Rex Ellis’ Flinders Ranges Safari (4WD)

7 days / 7 nights Fully accommodated

This itinerary begins on the afternoon before Day 1. It departs Rex Ellis’ property on the River Murray, between Waikerie and Morgan, at 4pm. Guests can travel Adelaide to Waikerie by coach, where they are picked up, or drive own vehicles to property. Afternoon tea is enjoyed on spectacular cliffs overlooking the river, before departing via Morgan and Burra for Jamestown. Following a two course meal at the Jamestown Hotel, we travel on to our accommodation at Carrieton. Day 1 To Hawker. Visit the Jeff Morgan Gallery to experience his remarkable panoramas, before driving north to Merna-Mora Station for a smoko (morning tea). We then drive a very scenic route between the Wilpena Pound and Elder Range. After lunch we take a short bush walk before travelling to our accommodation on Willow Springs Station. Day 2 Today we travel through the ‘Chocolate Box’ scenery of the Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorges. We have lunch in this area, before driving on to the Parachilna Gorge. The route from Parachilna to Blinman takes you from around sea level to two thousand feet in thirty three kilometres, and is one of the Flinders most delightful drives. A short stop at the Angorichina Tourist Village, before driving on to Warragundi, Rex Ellis’ private wildlife reserve. A steep 4WD track is taken to the camp, located in high rugged range country with great views. Following an afternoon smoko, we take a short nature walk before driving down to the little town of Blinman. O/n accommodation is here with dinner at the Blinman Hotel, one of Australia’s special bush pubs. Day 3 After breakfast, an optional short walk to the Flinders Ranges Camel Farm. Rex Ellis established this operation twenty five years ago. Arcoona Camels run extended treks from here, and we sometimes coincide with them being on the property. From here to the Blinman Copper Mine Tour, a fascinating experience with local guides. Leaving Blinman, we take a private 4WD track, taking us past the spectacular Mount Patawerta. Then along a mountain top track with spectacular views, before returning to Blinman. A half hour drive takes us to our accommodation at Moolooloo Station. Day 4 A special day with private access through some of the central Flinders Ranges most spectacular country. We eventually arrive at the Warraweena Wildlife Reserve, previously a sheep station. Located in some of the most rugged country in the Flinders Ranges. O/n in old homestead. Day 5 We inspect the old ‘ghost town’ of Beltana, a location rich in history, with many of the buildings refurbished, before travelling on to the Aroona Dam - a spectacular oasis in the semi desert. From here to Red Gorge, where we are joined by an elder from the Adnyamatana tribe. He will interpret the extensive rock art at this location and take us on a short bush tucker / cultural walk. From here we drive the widest part of the Flinders Ranges (100km) to Balcanoona (Gammon National Park) and then to Arkaroola. Experienced bush pilot and part owner of Arkaroola (Doug Sprigg) will take you on a flight over the extraordinary Gammon Ranges and nearby slat lakes. O/n accommodation at Arkaroola Motel. Day 6 We visit a nearby location where the exquisite yellow footed rock wallabies are usually observed, before heading south into open plain country. We have lunch on the shores of Lake Frome, the huge salt lake on the eastern side of the Flinders Ranges, before over nighting at a large sheep station, where a saltbush mutton roast is the evening meal. Day 7 Further south via Yunta on the Broken Hill road, then on through a ‘sea of semi desert bushland’ to the Murray River. On arrival at the property you are then delivered to your o/n accommodation, or vehicle, whichever is the case.

In General Rex Ellis knows the country, the people, and the wildlife. Travel is in the big comfortable Australian made OKA - a go anywhere vehicle, giving excellent vision to passengers. This is a very comprehensive cross section of the Flinders Ranges, with a bit of the Murray River and semi desert of the north east pastoral area thrown in as well. There is one ‘optional’ flight available and one included. Everything is included in the fare with the exception of alcoholic beverages at Jamestown, Blinman and Arkaroola. Wine is supplied on non hotel/motel accommodation nights. All travelling ex Waikerie (coach pickup) on the day prior to Day 1, including the Jamestown meal is complimentary. All of Rex Ellis’ itineraries are nature orientated with the flora and fauna expertly interpreted.

Party Size - Minimum 2, Maximum 8

Prices

5 Day Itinerary 2 pax $2,250 p/p

3 or more $ 2,075 p/p

7 Day Itinerary 2 pax $2,675 p/p

3 or more $ 2,175 p/p