with historical context. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and delicious damper, emphasizing its laid-back charm.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for rail fans and those wanting a peaceful, scenic ride with cultural insights.
11. Winton Discovery Day Tour
Number 11 is a full-day trip to Winton, exploring dinosaurs, opal gems, and Waltzing Matilda. It includes a visit to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, where fossils and trackways await.
The tour also visits Winton Opal Gems and the historic North Gregory Hotel, where Banjo Paterson is said to have performed “Waltzing Matilda.” Reviewers praise its thorough coverage, with one calling it “well organized and full of local stories.” It’s perfect for history and fossil lovers wanting to see Winton without self-driving.
Bottom line: Offers a well-rounded, educational experience of Winton’s highlights in one day—great for families and history buffs.
12. VIP Silver-Tails Rail Sunset With Smithy’s Dinner and Show
Number 12 is the ultimate dinner and scenic rail package. Starting with a sunset voyage aboard the heritage Silver-Tails Rail Motor, you’ll enjoy signature canapes and drinks while watching the floodplains change color. Then, you’ll attend Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show for a full evening of entertainment.
Ratings emphasize its nostalgic charm and exceptional food, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a premium experience. It’s perfect for special occasions or those who want a seamless combination of scenic views, gourmet dining, and live entertainment.
Bottom line: A high-end option that blends scenic beauty with culture, tailored for those wanting the best of Longreach in one evening.
13. Ilfracombe Tour
Number 13 takes you on a 3-hour exploration of the Lynn Cameron Machinery Mile and Wellshot Centre. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll see a remarkable collection of machinery and learn about one of Australia’s largest sheep properties, Wellshot.
The highlight is the Wellshot Hotel, where stories of outback enterprise come alive. Reviewers appreciate the informative narration and the chance to learn about the region’s sheep industry and machinery history. This tour suits travelers interested in rural industry and local innovation.
Bottom line: Ideal for those curious about regional industry and machinery, offering a hands-on look at outback farming life.
14. Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show
Number 14 combines dinner and entertainment in an outdoor setting beside the river. For around $67, you’ll enjoy a two-course bush food menu, with lively performances that include songs, stories, and some dancing. Before dinner, a floodplain tour offers scenic views of rural Queensland.
Reviewers describe the friendly staff, delicious food, and the authentic outback atmosphere as highlights. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly option that offers culture with a fun twist.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want an interactive, tasty evening with a genuine outback vibe and scenic surroundings.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Longreach experience, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For a relaxed, scenic outing, the Drover’s Sunset Cruise or the Smithy’s Dinner and Show offer great value and memorable moments. If you’re keen on history and heritage, the Cobb & Co Stagecoach or the Winton Discovery Day are excellent choices.
For those who love wildlife and working stations, the Nogo Station Experience combines both. If you prefer a luxurious, all-in-one evening, the VIP Silver-Tails Rail Sunset is hard to beat. Always book early, especially in peak seasons, as these highly-rated tours tend to fill up fast.
Finally, don’t forget practical details: if you’re short on time, quick tours like the Longreach Town Tour give a good overview, while full-day adventures like the Winton Discovery provide in-depth insights.
Final Thoughts
Longreach offers a rich selection of tours that showcase the best of outback Australia’s scenery, culture, and history. For a romantic sunset, the Drover’s Sunset Cruise is a clear favorite. For an immersive look at station life, the Nogo Station Experience won’t disappoint. History buffs will appreciate the Cobb & Co Stagecoach or Winton Discovery.
Whether you’re after a relaxing river cruise, a lively dinner, or an educational railway journey, these tours provide authentic, engaging ways to experience the region. Be sure to book early and choose the experiences that best match your interests and pace. The outback has a way of leaving a lasting impression—make sure you get the most out of your visit by selecting the right tour for you.