In search of lost cities

Between thermal springs, dusty tracks, and endless corrugations, our hunt for the “Lost Cities” led us deep into the Northern Territory. These aren’t real cities, but ancient sandstone domes rising out of the red earth, best discovered by 4x4, drone, and plenty of patience. From floating in Mataranka’s crystal waters to waking up at the base of the Southern Lost City without even realising we’d camped there, it was a journey of surprises, dust, and the kind of magic you only find when plans change.