SOUTH EAST/SOUTH AUSTRALIAN WETLANDS/COORONG EXPERIENCE (Fully Accommodated)

6-1/2 DAYS, 6 NIGHTS ITINERARY - $1,535 per person

This relaxed tour takes in expansive private wetlands, a natural area which was drained of its water for cropping and pastures in the early 1900’s. Over a decade or more this huge area has been restored to its former beauty. The natural lakes and islands form an idyllic and peaceful habitat for thousands of birds, many of which had left for places unknown but have since returned to nest after years of absence. Their nesting areas are remote and secluded – we have the privilege of access. Native flora and fauna are abundant, the area so large and untouched that 4WD is necessary to experience all its delights.

We drive along the beach of the Younghusband Peninsular, visiting Messent and Jip Jip Conservation Parks through the rich pasture land of the South East. Our base overlooks beautiful Mandina Lake with its myriad of birds.

ALL ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS ARE INCLUDED

This tour offers the ultimate for bird watchers, naturalists and photographers, with a flexible Itinerary covering unique Wetlands denied most travelers. For everyone to fully benefit from the WETLANDS/COORONG EXPERIENCE we will take only a maximum of 8 guests.



DAY 1: We meet you at Adelaide airport or the train at Gawler Central;,. Or you may choose to drive into our country property, and leave your car or caravan at Stockport during the Journey.  

Accommodation is provided on a twin share basis at Stopckport, in our large converted and refurbished Stables.  Join us and fellow travelers for lunch and afternoon tea.   Dinner at the Stables.

DAY 2: South to Tailem Bend, taking the punt at Narrung to the Murray Mouth Barrages. We travel along the southern side of Lake Albert to Meningie then Salt Creek. After establishing our base in the comfortable refurbished quarters overlooking Mandina Lake we settle back for dinner enjoying sunset over still waters. As dusk falls the bird population performs its nightly ritual with much ado.     Drinks and Dinner at the Wetlands Centre (our home for the tour duration)

Day 3: An exploration of the Coorong National Park between 42 Miles and 38 mile Crossing. Time to stroll beside the pounding surf, walk in the dunes, hunt for driftwood perhaps and enjoy a picnic lunch. We visit Old Cantarra Homestead and surrounds before heading back to base for the evening meal.

Day 4: Across to Jip Jip Conservation Park, a bush walk to the rocks, then south through prime pasture land to Mt. Scott Conservation Park for lunch. Taking a circuitous route around lakes on private land we head for Kingston and travel back to base along the Coast Road.

Day 5: A full day of touring the private wetlands, with time for relaxation and that extra special photograph. We soak up the peace of the bush with the tranquil sound of water & birds for background music.

Day 6: After breakfast we leave Bourke heading north to Hungerford on the Dog Fence between NSW and Qld, visiting the Royal Mail Hotel and then West to Lake Wyara in Carawinya NP Two nights Station Stay at Kilcowra Station, including dinner under the stars prepared by the station owners.

Day 7: After a hearty breakfast and a farewell to your new friends, we travel to Adelaide for  a final goodbye at the airport.




YOUR TOUR INCLUDES:

  • Pick up ex Adelaide Airport or Gawler Railway Station
  • Dinner, Bed and Breakfast at Stockport Stables before and after the trip.
  • Parking on premises if required.
  • Swag (heavy-duty canvas, mattress/pillow/sheets/blankets/doona}
  • On camping trips, we supply single pole tents, twin share (some singles available)
  • Meals, tea and coffee and refreshments while on the road.
  • Choice of Claret/Reisling with evening meal and a nightcap of Port.
  • Hotel/Motel/Caravan Park/Station accommodation, twin share basis.
  • Desert park pass fees, Obligatory Permits.
  • Map Pack of Specialist Maps for the Journey.

YOU NEED TO BRING:

  • Comfortable travelling clothes, sturdy shoes, warm jumper, parka, camera, sun block, towel/toiletries, all personal medications, hat, swimsuit, insect repellent, personal water bottle, torch and Wet Ones are a good idea (helps when shower not available)
  • Soft luggage bags (no suitcases) 1 – 2 per person, compact day pack (max 3 pcs).

YOUR EXPENSE:

  • Dinner, drinks and breakfast on Hotel/Motel stopovers.
  • Special interest Tours and associated Entrance Fees.
  • Beer:  Tour Leader purchases on route, chilling as needed.
  • Single Occupancy: - if available and pre-arranged.
  • We recommend current Medical/Accident and Travel Insurance.

VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT:

  • 4wd Nissan Station Wagons, equipped with UHF and HF Radio, stereo, air conditioning, long range fuel and water tanks, portable hot shower.
  • Heavy Duty Trailer, gas BBQ,  Engel Frig/Freezers, tools, electric winch/snatch straps, spares/tyres/tubes.
  • Global Positioning System and Satellite Phone.

MEMORABILIA:

  • Highlights of the trip are captured on  studio quality digital camera and transferred to DVD, which is available for purchase.   A great way to relive your Outback Adventure Holiday whenever you like!