The immersion you’ll have with this landscape is well worth the effort of every step. We’re sure you’ll find a slew of your own things to love about your Wild Bush Luxury experience on the Arkaba Walk.
THE ARKABA WALK
ADELAIDE TO ARKABA
Meet and greet Adelaide airport or city located hotel before we hit the
open road for our direct journey to the Flinders Ranges and your guided
lay of the land safari experience on arrival at Arkaba.
A guide will greet you in the arrivals hall at Adelaide domestic airport at 9:30am sharp. If you
have stayed in Adelaide, you will be met in the lobby of your city located hotel between 9:50
and 10am before hitting the open road to Arkaba. Heading north from Adelaide, you will
bypass the small country towns of Virgina, Two Wells and Dublin. Keep an eye out for the
imaginative collection of large sculptures along the highway, made by way of protesting the
development of a waste facility in the small town. Stop for lunch on the banks of Bumbunga
Lake. Following a quick break, your journey will take you past the infamous Snowtown, Redhill,
Port Pirie and Port Germein before another short stop in the historic railway town of Quorn.
From here, Arkaba is about an hour away, and you will arrive to Arkaba Homestead by 5pm in
time to freshen up before your guided lay of the land experience and a three course meal
hosted by one of Arkaba’s field guides.
WILPENA POUND TO BLACK’S GAP CAMP
Traverse the basin of Wilpena Pound before crossing onto Arkaba’s
private wildlife conservancy and descend to Black’s Gap Signature Swag
Camp. Glorious diversity meets big outback space and starry skies.
Breakfast will ensure you are sufficiently fueled and ready to explore before our short 35 minute
drive to the starting point. The distance today is approximately 13km through the flat interior of
Wilpena Pound and a gradual 1.5km ascent to the rim of the Pound, climbing 200 metres
ahead of a steeper descent of about 1km into Arkaba wilderness and Black’s Gap Signature
Swag Camp. Expect to walk into camp at around 5:30pm in time to settle in, take a hot bush
shower (with a view!) and enjoy a pre-dinner drink and canapes service as the sun sinks behind
the ancient ramparts of Wilpena Pound Our signature camp is located between Bunbinyana
Range and Wilpena Pound, on a site previously occupied by a shepherd in the late 1850s. His
stone chimney place still exists and we camp overlooking the creek where he used to take his
water. Our field guide and camp assistant will prepare a three-course evening feast, taken al
fresco under the evening sky and accompanied by local South Australian wine. Enjoy some
interesting tales around our bush TV, the good old camp fire, and retire to your swag bed for an
unforgettable night under a canopy of stars.
Day 2 is approximately 13km, 5 – 6 hours
BLACK’S GAP CAMP TO ELDER CAMP
Stretch out in one of the world’s oldest landscapes, learn about Arkaba’s
500-million-year journey and how we are protecting and allowing natural
processes to reassert themselves in this country
Today is arguably the most scenic, as we move out from Black’s Gap into the rolling hills more
suited to the sheep farming activities previously carried out across the property. The first 2km
will follow the famous Heysen Trail through Black’s Gap itself revealing a fascinating insight
into the pastoral history of the region, pausing at old shepherds’ camps and mustering yards,
with Red and Grey Kangaroos and Emus all regular sightings. The last leg of the day will take
us slightly west into rolling hills culminating in a sharp 1km climb of about 100m in elevation to
the summit of the Red Range where we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the IkaraFlinders Ranges before moving on to the foot of Elder Range passing through beautiful stands
of native Cypress trees.
Your luggage will have been transported by vehicle to your next signature swag camp, our
Elder Camp. A hot bush shower, dinner and another special night under the great Australian
sky awaits.
Day 3 is approximately 14 – 15km, 6 – 7 hours
ELDER CAMP TO ARKABA HERITAGE HOMESTEAD
Walk across varying terrain through Mallee and cypress forests before
ascending the Red Range. Immerse yourself in our ancient Arkaba Creek
line alive with glorious diversity enroute to Arkaba Homestead.
Wake to glorious morning light creeping up our very own Elder Range. As we move south east
the first few kilometers will be amongst hill country at the foot of the Elder Range. Walking
through Mallee and native pine forests, we cross Slaty Creek which can hold precious water
well into the dry season, sometimes even offering the opportunity to drink from clear, ice cold
springs. Ascending the Red Range and down onto the banks of the Arkaba Creek, shady and
picturesque and lined with time-honoured and rejuvenating River Red Gums, with plenty of
opportunities to spot birds that commune in the canopy, including galahs, parrots and
honeyeater species. We pass reliable water points providing year-round life support for
kangaroos, parrots and emus. The pace is unhurried with time to stop and breathe in the
outback, view wildlife and take photographs. Arrive Arkaba Homestead mid afternoon and relax
or perhaps partake in a massage or a scenic flight over the ancient ramparts of Wilpena
Pound. This evening enjoy a hosted feast and guided viewing of the Southern Hemisphere’s
clearest skies silhouetted against mountains half a billion(!) years in the making.
Day 4 is approximately 14 – 15km, 6 – 7 hours
CLARE VALLEY WINE COUNTRY OVERLAND TO ADELAIDE
Depart Arkaba for a scenic road transfer through charming outback South
Australian towns with wine tasting and lunch in the Clare Valley wine
country. Arrive Adelaide airport at 5pm to meet onward flights from 6pm.Enjoy breakfast at the Arkaba Homestead before departing at 8:30am for your scenic overland
transfer to Adelaide via South Australia’s Clare Valley wine country. We’ll make our way through
the historic outback towns of Quorn, Wilmington, Mount Remarkable and Melrose, all famous for
their nature filled valleys and riverbeds. Lined with massive River Red Gum trees, the land
around these towns is home to a multitude of native Australian animals and birds.
Head from Melrose into the beautiful Clare Valley, a region famous for its wines. We enjoy lunch
and some wine tasting (naturally!) before continuing south arriving Adelaide Airport at
approximately 5pm. Please arrange your departing flights from 6pm, to allow enough time for
check-in. Alternatively, if you are staying on in Adelaide we are happy to arrange to drop you at
your city located hotel with our compliments.
Package Options
Self Drive 3-NIGHT SELF-DRIVE ARKABA WALK
The 3-night Arkaba Walk is a fully hosted and expertly guided experience and includes all meals, bottomless
beverages, two nights swag camping under the stars at Arkaba’s signature walking camps and a final night
in the beautifully restored 1850s Arkaba Homestead. Guests will enjoy three full-days of guided walking
(approximately 10 to 15 kilometres / 8 to 9.5 miles each day) crossing through Wilpena Pound and onto
Arkaba Conservancy. Your gear will be transported between camps. All you need to carry is a day pack.
● Weekly (mostly Sunday) departures in April, May, August, September and October 2024
● View experiencearkaba.com for the full itinerary & departure dates
● Other departure dates can be requested for private groups of eight or more
● Minimum four, maximum ten walkers
● Minimum age 12
● Solo walkers – Sleeping accommodation is based on twin share (single beds) and single travellers
may be required to share accommodation with another single walker of the same gender. For
guests who prefer not to share a room, the single occupancy rate applies.
Inclusions:
● The entire experience fully hosted and expertly guided
● Two nights (nights 1 & 2) swag camping under the stars at Arkaba’s signature walking camps
● One night at Arkaba Homestead
● Transport of gear between walking camps
● All meals and trail snacks
● Unlimited beverages – beer and wine included
● 3 days of immersive guided walks (13 to 15 kilometres / 8 to 9.5 miles per day)
● Departure morning activity
● 2% conservation levy
● National Parks fees
● Loan of hydration day packs, sock protectors and walking poles for all walkers.
*Swags are the Australian bedroll that have been used by generations of Australian pioneers. It is a
mattress on the floor that is inside a canvas cover and designed for sleeping under the stars.
*Walk is rated as moderate with some challenging sections. It is over undulating, uneven terrain.
Transfers from Adelaide are not included in this self-drive package. It is recommended to stay the night
prior to the walk in the Flinders Ranges near Arkaba at either Rawnsley Park Station (20 mins drive) or the
Prairie Hotel (1h15m drive). Guests will need to be at Arkaba by 8.45am on Day 1 of the walk.
Or
THE ARKABA WALK – 4 NIGHTS
(Includes transfers from Adelaide & pre-night at Arkaba Homestead)
The Arkaba Walk is a fully hosted and expertly guided experience and includes all meals, bottomless
beverages, and accommodation in the beautifully restored 1850s Arkaba Homestead on nights one and
four, plus two nights swag camping at Arkaba’s signature walking camps. Guests will enjoy three full-days
of guided walking (approximately 10 to 15 kilometres each day), crossing through Wilpena Pound and onto
Arkaba Conservancy. Your gear will be transported between camps. All you need to carry is a day pack.
● Weekly (mostly Friday) departures from March to October 2024
● View experiencearkaba.com for the full itinerary & departure dates
● Other departure dates can be requested for private groups of eight or more
● Minimum four, maximum ten walkers
● Minimum age 12
● Solo walkers – Sleeping accommodation is based on twin share (single beds) and single travellers
may be required to share accommodation with another single walker of the same gender. For
guests who prefer not to share a room, the single occupancy rate applies.
Inclusions:
● The entire experience fully hosted and expertly guided
● Two nights (nights 2 & 3) swag camping under the stars at Arkaba’s Signature Walking Camps
● Two nights (nights 1 & 4) at Arkaba Homestead
● Transport of gear between walking camps
● All meals and trail snacks
● Unlimited beverages – beer and wine included
● 3 days of immersive guided walks (13 to 15 kilometres / 8 to 9.5 miles per day)
● Arrival afternoon activity
● Road transfers to / from Adelaide including lunch and wine tasting (see further details below)
● 2% conservation levy
● National Parks fees
● Loan of hydration day packs, sock protectors and walking poles for all walkers.
*Swags are the Australian bedroll that have been used by generations of Australian pioneers. It is a
mattress on the floor that is inside a canvas cover and designed for sleeping under the stars.
*Walk is rated as moderate with some challenging sections. It is over undulating, uneven terrain.Included transfers
Day 1: Adelaide to Arkaba (Direct)
Pick up from Adelaide airport or hotel around 9 – 9.30am. Approximately 5 hours including picnic lunch.
Day 4: Arkaba – Adelaide (Scenic)
Departs Arkaba at 8:30am with lunch and wine tasting in the Clare Valley wine country.
Arrives at Adelaide airport at 17:00 to meet onward flights departing from 18:00. We are pleased to provide
complimentary transfers to Adelaide city hotels.
Or
Just for Families
FAMILY FRIENDLY TWO-NIGHT STAR BED EXPERIENCE (up to ten guests)
(Private-use including air-charter)
Embark on the ultimate family adventure at Arkaba’s Signature Swag Camp, where you can sleep under the
stars in style. This two-night experience offers exclusive use for your family, with a private guided journey in
the Flinders Ranges. Indulge in gourmet meals and drinks while immersing yourself in the stunning natural
surroundings. Your seamless escape begins with a private air charter from Adelaide to Hawker airstrip,
including transfers to and from Arkaba. Discover the wilderness wonders and create lifelong memories on
this extraordinary family-friendly retreat.
Inclusions:
● 2-nights exclusive-use of Arkaba’s Signature Swag Camp sleeping under the stars
○ Family-friendly private guided experiences curated specifically for your group
○ All meals and alcoholic beverages
● Return private air charter from Adelaide to Hawker airstrip
● Transfers to / from Hawker airstrip – Arkaba
*Beechcraft Super King Air – max ten guests plus 120kg luggage
*Private basis only
*No access to Arkaba Homestead
*Available in March, April, May, August and September only
Suggested itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive Adelaide (overnight Adelaide hotel)
Day 2 – Morning at leisure. Early lunch. 1pm private charter flight to Hawker airstrip. Collection by Arkaba
guides for your transfer to Arkaba. Afternoon safari experience. (Overnight Arkaba Swag Camp)
Day 3 – Family friendly safari experiences. (Overnight Arkaba Swag Cam)
Day 4 – Morning safari experiences at Arkaba. Picnic lunch. After lunch, transfer to Hawker Airstrip for return
private charter flight to Adelaide
TWO-NIGHT STAR BED EXPERIENCE (up to ten guests)
March, April, May, August and September $32,115.00
*This offer cannot be combined with any other promotional offers or discounts.
* Please confirm pricing at time of booking in case of charter flight fuel surcharge
* Recommended for children 12 and over. Please discuss with our reservations team for younger children.
The Arkaba Walk is a Wild Bush Luxury experience in an iconic outback South Australian setting. By joining this fully hosted all-inclusive experience you’re not only witnessing an environment in recovery, you’re actively participating in its revival. You’ll see and hear the
results of active conservation as you walk through the landscape and meet the wildlife in the company of passionate field guides. Explore 60,000 acres of privately-owned and carefully protected outback with a maximum of ten walkers.From dry creek beds, isolated waterholes lined with 1,000 year-old River Red gums to craggy ridge lines and rolling hills covered in cypress pines to the ancient ramparts of Wilpena Pound, this is some of the most stunning walking country in Australia. While everyone loves to have a comfortable bed and great food, it is the time spent with people on the ground that leaves a lasting impact. Of course, a really good glass of wine at the end of the day always helps! The true value of a Wild Bush Luxury experience on the Arkaba Walk is the vastness of space, the feeling of exclusivity and the opportunity to retreat into nature.
Your Wild Bush Luxury experience at Arkaba is fully hosted. You share in 60,000 acres of privately owned and carefully protected outback with just ten guests at a time. A twice-daily guided safari program is included – immersive bush walks and safari drives showcase the abundance of wildlife & Arkaba’s conservation mission to protect it.
Stay in one of five Homestead Guest rooms
Bush-inspired meals throughout
Beverages from a South Australian loaded open bar
Ensuite bathroom with rainfall shower
Rates include a Conservation Levy with at least 2% of your all-inclusive experience at Arkaba going back into conservation projects. It does not increase the package price, it is simply a guarantee that a minimum amount goes directly to initiatives in protecting Arkaba’s biodiversity.
ARKABA HOMESTEAD RATES
Optional Activities
EARLY MORNING SCENIC FLIGHT ABOVE WILPENA POUND
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Wilpena Pound from a bird’s eye view with a thrilling scenic flight.
Soar above this natural amphitheatre nestled within the Flinders Ranges, marvelling at its majestic walls
and panoramic vistas. Capture breathtaking photographs as you glide over the rugged landscape, taking in
the vastness and serenity of this iconic Australian landmark. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking
an unforgettable adventure, this scenic flight over Wilpena Pound promises an exhilarating and
unforgettable experience.
Inclusions:
● 20 minute transfer to/from Rawnsley Park airstrip
● Scenic fixed-wing flight
PRIVATE FULL-DAY LAKE EYRE EXPERIENCE
Embark on an extraordinary scenic flight over to the mesmerising Lake Eyre. Experience the thrill of flying
above this vast salt lake, capturing incredible views of its ever-changing landscapes. As you journey, make a
stop at William Creek (population 10 people) for a delicious lunch, savouring local flavours amidst the
outback charm. This unforgettable aerial adventure combines the beauty of Lake Eyre with a culinary
delight, offering an enriching and memorable experience in the heart of Australia’s rugged wilderness.
Inclusions:
● 30 minute transfer to Wilpena Pound airstrip
● Scenic flight
● Lunch at William Creek Hotel
● Return transfer to Arkaba
HELICOPTER SCENIC FLIGHTS
Experience the Flinders Ranges from a whole new perspective with scenic helicopter flights departing from
Arkaba. Buckle up and take to the skies as you soar above the majestic landscapes of the Flinders Ranges.
Marvel at the ancient geological formations, rugged gorges, and sprawling plains that stretch as far as the
eye can see. From the comfort of your helicopter, you’ll witness the breathtaking beauty of this iconic
Australian destination, capturing panoramic views that will leave you awe-inspired. Whether you choose a
short flight or a longer adventure, the scenic helicopter flights from Arkaba offer a thrilling and unforgettable
way to explore the stunning Flinders Ranges.
Available mid-March to 31 October 2024
*Arkaba Walk guests – only possible on departure days and for self-drive guests
PRIVATE OUTBACK HELICOPTER & LUNCH
Embark on a captivating three-hour adventure through the ancient Ikara-Flinders Ranges. Soar above the
breathtaking landscapes for one hour in a Robinson R44 Helicopter. Indulge in a delectable lunch at the
renowned Prairie Hotel, a gem of the Australian outback known for its exceptional dining experiences.
Discover the rugged beauty of the region and savour the flavours of this extraordinary journey.
Includes
● Three-hour experience over the ancient Ikara-Flinders Ranges
● 1-hour flying time in a Robinson R44 Helicopter
● ‘Feral Food’ lunch & glass of wine or beer at the Prairie Hotel, one of Australia’s finest outback pubs
Available mid-March to 31 October 2024
*Arkaba Walk guests – only possible on departure days and for those self-driving
PRIVATE HELICOPTER SUNDOWNER EXPERIENCE
Experience the magic of a sunset flight to the top of the Flinders Ranges, complete with drinks and
canapés. Departing from Arkaba you’ll be whisked away on a breathtaking journey. After a 15-minute scenic
flight, your helicopter lands at the top of the Red Range and as the late afternoon light paints the sky, you’ll
be treated to stunning views of the Elder Ranges and Pound Wall as you sip on fine wine and dine on
delicious canapes. After witnessing the sunset, your Arkaba guide will drive you back to the Homestead.
Includes:
● 15-minute scenic helicopter flight to top of Ranges
● 1-hour sundowners atop the Ranges
● Return 4×4 drive to Arkaba homestead
Only available mid-March to 31 October 2024.
Please note that times may vary depending on the season.
*Arkaba Walk guests – Only available on arrival day with 4 night itinerary
PRIVATE FULL-DAY FOSSILS OF THE FLINDERS EXPERIENCE
Explore Nilpena Ediacara National Park, a significant site for understanding early life on Earth. It features in
Sir David Attenborough’s ‘Life on Earth’ and was part of South Australia’s 2018 World Heritage Listing
nomination. Transport yourself 555 million years ago when the Flinders Ranges were submerged, home to
the first animals, the Ediacara biota. Witness the preserved imprints of these ancient organisms and indulge
in a regional dining experience at Prairie Hotel, including unique feral and indigenous produce with their own
fossil-inspired wine or beer.
Inclusions:
● Private Arkaba Guide with scenic touring
● Nilpena Ediacara National Park Entry Fee
● Guided Ediacara Fossil site & pastoral station tour by an accredited Nilpena Ediacara National Park
guide
● Audio Visual Precinct experience
● Light refreshments
● ‘Feral Food’ lunch & glass of wine or beer at the Prairie Hotel, one of Australia’s finest outback pubs
● Scenic drive Parachillna Gorge
● Visit to Wanda Indigenous Arts & Crafts store
● Afternoon tea in Blinman
Departs 8:00am.
*Not suitable for Arkaba Walk guests unless extending their stay in the region
