Taste of the Outback (3 days)

Birdsville to Arkaroola via Lake Eyre (B,L,D)

Take a low-level flight down the Diamantina River, Goyder Lagoon and the Warburton River, before experiencing a spectacular journey over Lake Eyre North. Lake Eyre is an incredible destination, magnificent whether in its usual dry, flat, salt-plain state, or during those rare periods when rains in the gulf have filtered down to create an oasis in the desert. Land near the lake and take a road trip and feel the salt of the earth.

Back in the sky, it’s a short flight over the Flinders Ranges, where the late afternoon sun exposes the vibrant palette of colours on the mountains. Then, a 30-minute drive to Arkaroola Wilderness Resort. After dinner, enjoy awesome views of the stars and constellations in the clear night sky at the resort’s observatory.

Overnight: Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, Mawson Room

Arkaroola to Melbourne (B,L,D)

Begin the last day with the famous Ridgetop Tour in an open-air 4WD vehicle to Siller’s Lookout where you’ll experience the ruggedness and beauty of the Northern Flinders Ranges. The area is home to over 160 species of birds and the shy and endangered yellow-footed rock-wallaby, along with craggy mountains, towering granite peaks, magnificent gorges and mysterious waterholes.

In the afternoon it’s time to head home. Fly over Lake Frome en-route to Melbourne, arriving at Moorabbin Airport at around 6.00pm.