Arkaba Safari

Safari Drives

Each Arkaba Safari drive is led by an expert field guide, maximising wildlife viewing potential at the optimum time of day according to seasonality.

The Ridge-top Safari Drive is one of Arkaba's most thrilling 4WD adventures, exploring diverse habitats and wildlife-rich landscapes in an open-top safari vehicle. Starting from Marabelle Creek, spot canopy-dwelling songbirds such as Rufous Whistlers and Grey Shrike-thrushes, while River Red Gums host flocks of Galahs and Little Corellas. As the track climbs, sightings of Common Wallaroos on rocky outcrops are common, and at the peak, travellers enjoy eye-level views of Wedge-tailed Eagles soaring overhead. Along the ridges, keep watch for Western Grey Kangaroos, Nankeen Kestrels and Whistling Kites. Arkaba's signature experience will take you on a loop drive traversing the rolling ranges in the late afternoon, for a sundowner drink and canapes as the sun goes down, overlooking a breathtaking 360 degree view of Arkaba that will be sure to leave an imprint on your heart.

Venturing out in an open-top safari vehicle, the Dundee Track provides the opportunity to explore the northern regions of the property, characterised by thick Spinifex vegetation. This steep terrain is also great Common Wallaroo territory. Passing on from the Dundee track up towards the Elder Range provides a chance of spotting endangered Yellow-footed Rock Wallabies with two separate colonies established on this mountain range.

The northern section of the property usually allows for the best sighting of our largest Parrot species, the Australian Ringneck Parrot whilst the lower Dundee track passes through Cypress vegetation, where Red-capped robins are sometimes encountered.

The Southern Boundary Loop is characterised by almost savannah like terrain, ideal for spotting Red Kangaroos and Emus, which like the wide expansive areas. This is also the best area for viewing summer migratory birds such as Budgerigars, Cockatiels and Zebra Finches, which flock to this region of the property, concentrating around the small natural springs.

Birding & Arkaba Hide

Arkaba has a viewing hide which is available at certain times of the year. It has been carefully carved out close to the confluence of Arkaba and Woolshed creeks and provides an ideal vantage point for all kinds of wildlife coming to drink inclulding Ringneck, Mulga, Red-rumped and Elegant Parrots.

Recovering riparian vegetation throughout the numerous creek-beds that carve their way through the Arkaba Conservancy provide a wonderful leafy canopy which is alive with a multitude of parrots, corellas, pardalotes, honeyeaters and the ever melodious Grey Shrike- thrush.

Open spinifex grasslands allow for a totally different birding experience - grasswrens, pipits and Hovering Black-shouldered Kites are often sighted here. Huge areas of pioneer Acacia species provide both food and habitat for incredible numbers of thornbills , babblers, Red-Capped Robins and little explosions of colour in the busy fairy-wren species too.

Although the Chestnut-crowned Babbler is seldom seen, this boisterous co-operative breeder has a distinctive alarm call. Standout encounters today are endless and include Rufous Whistler, Grey-fronted Honeyeater, Spotted Harrier, Red-backed Kingfisher and the Inland Thornbill amongst many others.

Short Guided Walks

Arkaba's team of expert field guides can provide a taste of the Arkaba Walk by showcasing some of the short guided walks on the property and tailoring the walk according to species of interest and seasonal opportunities. From dry creek beds, isolated waterholes, lined with 1,000 year old river gums to craggy ridge lines and rolling hills covered in cypress pines to the ancient ramparts of Wilpena Pound, this is some of the most stunning walking country in Australia. 

Hands-on Conservation

Gaining a true insight into what's involved in conservation is one of the most rewarding experiences to be had. Join the mission to restore Arkaba's biodiversity with some hands-on conservation activities including tracking a radio-collared feral cat with a telemetry device, setting up the trip cameras that monitor key sit across the property, looking for signs of vegetation critical to endangered animals, or joining a biologist on land surveys.

Arkaba Homestead

Arkaba Homestead, a proud member of Luxury Lodges of Australia, welcomes guests year-round to an intimate outback retreat. With just five ensuite guestrooms, the property blends its 1850s pioneering heritage with Wild Bush Luxury's relaxed Australian style. The restored homestead retains its original character, with each room unique in layout and design. Four rooms are located within the main building, while the charming Coachman's Cottage offers a private hideaway in the garden. Shaded verandahs open to sweeping views of the surrounding ranges, providing a serene backdrop.

With limited capacity, Arkaba offers an exclusive, all-inclusive experience that feels more like staying with friends than at a hotel. Personalized service, warm hospitality, and a deep connection to nature make it truly unforgettable. All chef prepared gourmet meals, beverages (including premium South Australian wines and spirits) are included.

Experience Details

Pricing: from AUD$2,075 per person twin share. 
Shared Touring Group Size: Maximum of 10 guests, with two guides accompanying guests on this experience.
Check-in and Check-out Time: 2pm (Day 1) and 11am (Day 3+).

How you'll be making a positive impact

We have aligned our sustainability vision with the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).