South Australia - the active mecca

Bask in the glow of striking sunsets at Wilpena Pound | Adam Bruzzone
Bask in the glow of striking sunsets at Wilpena Pound | Adam Bruzzone

Want to know Australia’s best-kept secret when it comes to walking destinations? South Australia! With hundreds of walking trails, it is easily one of our stellar active destinations.

South Australia's National Parks feature a diverse variety of landscapes; with it's world class vineyards, plus an array of historic towns, stunning coastal scenery and incredible natural landscapes. It’s no wonder, then, that a walking adventure is one of the best ways to explore this fantastic state, which teems with native wildlife, flora and birdlife. With most walking tracks in national parks, trekkers will revel in the diverse and iconic scenery of South Australia.

Find out why South Australia is starting to burgeon as next active holiday mecca!

It is home to one of the finest long distance walking trails in Australia: the Heysen Trail in the Flinders Ranges.

The Heysen Trail traverses the Bunyeroo Valley with Wilpena Pound in the background |  <i>Chris Buykx</i>

The Heysen Trail is an incredible 1,200km traverse that extends from Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula, to Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges. Journeying across rugged gorges, pine forests, sweeping coastal areas and historic towns, the complete trail is one of the longest walks in Australia and offers an unparalleled exploration of South Australia. And while it typically takes about 60 days to traverse the entire Heysen Trail, most trekkers opt to complete the walk in stages over a period of months to years, which means that there are a multitude of chances to experience South Australia’s finest walking track without tackling it all in one hit.

Experience it yourself:

Heysen Trail and Flinders Ranges TrekJoin on our six day guided Heysen Trail and Flinders Ranges Trek which explores the best sections of the famous Heysen Trail in South Australia's Flinders Ranges. This accommodated trek uncovers a rolling range of majestic peaks and rugged ridges which combines exceptional views with both enjoyable strolls and achievable challenges. The forests of cypress pines create an almost alpine ambiance in these semi-arid ranges with the dry climate creating ideal conditions for walking. We operate in a comfortable style where you can enjoy walking with just a day pack while our accommodation facilities offer comfort, and the best of outback hospitality.

The Flinders Ranges are recognised as a "National Landscape" - a completely unique and iconic Australian landscape begging to be explored.

The summit of Dutchmans Stern is one of many highpoints in our Heysen Trail itinerary |  <i>Chris Buykx</i>

The vast and tranquil Flinders Ranges is an ancient landscape that is rich in indigenous history. With its wealth of natural beauty and recognition as a living landscape, it is home to more than half of South Australia’s 3,100 plant species. Famous for many of its iconic landmarks, such as the Wilpena Pound and St Mary Peak, it’s also renowned for the colourful wildflowers that carpet the plains and foothills during spring. The Ranges are also the exclusive home of the yellow-footed rock wallaby, an endangered species recovering from the brink of extinction.

Experience it yourself:

Remote Northern Flinders Camel TrekIf you want to immerse deeply in the remote Flinders Ranges and get a glimpse into Australia’s history, consider our superb camel supported walking exploration of rarely visited stations and landscapes of the Northern Ranges. Carrying your food, water and swags on a traditional pack saddle, this camel supported trek will allow you to gain a real sense of isolation as you absorb the beauty of the natural surroundings in this wild part of Australia that is home to Lake Frome and Wilpena Pound. Appreciate the bird life, yellow footed wallabies, flora, station and old lead mine ruins and remnants as you travel along dry creek beds, through rugged plains country and past sheer rock faces and large gorges that are generally not accessible to travellers and locals alike. At night, your expert local guides will share their astronomy knowledge as you star gaze up at the night sky.

Camel train in the Flinders

Flinders Ranges Art ExpeditionWant to combine your love of art with your love of the wilderness? Our Flinders Ranges Art Expedition is the perfect way to capture the inspiration of the Flinders Ranges in an outback camping setting. This artistic itinerary takes artists to some of the most scenic locations in the Flinders Ranges. Led by art teacher Michael Herron with comfortable outback camping, this trip allows both amateur and professional artists to capture the inspiration of the Flinders Ranges. The arid ranges of Australia offer some of the finest scenery anywhere in the world. The combination of spectacular peaks, rugged gorges and the rich colours of the desert under different lights offer artists a stunning visual palette.

Arkaba WalkLooking for an active adventure that combines nature with a gourmet experience? The Arkaba Walk is an opportunity to experience the sights and sounds, the scale and the space of outback Australia in a style that is exclusive and authentic. Set against the backdrop of the Elder Range and Wilpena Pound in South Australia's Flinders Ranges, the Arkaba Walk bush luxury philosophy brings a team of passionate guides and a few key creature comforts to an immersive bush experience. Arkaba's skilled guides lead the small groups over the 3 night - 4 day walk, sharing their passion and knowledge of the landscape, geology, pioneering history and abundant wildlife, which includes emus, kangaroos, wallaroos, many bird species and the rare Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby. Walks are supported by a vehicle and a staff member, who transfer all the bedding and personal gear between camps, so that walkers carry only a daypack. Evening meals draw on the finest and freshest produce, with some local bush tucker influences, accompanied by fine South Australian wines.

Outback big skies are a feature on the Arkaba Walk

Home to the Murray River: one of the world's longest navigable rivers.

A relaxing boat cruise along the Murray River

When you have a river that spans over 2,508km, it’s almost a sure thing there'll be a plethora of active adventures in the area! This spectacular waterway is Australia’s longest river and home to an abundant array of fish, bird life, and scenic points which make it a hot spot for river cruises. As so many wineries are nestled around its rich soil, you can also satisfy your taste buds by visiting some of the delicious breweries along the way. The Murray River also has a long and fascinating history when it comes to the early pioneers, the agricultural sector and post-war immigrants. Evidence of its history can be found in the many local museums and heritage sites along the river.

Experience it yourself:

Murray River WalkExperience the Murray River from the shore, on a four day walking adventure through ancient red gum forests and spectacular floodplain wetlands, with guided cruises on meandering creeks and the Murray River. Experience nature and learn the stories of the Riverland Wetland of International Importance while being greeted at the completion of your day with a refreshing beverage at the campfire, and a relaxing evening on exclusive houseboats designed to provide comfort and luxury in a remote setting. Savour local brews, Riverland wine and cider, Riverland roasted coffee and local chocolate while surrounding yourself if the breathtaking wilderness of the Murray River both by foot and by houseboat.

South Australia

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