At a Glance

Discover the Flinders Ranges on a 7-day guided walking adventure through South Australia’s ancient landscapes. Walk in comfort as you explore the stunning Wilpena Pound, hidden canyons, and the rich heritage of the Adnyamathanha people, all brought to life by expert guides.
Your journey begins in Adelaide, heading towards the breathtaking Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Explore the vivid red quartzite of Alligator Gorge and the fossil-rich pathways of Brachina Gorge. Take a private guided tour of Sacred Canyon, where an Adnyamathanha guide shares stories of traditional bush lore and offers insight into the cultural significance of this ancient landscape. Each day brings new adventures, from the climb to Tanderra Saddle with sweeping views of vast plains to reaching the summit of Mount Ohlssen Bagge, where panoramic views of the national park ...
Trip Highlights
|
|
What's Included
- 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners
- Knowledgeable guide
- Private vehicle for walks and tours
- 6 nights accommodation on a twin share basis
- Mount Remarkable National Park - Alligator Gorge walk
- The Dutchmans Stern Conservation Park - The Dutchmans Stern hike
- Ikara-Flinders Ranges - Black Gap to Wilpena Pound walk
- Ikara-Flinders Ranges - Yuluna circuit hike
- Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park - Brachina Gorge
- Ikara-Flinders Ranges - Tanderra Saddle (St Mary Peak/Ngarri Mudlanha) hike
- Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park - Mount Ohlssen Bagge walk
- Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park - Yura Mulka Sacred Canyon Tour with Local First Nations Guide
- Clare Valley - Winery visit
Itinerary
![]() |
Approx. 2 km (1.24 miles), 1.5 hours walking. Your journey into the heart of South Australia begins. Welcome to Adelaide, or Tarntanya, the ancestral land of the Kaurna people, and your exclusive gateway to the majestic Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. You will be personally greeted by your local leader at 8 am to meet your fellow travellers before embarking on a scenic drive towards the breathtaking peaks of the Flinders Ranges. Pause for morning tea in the charming town of Crystal Brook, then continue to the sublime Mt Remarkable National Park. Here, surrounded by diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes, you will indulge in a picnic lunch. Your exploration continues at Alligator Gorge, a natural wonder of striking red quartzite formations. Embark on a brief, guided hike as your leader illuminates the geological marvels of this ancient landscape. As dusk approaches, you will proceed to Melrose, your elegant base for the evening. You'll stay at Melrose Holiday Unit in the heart of a vibrant coastal town. Note: Today's accommodation is with shared bathroom facilities. Please make sure you are on time as you’ll depart for the Flinders Ranges right away. As you will be walking on day one, please wear your hiking clothes on the bus and have your day pack ready to go. |
![]() |
Approx. 10.6 km (6.6 miles), 5 hours of walking. Start your day with breakfast before heading north to the Dutchman’s Stern, a stunning bluff in the southern foothills of the Flinders Ranges, for a scenic hike. Take a steep trail through sugar gum forests, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding plains, Quorn, and Lake Torrens. On the way back down, enjoy the shade of she-oak woodlands as your guide highlights unique local plant life. Along the route, you’ll also cross the famous 1200 km Heysen Trail. After the hike, stop in Quorn to stock up on supplies before venturing into the heart of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Here, you’ll discover Ikara (Wilpena Pound), an awe-inspiring natural amphitheatre formed over 800 million years ago. For the next five nights, you’ll stay at a resort on the edge of this breathtaking site—settle in and soak up the incredible views. |
![]() |
Approx. 12 km (7.45 miles), 5 hours of walking. Awaken your senses with a leisurely breakfast before embarking on a journey to Black Gap, the gateway to an ancient world. Today, you shall traverse the rugged path toward Bridle Gap, where the earth rises in steep, rocky terraces to challenge the intrepid traveler. As you reach the crest, the reward is nothing short of breathtaking—a panoramic spectacle overlooking the majestic natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound, where the sheer scale of nature's artistry unfolds beneath you. From this soaring vantage point, the trail softens into a gentle descent, leading you into the verdant heart of the valley floor. Wander through a tapestry of silver-leafed mallee, aromatic native pines, and wild heathland—a sanctuary where the air is filled with the delicate song of wrens and robins, and the regal silhouettes of emus and vibrant parrots grace the horizon. It is a moment of pure, unadulterated connection with a landscape that has stood the test of eons. Note: On select departures, groups will stay at Rawnsley Park Station instead of Wilpena Pound Resort. Accommodation will be in 2-to-3-bedroom cabins with shared bathrooms. If you have booked a single supplement, you’ll be allocated a single room within a cabin. |
![]() |
Approx. 8km (7.45 miles), 4 hours of walking. After a gourmet breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through the Aroona Valley, taking in the sweeping vistas that serve as a prelude to the day’s adventure. Your journey continues with the Yuluna Hike, where a spirited ascent rewards you with an awe-inspiring panorama of the Heysen Range and the majestic rim of Wilpena Pound. As the afternoon sun casts a golden hue over the terrain, venture into the depths of Brachina Gorge. Here, you’ll be surrounded by ancient rock formations that tell a geological history spanning hundreds of millions of years. Wander through this natural corridor and keep an eye out for the rare Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby, whose striking tail and nimble grace add a touch of living magic to the ancient landscape. It is a day designed to immerse you in the raw beauty and timeless wonder of this profound region.. |
![]() |
Approx. 15km (9.3 miles), 6 hours of walking. Begin the day with a nourishing breakfast, preparing for a long and scenic journey on foot. Today, you will leave all transport behind, stepping directly from your accommodation onto the path of one of the week’s most challenging and rewarding walks. You are bound for St. Mary’s Peak, a soaring summit that stands sentinel above the Pound and holds a central place in the Adnyamathanha creation story. In deep respect for the First Nations people of the Flinders Ranges, who ask that visitors refrain from ascending to the very summit, your climb will lead you to the Tanderra Saddle. From this breathtaking vantage point, you will be rewarded with stunning, uninterrupted views of the surrounding ranges and vast plains unfolding below. To ensure your utmost safety and enjoyment, two expert local guides will accompany you on this profound journey. As the afternoon light softens, the choice is yours to make. Perhaps you will take to the skies for a scenic flight, soaring over the majestic ranges you have come to know on foot. Or, you may prefer to simply unwind, savouring a quiet afternoon of reflection before a delectable dinner this evening. |
![]() |
Approx. 6km (3.7 miles), 4 hours of walking. Today, get ready to take on Mt Ohlssen Bagge, one of the standout hikes in Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. This trail features steep, challenging sections with rocky terrain and a steady uphill climb. The effort is well worth it, as the entire walk offers stunning views, but the panoramic vista from the summit is truly unmatched. From the top, you’ll take in breathtaking sights of Ikara (Wilpena Pound) and the landscapes you’ve explored over the past days. In the afternoon, enjoy a private guided tour of Sacred Canyon. Led by an Adnyamathanha guide, you’ll dive into Aboriginal culture, hear captivating stories, and learn about the significance of this sacred site. Explore ancient rock engravings on the smooth sandstone walls and discover traditional bush medicines and bush tucker through the lens of Adnyamathanha knowledge. This evening, celebrate your final dinner with the group. Share memories, toast to the incredible week you’ve spent walking the Flinders Ranges, and reflect on the remarkable journey. |
![]() |
Depart the stunning landscapes of Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park and begin your return journey to Adelaide. While South Australia is known for its incredible walking trails, it’s also famous for its wine. Make a stop in the renowned Clare Valley wine region, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and visit a local winery. Take the opportunity to sample regional wines, explore the vineyard, or simply relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. Afterward, continue your journey to Adelaide, with an expected arrival time of around 4:30 pm, marking the end of your adventure. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Adelaide
- The trip begins in Adelaide with a group meeting at 8am, and finishes upon arrival back into Adelaide at around 4:30pm on the last day. Please keep this in mind when arranging your arrival and departure flights. We recommend you book a night's accommodation before and after the trip.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
Flinders Ranges generally experiences a semi-arid climate. Summers (December to February) are hot with temperatures reaching highs of around 35°C (95°F) or higher. Winters (June to August) are cool to mild, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F).
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
In the genuine spirit of expedition travel, we encourage exploration and adventure offering flexibility in challenging environments. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change due to weather, sea and other conditions beyond our control.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.




















