If you’re looking for a travel experience that goes far beyond the ordinary - something rare, immersive, and truly memorable - the Lake Eyre & Outback Odyssey is it. Departing in October 2025, this small-group tour offers a rich exploration of South Australia’s outback, taking you from the culture and charm of Adelaide to the rugged red heart of the continent.
This expertly crafted itinerary delivers more than just a checklist of destinations. It’s a story - one that unfolds across dramatic landscapes, remote townships, and ancient geological wonders. With thoughtfully chosen accommodation, quality dining, and experienced local guides, the journey balances comfort and adventure from start to finish.
Adelaide: A Welcome to Remember
Your adventure begins not in the desert, but in the sophistication of Adelaide. After arrival, you’ll settle in at the stylish Hotel Alba, located near the leafy South Terrace. In the evening, you’re invited to join your fellow travellers and tour host for a relaxed two-course welcome dinner. This is your chance to unwind, meet the group and set the tone for the journey ahead.
The following morning, the outback calls. With an early departure, you leave the city behind and begin heading north into the Mid North’s rolling countryside.
Wilpena Pound: Mountains, Sunsets and the First Taste of the Outback
Travelling through agricultural plains and character-filled towns, the road leads you into the Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park. This is one of Australia’s most striking and storied regions - home to Wilpena Pound, a vast, naturally formed amphitheatre of mountains, rich in Aboriginal significance and geological history.
You’ll pause in the outback town of Hawker before arriving at Wilpena, where a guided walk into the Pound helps unlock its ancient stories. As evening falls, you’ll ascend to Stokes Hill Lookout for a panoramic view of the ranges at sunset, when the colours of the outback come alive in hues of gold, ochre and deep red.
Accommodation for the night is at Wilpena Pound Resort, where a welcome dinner and serene surroundings offer the perfect close to your first day in the outback.
William Creek: Remote, Authentic, and Home to Lake Eyre’s Best Views
The journey continues north the next day with a visit to South Australia’s highest town, Blinman, before joining the legendary Oodnadatta Track. This unsealed route is steeped in railway and pioneering history, dotted with bubbling artesian springs and remote siding ruins.
Eventually, you’ll arrive in William Creek, one of the smallest and most isolated towns in Australia. Here, you'll stay two nights in refurbished outback-style accommodation, dine at the iconic William Creek Hotel, and soak in the unique charm of this frontier settlement.
But the real drawcard is what lies above - or rather, what lies from above.
From William Creek, you have the opportunity to join a scenic flight over Lake Eyre, where you’ll witness something truly astonishing: vast, glittering waters stretching out across the desert, reflecting sky and light in all directions. When filled, this inland lake becomes one of the largest in Australia, a vast mirror reflecting clouds and light in astonishing patterns. The experience of seeing Lake Eyre from the air, surrounded by endless desert, is unforgettable and available only in certain years.
Back on the ground, you'll explore William Creek on foot with a guided township tour, learning about its connection to outback exploration, aviation and the legendary mail routes. A sunset BBQ dinner rounds out the day - a relaxed, atmospheric meal under the desert sky.
Coober Pedy: The Opal Capital, Reimagined
From William Creek, the journey veers west toward Coober Pedy - a place as unusual as it is iconic. Known as the opal capital of the world, this desert town is also famous for its underground architecture, a clever solution to the extreme heat. You’ll explore the town’s subterranean highlights, including the Umoona Opal Mine, underground homes, and the Serbian Orthodox Church - a striking architectural marvel carved entirely into the rock.
Your accommodation for the night is at the Desert Cave Hotel, where guests can experience sleeping underground with all the modern touches. Dinner is served at the hotel’s unique underground restaurant, offering a bush-tucker inspired menu with locally sourced ingredients and outback flair. It’s an evening that blends story, culture and cuisine.
Port Augusta: From Space History to Desert Gardens
After Coober Pedy, the tour begins its return south. Your next stop is the remote town of Woomera, home to a fascinating Visitor Centre that shares Australia’s lesser-known history of space exploration and rocket testing. It’s a curious and surprising contrast to the natural landscapes surrounding it.
Your next overnight stop is in Port Augusta, where you’ll stay at the Standpipe Motor Inn. Known for its exceptional hospitality, the Standpipe also features one of the region’s best restaurants, where you’ll enjoy Indian-Australian fusion cuisine made from fresh, regional ingredients.
Before departing the next morning, there’s time to explore the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden - a beautifully curated showcase of native desert flora from across Australia.
Clare Valley: Wine, Heritage and a Fitting Finale
On your final full day, the scenery softens as you journey through the southern Flinders Ranges and into the lush vineyards of the Clare Valley. Known for its boutique wineries and colonial-era charm, this region offers a change of pace and palate.
Begin with a visit to Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest winery in the valley, where you’ll enjoy a guided tasting and learn about its founding by Jesuit priests in 1851. Then, gather for a farewell lunch at the acclaimed Mr Mick’s Winery, where contemporary cuisine and local wines mark the perfect end to your shared experience. A short drive later, you return to Adelaide, where your included final night’s accommodation allows you to rest and reset before your onward travels.
Why This Tour?
This is more than a sightseeing trip - it’s an immersion into the culture, character and raw beauty of the South Australian outback. The itinerary has been designed with care: balancing authentic adventure with comfort, and solitude with connection. Small group sizes mean personal attention from expert tour hosts, and the chance to form genuine camaraderie with fellow travellers.
From sleeping underground in Coober Pedy to flying above the shimmering waters of Lake Eyre, this journey delivers moments few Australians - let alone international visitors - ever get to experience.
October 2025 departure – spaces are limited. Enquire now to secure your place on this unforgettable South Australian adventure.
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1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
