Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre Spectacular 2025

This morning, wander down the paths of the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens, which showcases a diverse collection of arid zone habitats in a picturesque setting of more than 250 hectares. Established in 1993 to research, conserve and promote the wider appreciation of Australia’s arid zone flora, the centre is home to thousands of highly evolved plant communities that are specially adapted to thrive in an environment where temperatures are extreme, and drought can last for decades.

Afterwards, will start heading through the Pichi Richi pass to the town historic town of Quorn, home to the heritage Pichi Richi Railway and multiple heritage listed buildings. The town has also long been the backdrop of several popular films including Gallipoli, The Lighthorsemen and Sunday Too Far Way and a vital service point for troops heading to Darwin and Papua New Guinea during WWII.

We travel further north through the Flinders Ranges to Parachilna and enjoy a gourmet lunch, before heading to Lyndhurst, arriving in Marree late afternoon. This historic settlement lies at the junction of the Birdsville and Oodnadatta Tracks and was once one of the busiest towns in Outback Australia. Tonight, we stay at the Marree Hotel in comfortable motel units. Meals: (B, L, D)

Please Note: today Group 2 enjoys the scenic flights to Birdsville and Lake Eyre, while Group 1 travels down the Oodnadatta Track to Marree.

Travelling south along the Oodnadatta Track, our route follows the Old Ghan line - one of the great historic railway lines in the world. Construction began in 1878, and it eventually reached Oodnadatta in 1891. The line only reached Alice Springs in 1929, so the journey from Oodnadatta at this time was still made by camel. The old line was eventually closed in 1980, and the new line takes a different route to Alice Springs.

Some of the old sidings that refilled the steam engines with water, such as Coward Springs, are incredibly interesting and well preserved. Today we’ll visit a few of them on our way down to Marree.

Upon our arrival we’ll meet up with the rest of the tour group in the now familiar Maree Hotel. Meals: (B,L,D)

This morning, we embark on an exciting Dawn Wildlife Safari which is exclusive to Resort guests. Our guided safari tour sees us immerse in the vast parklands with free roaming herds of African animals. As we explore the parklands from the comfort of the Safari Truck, there will be an opportunity to see and photograph animals including Southern White Rhinos, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Eland, Ostriches, and Zebras. You’ll be served light refreshments along the way, so you won’t miss a minute of the action.

Every visit to Monarto Safari Park contributes to the Conservation Fund, directly promoting the conservation efforts of Zoos SA.

On return there is time to enjoy the beautifully appointed pool and surrounds with a late check out. After lunch, we head to Adelaide where our tour concludes mid-afternoon. Meals: (B, L)

Note: If arranging onward domestic flights, please plan these for any time after 4.30pm. Drop-offs are available at the airport, Stamford Plaza Adelaide and the Stamford Grand Glenelg.