Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, South Australia
Described by Sir Douglas Mawson as "one great outdoor museum", Arkaroola is an incredibly unique destination devoted to the brilliance and history of the natural world.
Lovers of science, history and outdoor adventure will be thrilled by the range of experiences on offer from this comfortably equipped village nestled within the rugged beauty of the northern Flinders Ranges.
The place holds its own special kind of magic, so prepare to be surprised and intrigued by the wonders that unfold at this expansive Wilderness Sanctuary. From birdwatchers and astronomers, to honeymooners and intrepid family campers, all kinds of adventurous travellers will love their time at Arkaroola.
The History of Arkaroola
With a Geological History reaching back almost 2 billion years, this ancient landscape has an extraordinary human history. Featuring in creation stories by Indigenous Peoples for tens of thousands of years, the area was later brought to the attention of the modern world by the late Professor Sir Douglas Mawson.
Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary was founded by the Sprigg family in 1968, and continues to operate with a strong emphasis on science, education and conservation. As custodians, the second generation of the Sprigg family works to preserve this priceless and unique wilderness and its inhabitants into the future.
Must Try Experiences
- Advanced Ecotourism Accredited Astronomy Tours
- Narrated scenic flights, with fascinating insights into the geology, culture and history of the region
- A guided walk through Mawson Valley with Adnyamathanha Elder, Sharpy Coulthard
- Sunset canapés at a spectacularly scenic lookout location
- Guided and independent bushwalking and 4WD tracks
- The famous Ridgetop tour in a guided open-air 4WD
- Wildlife and birdwatching, including a thriving court of rare yellow-footed rock wallabies
Getting to Arkaroola
Located 600km north of Adelaide in the ruggedly spectacular northern Flinders Ranges, Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary can be reached by road or air.
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Arkaroola via Leigh Creek and Copley
About 130km in distance, the road from Copley is unsealed but generally maintained.The average driving time from Leigh Creek via Nipapanha (Nepabunna) is approximately 2 hours.
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Arkaroola via Blinman
The Blinman to Arkaroola road is 152kms of dirt road fun. A stop in Blinman gives you a true Flinders Ranges experience and is a great prelude to your visit to Arkaroola. Travel time is around 2 1/2 hours from Blinman, 3 hours from Wilpena.
It's another world! Our experience in Arkaroola left us overwhelmed! The Arkaroola community are a team who really care about the place and their visitors. Everything was done to make our stay memorable and as enjoyable as possible. Sure, some of the accommodation may be a bit dated (although comfortable), but who cares when surrounded by spectacular scenery and visited by a yellow-footed rock wallaby. Meals were of high quality, plentiful and with lots of options. Who would have thought that the food truck only comes once a fortnight! Not to be missed are the famous Ridgetop Four Wheel Drive Trip, Written in the Rocks and Astronomy tours. The guides are so knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The walks are great, too. Do as much as you can! You won't forget your experience there!
