If you’re unfamiliar with this gorgeous terrain in the South Australian state, you’re not alone.
Many adventure seekers and avid road trippers are still relatively unaware of just where the Flinders Ranges are located. Which is why we’ve mapped out how to get there, the best time to visit the Flinders Ranges, and what you can do.
How to get to the Flinders Ranges
South Australia’s largest mountain range sits about 200 kilometres north of Adelaide, stretching across 430 km from Port Pirie to Lake Callabonna. Officially, it’s known as The Outback.
The most ideal way to arrive is by car, of course, so you can take in the sights of the majestic mountain ranges. This can be done by picking up your vehicle from our Adelaide car hire location or Adelaide airport for those flying into the South Australian capital.
We highly recommend you hire a 4WD so you can trek around the ranges in comfort and feel equipped to take on the rougher roads. Did we mention you’ll be in The Outback? (Just be sure you do stay on the primary roads during your adventure for safety’s sake, and also to ensure you aren’t liable for any damage to your hire vehicle that might take place off road.)
The best time to visit the Flinders Ranges
Temperatures vary to some degree in the Flinders Ranges. But for most of the year, you can expect cooler climates with a chance of rain or snow. The best months are between late May to mid-October. The hottest time of the year is typically around early August.
Best attractions in the Flinders Ranges
It’s no surprise that the Flinders Ranges is packed with outdoorsy activities. Whether you prefer to go it alone or enjoy one of many Flinders Ranges tours, you’ll no doubt be thrilled by the experience.
Wilpena Pound
This natural amphitheatre is one of the most popular sites in the Flinders Ranges and for good reason. It’s an adventurer’s dream with bushwalking, rock climbing and scenic flights available to showcase every inch of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. St Mary Peak is the highest point, at 1,171 metres above sea level – this one might be best suited for experienced hikers.
Wilpena Pound is also the perfect spot to go glamping in the Flinders Ranges. Sleep under the stars in style and take in the array of stars that you typically wouldn’t see behind city lights and smog.
Arkaroo Rock
Step into some rich Aboriginal heritage at Arkaroo Rock. Located in the Flinders Ranges National Park, south of Wilpena Pound. This stunning site, full of ochre and charcoal paintings from our land’s ancestors is a significant cultural site for the Adnyamathana people. The surrounds are remarkable, and the art tells the beautiful Dreamtime story of how Wilpena Pound was created. A 5,000-year-old story.
Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
If bushwalking and 4-wheel driving is your thing, then Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is the place for you. As one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the outback, Arkaroola is truly a must-see. Rugged mountains, gorges, waterholes, and steep hills are in abundance, and if astronomy takes your fancy, there is no shortage of beautiful night sky views here either.
Woolshed Restaurant
After all of that driving, you’ll need to unwind and relax! Woolshed Restaurant is the perfect place to do that. With delicious modern Australian cuisine, indoor and outdoor dining, and the setting of an actual woolshed. The dining experience is truly memorable. Produce is sourced locally, and you are guaranteed to get an authentic taste of the outback.
There’s certainly much more to see and do in the Flinders Ranges – it just depends on how much time you’ve got and what type of adventure you’re seeking. Whatever that may be, let Thrifty get you there with our wide range of vehicles.
