Journey into the heart of South Australia’s spectacular outback, where ancient mountain ranges, iconic rail journeys and vast desert landscapes combine to create an unforgettable adventure. Stand in awe of the rugged Flinders Ranges, explore remote outback towns steeped in history, and experience the incredible sight of Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre from the air on an optional scenic flight over Australia’s largest salt lake.
From the rolling vineyards of the Barossa Valley to the timeless beauty of Wilpena Pound, the legendary Prairie Hotel, the historic Pichi Richi Railway and the fascinating settlements of Marree and Farina, this fully hosted tour showcases the very best of South Australia’s diverse landscapes and rich outback heritage.
Welcome to your Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre & Flinders Ranges Adventure. Upon arrival at Adelaide Airport, you’ll be greeted by your Great Value Holidays Tour Host before we begin our journey north into one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions, the Barossa Valley.
Leaving the city behind, the scenery soon transforms into rolling vineyards, picturesque farmland and charming country villages. The Barossa is internationally renowned for its premium wines, rich German heritage and outstanding local produce, making it the perfect place to begin our South Australian adventure.
After checking into our accommodation, take some time to settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before joining your fellow travellers for a delicious welcome dinner. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet new friends, hear about the exciting days ahead and begin what promises to be an unforgettable journey through some of Australia’s most spectacular outback landscapes.
Accommodation: Mercure Barossa Valley
Included Meals: Dinner
After breakfast we farewell the Barossa and begin travelling north through the beautiful Clare Valley, famous for its vineyards, rolling hills and charming country towns.
Our first stop is the historic Bungaree Station, established in 1841 and recognised as one of Australia’s oldest working sheep stations. Once home to more than 100,000 Merino sheep, Bungaree played a significant role in the pastoral development of South Australia. During our guided tour you’ll explore the beautifully preserved homestead, gardens and station buildings while learning about generations of pioneering families who helped shape life in the outback. An early lunch is enjoyed before continuing our journey.
This afternoon we arrive in Hawker to experience one of the region’s hidden gems—the remarkable Wilpena Panorama at Jeff Morgan Gallery. This stunning 360-degree artwork places you high above Wilpena Pound, providing a breathtaking perspective of the magnificent landscape before you’ve even entered the National Park.
By mid-afternoon we arrive at the spectacular Discovery Resorts – Wilpena Pound, nestled amongst the towering ranges of Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Enjoy time to wander the resort grounds, admire the ever-changing colours of the surrounding mountains or simply relax before dinner beneath the vast outback sky.
Accommodation: Discovery Resorts – Wilpena Pound Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Wake to the peaceful beauty of the Flinders Ranges, where ancient mountain ranges rise dramatically from the surrounding plains. Today is dedicated to discovering one of Australia’s oldest and most spectacular natural landscapes.
Joining an experienced local guide, we venture deep into Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, where you’ll uncover more than 800 million years of geological history. Travel through spectacular gorges and rugged landscapes while learning about the area’s rich Aboriginal heritage, unique wildlife and fascinating pastoral history. Every turn reveals breathtaking scenery, making this one of South Australia’s most photographed destinations.
Our journey continues to the charming outback township of Blinman, the highest town in South Australia. Here we visit the delightful Wadna Aboriginal Arts & Crafts Gallery, showcasing authentic Indigenous artwork, handmade jewellery, textiles and locally crafted gifts that beautifully reflect the culture and spirit of the region.
Following lunch, we travel through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Flinders Ranges before stopping at the legendary Prairie Hotel in Parachilna. Famous throughout Australia for its unique outback hospitality, this iconic hotel has welcomed travellers for generations.
Later this afternoon we arrive in Leigh Creek, once a thriving coal mining town and now a peaceful gateway to the northern Flinders Ranges, where we settle in for a relaxing two-night stay.
Accommodation: Leigh Creek Outback Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today’s adventure takes us to the legendary outback settlement of Marree, where one of Australia’s most extraordinary experiences awaits.
Marree has long been a crossroads of the Australian Outback, linking the Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track and the old Ghan Railway. Rich in Aboriginal, Afghan cameleer and pastoral history, it remains the gateway to the magnificent Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre.
Guests have the opportunity to join an optional two-hour scenic flight, providing breathtaking aerial views of Australia’s largest salt lake. From above you’ll witness the immense scale of Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre, flying over the famous Marree Man, the Dog Fence, the historic Oodnadatta Track and the vast network of rivers and creeks that feed this remarkable inland basin. Depending on seasonal conditions, the lake transforms into an incredible canvas of shimmering white salt, brilliant blues and soft pink hues, creating one of Australia’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
After returning to Marree, there is time to purchase lunch at the historic Marree Hotel before taking time to explore this fascinating outback town at your own pace.
On our journey back to Leigh Creek, we stop at the haunting ruins of Farina, once a bustling railway settlement and now one of Australia’s most beautifully preserved ghost towns. Wander amongst the restored sandstone buildings and hear the remarkable story of those who once called this remote place home.
Following another incredible day in the South Australian Outback, we return to Leigh Creek for dinner and a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Leigh Creek Outback Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
This morning we farewell Leigh Creek and travel south through the magnificent Flinders Ranges towards the historic railway town of Quorn.
Step aboard the beautifully restored Pichi Richi Railway, where you’ll travel through the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass aboard heritage carriages lovingly restored by dedicated volunteers. As the train winds through rugged mountain scenery, admire dramatic rock cuttings, historic bridges and engineering feats dating back to the 1870s while experiencing rail travel as it once was.
After our railway journey we continue to Port Augusta, often referred to as the “Crossroads of Australia”, where we visit the fascinating Wadlata Outback Centre. Through engaging interactive displays and exhibits, discover the stories of Australia’s explorers, pioneers, Aboriginal cultures and the people who helped shape life in the Outback.
Late this afternoon we arrive in Port Pirie, where we enjoy our final evening together. Reflect on the incredible experiences we’ve shared over dinner as we celebrate an unforgettable journey through one of Australia’s most unique and captivating regions.
Accommodation: Breakfree Port Piriet
Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out and beginning our comfortable journey back to Adelaide.
Travelling through South Australia’s picturesque countryside, there is time to reflect on the remarkable experiences of the past six days—from the vineyards of the Barossa Valley and the towering peaks of the Flinders Ranges to the vast expanse of Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre, Australia’s legendary outback towns and unforgettable heritage railway journey.
We arrive at Adelaide Airport late this morning, where we farewell new friends and conclude our South Australian adventure.
Included Meals: Breakfast
For guests wishing to continue exploring this vibrant city, an optional extension in Adelaide is available, including two nights’ accommodation and breakfast, allowing even more time to discover South Australia’s wonderful capital before heading home. (enquire for cost)
Great Value Holidays Pty Ltd, ABN 33 140 295 521 is a distributor of nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 and receives a commission for nib products purchased through Great Value Holidays Pty Ltd. Great Value Holidays Pty Ltd acts as an agent for nib and not as your agent. Great Value Holidays Pty Ltd cannot give advice about nib products, and any factual information provided is not intended to imply a recommendation or opinion about nib products. Before you buy, please read the Product Disclosure Statement, Financial Services Guide and Target Market Determination (TMD) available from us. If you have a complaint about a nib product, see the Product Disclosure Statement for the complaints process. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193.
Tour cost is per person in a Double or Twin Room. Add $600 for single room
This is an Easy paced tour – Low Level if Fitness required
Travelers must be able to meet the below fitness level requirements or have a carer who is available to assist. GVH Staff are not able to assist with those who have reduced mobility or other health problems. It is Your responsibility to arrange for such a carer if so required:
GVH reserves the right at its discretion to exclude from a tour or to terminate the travel arrangements during the course of the tour without refund, of anyone who is unable to cope with the requirements of the tour, including using coach steps for embarking and disembarking or needing services or facilities that are not available. We will not be held liable for any termination of your travel arrangements or additional expenses incurred. Please be aware that some outback locations may experience high temperatures.
