ridge top tour arkaroola

Arkaroola Ridgetop Half Day Tour

Flinders Ranges and Outback

The Ridgetop Tour is an unforgettable experience, showcasing timeless terrain and the natural beauty of Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Travelling in a specially constructed open-top 4WD, passengers are taken on a guided tour of some of the most spectacular rugged country on earth. Experienced tour guides share their knowledge of Arkaroola's 1600-million-year geological history as they navigate the steep slopes and hair raising ascents of the famous Ridgetop Track. Travelling through the oldest parts of the Flinders Ranges, home to plants found nowhere else, you will explore the ancient granite mountains and hillsides covered in native bush. Several lookouts along the way offer breath-taking vistas of the vast and humbling expanse of the ranges. Take a tea break while drinking in the magnificent ring of saw-toothed Freeling Heights fringing the Mawson Plateau. See the jaw-dropping 1000m deep Yudnamutana Gorge, the plains and Lake Frome salt lake. And don't worry- the descent back to the village is just as much of an adventure as the way up!

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Tours to Arkaroola from Adelaide

Experience Arkaroola Wilderness, the Famous Ridgetop Tour, Arkaroola Observatory, Walks and an additional 4WD Tour to Echocamp and waterholes.

Arkaroola Tours

Experience Arkaroola Wilderness, the Famous Ridgetop Tour, Arkaroola Observatory, Walks and an additional 4WD Tour.

Optional Arkaroola Scenic Flights to witness the beauty from a bird’s eye view and extra time at Arkaroola for bird watching, bush walking, painting and photographic journeys.

Enjoy a visit to Nilpena Station and take a fascinating tour of the Ediacaran Fossil Site.

Arkaroola Tours Highlights & Inclusions

• 8am Pickup from Adelaide City Hotel
• Drop Off Adelaide City Hotel or Airport
• All Meals from Morning Tea D1 until Lunch D6
• 1x Night Prairie Hotel
• 3x Nights Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
• 1x Night Leigh Creek Outback Resort
• Historic Township of Quorn
• Hawker and Wilpena Panorama Gallery
• Nilpena Fossil Site Tour 
• Nilpena Station Old Blacksmith Shop with the state-of-the-art interpretation centre

• Observatory Tour at Arkaroola
• Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour – Half Day Tour including Siller’s Lookout
• Arkaroola Sunset Canapes Tour
• Second Arkaroola Full Day 4WD Tour to East Painter Gorge, Echo Camp, waterholes and Paralana Hot Springs
• Arkaroola Ochre Wall
• Arkaroola Free Time (walking, bird watching, photographs, painting)
• Guided Acacia Ridge Walk
• Guided Mawson Spriggina Walk
• Fully Guided Activities
• All National Park Fees

 Arkaroola Tours – Travel from Adelaide to the Prairie Hotel for our first night.

Leave the busy city district of Adelaide behind and let us take you on a tour filled with wonder and secrets of Arkaroola. Located in the Northern Flinders Ranges Arkaroola features rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, magnificent gorges, and mysterious waterholes. Today our journey takes us through Quorn a historic railway town in South Australia. We then continue our travels to Hawker and visit the Wilpena Panorama Gallery. View a stunning 30 meter circular painting of Wilpena Pound and check out rock, mineral and fossil displays.

The iconic Prairie Hotel is our overnight stay at Parachilna tonight, and we arrive late afternoon. Relax and unwind or sit around the wine barrels set out the front of the charming sandstone building and enjoy one of the Prairie’s home-brews, the Fargher Lager beer. Check out the fossil collection, talk to the friendly locals and have a look at their innovative menu with a “Flinders Feral Food” twist. We finish the day with a delicious and unique Prairie Hotel meal. (Day 1 Lunch and Dinner, Prairie Hotel overnight)

Nilpena Fossil Site Tour, journey to Arkaroola and evening observatory tour at Arkaroola.

This morning we travel to Nilpena Station, home to the significant Ediacaran fossil site in the Flinders Ranges. Nilpena is called an international treasure among scientists and evolutionists. Enjoy a guided tour of the actual fossil site, which features fossils that are over 555 million years old and represent the earliest evidence of complex life on earth. Our fascinating tour includes seeing the state-of-the-art interpretation centre in the old Blacksmith shop. Nilpena’s most significant fossil bed the Alice Restaurant Bed has been carefully excavated from the local Fossil Fields and is now on display with audio visual effects bringing the fossils back to life.

After lunch we follow the Vulkathanha Gammon Ranges Road deep into the Northern Flinders Ranges and you can take a first glimpse at the ancient ridges and the remoteness of Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Upon our arrival we settle into our rooms for the next three nights. Arkaroola offers ultimate star gazing opportunities. The region’s high elevation, arid environment and distance to any other town contribute to exceptionally dark skies making it a perfect location to observe what lies beyond earth. Tonight, we watch the various planets and million stars through telescopes at Arkaroola’s own Observatory. (Day 2 Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Arkaroola Sanctuary overnight)

Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour, Mawson Spriggina Walk and Arkaroola Sunset Canape Tour

Our tour offers the best opportunities to really explore the uniqueness of Arkaroola. Some call Arkaroola the El Questro of the Flinders Ranges. Today we experience Arkaroola’s world-famous signature tour – the Ridgetop Tour. We travel in specially designed vehicles for an unforgettable encounter with the timeless terrain and unique natural beauty. Witness 360-degree views at the top of the Ridgetop track. Enjoy various lookouts, views of the Mawson Plateau and Yudnamutana Gorge.

After lunch join your guide on the Mawson Spriggina Walk through Mawson Valley and along the Spriggina Ridge rewarding you with unforgettable views. The name was given by geologist and explorer Douglas Mawson. Or spend the afternoon at your own leisure. Venture on a bird watching or photographic journey. Look out for some of the 160 recorded bird species to the area or the various flora and fauna. Or how about you bring your painting brush and drawing tools. Plenty of inspiration, photographic opportunities, and great encounters with wildlife out here. One of the best sunset locations can be found at Arkaroola. We travel through ancient parts of the wild and rugged Flinders Ranges by 4WD before arriving at a spectacular lookout point. We set up our chairs and with some South Australian wine/beer and canapes in hour hands we watch one of nature’s greatest light shows. (Day 3 Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Arkaroola Sanctuary overnight)

Full Day Arkaroola 4WD Tour to the eastern part of the ranges.

Arkaroola is such a special and awe-inspiring area that most travellers wished they had one extra day out here. On our Arkaroola Tours we give you exactly what you are looking for. Whether it is the geology, birds, wildlife, views, or remoteness of the area that interest you, today is another day to remember. We take an additional 4WD adventure passing by Echo Camp and waterholes as the track follows the winding gorge carved by the Arkaroola Creek. We explore the eastern side of Arkaroola including the East Painter Gorge and Paralana Hot Springs. It is a fascinating journey and the perfect contrast to the famous Ridgetop Tour. (Day 4 Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Arkaroola Sanctuary overnight)

Acacia Ridge Walk, optional scenic flights and departure from Arkaroola mid-afternoon.

This morning enjoy a sleep in or join your guide on the stunning Acacia Ridge Walk. Acacia Ridge consists of Blue Mine Conglomerate formed some 800 to 900 million years ago and offers extensive views over rolling hills and ranges including the old homestead and Arkaroola Village. You can find different species of Acacia growing here along with other plants such as Eremophila, Australian hop bush, Curlee Mallee and Sturt desert pea.

Up on return we have lunch and why not take an optional scenic flight over Arkaroola Sanctuary or Lake Frome. The Arkaroola scenic flight will give you a bird’s eye view of the ancient southern Arkaroola to the granite and quartzite outcrops of Mount Gee, the Mawson Plateau, and the Freeling Heights. This flight is 30 minutes. Or fly for 75 minutes taking you over Arkaroola and east across the flood plains to the whitest salt lake in Australia, Lake Frome. See old sand dunes trapped forever in the Lake’s crusty grasp, a relic of the time when central Australia was once an inland sea. What an amazing time we had at Arkaroola, but it is time to say goodbye. We depart mid-afternoon and travel to Leigh Creek for our overnight stay. (Day 5 Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Leigh Creek Outback Resort overnight)

Journey back to Adelaide with stops at Kanyaka, Melrose and the Wirrabara Silo 

Our journey home takes us south to Kanyaka, an old cattle and sheep station established prior to the construction of the transcontinental railway line. Explore the different ruins on this historic property. Back on the sealed road we travel to the North Star Hotel in Melrose for lunch, the oldest licensed hotel in the Flinders Ranges. We are now on the return drive to Adelaide with a stop at the fantastic Wirrabara Silo Art and another comfort stop if required. Packed with amazing memories we drive back to Adelaide and arrive around 5pm. (Day 6 Breakfast, Lunch)

6 Day Arkaroola Explorer Tours

$4395 per person (twin/dbl)

Max Group Size 16.

2024 Departures:  

21st May – Departed

24th September – Only 4x Seats Left

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Things to do at Arkaroola – the ultimate travel guide

Are you looking for the best things to do at Arkaroola?  If you’re planning an outback South Australia Road Trip, make sure Arkaroola is on your list. 

The Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is an award-winning eco-tourism destination in the northern Flinders Ranges area.  You’ll see rugged mountain ranges, deep gorges, red cliff faces that change colour beautifully throughout the day and if you’re lucky, some very rare wildlife.

We had never heard of Arkaroola but when we asked our South Australian friend for recommendations around the Flinders Ranges, he said we must go there.  We were so glad we did!  This is one of our favourite stops on our South Australia Road Trip.  

In this post we’ll let you know all Arkaroola attractions, along with practical advice for your visit.. 

Disclaimer : This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Purchasing through these links supports our work and allows us to continue bringing you travel guides, like this, for free. Thank you for your support .

About the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

This area is the traditional lands of the Adnyamathanha people who have many creation stories based in this area.  One of their spirit ancestors, Arkaroo, drank Lake Frome dry, and created the waterholes as he retreated into the mountains.

The geological history of the area goes back over 160 billion years, and the area has been a mecca for geologists since Sir Douglas Mawson brought it to the attention of the world. 

More recently the area was prospected by miners looking for uranium deposits.  They didn’t find any uranium in the mountains, but they left an extensive network of 4×4 tracks. 

Reg Sprigg was one of Australia’s pre-eminent geologists, and spent a lot of time working and studying in this area both with Mawson and later on his own.  Reg and his wife Griselda purchased the property in 1967.  It was Griselda who had the idea to establish the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary as a place for tourists to come and marvel at this landscape.  

Reg’s son Doug Sprigg is the 69yo current patriarch of the family who is very hands on with the sanctuary.  He meets guests for a talk about the endangered Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies at sunset each evening.  

Doug also drives the mini-bus that took us to the Acacia Ridge trail head and pilots a lot of the scenic flights over the area.  

Getting there

Arkaroola is located in remote outback South Australia around 630km from Adelaide.  Most people combine a visit to Arkaroola with the Flinders Ranges .  From Blinman to Arkaroola is 155km along unsealed gravel roads.  Despite recent rain, these roads were in good condition when we visited in July 2023.

The alternate route from Adelaide to Arkaroola is to take the Outback Highway north from Hawker and turn off at Copley.  This route only involves 130km of unsealed road.  We drove into Arkaroola along this road and came back out via Blinman.

If you’re coming from the north, from the Birdsville or Oodnadatta Track , turning off at Copley will be the best route.  

Before you go – preparing for Arkaroola

Arkaroola is in the remote outback, so you should ensure your vehicle is in sound mechanical order before you head onto the dirt roads.  Remember to check your spare tyre. Get the most up-to-date road conditions at this website .

If you’ve come from the north, we recommend staying the night at the Copley Pub (official name Leigh Creek Hotel).  Hosts Emily and Peter and very welcoming.  You can camp out the back of the pub, there are toilets, showers and laundry facilities here, along with taps so you can refill your water tanks.

You can stock up on groceries at Leigh Creek, which is only a short drive from Copley.  The supermarket here is closed on Sundays – which we found out the hard way!

Best time to visit Arkaroola

The Outback can be very hot in summer with temperatures well into the 40s.  Autumn, Winter and Spring are all popular times to visit Arkaroola.  We had freezing temperatures overnight. A bucket of water we left out had a thin crust of ice in the morning.  However the days were pleasant and sunny.

In 2023 Arkaroola was named an international Dark Sky Sanctuary, so visiting when the skies are clear with no moon will be best for astronomy buffs and Astro-photographers.

Where to stay – Arkaroola Accommodation

There is a good variety of accommodation at Arkaroola Village.  They have lodge rooms, self-contained cottages and a large caravan park with 50 powered sites.  Bookings are essential for the lodge, cottages and powered sites.

We stayed in the off-grid bush camping area, which is a large area down the hill from the main caravan park.  If you’re staying in this Arkaroola camping area you still have access to the toilet and shower facilities up the hill.

The facilities at Arkaroola include:

• Swimming Pool
• Camp Kitchen
• Fuel & General Store
• Restaurant and Bar
• Tour booking and information desk
• Phone and Internet/wifi – there is a Telstra tower on-site and wifi at reception

Things to do at Arkaroola

You’ll find several tours and experiences on offer, which you can book on your arrival at reception.

Ridge Top Tour

The best way to get up close to the rugged beauty of Arkaroola is on the Ridge Top Tour.  This half day tour takes place twice daily, at 8am and 1pm.  You’ll ride in an open top Landcruiser sitting sideways on bench seats.  

Your experienced driver/guides take you up rough dirt tracks stopping off at Coulthard lookout, another lookout and finally Siller’s lookout.  The final 100m up to Siller’s lookout is crazy steep, but when you step out of the vehicle you will be blown away by the 360 degree views across the ranges.

The guide gives a running commentary throughout the drive.  You’ll learn about the 160 billion years of history of this region and come to understand why it’s a mecca for geologists.  

You’ll also learn the more recent history of the region when mining companies came here looking for uranium. None was found in the mountains, despite years of prospecting, but large deposits were found on the plains just nearby in 1969.  The Beverley Uranium mine is very close to Arkaroola.

After enjoying a wonderful morning tea (complete with lamingtons) the tour returns the same way.  The trip down is no less spectacular.

The Ridge Top Tour costs $195 per person.  You can book your tour at the Arkaroola reception.  We don’t normally do tours, and we thought the $195 seemed a lot but after doing the tour we agreed it was great value and well worth the money spent.  We highly recommend this tour.

Note:  The Ridge Top Tour takes place on private roads.  It isn’t possible to drive your own vehicle along these tracks.  

Arkaroola Observatory

Being so remote (the closest town is over 100km away), there is very little light pollution at Arkaroola.  In 2023 Arkaroola was named an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.  You’ll find several options for Arkaroola stargazing, including the Ningana Observatory “Explore the Cosmos” digital experience.  

There is also the “Under the Stars” outdoor guided astronomy experience, with reclining camp chairs, or even remote-controlled reclining chairs that rotate to give you the best views along with the astronomer’s commentary.

Arkaroola Scenic Flights

Pilot Doug Sprigg has over 30 years commercial flying experience, and is passionate about showing guests the Arkaroola region from the air.  Choose between flights over Arkaroola, Lake Frome (the whitest salt lake in Australia) or even go as far as Lake Eyre.

Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby feeding

Each evening at sunset, Doug Sprigg welcomes guests to a small shelter near the main reception area.  Doug begins calling out “Wallabies” and lo and behold, several of these rare Yellow Footed Rock Wallbies begin to appear.  Yes, Doug does feed them!

From where we were sitting we had a great view of the cliff and we were able to watch the wallabies hopping down the cliff to come closer for their food.  There is a small rocky outcrop just here and at one point I think there were close to 10 wallabies.

Initially we were a bit concerned that these wild animals were being fed for a tourist show.  However, Doug explained that the wallabies are really endangered, and in recent drought years have only been kept alive due to the care, food and water provided by the Sanctuary.

We did see several wallabies out on the Ridge Top Tour the next day, so its great to see them thriving in the wild.

Hiking at Arkaroola

There is over 40km of hiking trails around the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary.  We checked with the staff at reception to get their recommendations on the best hikes at Arkaroola.

Acacia Ridge walk

The Acacia Ridge hike is a 5.6km trail that climbs up and along the ridge with fantastic views over the valley and Gammon Ranges.  The climb up to the ridge is gradual but long, but you’ll definitely be rewarded at the summit.  

The path back down to the village is somewhat rougher and steeper.  We recommend good hiking shoes and walking poles if you have knee issues.  You should take plenty of water and sun protection as there is very little shade on this hike.

Along the way you’ll see plenty of acacia bushes, and a bush known as the Queen Victoria bush.  This native bush is so named because of the thorns between each leaf: it’s beautiful but prickly.

Doug drives a free shuttle bus down to the Acacia Ridge trail head twice daily at 9am and 1pm. This was definitely our favourite of the Arkaroola walks, it has it all – good physical challenge and breath-taking views.

Mawson-Spriggina Walk

This 8km loop hike is a combination of the Pinnacles hike and the Spriggina hike.  You leave from the Village and head west, following the hills until you come to several rocky outcrops known as the pinnacles. 

You’ll arrive at a small carpark overlooking the Pinnacles.  The trail then heads up to a lookout where you can see some of the lower ranges, before returning to the village along a valley.

To be honest, we were a little underwhelmed by this hike, but we admit it might be because we did the Ridge Top Tour in the morning just before this.

Griselda Hill

This hill dominates the vista from the Arkaroola Village.  Griselda Sprigg was Reg’s wife, and it was her idea to open the destination to tourists.  This hill looks like it has been toppled 45 degrees onto its side.

This trail is 2.5km return.  A short, steep climb takes you to the summit.  There is a bit of rock scrambling at the top, making this even more exciting.  From the top you can see right over the village and also back along the valley you drove along to get here.

4×4 Tours and self-drive Tracks

In addition to the Ridge Top Tour, there are several other 4×4 tours available at Arkaroola.  Keen 4×4 enthusiasts will want to tackle some of the self-drive tracks.  The track out to Stubbs Waterhole and Paralana Hot Springs is very popular.  But be warned!  The Paralana Hot Springs is radioactive, so swimming here is definitely not recommended.

We rode our Mountain Bikes out to Barrarana Gorge and Stubbs Waterhole.  This ride was a bit hillier than we had anticipated, but the views near Stubbs Waterhole were well worth it.  

Sadly, the waterhole was completely dry when we arrived, which was surprising after so much recent rain.  We chatted with a man there who said he had been in March when the waterhole was full.

Suggested 4-day Arkaroola itinerary

This itinerary is based on driving from the Flinders Ranges to Arkaroola via Blinman, and then back out to the Outback Highway and Copley, where you can continue your journey north to the Oodnadatta Track or head south back towards Adelaide.

Day 1 Wilpena to Arkaroola

Leaving Wilpena head north along the Flinders Ranges Way.  Leave the National Park and arrive at Blinman.  This small outback town has a rich mining history, and you may like to check out the Mine Tour.  There is a good café here and a pub.  There is no fuel here, so fill up before you leave Wilpena.

After Blinman you’ll be leaving the sealed road and the mountains as you head through rolling hills towards the Gammon Ranges National Park on the North Flinders Road.  You’ll pass through the Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park and drive along a deep valley before arriving at Arkaroola Village.

Visit Reception and check in to your accommodation.  This would be a good time to book the Arkaroola Ridge Top Tour and any other tours you plan to do.

That evening, come back up to the visitor centre just opposite reception to see Reg Sprigg welcoming the Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies for their evening feed.

If the sky is clear, check out the stars and maybe try some Astro-photography.  Or check out the Arkaroola Observatory for Explore the Cosmos or Under the Stars.

Day 2 Explore Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

An early morning to join the Arkaroola Ridge Top Tour, which leaves reception at 8am.  (Alternatively, you could join the 1pm tour).  We chose to do the morning tour as we figured it would be cold and we would rather warm up as the tour progressed.  You’ll be in an open vehicle, so wear plenty of layers.

In the afternoon, hike up Griselda Hill for the sunset.

Day 3 Hiking and 4×4 exploring

Choose from any of the hikes near the village.  There is over 40km of hiking trails here so something to suit everyone.  We recommend the Acacia Ridge Hike which gives you a great overview of the area.  Don’t miss the short detour up to the “summit” for the best views.

There is a shuttle bus that drives to the trail head twice daily at 9am and 1pm, and from there you simply walk back to the village.

If you have a 4×4 head out to Barranara Gorge and Stubbs waterhole to see some of these red cliffs up close.  This track is not too difficult so you won’t need to be a hard-core 4×4 driver to get out here.  If you’d like to go further afield, there are several 4×4 tours available from the village.

Day 4 Arkaroola to Copley

Leaving Arkaroola head out the way you came.  At Balcanoona turn right and continue down the Gammon Ranges Road towards Nepabunna and Copley.

On the way you will pass through the Italowie Gorge.  You can stop off at the Italowie Gap Campground which is near where RM Williams was camped when he learned the art of leathercraft, and in particular making boots from a single piece of leather.

Arrive in Copley in time for a cold refreshment at the Copley Pub. We camped behind the pub and enjoyed the outback hospitality.

Essential Information

You will not require any permits for Arkaroola or for driving through the Vulkathanha-Gammon Ranges National Park.  A valid Entry Permit is required for Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park and you can buy your permit online if you are driving through that park.

Food and Water

There is a restaurant at the Arkaroola Village, serving meals and drinks.  You can buy snacks at the reception shop, but note they do not sell tobacco products.

Water is a precious resource here.  Rainwater taps are available throughout the campsite but they ask that you don’t fill your tanks here.  We filled out tanks at the Copley pub before we came to Arkaroola.

Unleaded and Diesel fuel is available from the Village store.  They also have an electric vehicle charge station.  LPG is available for gas bottle refills but not for vehicles.

Your pets are welcome in the campground (on a leash) but not in the rooms, restaurant, bar or on any of the paid tours.

Watch our Arkaroola Travel Film

See all the highlights of our trip and things to do at Arkaroola on YouTube

Do you need a 4wd to get to Arkaroola?

You will need to drive along at least 130km of dirt roads to get to Arkaroola (depending on which way you come).  The road is generally well maintained but conditions can vary.  A 4wd vehicle is recommended but the journey is not impossible in a 2wd.  

Is the road to Arkaroola sealed?

There are no sealed roads to Arkaroola.  The route with the shortest unsealed section is via Copley, which is 130km of unsealed road.  From the Flinders Ranges and Blinman, the unsealed road is around 155km.

What is the road like to Arkaroola?

The roads to Arkaroola are unsealed and conditions can vary.  The roads can be closed during and immediately after rain.  You can check the latest road conditions on  this website .

Where to next?

Continue your Outback South Australia Road Trip by travelling along the iconic Oodnadatta Track , or venture into the mountains at Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park .

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Australia by Red Nomad OZ

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Ride the Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour!

Last Updated on May 6, 2021 by Red Nomad OZ

‘Now we’ll see some REAL scenery!’ Doug announced, herding us away from the spectacular outlook from Coulthard’s Lookout towards our convoy of two vehicles.  The Arkaroola Ridgetop tour was well underway.

But I was sceptical.

The ragged mountain ranges (yes, I’m channelling Aussie poet Dorothea Mackellar*) glistened and glowed in a glorious 360 ° panorama in the perfection of a clear Outback day.

Could it really get any better? I thought Doug was joking.

He wasn’t.

Our guide, commentator and driver was Arkaroola’s most wanted man.  That’s if the caption under the photo of his younger self in the dining room spoke the truth, anyway. Doug was rocking the Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour – the Wilderness Sanctuary’s ultimate 4WD adventure, and elevated it from excellent to extraordinary.

Building the Road

Luckily, mining company Exoil followed up on the wartime uranium exploration in this area, and ‘developed’ this ‘road’ in the late 1960s.  Otherwise, it’s unlikely we’d have been jolting our way deep into the otherwise trackless wilderness through this more remote, wild and sensationally beautiful South Australian landscape.

Carving this rugged road from the edge of civilisation into the ragged mountain range wilderness was logical to further investigate the uranium mining option.

Luckily for us, once the uranium exploration was done it was logical to someone else to turn this rugged road into a tourist drive!  Despite the $AUD40,000 it costs to restore the track after each of the 1-5 washouts it gets each year.

The Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour

$AUD120 gets you a berth on the purpose-built 4WD bus.

Yes, tourists actually pay for the privilege of 4 hours of jolting in an open tray-top.  The track has near-vertical climbs and plunges across sheer rock seams interspersed with creek beds full of boulders.  It’s got wheel ruts the size of irrigation drains and ridge-tops so exposed the strong gusts of wind could suck the unwary into oblivion.

That means the tour isn’t necessarily the best choice for acrophobics, back-seat drivers or vertigo-sufferers!  And if wide-open spaces give you the heebie-jeebies?  Maybe you’re better off on an air-conditioned bus …

Tour? Or Gym??

As our vehicle shuddered over a particularly large rock, the seatbelt round my waist was the only thing preventing an ungraceful slide into the tailgate – or beyond.  My experimental photography technique – developed especially for this tour – was working surprisingly well, all things considered.

But I wouldn’t have taken a several-kilometre morning walk if I’d known just sitting in the back of the truck would give me a full body workout!

As an added bonus, we were the odd ones out in our two-vehicle convoy.  A 10-camper group made up the rest of the tour.  They must have vowed never to be separated by more than 100 metres at any given time, which made each stop an fascinating anthropological experiment.

I didn’t need the childish thrill I got from wandering into random strangers’ group photos.  But I took it anyway!

Travelling through the stunning scenery, varied land forms, unusual rock formations and unique vegetation in these wild mountains provides enough thrills for a lifetime. But following the track past the imposing Mt Painter, and Mt Gee – composed of quartz crystals – was gasp-inducing on several levels. These aren’t even particularly high mountains, even by Australian standards.

The road-builders clearly couldn’t be bothered building a road in lazy curves when perpendicular obviously got them there faster.

Sillers Lookout

After an ascent so steep I was starting to think we couldn’t possibly return this way without dropping off the face of the earth, we reached the final climb to the ultimate pinnacle of the tour – Sillers Lookout. Named, as I should have guessed, for then-chairman of Exoil.

Luckily, Doug could turn the vehicle on a dime because the ‘space’ on top of the lookout left no margin for error. High atop a rocky knoll, we overlooked the rugged grandeur of the Freeling Heights.  They drop suddenly and completely away to a “vision splendid of sunlit plains extended” (AB Paterson said it first and best**) WAY out across Yudnamutana Gorge to the vast salty expanse of Lake Frome. I leaned against the (thank god someone built one) fence feeling a little weak at the knees. Strangely not from the hair-raising ride, but from the vista of such awesome and utter FAAAAABULOUSNESS.  I was struck by the uncharacteristic feeling of being lost for words.

Superlatives, anyway.

‘Does the drive ever make you nervous?’ I inanely asked the driver of the 2 nd vehicle as we enjoyed an Aussie lamington for afternoon tea.  He’d had 20 years experience of regularly making this drive twice a day.

He looked at me with a strange mixture of confusion and pity that clearly indicated nervousness wasn’t part of his psyche.

‘Sometimes it’s difficult when it’s wet,’ he conceded.

Wet? People drove on this road when it was WET?

But, after establishing there was no alternative route back, I realised being scared witless was pointless.

Blasé was WAY better.

Heading back

After a while, negotiating steep slopes, deep ruts, sheer rock surfaces and a road surface so uneven it seemed more like a paddock just became commonplace. Ho hum, another minute, another sheer wash-away. Or descent down a rock wall. Or major wheel-wrenching boulder pile …

So, the Arkaroola Ridgetop tour return trip became uneventful, unless you count the strong gust of wind that lifted Pilchard’s hat giving us both a nasty Green Island flashback . Oops, it was happening again. But this time, the chin strap caught and held. Now all he had to worry about was whether saving the hat was worth being garrotted by the strap …

After calling in at Mt Gee to view a selection of minerals and an unscheduled stop to admire Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby, we arrived back at Arkaroola Village exhausted AND exhilarated by our extreme 4WD adventure.

South Australia is often overlooked as an Aussie tourist destination in favour of better known natural attractions like … well, YOU know.

But for the ultimate, jaw-dropping, unforgettable, super-sublime Aussie adventure? Trust me – and take the Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour***!

* Dorothea Mackellar’s great Aussie love-poem My Country

** Andrew ‘Banjo’ Paterson’s classic Aussie lament Clancy of the Overflow

*** Yes, I’m still struggling with appropriate superlatives. No, they’re not paying me. More’s the pity. But if they did, I’d trade it in for another go at the tour. Yes, it really IS that good!

Read AND See MORE:

• See it LIVE on YouTube —> Final ascent to Sillers Lookout
• Arkaroola Ridge-top Tour
• More about Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
• Arkaroola Dreaming – my Flickr photographic fantasy

37 comments

@Cathy – I’ll forgive it being unforgiving (if that makes sense) when it looks this good!! Even for me this was amazing … @Chris – This is a fairly uncommon wallaby … and MORE than happy to be in someone else’s vehicle 🙂 We managed to keep all 4 tyres intact, which is apparently quite rare in this part of OZ!

The Wallaby!!!!! Nice find!!! Those drives are some of the most fun when it’s with someone else’s vehicle:) We did one recently like that where we blew out our tire! But like you’ve written, the views are goreous….fabulous….exciting!!!!

You really capture the heart of the outback Red (but wait … no loos?!!) I could feel your trepidation and sympathised with the feeling you had that to be blase is better than fearful. I have done some pretty rugged African tracks when things fly off the back of the Bakkie – “Eggs, oh what eggs? Um, was that my guitar I just saw flying through the sky in the rear view mirror?” – when really I am trying hard to control my hysteria. Your story today was beautiful, and I loved the references to poets and poems. Keep on truckin’

Your photos are great, OZ! I’m always amazed by your spectacular landscape and its vivid colors. I bet it can be unforgiving when it wants to be. That must have been one bumpy ride.

@George – I’m sure the tour drivers think of people like me as utter drama queens. They’re probably right … but SO glad I did it, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat! @TFG – My first foray into the world of extreme 4WD (by my definitions, anyway). Will it be the last? Wait & see! @FigMince – Us South Aussies get a bit starved for green after long, hot & dry summers like we’ve just had. But I LOVE the Outback colours! @Karen – I can’t believe so few people I know have even heard of it, let alone done it! @Jo – HAhahaha … my only tour regret was the absence of ANY loo, let alone a scenic one!!! And after awhile I was more concerned about getting some good shots than what the road looked like! Our guide was an awesome driver, so I left it up to him without doing the back-seat thing!! @Image Bloke – Thank you & have a great weekend!

@Go Camping – The tour is the only way we would have seen the lookout! And the campers were travelling in a pack – they sure didn’t like being split into two vehicles!! Call me crazy, but I didn’t get why that’d be a problem … we’ve come across these groups before – it’s all about being together, doesn’t really matter where they are! @MJWC – Hahaha!! Can’t believe this tour’s got something in common with Atlantic City!!! That’s hilarious!!! @Arija – Thank you for whetting my appetite for more (not that I really needed any further enticement to return)! We have left quite a lot to do for next time – but we’ll probably need a different vehicle for most of it. I’ve just read Griselda’s book & it’s AMAZING! Can’t wait to see some of the places you’ve recommended that we didn’t get to this time!! I think we’ll just have to stay WAY longer than 4 nights next time … @ladyfi – Thank you!! I was lucky with the wallaby. Lucky the truck actually stopped, that is!! @PDP – And I’m VERY happy to be your guide!! But isn’t the possibility of FAAAAAABULOUS photos enough to entice you??

I see why you reacted to the green elsewhere. But that’s beautiful country, and a beautiful post about it.

Wow! Excellent photos! I lived in SA for a while. Took the Arkaroola tour, amazing place!

Still a great adventure. Thanks for your comment on my Who’s Signs. Would have loved to photograph them at night, but unfortunately didn’t get back there after dark. I’m sure the signs still work.

WOW!! That’s all I can say about both the scenery and your description of your adventure. I would truly love to take that tour, but I’m not sure I’m brave enough to do so. I’m delighted you are so brave and got these fabulous photos to share with us.

Have wondered about the paid 4WD adventures and it sounds like it gives an experience to remember (one that I couldn’t do with my driving skills). But the 4 hours of bumps certainly seems worth it judging by the photos, though your companions with fear of separation, intrigue me!

I’m ‘blase’ about so many things Red, but as I have all three of the above mentioned phobias, methinks I may be unable to rustle up any extra 🙂 I am very happy to b an armchair outback traveller with you as my guide!

Stunning views of your world. And I love that wallaby shot.

Thanks for taking me back to one my all time favourite place in S.A. We have been friends with the Spriggs since the year dot. I’ve been on the Ridge Top tour quite a few times, in the ‘official’ vehicle, in our own 4×4 as well as Reg Sprigg’s who lent it to us for the few days we had flown Peter’s mother up there for a visit. Mostly now, when I go up, I tend to go to the places the tourists don’t frequent. The Freeling Heights and Yudnamutna where I feel deeply at home. I can never get my fill of the N.Flinders Ranges. Did you do the Observatory lecture? When Doug does it you get completely fired up about astronomy. He is such an enthusiastic person.

What a beautiful tour. Your tour truck sounds like when we go to Atlantic City and take the Jitney from casino to casino. My back is usually out of place by the time we get to the first one.

@River – This is unbelievable country! So different to the rest of SA, let alone the rest of OZ! I’m sure you could find a tour from Adelaide that includes the ridge-top tour – but be warned! Your back may never be the same again! @SFlaGuy – Haha, the only trouble with a zip line would be working out which breathtaking drop-off to start it from!! I’d got over it on the way back … but NOTHING would induce me to take up the driver’s offer to sit up front and see the steep bits close up! Ignorance is bliss!!

What a great place for a zip line. I would love to take that road once but maybe not twice in the opposite direction.

I’m very proud to live in a state that has some of the world’s most stunning wilderness. Do I have to be in Arkaroola to start that tour? Or do tours begin in Adelaide? I’ll have to get researching…..

@LONDONLULU – Oops! Sorry I missed you above … couldn’t believe that the scenery just kept getting better & better! But my superlatives haven’t come back yet – it was AWESOME!

@GL – Well, as you can see, words didn’t exactly fail me, I just ran out of superlatives … although I didn’t have a problem with expletives on the tour!! @Jill – If you really CAN’T make it this time (it’s not THAT far from the Flinders Ranges) then make sure it’s on the ‘Must Do’ list for next time! @Andrew – ‘Yellow’ & ‘foot’ are clearly euphemisms in this case – it can’t POSSIBLY be the poor quality of my photo, can it? CAN IT??? @Beach Bum – Hahaha! But I bet you didn’t have as much fun as I did … @TMWH – Maybe the fresh air counteracted any suspicion of motion sickness?!?!?! And spare a thought for the driver who does it twice a day! @Iris – Hahaha, but I actually PAID to sit in the back of the open tray. Although it DID have seats on it … After awhile I didn’t even notice the jolting – the scenery was SO AWESOME!

@eileeninmd – Haha, I wondered why they didn’t let you drive yourself on this tour!! Now I know!! @FruitCake – The invertebrates would at least have been spared the bump & grind!!! Arkaroola itself was a revelation – where the uninspiring bits of SA get left far FAR behind! @TFG – Feet, legs – what’s a few inches between friends, huh?!?! @Fun60 – Much as I loathe the WAAAAY overused ‘Awesome’, it really IS the best way to describe the whole experience! @Rose – Those Aussie poets really are the business, aren’t they?!?! When I visit places like this & words fail me, I know EXACTLY where to turn … @Sallie – It IS exercise, I swear!!! The hanging-on, bracing, wedging, balancing and neck-swivel muscles will never be the same again … @Carole M – If this is what happens whenever I get out of my chair, I’ll die happy!!

$AUD40,000 each year, by golly! We hitchhiked on Fraser Island in the back of an open 4WD (on the load floor), boy I nearly fell out several times, that was a workout, too 😉 A frightening one! Sillers Lookout is nothing for me, I nearly faded here on my chair in front of the PC!

Oh my goodness! My kidneys hurt just reading this, just imagining the rough road. Did they have car sick bags, or did people just lean out the ‘window’? Sounds like an adventure!

unfortunately Arkaroola is a bit far off our radar for our trip later this year Red – but WOW what a landscape! It certainly doesn’t look like a place the faint-hearted should be driving. Thanks for taking us along Red with your wonderful writing style and fabulous photos.

🙂 I was with you all the way Red; much easier from my swivel chair and a mug of caffeine in my veins. I missed out on the lamington though. Thrills, no spills, you did good to have taken on another thrilling Aussie adventure. Also loved that rock wallaby.

Beautiful 4WD country…but that’s a looooong time to bounce! (I am quite positive that it serves as exercise, I know just how you felt from the shorter drives we’ve taken. Our youngest son, the real Jeep guy of the family, would LOVE this place.

Yes, tourists actually pay for the privilege of 4 hours of jolting in an open tray-top on this track with its near-vertical climbs and plunges across sheer rock seams interspersed with creek beds full of boulders, wheel ruts the size of irrigation drains and ridge-tops so exposed the strong gusts of wind could suck the unwary into oblivion.

I joined the United States Army back in the 1980’s and did the same thing and got paid for it!

Wow what amazing scenery. Don’t think I could have kept the contents of my stomach to myself though.

He wasn’t joking in the least, wow! Love the scenery and looks like an amazing time was had by all. The wallaby is precious:)

Try some proper English this time. Spectacular, but about the yellow footed rock wallaby? Beautiful markings but I am not seeing yellow.

Great scenic photos of a fine adventure. Does not look like a place you want to run out of water, food, or fuel. Great panorama and wallaby, but I can clearly see it doesn’t have yellow feet.

See! I’ve telling you for years (well, two anyway) how spectacular that trip is and that it is an absolute MUST for anyone with the love of the outdoors in their soul. And, you’ve done a superb job of communicating the drive to others. All I do is rave about it, but you’ve crystallised and distilled the essence for all to see and read.

Just for once, words almost fail me! Definitely the drive to beat all drives.

G’day Red. Well really, aren’t the vistas, colours, and wildlife of this amazing country just jolly awesome!? And you left me with two of my all-time fav poems! Have the best week M & P!

Ah, Arkaroola! In my youth I spent a great deal of time driving between Port Lincoln and Adelaide and I must say there is a vast expanse of South Australia that is not overly exciting. Arkaroola, though it looks at first glance like it might be “more of the same” was a revelation. You’ve done a good job of capturing the subtly impressive colour which is almost unique to the place. And thank you both from the bottom of my stomach – oops, heart – for allowing me to take that ride by proxy. Inveterate but not invertebrate, eh?

What a way to explore the wilderness and the outback. Looks like a bumpy ride. Love the cute wallaby! Great post and photos!

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RIDGETOP SLEEPOUT

The arkaroola 4wd ridgetop sleepout tour.

Spend an evening camping under the stars in the vast outback of the northern Flinders Ranges.

The perfect adventure awaits you in the heart of the beautiful Flinders Ranges! Step out of your daily routine and into the South Australian outback with the Arkaroola Ridgetop Sleepout.

Embark  on a 4WD journey to the remote Streitberg Ridge campsite. This relaxed tour along the Ridgetop Track allows time to explore, to discuss the sciences and take in the scenery at its best.

Upon arrival at Streitberg Ridge, your campsite will be ready for you to unwind and soak up the breath-taking views of the outback landscape. As the sun sets, your host will prepare delicious canapes for you to enjoy, accompanied by local wine, as you watch the Ranges light up before your eyes.

Savour an unforgettable dinner, prepared by your guide as you share stories around the campfire with fellow travellers or gaze through the binoculars or telescope at the stars above.

After a day filled with adventure, retire to the comfort of a swag on one of only four elevated sleepout decks. Drift off to sleep under the canopy of stars, and wake up to the soft morning light of the new day. You may choose to view sunrise from the renowned Siller's Lookout, before enjoying a cooked breakfast and your return trip to Arkaroola Village around midday.

Choose from our 2 or 3 night packages complete with 1 or 2 night's accommodation included at Arkaroola village. Packages depart Sunday and Wednesday only and are only suitable for guests 17 years of age and above.

2 Night Ridgetop Sleepout Package

• 1 night's accommodation pre Ridgetop (Mawson OR Callitris) with continental breakfast
• 4WD tour from Arkaroola Village to Streitberg Ridge Campsite
• 1 night's accommodation on Monday or Thursday at Ridgetop Camp with swag bedding
• Canapes and campfire dinner served with South Australian wine
• Cooked breakfast
• $1970 for 2 people, twin share
• Bookable Sundays and Wednesdays ONLY

3 Night Ridgetop Sleepout Package

• 2 night's accommodation (Mawson OR Callitris) with  continental breakfast (one night pre/post Ridgetop)
• 2 course dinner with SA wine in the Native Pine Restaurant one evening
• 1 night's accommodation at Ridgetop Camp with swag
• $2520 for 2 people, twin share

Terms and Conditions

Please note there is a minimum of 4 pax required for the Overnight Ridgetop component of this package to depart. Cancellations within 7 days of arrival will incur a cancellation charge of 50% of the package price, within 3 days of arrival 100% of the package price will be charged. This package is not suitable for guests under 17 years of age. Single rates may be available on request, please enquire. This experience is weather permitting - in the event that there is no opportunity for the guest to undertake an experience due to weather during their stay the proportionate cost of the package will not be charged and, in the event that guests have already arrived at Arkaroola, alternate rooming or camping accommodation will be arranged at Arkaroola Village.  

+61 8 8648 4848

Res @ arkaroola.com.au, 2948 arkaroola rd 5701 arkaroola village.

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This business received tourism grant funding from the Australian Government via Austrade.

Arkaroola Ridge Top Tour From Wilpena Pound

Information

For more information & booking enquiries for our flights at Wilpena Pound, contact the Wilpena Pound Resort on 08 8648 0004 or 1800 805 802

Arkaroola Ridge Top Tour

$1200 per adult $600 per child (4-12yrs) infants free

ARKAROOLA RIDGE TOP TOUR & WILPENA POUND FLIGHT

A birds eye view of outback South Australia starting with a scenic flight over Wilpena Pound, the Flinders Ranges and over to Arkaroola for the Ridge Top 4WD tour.

This tour is approximately 7.5 hours total in duration including scenic flight - 3 hours (approx) and 4WD Tour - 4.5 hours (approx). There is a 30min morning/afternoon tea stop at Sillers lookout which includes the famous “Arkaroola Lamingtons”

This flight is seasonal and is not available during the winter months.

Did you know?

The ancient granite terrain starts just north of the Arkaroola Creek and is about 1,580 million years old. This landscape is really wild and rugged, and like other parts of Arkaroola, it contains some plants unknown elsewhere. They are specially adapted to these rock and soil types. Other plants also survive as remnants from wetter periods in history thanks to the relatively cooler and wetter conditions up in the mountains compared to the surrounding semi-desert plains.

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30 Min Scenic Flight $231

Fly over majestic Wilpena Pound, Elder Range, Edeowie Gorge, Heysen Range, Lake Torrens, Bunyeroo Gorge, Brachina Gorge, St Mary Peak and the Pound Gap.

1 Hour Scenic Flight $347

Fly over Wilpena Pound, the Western Plains, Parachilna Gorge, Blinman, the Bunkers Range and Skytrek 4WD Track.

Lake Eyre & Warburton Groove $1,505 An extension of our Lake Eyre and William Creek flight, this flight continues on to the Warburton Groove.

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

Magnificent nature, bush walking and great 4wd adventures.

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is a mecca for bushwalkers, 4 WD enthusiasts, nature and wildlife lovers. Located in the northernmost part of the Flinders Ranges, this rugged mountain area offers steep hills, gorges, waterholes and ruins from a bygone copper mining area. Whether you come for a self-drive adventure, to join one of the numerous tours, or to go on a walking trail, take your time, and enjoy one of the most stunning mountainous regions in the Australian Outback. Interested in star gazing? The sanctuary has 3 fully equipped observatories, available for professional and amateur astronomers. Views of the night sky in this non-polluted spot are amazing.

The Wilderness Sanctuary is privately owned and operated by the Sprigg family. Reg (well-known Australian geologist) & Griselda Sprigg bought this 610 sq km area, which formerly was a sheep station, in 1967. Their intention was to preserve the unique environment, remove feral animals and re-introduce native fauna and plants. Arkaroola village and roads were established in this remote area to develop an eco-tourism venture (although this word was probably not known at that time). Today, more than 40 years later, the sanctuary and resort has received many awards. It is owned by Reg & Griselda's children Douglas and Margaret Sprigg.

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Arkaroola Protection Area

Geological resources have been of interest since the first explorers and surveyors set foot into this northern region of the Flinders Ranges. Copper, gold, gemstones and uranium were discovered, a copper mine was established at Yudnamutana. However, due to the remoteness none of the ventures lasted for long. For 6+ years Arkaroola's unique environment was threatened to be destroyed by uranium mining. Years of campaigns and debates followed, many letters to politicians were written by friends of that unique place. The uproar by South Australians and Arkaroola friends from all around the world succeeded, thankfully. Finally, the South Australian Government announced that Arkaroola would be protected from mining through the establisment of the protection area. The Arkaroola Protection Act was developed and came into operation in April 2012.

Arkaroola Attractions and Activities

The biggest attraction is the breath-taking landscape, no doubt. Even if you only drive to Arkaroola resort and stay there, you are rewarded by beautiful nature and scenery. The village/resort is located in the south-west of the Wilderness Sanctuary. It is surrounded by steep mountains that change their colour during the day. Sit and watch the birds, relax at the pool, have a chat with other travellers. But there is much more you can do.

• Walking Stroll around the village on your own, or join one of the village walk tours to learn more about Arkaroola's history. Yata Nukuntha (looking at the ground) is a walking tour on demand with Adnyamathanha man, Sharpy Coulthard. Learn about bush food and medicine, listen to creation stories, understand the Adnyamathanha people's deep connection with the land. Walking trails include the Mawson Valley Trail (2.5 to 3 hours), Spriggina Trail (1.5 hours), Griselda Hill (1.5 hours) and more.
• Driving Tours The most famous tour is the Ridgetop Tour . This is tour not available for self-drive as this is a real challenging drive. The 4 hour organised tour leads you to spectacular mountain scenery. Highlight is the 360° view from Sillers loukout. You feel like you're on top of the world. The Echo Camp backtrack is another challenging tour for 4WD enthusiasts. See waterholes, follow Arkaroola creek and explore more scenic country. Easier drives are to the Yudnamutana Mines (approx. 30km one-way) and to Paralana Hot Springs (33km one-way). Both routes are fantastic. We spent nearly a full day at each tour.
• Astronomy Tours Even if you've never been interested in astronomy, travelling to the Australian Outback might change that. The amazing desert night sky is just wonderful. At least you want to see the famous Southern Cross, don't you? At Arkaoola you have the chance to see the cross, and even more. There are two astronomy tours available, don't miss them.
• Scenic Flights Fly over the wilderness sanctuary and learn about its geology, listen to Aboriginal stories and enjoy spectacular views. Another option is a flight to Lake Frome which is considered to be Australia's whitest salt lake. Flights to other destinations are available on demand. From April 2009 flights were on the agenda to appreciate the rare occasion to see water in Lake Eyre. However now, 2013, the lake is dry.

How to get there

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is approx. 600 km north of Adelaide. The quickest route is via Hawker and Leigh Creek. Leave the main road in Copley for the scenic route through Italowie Gorge in the Gammon Ranges National Park. If you travel through the Flinders Ranges, there is access from Blinman via the Wirrealpa to Balcanoona road. On this road you drive along the edge of the Flinders Ranges with stunning views over the wide open spaces east of the mountains. Both roads mentioned are unsealed and easy to drive when they are dry.

Arkaroola Accommodation and Facilities

• Mawson Lodge - 20 motel-style suites for up to 4 persons. The units have beautiful mountain views. Facilites: Queen-size bed, single bed, trundle bed, small fridge, electric kettle, TV, bathroom.
• Callitris Lodge - 10 motel-style suites with the same equipment as Mawson Lodge, but withouth TV. Ah, you won't need a TV anyway in such a beautiful environment :).
• Greenwood Lodge - 20 comfortable budget rooms with en-suite bathroom. Rooms are grouped around Greenwood Hall, a huge room used for conventions, or to meet with other travellers in cold nights. The hall is nicely decorated with old stuff, collected by Griselda Sprigg in the early days. Since my visit Greenwood Hall was redesigned and 2 huge panoramas by photographer Peter MacDonald were added. Each room has access to the hall and to a covered verandah. A community kitchen with a huge fridge can be used by everyone staying at Greenwood Lodge.
• The Caravan Park is a few hundred metres away from the main village. There are 50 powered caravan sites, and plenty more room for campers and caravanners in a natural bush setting. The caravan park has basic cabins with bedding supplied. Use the caravan park amenities. There are also Shearers's Quarters available by arrangement. No booking required for camping and caravan sites.

Arkaroola Impressions

Recommended Reading

Dune is a Four Letter Word: Desert Crossings and Dusty Memories Griselda Sprigg talks in an entertaining voice about her adventures in the deserts of the Australian Outback. Together with her husband, a well-known geologist, she bought a sheep property and turned it into the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary we know today. Read about their hard work, setbacks caused by droughts and floods, and the always positive mindset of two extraordinary people. A must read.

Below is a link to enjoy more photos of Arkaroola. Don't miss them!

Discover attractions, culture and things to do in the Flinders Ranges

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T’s & c’s, click here to call, email click here, ”arkaroola” 2 day tour - staying 1 night at arkaroola wilderness sanctuary, this arkaroola tour runs for 2 days - a great way to visit arkaroola while you are in the flinders region - and experience the world famous ridgetop tour - but without risking you vehicle on all those dirt roads, **(please note: if you wish to lock in a private tour for just 2 passengers - you can do so by paying a 3 person price), highlights:.

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary (1 nights accom) Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park Bunyeroo Gorge Scenic Drive Brachina Gorge Geological Trail

Prairie Hotel, Parachilna

Day one: depart 8.00am. we firstly travel through the heart of the ikara-flinders ranges national park via bunyeroo valley & gorge, then follow aroona valley to the spectacular brachina gorge and have time to observe the yellow footed rock wallaby, we continue north ton the western side of the ranges and call in to the prairie hotel at parachilna for some fine cuisine for lunch., with abundance of wildlife in the area there is a good chance you could see kangaroos, euros (wallaroos), emus, parrots and the graceful wedge tailed eagle., after lunch, sit back and relax, enjoy the scenery as we travel across the copley road across remote sheep station properties, the nepabunna community, italowie gorge (former home to rm williams) with amazing afternoon light showcasing the scenic views.  continue on through the gammon ranges and to the arkaroola wilderness sanctuary resort. founded by reg & griselda sprigg now operated by their son douglas and vicki. check into your mawson room, dinner at the native pine restaurant., day two: early breakfast before joining the exclusive, world famous, arkaroola ridge top tour, (departs reception at 8.00am) travel the rocky roads in customised 4wd vehicles, through creeks, valleys & over the ridges of the arkaroola wilderness sanctuary, climaxing with an amazing view and some lovely morning tea., after lunch, return express via blinman road,  before making our way back to your drop off location. arriving back at approx. 5.00 to 6.00pm, departures from:.

• Wilpena Resort 
• Rawnsley Park Station  
• (And other locations by arrangement)

Departs any day by request 

(with a minimum of 2 passengers) , subject to guide / tour vehicle availability, **itinerary details may vary slightly depending on the pick up location and subject to road and weather conditions..

C ost:   $1, 45 0 per person - min 2 passengers

Includes:  1 night accommodation at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary (Mawson Room) all meals from morning tea on day 1 to lunch on day 2 Ridgetop Tour All guided 4wd travel Pick up and return to your accommodation in the region

**Note: Alcohol is at your own cost - not included in the tour cost

Do you have a question…

Please give us a call….., astrid - mobile:   0466 079 49 9, paul - mobile:   0428 486 655    , it is our aim to provide you with an enjoyable and memorable half or full day tour to compliment your stay. , the flinders ranges offer everything - wildlife, unique flora and fauna, tranquility, walks, history, unsurpassed views and excellent photo opportunities, it will be our privilege to share them with you.

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Tour Prices

Your Flinders Ranges & Australian Outback Specialists

“Flinders Ranges Arkaroola Odyssey”

4 Day Tour - (AHT009)

$3,685 per person (twin share) (for 2024 departures)

See the best that South Australia's majestic Flinders Ranges has to offer.  Fly around the Spectacular geological formation called Wilpena Pound.  Travel through the deep gorges of the Flinders Ranges National Park.  View aboriginal rock engravings thousands of years old.

Enjoy the world famous Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary's Ridge top Tour.

A former Governor of South Australia, Sir Mark Oliphant, is quoted as saying  "The Northern Flinders Ranges exercise a subtle attraction to return upon any sensitive person who once visits the region."

Included:  

• 3 nights Accommodation (twin/share)
• All meals from morning tea on day one to lunch on last day
• All guided 4WD travel, 
• Pick up and return to Adelaide accommodation 
• Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour
• Complimentary scenic flight (subject to weather)

*Alcohol not included

• Depart Adelaide 7.30am
• Pichi Richi Pass
• Warren Gorge
• Kanyaka Homestead Ruins
• Hawker the Hub
• Moralana Scenic Drive
• Wilpena Pound Resort overnight and dinner in the Ikara Restaurant.
• Complimentary 2 0-minute flight around Wilpena Pound
• Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park
• Bunyeroo Gorge Scenic Drive
• Brachina Gorge Geological Trail
• Parachilna Gorge
• Mt Chambers Gorge - rock engravings and ancient ceremonial site
• Gammon Ranges
• Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary overnight and dinner in the Native Pine Restaurant.
• Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour - Sillers Lookout
• Explore Arkaroola by 4wd to waterholes or walking trails
• Observatory Tour optional (at own cost)
• Leave Arkaroola
• Copley / Leigh Creek
• Hawker / Orroroo
• Clare Valley
• Return to Adelaide

**Scenic flights of Arkaroola are available only by prior arrangement.

Aussie Heritage Tours

Paul and Astrid Keen

Quorn, Flinders Ranges SA

Australian: Telephone: 08 8648 6655

Mobile: 0428 48 66 55

International: 

Phone: +61 8 8648 6655

Mobile: +61 428 48 66 55

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Arkaroola - Ancient Wilderness

Well off the beaten track, Arkaroola Wilderness Area is situated in the rugged and spectacular Northern Flinders Ranges,in South Australia.

The 61,000 hectare, privately owned Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary offers guests a unique outback experience, not the least of which is the Ridgetop tour. Climb aboard to enjoy the rough ride out across the ridges of this ancient land.

This is the oldest part of the Flinders Ranges, much of it is granite. But the Ridgetop also includes some even more ancient sedimentary rock that dates to almost a billion years older than the rest of the Flinders Ranges.

The ancient granite terrain starts just north of the Arkaroola Creek. This landscape is really wild and rugged, and like other parts of Arkaroola, it contains some plants unknown elsewhere.  They are specially adapted to these rock and soil types.  Other plants also survive as remnants from wetter periods in history thanks to the relatively cooler and wetter conditions up in the mountains compared to the surrounding semi-desert plains that ocassionally spring to life after rain. 

The first humans to inhabit the Flinders Ranges were the Adnyamathanha people (meaning "hill people" or "rock people") whose descendants still reside in the area, and the Ngadjuri (Ndajurri) people, who were dispersed by European settlement after colonisation. Cave paintings, rock engravings and other cultural artefacts indicate that the Adnyamathana and Ndajurri lived in the Flinders Ranges for tens of thousands of years. Occupation of the Warratyi rock shelter dates back approximately 49,000 years. More

We visited Arkaroola while we were staying at Rawnsley Park Station. We took a short flight over Wilpena Pound and went on the thrilling Arkaroola Ridge Top Tour – a four wheel drive trip into the remote country around Arkaroola.

The Ridge Top Tour lasts around 4 hours, the road is rough and the country is rugged and exciting. We had low cloud at the lookout, but that seemed to add to the mystery of the place.  

Our pilot decided she would come with us on the 4WD trip as she had never been on the tour. It was interesting seeing her get ‘greener’ and ‘greener’ as the truck lurched over the rough track. Our guide finally took pity on her and transferred her to the front seat.  

I was there in 2010 – a wonderful experience

What an exciting place – great photos

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