Flinders Ranges 7 days

Self-guided

Group-guided

Self-guided

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OVERVIEW

The 1200km Heysen Trail in the Flinders Ranges is rated as one of the world's premier long-distance trails. From the north, it carves a path through and sometimes up and over the ranges. It ends in Cape Jervis in the very south of South Australia, having made its way through Claire and the Maclaren vale.

The Northern Flinders has some of the most stunning outback scenery in Australia, rivalling anything in the interior. Hike from Aroona Ruins in the North of the Northern Flinders via Trezona and Yanyanna Huts to Wilpena, Tanderra Saddle all the way to Black Gap. Explore this stunning region in the only way you can – by foot.

Highlights

  • The incredible serenity of the furthest end of the Northern Flinders
  • Panoramic views of mountains and the surrounding plains
  • Witness the Brachina Formation,  one of the oldest rock formations on the planet
  • Pass through beautiful forests, gullies and gorges
  • Reach the peak of Tanderra Saddle with unheralded views
  • Impressive views of Wilpena Pound and Rawnsley Bluff
  • Accommodations in stunning locations (Upgrade available at Rawnsley)

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Longer walking distances, up to 20km +. Steep hill sections and rough terrain. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.
PRICE FROM
$ 2655

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 695

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7

DAY 1
RAWNSLEY PARK TO ANGORICHINA

The walk starts at Rawnsley Park in the afternoon.  From there you’ll be transferred to Angorichina Village at the very top of the Northern Flinders. There may be time to explore near the accommodation, which is located right at the foot of the mountains.  This is a remote location at the furthest end of the Northern Flinders and has very few visitors so you’re sure to enjoy the serenity. In fact, I’d be very surprised you saw anyone during the first 2 days of walking the Heysen.

Walking: Easy walking around Angorichina

Meals: Dinner at Angorichina

Accommodation: Blinman Pub or Angorichina Village in the Heysen Cabins all rooms come with an ensuite

DAY 2
AROONA RUINS TO YANYANNA HUTS ON HEYSEN TRAIL

Today’s hike is full of ascents and descents, the track traverses the ABC Range with incredible 360-degree panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding plains.  The track makes its way via the Brachina Formation, one of the oldest rock formations on the planet. This walk includes one of the most intact and rich Ediacaran fossil sites in the world. These 600-million-year-old rock formations are older and are touted as being once taller than the Himalayas. They’ve been worn down over time. The last section of today’s walk from Trezona to Yanyanna is through an open flat valley typical of the Flinders region.

Walking: Challenging / 25km / 6–7 hrs / shorter 14km option available

Elevation Gain –  480 approx

Elevation Loss – 450 approx

Meals: Continental/cooked breakfast (breakfast provisions provided) walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Rawnsley Park Station in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
YANYANNA HUTS TO WILPENA POUND ON HEYSEN TRAIL

The walk from Yanyanna to Wilpena is characterised by its greater variety of landscape; it includes beautiful forests and gullies, including an exploration of the beginnings of Bunyeroo Gorge. You get your first expansive views of St Mary Peak as you walk alongside the Heysen Range. The Flinders Ranges is also home to more than half of South Australia’s 3100 plant species and is famous for the wildflowers that carpet the plains and foothills during spring.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / mostly flat terrain / 24km / 6 hrs

Elevation Gain –  620m (mostly gradual)

Elevation Loss – 495m

Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Ikara Safari Camp in luxury safari tents with ensuites

DAY 4
TANDERRA SADDLE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE TRACK

The walk from your accommodation to the Saddle or to the peak is the most demanding of the week, as it involves traversing up the edge of the pound wall on a steep trail that winds back on itself again and again. But the payoff is worth it. The views back over the ABC and Heysen Range and over the pound (a huge natural amphitheatre) are unheralded. It’s worth stopping at the top to soak up the ambience. You can trace where you have walked on the days before from the trailhead at the top end of the snake-like ranges all the way back to where you stand.

Walks: Mostly moderate / 18km / 6.5 – 8hrs

Elevation Gain –  522m

Elevation Loss – 522m

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Ikara Safari Camp in luxury safari tents with ensuites

DAY 5
WILPENA POUND VIA BRIDAL GAP TO BLACK GAP ON HEYSEN TRACK

You’ll get to appreciate the scale of Wilpena Pound and learn more about this place today. We walk across the valley floor totally surrounded by the impressive Wilpena Pound walls.  Before the Europeans settled, the indigenous people hunted here as water was consistently available. The Aboriginal word Wilpena means ‘cupped hand’. This place holds tremendous cultural significance to the local people from a spiritual point of view. This is an ancient place offering a sanctuary and level of tranquillity that it is hard to find. At Bridal Gap, there are more astounding views to be had over the Pound and the Chase Range.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 11km / 4–5 hrs

Elevation Gain –  278m

Elevation Loss – 402m

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner at the Woolshed

Accommodation: Rawnsley Park Station in ensuite rooms

DAY 6
RAWNSLEY STATION TO RAWNSLEY BLUFF

The Rawnsley Bluff walk is a fantastic way to bid farewell to the Flinders Ranges. It has magnificent views looking back inside Wilpena Pound and over to St Mary Peak. But it’s at the last lookout at the Bluff that will have you mesmerized. From Rawnsley Bluff, you get to look out over the expansive plains below and out over the Chase and Elder Ranges to the south.  If you want a preview take a look at our website video as it features this view at the 35 and 45-second mark.

Walking: Moderate with one challenging steep section / 11.5km / 4–5 hrs

Elevation Gain –  582m

Elevation Loss – 582m

Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner at the Woolshed

Accommodation: Rawnsley Park Station in ensuite rooms

DAY 7
RAWNSLEY STATION END OF THE WALK

This holiday finishes in Rawnsley after breakfast.

Meals: Continental breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All-inclusive 7-day pack free walking holiday
  • 6 nights’ accommodation in rooms with ensuites (Upgrade available at Rawnsley)
  • All meals, including breakfasts, walkers lunches, and chef-cooked a la carte two-course dinners
  • All luggage transport and vehicle transfers
  • We transport you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • National Park admission
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s representatives on the ground

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

On this Flinders Ranges walking holiday, you’ll stay in a Heysen Cabin at Angorichina (or in The Blinman Hotel), at award-winning Rawnsley Park Station and in the luxury glamping tents at Ikara Wilpena Pound. All of these private accommodations are located in inspired locations and provide a welcoming and comfortable base to rest, relax and reflect on the day’s walking. The single supplement price is for your own private room with ensuite on all 7 nights. If you’re happy to share a bathroom (with someone else in your group) for 3 nights while at Rawnsley, then the single supplement can be reduced. There is an upgrade available at Rawnsley to the Eco Villas. Please see the 6-day offer for more information on the Eco Villas or ask the office for more details.

The two-course a la carte dinners at Rawnsley and Ikara are prepared by their in-house chefs.

Each day whilst you’re walking you’ll be provided with a substantial walkers lunch, more importantly, you’ll get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A walkers lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit. Each day is varied.

There is also a focus on regional food and wine. Good wholesome food with kangaroo and emu occasionally on the menu. The region is remote, but world-class South Australian wine and a cold lager are within easy reach. We suggest that if you like wine then bring some for the first night at Angorichina ( or for the whole trip if you want your own pre-dinner drinks).

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHT 1

  • NIGHTS 2, 5 & 6

  • NIGHTS 3 & 4

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

ROCKY TERRAIN

Whilst preparing for walking on rocky terrain, you must focus on the development of balance, strength, and agility.

Integrate targeted strength exercises, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, to strengthen your leg muscles, with a particular emphasis on improving stability on uneven surfaces. Balancing exercises are essential. Undertake core strength activity, coupled with exercises such as planks and Russian twists to enhance balance. As you progress, include hikes on progressively rougher terrain if you can. Additionally, the appropriate footwear with good ankle support and tread for grip are essential. Stay mindful, watch your step, and use trekking poles for added stability.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

GENERAL INFO

This holiday starts and finishes in Rawnsley Park.

The Flinders Ranges walks are moderate to challenging with some rough tracks, where you’ll cover shorter distances. Full-day walks average about 19 km and 5-7.5 hours walking each day. The walking is over mostly flat, well-walked paths and bush tracks with some rocky sections. There are two days with steep sections. This is a great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves, however, easier options are available on some days. This is a reasonably long and tough walk and we highly recommend that you incorporate a rest day.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This holiday starts and finishes in Rawnsley Park. The best option by far is to use a vehicle. This will allow you the freedom to travel up to the walk at your own pace. There’s a stack of interesting places to visit that require no real deviation from your journey, including wineries. We highly recommend staying in Clare, South Australia’s primo wine destination on the way back. There are also a few walks on the way that can be explored.

More information on transport to the Flinders Ranges is available on request.

WEATHER

The best time to go is April through to September as it is the best weather for hiking in the Flinders Ranges. The temperature is still very comfortable to walk in but warm clothes are necessary as the temperature drops at night. This holiday is not available over the hot summer months of December to February as it way to hot with temperatures in the high 40’s.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

Flinders Ranges mean temp graph

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions about the Flinders Ranges walks., tracks or the Flinders Ranges tour as a whole, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 30 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2655

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695

    $410 S/S for private room with shared bathroom at Rawnsley

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 30 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195

    Upgrade to Eco Villas at Rawnsley

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2025 - 30 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2760

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $725

    $425 S/S for private room with shared bathroom at Rawnsley

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2025 - 30 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3010

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1245

    Upgrade to Eco Villas at Rawnsley

    BOOK NOW

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Clare Kirkpatrick

    26 April, 2024 at 10:27 AM
    5

    Flinders Ranges 7 Days Self Guided was challenging but amazing. Be aware you could walk for days without seeing a single person. Signage and written instructions were excellent. The rugged beauty of the ranges and variation of the landscape highlights.
    Our accommodation, meals and transport wonderful. If you can stretch your budget, I recommend upgrading to the Eco Villas at Rawnsley Park – superb!

    Reply

  2. Gary Gill

    16 November, 2023 at 1:16 PM
    5

    We have done three supported walks with Auswalk, The Flinder’s Ranges and The Gold Cost Hinterland unguided and Larapinta Trail guided. All were well designed, well organised and most enjoyable. We’d be happy to walk with Auswalk again.

    Reply

  3. Vincent A

    1 July, 2022 at 4:21 PM
    5

    Magnificent scenery, accommodation well above expectation considering the location and the food was to die for. If you want to really see outback Australia this is the place to go (and make sure you allow a couple of days after to explore the wineries in the Clare Valley on the way back to Adelaide). I would recommend though that you are relatively fit as there a couple of very difficult sections of scrambling over rocks heading up to St Mary Peak and the Bluff.

    Reply

  4. Gail and Roy

    11 November, 2020 at 2:56 PM
    5

    Auswalks is our company of choice. We have done 15 multi-day walks of this type, i.e. day pack only and food/lodging arranged and love self-guided walks because we can walk at our own pace. Auswalks are so helpful and extremely flexible right from the start of booking and arranging the walk that the process is very easy. The organisation while on the walk is reliable and the notes provided to guide one on the walk itself are first rate. We had to terminate our most recent walk early because of a sad family circumstance and that was also managed by Natasha with care and compassion. We are already planning another walk and hope to do others in the future including going back to complete the one we could not finish. I recommend Auswalks to anyone I talk to about walking.

    Reply

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Overview

OVERVIEW

The 1200km Heysen Trail in the Flinders Ranges is rated as one of the world's premier long-distance trails. From the north, it carves a path through and sometimes up and over the ranges. It ends in Cape Jervis in the very south of South Australia, having made its way through Claire and the Maclaren vale.

The Northern Flinders has some of the most stunning outback scenery in Australia, rivalling anything in the interior. Hike from Aroona Ruins in the North of the Northern Flinders via Trezona and Yanyanna Huts to Wilpena, Tanderra Saddle all the way to Black Gap. Explore this stunning region in the only way you can – by foot.

Highlights

  • The incredible serenity of the furthest end of the Northern Flinders
  • Panoramic views of mountains and the surrounding plains
  • Witness the Brachina Formation,  one of the oldest rock formations on the planet
  • Pass through beautiful forests, gullies and gorges
  • Reach the peak of Tanderra Saddle with unheralded views
  • Impressive views of Wilpena Pound and Rawnsley Bluff
  • Accommodations in stunning locations (Upgrade available at Rawnsley)

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Longer walking distances, up to 20km +. Steep hill sections and rough terrain. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.
PRICE FROM
$ 2655

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 695

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7

DAY 1
RAWNSLEY PARK TO ANGORICHINA

The walk starts at Rawnsley Park in the afternoon.  From there you’ll be transferred to Angorichina Village at the very top of the Northern Flinders. There may be time to explore near the accommodation, which is located right at the foot of the mountains.  This is a remote location at the furthest end of the Northern Flinders and has very few visitors so you’re sure to enjoy the serenity. In fact, I’d be very surprised you saw anyone during the first 2 days of walking the Heysen.

Walking: Easy walking around Angorichina

Meals: Dinner at Angorichina

Accommodation: Blinman Pub or Angorichina Village in the Heysen Cabins all rooms come with an ensuite

DAY 2
AROONA RUINS TO YANYANNA HUTS ON HEYSEN TRAIL

Today’s hike is full of ascents and descents, the track traverses the ABC Range with incredible 360-degree panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding plains.  The track makes its way via the Brachina Formation, one of the oldest rock formations on the planet. This walk includes one of the most intact and rich Ediacaran fossil sites in the world. These 600-million-year-old rock formations are older and are touted as being once taller than the Himalayas. They’ve been worn down over time. The last section of today’s walk from Trezona to Yanyanna is through an open flat valley typical of the Flinders region.

Walking: Challenging / 25km / 6–7 hrs / shorter 14km option available

Elevation Gain –  480 approx

Elevation Loss – 450 approx

Meals: Continental/cooked breakfast (breakfast provisions provided) walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Rawnsley Park Station in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
YANYANNA HUTS TO WILPENA POUND ON HEYSEN TRAIL

The walk from Yanyanna to Wilpena is characterised by its greater variety of landscape; it includes beautiful forests and gullies, including an exploration of the beginnings of Bunyeroo Gorge. You get your first expansive views of St Mary Peak as you walk alongside the Heysen Range. The Flinders Ranges is also home to more than half of South Australia’s 3100 plant species and is famous for the wildflowers that carpet the plains and foothills during spring.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / mostly flat terrain / 24km / 6 hrs

Elevation Gain –  620m (mostly gradual)

Elevation Loss – 495m

Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Ikara Safari Camp in luxury safari tents with ensuites

DAY 4
TANDERRA SADDLE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE TRACK

The walk from your accommodation to the Saddle or to the peak is the most demanding of the week, as it involves traversing up the edge of the pound wall on a steep trail that winds back on itself again and again. But the payoff is worth it. The views back over the ABC and Heysen Range and over the pound (a huge natural amphitheatre) are unheralded. It’s worth stopping at the top to soak up the ambience. You can trace where you have walked on the days before from the trailhead at the top end of the snake-like ranges all the way back to where you stand.

Walks: Mostly moderate / 18km / 6.5 – 8hrs

Elevation Gain –  522m

Elevation Loss – 522m

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Ikara Safari Camp in luxury safari tents with ensuites

DAY 5
WILPENA POUND VIA BRIDAL GAP TO BLACK GAP ON HEYSEN TRACK

You’ll get to appreciate the scale of Wilpena Pound and learn more about this place today. We walk across the valley floor totally surrounded by the impressive Wilpena Pound walls.  Before the Europeans settled, the indigenous people hunted here as water was consistently available. The Aboriginal word Wilpena means ‘cupped hand’. This place holds tremendous cultural significance to the local people from a spiritual point of view. This is an ancient place offering a sanctuary and level of tranquillity that it is hard to find. At Bridal Gap, there are more astounding views to be had over the Pound and the Chase Range.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 11km / 4–5 hrs

Elevation Gain –  278m

Elevation Loss – 402m

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner at the Woolshed

Accommodation: Rawnsley Park Station in ensuite rooms

DAY 6
RAWNSLEY STATION TO RAWNSLEY BLUFF

The Rawnsley Bluff walk is a fantastic way to bid farewell to the Flinders Ranges. It has magnificent views looking back inside Wilpena Pound and over to St Mary Peak. But it’s at the last lookout at the Bluff that will have you mesmerized. From Rawnsley Bluff, you get to look out over the expansive plains below and out over the Chase and Elder Ranges to the south.  If you want a preview take a look at our website video as it features this view at the 35 and 45-second mark.

Walking: Moderate with one challenging steep section / 11.5km / 4–5 hrs

Elevation Gain –  582m

Elevation Loss – 582m

Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a chef-prepared a la carte dinner at the Woolshed

Accommodation: Rawnsley Park Station in ensuite rooms

DAY 7
RAWNSLEY STATION END OF THE WALK

This holiday finishes in Rawnsley after breakfast.

Meals: Continental breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All-inclusive 7-day pack free walking holiday
  • 6 nights’ accommodation in rooms with ensuites (Upgrade available at Rawnsley)
  • All meals, including breakfasts, walkers lunches, and chef-cooked a la carte two-course dinners
  • All luggage transport and vehicle transfers
  • We transport you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • National Park admission
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s representatives on the ground
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

On this Flinders Ranges walking holiday, you’ll stay in a Heysen Cabin at Angorichina (or in The Blinman Hotel), at award-winning Rawnsley Park Station and in the luxury glamping tents at Ikara Wilpena Pound. All of these private accommodations are located in inspired locations and provide a welcoming and comfortable base to rest, relax and reflect on the day’s walking. The single supplement price is for your own private room with ensuite on all 7 nights. If you’re happy to share a bathroom (with someone else in your group) for 3 nights while at Rawnsley, then the single supplement can be reduced. There is an upgrade available at Rawnsley to the Eco Villas. Please see the 6-day offer for more information on the Eco Villas or ask the office for more details.

The two-course a la carte dinners at Rawnsley and Ikara are prepared by their in-house chefs.

Each day whilst you’re walking you’ll be provided with a substantial walkers lunch, more importantly, you’ll get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A walkers lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit. Each day is varied.

There is also a focus on regional food and wine. Good wholesome food with kangaroo and emu occasionally on the menu. The region is remote, but world-class South Australian wine and a cold lager are within easy reach. We suggest that if you like wine then bring some for the first night at Angorichina ( or for the whole trip if you want your own pre-dinner drinks).

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHT 1

  • NIGHTS 2, 5 & 6

  • NIGHTS 3 & 4

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

ROCKY TERRAIN

Whilst preparing for walking on rocky terrain, you must focus on the development of balance, strength, and agility.

Integrate targeted strength exercises, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, to strengthen your leg muscles, with a particular emphasis on improving stability on uneven surfaces. Balancing exercises are essential. Undertake core strength activity, coupled with exercises such as planks and Russian twists to enhance balance. As you progress, include hikes on progressively rougher terrain if you can. Additionally, the appropriate footwear with good ankle support and tread for grip are essential. Stay mindful, watch your step, and use trekking poles for added stability.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

This holiday starts and finishes in Rawnsley Park.

The Flinders Ranges walks are moderate to challenging with some rough tracks, where you’ll cover shorter distances. Full-day walks average about 19 km and 5-7.5 hours walking each day. The walking is over mostly flat, well-walked paths and bush tracks with some rocky sections. There are two days with steep sections. This is a great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves, however, easier options are available on some days. This is a reasonably long and tough walk and we highly recommend that you incorporate a rest day.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This holiday starts and finishes in Rawnsley Park. The best option by far is to use a vehicle. This will allow you the freedom to travel up to the walk at your own pace. There’s a stack of interesting places to visit that require no real deviation from your journey, including wineries. We highly recommend staying in Clare, South Australia’s primo wine destination on the way back. There are also a few walks on the way that can be explored.

More information on transport to the Flinders Ranges is available on request.

WEATHER

The best time to go is April through to September as it is the best weather for hiking in the Flinders Ranges. The temperature is still very comfortable to walk in but warm clothes are necessary as the temperature drops at night. This holiday is not available over the hot summer months of December to February as it way to hot with temperatures in the high 40’s.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

Flinders Ranges mean temp graph

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions about the Flinders Ranges walks., tracks or the Flinders Ranges tour as a whole, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 30 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2655

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 30 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2025 - 30 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2760

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $725
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2025 - 30 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3010

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1245
    BOOK NOW
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Clare Kirkpatrick

    26 April, 2024 at 10:27 AM
    5

    Flinders Ranges 7 Days Self Guided was challenging but amazing. Be aware you could walk for days without seeing a single person. Signage and written instructions were excellent. The rugged beauty of the ranges and variation of the landscape highlights.
    Our accommodation, meals and transport wonderful. If you can stretch your budget, I recommend upgrading to the Eco Villas at Rawnsley Park – superb!

    Reply

  2. Gary Gill

    16 November, 2023 at 1:16 PM
    5

    We have done three supported walks with Auswalk, The Flinder’s Ranges and The Gold Cost Hinterland unguided and Larapinta Trail guided. All were well designed, well organised and most enjoyable. We’d be happy to walk with Auswalk again.

    Reply

  3. Vincent A

    1 July, 2022 at 4:21 PM
    5

    Magnificent scenery, accommodation well above expectation considering the location and the food was to die for. If you want to really see outback Australia this is the place to go (and make sure you allow a couple of days after to explore the wineries in the Clare Valley on the way back to Adelaide). I would recommend though that you are relatively fit as there a couple of very difficult sections of scrambling over rocks heading up to St Mary Peak and the Bluff.

    Reply

  4. Gail and Roy

    11 November, 2020 at 2:56 PM
    5

    Auswalks is our company of choice. We have done 15 multi-day walks of this type, i.e. day pack only and food/lodging arranged and love self-guided walks because we can walk at our own pace. Auswalks are so helpful and extremely flexible right from the start of booking and arranging the walk that the process is very easy. The organisation while on the walk is reliable and the notes provided to guide one on the walk itself are first rate. We had to terminate our most recent walk early because of a sad family circumstance and that was also managed by Natasha with care and compassion. We are already planning another walk and hope to do others in the future including going back to complete the one we could not finish. I recommend Auswalks to anyone I talk to about walking.

    Reply
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