Lake Eyre & Flinders Ranges Spectacular

Itinerary

Day 1 - Wilpena Pound Resort

Our travels today will take us north along the Princes Highway, bound for the coastal hub of Port Augusta. Nestled on the shores of the Spencer Gulf, this natural harbour and former seaport is considered to be the ‘Crossroads of Australia.’

From here we will continue through the picturesque town of Quorn, home to the heritage Pichi Richi Railway, before we travel further north to our destination of Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges. This natural amphitheatre, an 800-million-year-old stone crater, is a stunning landmark.

Settle in and enjoy the scenic surrounds of what will be our home for the next three nights. Meals: (L, D)

Day 2 - Lake Eyre – Wilpena PoundWilpena Pound Resort

Please Note: We split into two groups for today and tomorrow’s activities. Group 1 will take the Lake Eyre scenic flight/tour as per the below itinerary while Group 2 will explore Wilpena Pound and the magical landscapes of the Flinders Rangers. On Day 3, these activities swap.

This morning our Lake Eyre flights begin from the Hawker Aerodrome where we will meet our experienced pilot and board our aircraft. Once airborne, all eyes will be focused downward as we fly over the usually arid landscapes of the Australian Outback watching for the appearance of the natural wonder that is Lake Eyre.

Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre is an endorheic lake meaning there is no outlet to the sea and instead, water is lost through evaporation and seepage into the ground. The Lake Eyre basis holds the lowest point in Australia at approximately 15 metres below sea level and is our largest salt lake.

Usually dry or empty, the historical Queensland floods of this year, will see a water flow from our Channel Country into Lake Eyre, bringing with it nutrients to sustain waterbirds such as pelicans and banded stilts which are drawn to the water whilst it lasts. Dramatic pink and orange hues, crystalline white rimmed edges to the lake and endless blue skies will have heads spinning in all directions.

Our scenic flight will take us over Wilpena Pound, Blinman, Parachilna, Leigh Creek Coalfields, the Marree Man, Lake Eyre South and Belt Bay with ample opportunity for viewing this amazing natural phenomenon, before we land at the outback town of William Creek for lunch and a leg stretch.

Take in true outback hospitality at the atmospheric William Creek Hotel before our return flight takes us over the Anna Creek Painted Hills, Andamooka opal fields and Lake Torrens before landing back at Hawker.

This afternoon we return to Wilpena Pound to rejoin Group 2 and exchange stories of adventures had. Meals: (B, L, D)

Day 3 - Lake Eyre - Wilpena PoundWilpena Pound Resort

Please Note: Today Group 2 enjoys the scenic flights to Lake Eyre and Williams Creek, while Group 1 explores the incredible natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound outlined below.

Characterised by spectacular scenery and home to nearly half of South Australia’s species of plants, Wilpena Pound is steeped in myth and legend and holds significant cultural importance for the Adnyamathanha people, the traditional custodians of the Flinders Ranges.

A guided walk into ‘the Pound’ to Hills Homestead, sees witness to one of South Australia's oldest and best-preserved pastoral settlements. Wander along Wilpena Creek past magnificent stands of river red gums with stunning views of the Pound wall in the distance. Keep an eye out for families of meandering emus. Take the challenge to the Wongara lookout for those who wish to explore further on foot with good fitness and mobility required.

Back at Wilpena Pound Resort, we’ll all gather together for dinner. Meals: (B, L, D)

Day 4 - Wilpena Pound – Monarto Safari ResortMonarto Safari Resort

Farewelling Wilpena, we venture south through the beauty of the Flinders Ranges. We join R.M Williams Way and travel down through Orroroo, the Clare Valley’s wine region before passing through the Adelaide Hills.

Our day on the road will be rewarded with our arrival at the recently opened Monarto Safari Resort, a patch of wild paradise not far from Murray Bridge. Tonight, we’ll enjoy our last night together and reflect upon outback adventures shared. Meals: (B, L, D)

Day 5 - Monarto Safari Park - Adelaide

This morning, we embark on an exciting Dawn Wildlife Safari which is exclusive to Resort guests. Our guided safari tour sees us immerse in the vast parklands with free roaming herds of African animals as we explore the parklands from the comfort of the Safari Truck. There will be the opportunity to see and photograph animals including Southern White Rhinos, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Eland, Ostriches, and Zebras. You’ll be served light refreshments along the way, so you won’t miss a minute of the action!

Every visit to Monarto Safari Park contributes to the Conservation Fund, directly promoting the conservation efforts of ZoosSA.

On return there is time to enjoy the beautifully appointed pool and surrounds with a late check out. After lunch we head to Adelaide where our tour concludes mid-afternoon. Meals: (B, L)

Please Note: If arranging onward domestic flights, please plan these for any time after 4.30pm. Drop-offs are available at the airport, Stamford Plaza Adelaide and the Stamford Grand Glenelg.