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Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary — A private wilderness sanctuary in the northern Flinders Ranges protecting one of Australia's most spectacular arid mountain landscapes,…

Natural Landmark in South Australia

Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole

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About Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

A private wilderness sanctuary in the northern Flinders Ranges protecting one of Australia's most spectacular arid mountain landscapes, renowned for its rugged geology, rare yellow-footed rock-wallabies, and some of the darkest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. The Ridgetop Tour — a 4WD track to Sillers Lookout — is one of Australia's most hair-raising scenic drives. The sanctuary also contains Paralana Hot Springs, Australia's last naturally occurring geothermal springs.

About

A private wilderness sanctuary in the northern Flinders Ranges protecting one of Australia's most spectacular arid mountain landscapes, renowned for its rugged geology, rare yellow-footed rock-wallabies, and some of the darkest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. The Ridgetop Tour — a 4WD track to Sillers Lookout — is one of Australia's most hair-raising scenic drives. The sanctuary also contains Paralana Hot Springs, Australia's last naturally occurring geothermal springs.

Warnings

Ridgetop Tour Is Not For The Faint-Hearted — Sheer Drops On Narrow TracksParalana Springs Is Mildly Radioactive — Limit Time In WaterExtreme Summer HeatNo Mobile Coverage

Getting There

Map of Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

620km north of Adelaide via Port Augusta, Leigh Creek, and Copley. Last fuel at Copley — 80km from sanctuary. Road is sealed to Copley, then gravel.

Visitor Tips

  • The Ridgetop Tour is worth every cent — book it the morning after arrival when the light is best. Stay 3 nights to do justice to the landscape.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
State

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
2–4 days
Best Time
April–October
Hours
Open 24 hours. 4WD recommended beyond Arkaroola Village.

Highlights

Ridgetop Tour To Sillers LookoutYellow-Footed Rock-WallabiesParalana Hot Springs (Radioactive, Last Geothermal Spring In Australia)Dark Sky Designation — Extraordinary Star GazingMount Painter Geological Formations

Activities

Ridgetop Tour (Guided 4WD)HikingStar Gazing (Observatory Tours)Paralana Hot Springs VisitWildlife WatchingPhotography

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Resort AccommodationCampingRestaurant And BarFuelObservatory (Public Star Tours)4WD Tour DeparturesSwimming Pool

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