8 Day "Face The Outback"
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| "FACE THE OUTBACK" | |
| TOUR CODE: WB8N HIGHLIGHTS :: CLARE VALLEY :: FLINDERS RANGES :: OODNADATTA TRACK :: COOBER PEDY :: ABORIGINAL CULTURE :: KATA TJUTA (OLGAS) :: ULURU (AYERS ROCK) :: KINGS CANYON ITINERARY DAY 1 :: ADELAIDE TO FLINDERS RANGES From Adelaide, our way north weaves through the hillside vineyards of the Clare Valley plus a string of classic country towns with the chance to sample wines at one or two top wineries. Enjoy expansive views of the Flinders Ranges as we approach Wilpena Pound, one of Australia’s most magnificent natural features and our campsite for tonight. (LD) DAY 2 :: WILPENA POUND At Wilpena Pound you have your first chance for spectacular walks and challenging climbs. The views are breathtaking. After lunch, dirt roads take us through the heart of the Ranges to the historic copper mines of Blinman and our night stop at Angorichina. Cool off in the nearby waterhole and stay in bunkhouse style accommodation. (BLD) DAY 3 :: OODNADATTA TRACK TO WILLIAM CREEK Breakout from the Ranges through Parachilna Gorge with the option to cycle the Gorge. Copley Bakery is the last cappuccino opportunity for 300kms. Drive by Leigh Creek coalmines, visit Outback eccentric Talc Alf (he’s usually in), leave the bitumen at Lyndhurst, see the Aboriginal ochre pits and stop for lunch beside Marree’s Old Ghan rail station and nearby Arabunna Aboriginal Cultural Centre. The Oodnadatta Track follows the dusty trail of the Overland Telegraph, camel caravans and the old Ghan railway to Lake Eyre and the fascinating thermal mound springs. We camp in swags within stumbling distance of William Creek Pub. (BLD) DAY 4 :: OODNADATTA TRACK TO COOBER PEDY Desert landscapes of red dunes, salt pans and gibber plains feature on the morning drive to Coober Pedy. Lake |
Cadibarrawirracanna can
be a refreshing short detour.
Just beyond the Dog Fence,
the mining moonscape takes
over. We’ll show you about
Coober Pedy – underground
house, mine tour, opal cutting,
an underground church
– and still give you time to
explore and ‘noodle’ (fossick)
for opals. Underground
bunkhouse accommodation is
our ‘digs’ for tonight. (BLD) DAY 5 :: COOBER PEDY 8 DAYS TO ULURU Roam the colourful Breakaways site of Mad Max III before devouring 700kms of hot black bitumen on the Stuart and Lasseter Highways, via Marla and Erldunda to Uluru. By special invitation, we may go offhighway onto the ‘AP Lands’ to call in at Iwantja Aboriginal Arts Centre. Going north the vegetation increases – even the Northern Territory looks like the botanic gardens compared to Outback South Australia! Arrive at our campground in time for sunset views of the Rock. (BLD) DAYS 6-7 :: ULURU & KATA TJUTA Time is on our side… Two nights makes a big difference: double chances fur sunsets and sunrises; more time for walks and more flexibility in hot weather. As well as plenty of time for Uluru walks and the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, there is time to do the Valley of the Winds walk (we guide) at Kata Tjuta. Free time can be used for local indigenous tours, air flights, a swim in the pool – or other refreshments. The drive towards Kings Canyon takes 3.5 hours and we camp near Kings Canyon. Option to swag tonight. (BLD) DAY 8 :: KINGS CANYON TO ALICE SPRINGS Another big morning hike tackles Kings Canyon. On the Rim Walk you’ll see the sandstone domes of the Lost City, Garden of Eden pool and take in the views along the walls of the Canyon. Carefully! The afternoon travels on to Alice Springs, set amidst the MacDonnell Ranges, arriving about 6.00pm. (BL) BRING Wide brim hat, sunscreen 30+, sleeping bag (or can be hired for AUD$15), sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, warm clothing in winter, waterproof jacket, sunglasses, water bottle, swimwear, towel and toiletries, camera, torch, small backpack (to carry on walks) and the rest of it! INCLUDED Experienced tour guide, all touring, 5 nights camping (tents/swags) including camping fees & equipment, 2 nights bunkhouse, meals as indicated. |
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| 8 DAYS | ||
| Adult $995 ($AUD) Child $795 ($AUD) Valid between 01/04/08 - 31/03/09 Adult $1095 ($AUD) Child $875 ($AUD) Valid between 01/04/09 - 31/03/10 + park entry fee + fuel levy  DEPARTS Adelaide accommodation APR, OCT-MAR Wed 7.00am FINISHES Alice Springs accommodation early evening Day 8 TOUR OPERATES IN REVERSE Click here to visit the page. MAX PEOPLE - 17 or 24 During MAY-SEP the 6 day Safari is recommend. Click here to visit the page. Valid till 31 March 2010. |
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Hikes up to 6-8kms per day. | |
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Maximum 24 front facing seats, air-conditioned vehicle. 16, 17 or 20 forward facing seats, air-conditioned vehicle |
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Tents must be erected by guide and passengers, share showers and toilets, no cooking facilities except those carried on the vehicle. Dorm or Twin/Double rooms with shared facilities |
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| Safaris must be reconfirmed by 4.00pm the day before travel. Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted due to seasonal & extreme weather conditions, Traditional Owner and national park requirements. Luggage limit of 15 kg applies - backpack or soft bag. | ||
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