An unforgettable journey through South Australia’s rugged outback, this expedition takes you deep into ancient landscapes where towering ranges, deep gorges, and vast desert plains create some of the most breath taking scenery our country has to offer. Expect a mix of well-known highlights and remote, lesser-travelled tracks. With rewarding off-road challenges, historic sites, and spectacular camping under the stars; this gem of Australia will keep calling you back.
Before the Meet – Optional Warm-Up (Sunday, July 6)
Arriving early? Explore:
🏔 St. Mary’s Peak Hike (19km, 9hrs) – The highest point in the Flinders with unbeatable 360° views.
🥾 Mt. Ohlssen Bagge Hike (5.6km, 3.5hrs) – A rocky climb with rewarding lookouts.
🚙 Willow Springs Skytrek 4x4 – A self-drive track through station land ($80 per vehicle).
🛻 Merna Mora Bunbinyunna Track – Remote off-road adventure with epic views ($55 per vehicle).
🏛 Burra Heritage Passport Tour – Access 11 locked heritage listed sites around the town ($30 per adult).
Day 1: Ridges & Lookouts (Monday, July 7 – 172km / ~3 hrs 15 min driving)
The adventure kicks off with a scenic drive into the rugged foothills, leading to a black 4WD track through rocky terrain and creek beds. Expect panoramic lookouts showcasing the ever-changing hues of the ranges. By late afternoon, we set up camp at a historic hut under the stars.
đź“Ť Highlights: Scenic 4WD track, remote lookouts, historic bush camp (free).
đź’° Costs: Park entry ($13.50 per vehicle).
đź“… Book Here: đź”— Park Pass or pay at the gate.
https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/ikara-flinders-ranges-national-park/booking/67709
Day 2: Gorges, Wildlife & an Outback Icon (Tuesday, July 8 – 190km / ~4 hrs driving)
We venture through striking gorges where towering rock faces reveal layers of ancient history. This is Yellow-Footed Rock Wallaby country. A high ridgeline drive delivers sweeping valley views before we stop for lunch at an outback pub, famous for its native and feral menu. The afternoon takes us down isolated backtracks past abandoned homesteads, ending at a remote gorge camp—ideal for stargazing.
đź“Ť Highlights: Deep gorges, wildlife spotting, iconic outback pub, abandoned ruins, remote bush camp.
đź’° Costs: None.
Day 3: Arkaroola – The Wild North (Wednesday, July 9 – 140km / ~3 hrs driving)
Leaving the Flinders behind, we push further north into one of the most rugged and remote parts of South Australia. The landscape changes dramatically—jagged peaks, rocky escarpments, and dry riverbeds dominate the terrain.
This is a free exploration day, with options including:
🚙 Ridgetop Tour – A legendary guided 4WD adventure with jaw-dropping views.
🛻 Self-Drive 4WD Tracks – Take on rocky climbs and steep descents.
🥾 Hiking Trails – Scenic treks to geological wonders.
🔠Astronomy Tour – A world-class stargazing experience.
Accommodation, your choice. Bush or a well appointed cabin.
đź“Ť Highlights: Extreme off-road tracks, breath taking landscapes, hiking, astronomy.
đź’° Costs: Camping from $30 per night. Tours extra.
đź“… Book Here: đź“… Arkaroola Accommodation & Tours
Early booking is essential to avoid disappointment.
https://www.arkaroola.com.au/
Day 4: Remote Backtracks & Hidden Springs (Thursday, July 10 – 170km / ~4.5 hrs driving)
Weaving through isolated terrain, today’s route is a mix of rocky trails, dry creek beds, and striking ochre cliffs. A highlight is a hidden thermal spring—an unexpected oasis in this harsh environment. We continue along an old stock route, passing weathered ruins and rusted relics, before setting up our final remote camp deep in a gorge.
đź“Ť Highlights: Remote off-road tracks, hidden hot spring, ochre cliffs, historic stock route.
đź’° Costs: $45 per vehicle (Echo Camp Backtrack), camping $14.90.
đź“… Book Here: đź”— Camp Site , we will organise the EchoCamp Backtrack cost on site.
https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/vulkathunha-gammon-ranges-national-park/booking/73183
Exit Point or Extended Route?
Return to Adelaide (~640km) or extend the adventure with those Victoria bound:
🔹 Day 5: Remote tracks to Silverton (a legendary outback ghost town).
🔹 Day 6: Silverton to Balranald via Mungo National Park (ancient lakebeds and lunar-like dunes).
🔹 Day 7: Balranald, past the river, and onwards to home. SA crew take in Perry Sandhills just out of Wentworth before heading home past Lake Victoria. (Sunday, July 13).
Final Notes:
â›˝ Fuel: Available daily, top up where possible. Carry extra if needed.
⛺ Camping: Mostly remote bush sites—come prepared.
đź›» Vehicle Suitability: Jimny-friendly, mix of moderate to challenging tracks.
📡 Connectivity: Limited phone reception. CB Channel 10.
🌿 Leave No Trace: Carry out all rubbish, respect the land.
A true outback adventure—rugged beauty and nights around the fire beneath an endless sky. This is one trip you won’t forget.
Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Whyalla.
