$2695 per person (twin share) | Single supplement $270
Contact us for Senior discount.
27th April – 16 Seats Available
25th May – Seats Available
22nd June – Seats Available
20th July – Seats Available
17th Aug – Seats Available
14th Sept – Seats Available
Lake Eyre, officially known as Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre, is Australia’s largest salt lake and one of the lowest points on the continent, sitting about 15 metres below sea level. Located in South Australia’s arid outback, it forms part of the immense Lake Eyre Basin, which drains nearly one-sixth of the country. Most of the time the lake is dry, appearing as a vast white salt crust. Only during rare but dramatic floods—after heavy inland rainfall—does it transform into a shallow inland sea.
When filled, Lake Eyre becomes a magnet for wildlife, especially migratory birds and fish carried in by floodwaters. These events create brief but spectacular ecological blooms in an otherwise harsh desert environment. The lake also holds deep cultural significance for the Arabana people, its Traditional Custodians. Today, it is a major natural landmark and a unique symbol of Australia’s extreme landscapes.
Don’t Miss This Rare Opportunity
The best way to truly experience this marvel is by joining a guided tour. Gekko Safari offers an unforgettable 4-day adventure, including a scenic flight over the lake—offering breathtaking aerial views of this natural masterpiece. While direct access to the lakebed is restricted to preserve its cultural and ecological importance, you’ll enjoy spectacular vistas from designated viewing points.
Secure your place now—nature’s masterpiece is waiting.
Your outback adventure begins bright and early with a 7:00 am pick-up from the Alba Hotel in Adelaide’s CBD. We journey north into the heart of South Australia’s famous wine country — Clare Valley — renowned for its award-winning wines and picturesque vineyards. You’ll enjoy a peaceful visit to the Seven hill grounds and chapel, the oldest winery in the region, founded by Jesuit settlers in 1851.
Next, we head to the charming town of Melrose, nestled at the base of the Flinders Ranges. After a brief stop to soak up the scenery, we continue to the historic railway town of Quorn for a relaxing lunch. Once a bustling junction for Australia’s early railways, Quorn still echoes the spirit of early explorers and train travellers.
In the afternoon, we visit the spectacular Wilpena Panorama by renowned artist Jeff Morgan before heading to Hawker. As the sun begins to set, keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies appearing against the dramatic backdrop of the Flinders Ranges.
Settle in for the evening with a delicious dinner and comfortable en-suite accommodation at the Outback Chapmanton Hotel.
After breakfast we drive to Wilpena Creek framed by huge river red gums, where you can see the mystical heart of the Flinders Ranges with stunning views of this magical land.
Continuing our journey exploring Brachina or Parachilna gorge we discover its priceless geological treasures, crystal clear water holes and an abundance of flora and fauna.
After lunch we head to Parachilna before travelling into the desert country up the Oodnadatta Track. We follow the old Ghan railway line and arrive at Lyndhurst to explore the ochre cliffs followed by a visit to the ghost town of Farina.
Late afternoon we arrive at Marree, a town at the junction of the famous Birdsville Track which is still populated by descendents of Afghan cameleers, and with a rich history as a staging post for the large camel trains carrying goods in the early days. O/n en-suite accommodation in Marree.
This morning begins with a highlight of your journey: a 1.5-hour scenic flight over Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda). Witness the vast Salt Lake and its breathtaking landscapes from above—a truly unforgettable experience.
This is followed by a town tour of Marree with its fascinating history .
We then journey south along the Oodnadatta Track. After lunch, we visit Nilpena Ediacara National Park, home to some of the world’s oldest known animal fossils. On a fully guided 1.5-hour tour, you’ll explore:
By late afternoon, we arrive back in Quorn and settle into our accommodation the Great Northern lodge our overnight ensuite accommodation.
After breakfast, we arrive in Port Augusta, set along the tranquil waters of the Spencer Gulf. This historic port once played a vital role in transporting wheat and wool from the Flinders Ranges to the world via grand clipper ships.
We explore the remarkable Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden on a guided one-hour tour. Spanning 250 hectares, the gardens showcase South Australia’s unique desert flora set against dramatic outback scenery.
After lunch, we begin our journey back to Adelaide, stopping for a final scenic visit to Port Germein — once home to the longest jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Take in the coastal views and imagine the bustling trade days when wool and wheat were shipped across the globe from this tiny port town.
We arrive back in Adelaide at approximately 6:30 pm, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel with a camera full of photos and wonderful memories of your outback adventure.
1.5 hour scenic flight over Lake Eyre
Iconic Landscapes – Clare Valley, Flinders Ranges, Wilpena Creek, Brachina Gorge.
Outback Wonders – Visit of the Nilpena Ediacara National Park
Nature & Wildlife – Guided tour of the Arid Lands Botanic Gardens
* Some images courtesy of SATC and Julie Fletcher