SA Eco Tours Lake Eyre & Flinders Ranges Small Group 4WD Eco Safari - Standard Motel Unit, Double/Twin Share (Single)
A 4-day small group eco-adventure to beautiful Lake Eyre and the Flinders Ranges. Includes Wilpena Pound, Ediacaran fossils, Brachina & Bunyeroo Gorges, Clare Valley wine tasting & 6 hour scenic flight. Multiple accommodation options.
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Itinerary
This is an exciting 4-day small group tour from Adelaide to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre and the famous South Australian Flinders Ranges. It includes a six-hour scenic flight (with a landing and stop for lunch) over Lake Eyre and the Ranges.
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, located 700km north of Adelaide, is the largest salt lake in the Southern Hemisphere — so large that it crosses the borders of three states. It is the lowest natural point in Australia (15m below sea level), and is also, on the rare occasions that it fills, the largest lake in Australia.
See the lake as most people never do on our Lake Eyre tour — come with us on a small group safari and get a close-up look at this marvel of nature. This is the best Lake Eyre experience from Adelaide!
The views of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre are equally spectacular when in flood with surrounding wildflowers and birds or in drought with it’s brilliant white crust and desert wildlife.
It can give you a real sense of isolation standing on the dry lake edge with nothing as far as the eye can see, but when the rains come, the lake comes to life with thousands of birds. Away from the lake, the National Park features red sand dunes and mesas, stone-strewn tablelands and salty claypans.
Get a real sense of the outback spirit — make this awe-inspiring journey in the comfort of a modern 4WD or all-terrain vehicle. Follow in the footsteps of famous explorer John McDouall Stuart and the old Ghan Railway. See the sights of the Oodnadatta Track from the air. There’s nothing like heading bush and experiencing some of the harshest country in Australia.
Complete with this Lake Eyre scenic flight, you will have a once in a lifetime experience.
DAY 1
Commence your wilderness journey heading north via the old coastal towns of Port Wakefield and Port Germein, which boasts the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. During the safari your Tour Guide will introduce you to a remarkable and resilient history of both Aboriginal and white settlement in SA.
Be amazed by the beauty of the Southern Flinders Ranges, 600 million year old mountain peaks and spectacular views over Spencer Gulf. Travel through picturesque Pichi Richi Pass to the historic township of Quorn. With its typical outback buildings and the original Ghan Railway station, Quorn has been the setting for many iconic Australian films.
Follow in the path of our early explorers driving to Warrens Gorge Conservation Park to search for rare Yellow-Footed Rock Wallabies. Dramatic rock outcrops harbour these endangered wallabies with only an estimated 8,000 living in the wild. Sit back in our comfortable, fully equipped 4WD vehicle as we head along remote tracks through the deserted Willochra Plains where eagles soar and emus run free.
Overnight: Wilpena Pound Resort
Meals:
(L) A picnic lunch is included.
(D) Dinner is at a restaurant at your own expense.
DAY 2
In the morning take off from the local airstrip for your special Lake Eyre scenic flight with excellent views of the Flinders Ranges. You begin your scenic flight over Wilpena Pound, Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorge before tracking north to Lake Eyre. You will fly over Parachilna, the Leigh Creek open-cut coal fields and the Marree Man, following the outback tracks crossing the awe-inspiring Lake Eyre.
After marvelling at the wonders of this mammoth inland salt lake we will land at the outback town of William Creek. Enjoy lunch at a remote pub where the local stockmen gather. Make the return trip back to Wilpena Pound over the Painted Hills, Andamooka opal fields and Lake Torrens.
(Flight path may change to take advantage of better scenic options).
Overnight: Wilpena Pound Resort
Meals:
(B) A continental breakfast is included.
(L) Lunch at the William Creek Pub is included.
(D) Dinner is at a restaurant at your own expense.
DAY 3
This morning our expert guide will drive you on a wonderful journey through the Northern Flinders Ranges to Blinman. At 615 metres it is the highest town in South Australia. Go deep underground on the award-winning Copper mine tour.
Our expert guide will drive you on a wonderful journey to the spectacular Bunyeroo Gorge, visiting secluded areas of great natural beauty. Explore the ever changing creek beds of Brachina Gorge. This is an area alive with wildlife and boasts a remarkable geological history including Ediacaran fossils dating back millions of years. World-renowned South Australian painter, Sir Hans Heysen was inspired by this country and painted many of his landscapes here.
After a scrumptious picnic lunch, immerse yourself in the ancient landscape; take that special photograph from Razor Back Lookout or just enjoy some of the most spectacular outback scenery Australia has to offer.
As the sun becomes low in the sky we will follow the road through a landscape of absolute beauty. Wildlife including Kangaroos, Emus and Wedge-tailed Eagles are prolific in this rugged terrain and are usually spotted in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Wilpena Pound Resort
Meals:
(B) A continental breakfast is included.
(L) A picnic lunch is included.
(D) Dinner is at a restaurant at your own expense.
DAY 4
Spend a relaxing morning travelling back to Adelaide along the eastern side of the Flinders Ranges with its mighty Red Gum forests. Crossing Goyder’s Line, the boundary of reliable rainfall, you will see lands that change into a lush expanse rich rural landscape.
The mid-north towns offer a blend of beautiful scenery, historical charm and thriving agriculture. Let’s find a lovely country café for lunch where you can meet the locals and have a chat.
In the afternoon stop at the world-famous Clare Valley wine region, one of the premium wine regions of South Australia! Seven Hills Cellers was built by the Jesuits in 1851. It is the first winery ever built in the Clare Valley and one of the oldest in Australia. Seven Hills celebrates old stone winery and cellar door; stately St Aloysius Church and the surrounding vineyards provide us with a memorable experience. Wine tastings are formatted into a flight of five premium wines.
Meals:
(B) A continental breakfast is included.
(L) Lunch at a café or bakery is included.
Please note:
CODE (B) (L) (D) indicates which meals are included and which meals are at the passengers own expense.
Optional extras are on request and can only be booked while on tour!
Advertised itineraries & vehicles may change due to circumstances beyond our control.
Optional extras can be booked with us during your tour and payment made to the provider directly.
Advertised itineraries and vehicles may change due to circumstances beyond our control.
If you are interested in this tour but cannot travel on any of the dates listed, please contact us directly and we can arrange additional tour dates.
FAQ
Preparing for the trip
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour carries a first aid box, and the tour guides are all certified in First Aid.
Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?
You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.
How fit do I need to be?
These tours are designed to be fun, informative and active, and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking or walking up to 5km each day.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
If you are looking for a private tour based on one of these trips, please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.
Booking the trip
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb, try to book at least 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?
Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.
Who travels with us
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
Plenty of travellers book these tours on their own. Solo travellers are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that last a lifetime.Solo travellers will usually share a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room you won't be charged extra. On camping tours there are generally enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.For more information please contact us directly.
Cost and Fees
Do I need to tip the guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip your guide, that is completely up to you. Tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Will I need additional money?
Travellers are advised to bring some cash, as ATMs and banks can be few and far between in the remote parts of the trip. It is handy to have some extra cash, as the tour does stop by local shops and cafes.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
What does Paid Locally mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Whilst on tour
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.
Where do I meet the tour?
For pick-up times and locations, please check the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary, which lists every pick-up point and its time.There is a lot of information there to help you plan your flights and arrival.Please review it carefully, as pick-ups can vary from tour to tour.
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