A true resemblance of the Australian Outback, Mount Isa is a popular destination for travellers from all walks of life. The arid and romantic setting of endless sunrises and sunsets with wide-open landscapes that look out into the horizon is enviable.
Often referred to as the oasis of the outback, Mount Isa is home to several hidden gems of Outback Queensland. From a history of being home to the Southern Hemisphere's largest rodeo – the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo – as well as the most productive single mines to spectacular natural landscapes of Lawn Hill Gorge in Boodjamulla National Park and the world heritage Riversleigh Fossil Fields, there are plenty of things to see and do in Mount Isa.
If you're looking for a fun and insightful way of exploring the best hotspots Mount Isa has to offer, we strongly recommend jumping on one of these amazing Mount Isa tours.
Lake Moondarra Sunset Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Tour operator: North West Tours
Price: From $69.00
Lake Moondarra is a stunning water paradise in the middle of the red earth surrounding of Outback Queensland. Only 16 kilometres from the centre of town, you won't get a better view of an Australian Outback sunset than at Lake Moondarra.
Departing from the city centre, your journey to the lake will be filled with your host's informative yet entertaining history and commentary. To grab the best views of the lake and the true Aussie Outback, the lake lookout will be your first stop giving you a chance to admire your surroundings.
Next, the group will head to the bay where drinks and a delicious platter of local goodies are served. Here, you will be given the chance to walk along the bay to soak in the magnificent views and to stretch your legs in admiration.
A definite must for those who love sunsets and a whole new perspective of the hardy Australian Outback.
Mount Isa Heritage and History Tour
Duration: 2.5 hours
Tour operator: North West Tours
Price: From $69.00
No visit to Mount Isa is complete without immersing yourself in the rich history of the city. As part of the Mount Isa Heritage and History Tour, your journey to learning about historical sights and attractions begins. With many facts and events that have been forgotten by tourist guide books, reveal the hidden secrets of Mount Isa here.
Along the way, you will visit the original 1926 Mount Isa Cemetery, which is curiously home to only 6 graves. Your knowledge then expands as you discover the story behind the RFDS de Havilland aircraft placed aloft on a pole on the banks of Leichhardt River. Next, step foot into the Casa Grande heritage where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II once stayed. Your journey continues as you learn about the Urquhart shafts and the original MIM headframes before listening to stories about the original pubs that once stood before the Isa Hotel and Redearth Boutique Hotel now stands.
The city clock's significant history will be vested upon you, followed by the passing through of Soldiers Hill as you learn about how thousands of American soldiers were once stationed there during the Second World War. The final experience brings you back to an unforgettable moment back in time with a private guided tour of the Underground Hospital and heritage-listed Tent House.
To round up your tour, complimentary afternoon tea is served. Needless to say, if you want a true firsthand experience of the story of Mount Isa, the Mount Isa Heritage and History Tour is a must.
Mount Isa City Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Tour operator: North West Tours
Price: From $59.00
Join in on the interpretive tour detailing the history of Mount Isa to the modern day. From natural fauna and traditional dwellings to insights into the mines and Buchanan Park home, the Mount Isa City Tour serves as a true depiction of how this amazing outback city evolved over time.
Old Mary Kathleen Uranium Mine Tour
Duration: 4 hours
Tour operator: North West Tours
Price: From $119.00
Once a fully working township, Mary Kathleen had a population of 1,000 people with all the essentials such as a school, cinema, hospital, supermarkets, post office, banks and more.
The exhaustion of uranium in the Mary Kathleen mine led to its closure in 1981, which caused the township's abandonment. Hear the stories of the township and mine and take on the opportunity to take some awe-inspiring photographs of the mine's uncanny bright blue waters as a result of the washing of minerals from the mine's walls.
Where to stay in Mount Isa?
With so many interesting tours to hop on to learn more about Outback Queensland, it certainly feels rewarding to retreat back to luxurious comfort after a long day out and about.
At the Redearth Boutique Hotel, your comfort is our priority. Ensuring impeccable customer service followed by exceptional facilities that will make you feel relaxed, well-rested and at ease, a stay here is a must for the Mount Isa adventurer. Located at the heart of the city centre, everything you need is within arm's length along with all of the city's main attractions.
Book a stay at the Redearth Boutique Hotel for your next trip to Mount Isa.
Banner image credit: The Rouseabouts
