The Original Arkaba Walk offers a chance to discover the best of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park including Wilpena Pound, as well as the unique Arkaba conservancy and Elder Ranges. This moderately graded small group walk runs with a maximum of 10 guests per departure and includes two nights at the Arkaba Homestead plus two nights of swag camping. With the opportunity to sleep like generations of Australian pioneers did, under a canopy of stars in your swag bedding, you will love this quintessential Australian experience.

Arkaba walk dining Graham Michael Freeman

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2Rates & Inclusions

Rates & Inclusions

Pricing is per person on a twin-share basis and includes:

Two nights of swag camping at Arkaba's eco-camps
Two nights at Arkaba Homestead, one of the Luxury Lodges of Australia
Three full days of guided walking on Ikara-Flinders Ranges and Arkaba Conservancy
Full board including breakfast, lunch, dinner, trail snacks, beverages and local South Australian wine

Return transfers from Adelaide and additional nights at the Homestead are available at cost; please contact us for options. Single occupancy rates are available on request - enquire for details.

3Location & Access

Location & Access

Located in the Flinders Ranges of South Australia, the Arkaba Walk can be accessed from Adelaide via road (five-hour drive) or private air charter (one-hour flight). Contact us for package options with transfers included.

4Luxury Accommodation

Where You'll Sleep

South Australia

Arkaba's Eco Camps

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South Australia

Arkaba Homestead, Flinders Ranges

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5Itinerary

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Upon arrival at Arkaba in the afternoon, enjoy a guided safari drive taking in views of the Elder and Flinders Ranges, valleys and creeklines, and the many native inhabitants of this 60,000 acre conservancy. You'll be sure to spot emus and kangaroos, and your afternoon will be capped off with a sundowner drink on top of the ranges with views of the outback laid out for miles around. Enjoy dinner shared with your fellow guests and hosted by one of Arkaba's field guides under the outback sky before a restful night's sleep in the beautifully restored 1850s Arkaba Homestead.

Included: D

Day 2

After a substantial breakfast, the day begins with a walk through the flat interior of Wilpena Pound with a gradual ascent to the rim. Climb a steeper descent into Arkaba wilderness to arrive at Black’s Gap Signature Swag Camp. Enjoy a well-earned hot bush shower with a view before pre-dinner drinks and canapes as the sun sinks behind the ancient ramparts of Wilpena Pound. The 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. Your field guide prepares a three-course evening feast, taken al fresco under the evening sky and accompanied by local South Australian wine. Enjoy some interesting tales around tonight's campfire, and retire to your swag bed for an unforgettable night under a canopy of stars. Walking on Day 2 covers approximately 13km (5-6 hours).

Included: B - L - D

Day 3

Arguably the most spectacular day moving into the rolling hills, initially we follow the famous Heysen Trail through Black’s Gap revealing a fascinating insight into the pastoral history of the region, pausing at old shepherds’ camps and mustering yards, with many sightings of local Red and Grey Kangaroos and Emus that inhabit the area. The last leg of the day will take us to the summit of the Red Range where your reward awaits - panoramic views of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges. Between here and your camp for the night, pass through beautiful stands of native Cypress trees before arriving at the foot of the Elder Range. Enjoy yet another special night under the great Australian sky. Your walk today covers approximately 14-15km (6-7 hours).

Included: B - L - D

Day 4

Wake to the glorious morning light creeping up over the Elder Range. Today's walk starts through Mallee and native pine forests with a crossing at Slaty Creek to ascend the Red Range and down onto the banks of Arkaba Creek. Shady and picturesque lined River Red Gums offer plenty of opportunities to spot birds that commune in the canopy, including galahs, parrots and honeyeater species. The pace is unhurried with time to stop and breathe in the outback and view the surrounding wildlife. Arrive at Arkaba Homestead mid-afternoon with time to 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. The Day 4 walk covers approximately 14–15km (6–7 hours).

Included: B - L - D

Day 5

After a leisurely breakfast, you have a little time to make the most of your final day in the region. Options include a swim at the poolside or recline by the stone fireplace with a book; take a stroll along Arkaba Creek or you might retreat into nature at Arkaba’s hide. Bid farewell to your guide and fellow guests as you depart Arkaba late morning.

Included: B

Arkaba Homestead Guestroom Randy Larcombe LS

6Season & Departure Dates

Season & Departure Dates

March to October

Departs weekly on a Friday (with some ad-hoc additional departures available)

7Featured Experiences

South Australia

Wildlife Safari and Sundowners at Arkaba

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Select departure times

Departure Date

Return Date

Price (per person)

Availability

Food, staff and accommodation were 10/10
Arkaba Walk - September 2019

Frequently asked questions

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Plan your next hike with our guide to the Australian and New Zealand walk seasons. Here we answer the common questions: "When is the best time to walk in Australia?", "When is the Great Walk season in New Zealand?", and more.

Can I book one of the Great Walks of Australia for my private group?

Yes you can book one of the Great Walks of Australia as a private group, with most of the Great Walks allowing up to 10 or 12 walkers per departure. There are options for a custom group walk for larger groups on some of the Great Walks tracks, but they are each unique so please get in touch with our expert team so we can explain the best options for your group size and abilities.

How difficult are the Great Walks of Australia and which one is right for me?

The Great Walks of Australia vary in terrain and walk difficulty, so it is important to consider which one is right for your ability and hiking experience.

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What to pack for a lodge and eco-camp-based walk in South Australia's outback

Your main luggage will be stored at the Homestead. You will be given a soft carry bag to place your overnight gear for the eco-camp nights; this will be transported between camps. On the track each day, you will carry a day pack (small backpack) with your lunch and snacks, water, waterproof and warm layers, and other personal items.

How do I get to Arkaba Homestead?

Arkaba Homestead is located in the Flinders Ranges of South Australia and is a 5-hour drive or a 90-minute charter flight from Adelaide.

What room types can I book at Arkaba Homestead?

The room type at Arkaba Homestead is: Guest Room.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Arkaba Homestead?

Check-in at Arkaba Homestead is from 14:00, and check-out is 11:00.

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Start planning your Arkaba Walk with Walk Into Luxury

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4 Night Original Arkaba Walk