Latest Lake Eyre Kati Thanda tours and flights information 2026
Thanks to Trevor Wright at Wrights Air and Channel 10 for this informative video.
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is Australia’s largest salt lake and lowest natural point, located in the remote outback of South Australia roughly 700 km north of Adelaide.
Quick Facts
Location: Far North region of South Australia, accessible via William Creek or Marree.
Dimensions: Spans roughly 144 km long and 77 km wide when combined via the Goyder Channel (North and South lakes).
Elevation: 15.2 metres below sea level, making it the lowest point on the Australian continent.
Traditional Owners: Sacred Country for the Arabana and Dieri people
See it yourself. A few seats left on these Lake Eyre tours as the season winds up.
Look Smart get the great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris
Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris – here’s a quick reminder because 30 September is getting close.
Don’t miss out on these Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris!
Remember, our journeys use some of the best accommodation in the regions, and we travel in small groups, maximum 4 per 4WD, very comfortable vehicles.
If you’re thinking about travelling with Spirit Safaris in 2027, there are 3 good reasons to make your decision before the end of this month.
Experience the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris that await you.
Discover Great Early Bird Deals at Spirit Safaris
Take advantage of the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris while they last!
Save $500 per person on any 2027 tour of 7 days or more.
Secure your tour at our current 2026 prices and
Before government imposed restructuring of credit card surcharges
That means booking now can save you considerably more than the $500 Early Bird offer alone. The offer applies when your tour is booked and paid by 30 September 2026.
By booking now, you ensure you benefit from the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris.
Don’t forget to check the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris.
Lake Eyre is still spectacular
If Lake Eyre has ever been on your Australian travel list, I would particularly encourage you to look at our remaining departures.
Now is the perfect time to explore the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris.
I’ve travelled through this country for more than 30 years, and the transformation this year has been extraordinary.
The water has brought the Outback to life.
There are birds in remarkable numbers, green pastures across country normally dominated by reds and browns, water in the lake and channels, and an abundance of life not seen on this scale for decades.
It is a very different Lake Eyre experience from a normal dry year.
The beauty of Lake Eyre is best experienced with the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris.
And there are still opportunities to see it with us.
Your journey can be enhanced by the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris.
Lake Eyre & the Flooded Outback – witness a rare natural phenomenon, and the stunning transformation of the landscape.
The Kimberley – explore gorges, waterfalls, and some of the oldest landscapes on Earth, a journey into ancient geological formations.
Cape York& Thursday Island — experience the remote, rugged, and unforgettable landscapes that challenge and inspire adventure seekers.
Gulf Savannah Way – traverse a lesser-travelled route through some of the north’s wildest country, a true adventure off the beaten path.
Simpson Desert is Now a blooming wonder – conquer vast red dunes and experience true remote-desert crossing, a thrilling challenge for the adventurous spirit.
WA West Coast, Perth to Broome – marvel at the stunning coastline, gorges, and everything in between, a visual feast for the senses.
Karijini & Pilbara – with Red Dog, 80 Mile Beach Burrup rock art & Tom Price
Cameron Corner Country from Broken Hill to Innamincka and Dig Tree
Old Ghan Railway by steam and 4WD – Adelaide to Alice Springs
Canning Stock Route – the epic, scenic and unique outback journey
Make sure to take advantage of the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris on this epic journey.
Channel and Corner Country Alice Springs to Birdsville Innamincka Broken Hill Mungo Adelaide 10 Day Tour
PLUS MORE !
After running tours since 1993, one thing I’ve learned is that people rarely regret taking the journey.
They are much more likely to tell me: “I wish we’d done it sooner.”
So if there’s an Australian journey you’ve been promising yourself, have a look now while the $500 Early Bird saving and current pricing are still available.
Join us for the adventure and enjoy the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris.
Looking for something more than a holiday?
I’ve also created something quite different for business owners, entrepreneurs and leaders who are thinking about what comes next in their life and business.
It’s called Journey to Clarity.
It’s a six-day Australian Outback leadership immersive designed to take you away from the noise and demands of everyday business and give you the space, structure and perspective to clarify your vision, purpose and next chapter.
If you’ve reached a point where you’re asking:
What do I really want the next 3, 5 or 10 years to look like?
P.S. Our $500 Early Bird offer ends 30 September, and our tour prices will subsequently increase. Booking now means you receive the $500 saving and secure your journey at current pricing.
Secure your spot with the Great early bird deals at Spirit Safaris before it’s too late!
P.P.S. Lake Eyre and the surrounding Outback are still putting on an extraordinary show. Water, prolific birdlife and green country like this don’t happen every year. If Lake Eyre is on your list, this is a remarkable time to see it.
Lake Eyre, known as Kati Thanda, is a vast salt flat located in South Australia. It is Australia’s largest salt lake and is famous for its breathtaking views and shimmering landscapes. The flights from Marree offer an extraordinary bird’s-eye view of this incredible natural feature, especially during the wet season when the lake fills with water, attracting an array of wildlife.
The map below shows various flight options from Marree to Lake Eyre, while the accompanying table details the costs of those flights and what is included in each flight package. Understanding the pricing and what each flight offers is crucial for planning your adventure.
You can book tours that include flights from Adelaide, Broken Hill, or Alice Springs, depending on the availability of dates and your travel preferences. Each departure point provides its unique experience, enhancing your journey to Lake Eyre.
When planning your visit to Lake Eyre, it’s essential to consider the best time to fly. The wet season, typically from December to March, transforms the lake, turning it into a vibrant oasis. Many travelers choose to book their flights during this period to witness the stunning changes in the landscape and the influx of birdlife.
To ensure a seamless experience, you can also inquire about packages that include not just flights, but also accommodations and guided tours. These packages often provide additional insights into the history and significance of Lake Eyre and its surrounding areas.
LAKE EYRE SOUTH & NORTH – 1.5 hrs* @ $495 per person + $30 fuel surcharge
The flight over Lake Eyre South and North is a highlight for many travelers. Spanning approximately 1.5 hours, this journey allows you to see not just the lake itself but also the stunning surrounding landscapes, including the Willouran Ranges. The flight offers a unique perspective that cannot be fully appreciated from the ground.
DINGO FENCE | MULOORINA STATION | LAKE EYRE | MADIGAN GULF | JACKBOOT BAY | BELT BAY | LAKE EYRE SOUTH | MARREE MAN | WILLOURAN RANGES
See Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre South & lower half of Lake Eyre North, Madigan Gulf, and Belt Bay, the lowest point on mainland Australia and the famous Marree Man and the spectacular Willouran Ranges.
A fantastic flight to get a good look at the spectacular Lake Eyre and the Marree Man.
LAKE EYRE SOUTH & NORTH + WARBURTON – 2.2hrs* @ $645 per person + $40 fuel surcharge
DINGO FENCE | MULOORINA STATION | TOP OF LAKE EYRE NORTH | MADIGAN GULF | WARBURTON RIVER | COOPER CREEK | NEALES RIVER | WARBURTON GROOVE |JACKBOOT BAY | BELT BAY | LAKE EYRE SOUTH | MARREE MAN
This flight extends on the above flight to the top of Lake Eyre North and the Warburton River and follows the Warburton Groove down. It is an excellent way to see the main river systems which feed into the Lake Eyre basin and all it has to offer. Not to be missed especially when water is flowing in. Bird life is quite often seen and the odd Camel.
LAKE EYRE, MARREE MAN + PAINTED HILLS – 2.5hrs* @ $695 per person + $50 fuel surcharge
This flight, which lasts 2.5 hours and costs $695 per person plus a fuel surcharge, not only covers Lake Eyre and the Marree Man but also showcases the Painted Hills. The Painted Hills are known for their vibrant colors and unique formations, which provide a stunning contrast to the flat expanses of Lake Eyre.
This flight takes in the Marree Man, Lake Eyre South and a portion of Lake Eyre North but then heads west over the picturesque Painted Hills.
This flight includes the Dog Fence, the Marree Man, Oodnadatta Track and Australia’s largest pastoral property – Anna Creek Station. A good taster of this area.
NEW DELUXE BIRDSVILLE & LAKE EYRE – FULL DAY (includes lunch) @ $1495 per person + $100 fuel surcharge
The new deluxe tour to Birdsville and Lake Eyre is especially popular among those wishing for an immersive experience. Priced at $1495 per person and including lunch, this full-day tour allows visitors to explore the remarkable Channel Country and enjoy a meal at the historic Birdsville Hotel, all while witnessing the natural beauty of the region from above.
LAKE EYRE SOUTH & NORTH | MARREE MAN | BIRDSVILLE HOTEL | SIMPSON DESERT | COOPER CREEK | GOYDER LAGOON | COONGIE LAKES
Great way to see Birdsville without travelling on the dirt road. This flight covers Lake Eyre North & South, the Marree Man, Channel country, Goyder Lagoon stopping for lunch at the Birdsville Hotel.
Head back to Marree towards Innamincka, over the Diamantina, Strzelecki Desert, Coongie Lakes & Cooper Creek. Great day trip to see the magnitude and expanse of our water system.
Departs at 9.45am and returns around 4.30pm – one stop at Birdsville
LAKE EYRE – DALHOUSIE SPRINGS & MT DARE – FULL DAY (includes lunch) @ $1695 per person + $100 fuel surcharge
LAKE EYRE | WILLIAM CREEK | DALHOUSIE SPRINGS | MT DARE | MARREE MAN
The classic outback experience, stopping at the William Creek Hotel for morning tea, swimming in the natural Dalhousie Springs in the Witjira National Park, lunch at Mt Dare and Lake Eyre North & South, the Marree Man and lots more.
Compare Lake Eyre Tours & Flights 2026 Here
When comparing Lake Eyre tours and flights for 2026, consider factors such as the duration of each flight, included amenities, and specific sights you wish to experience. Each tour offers distinct highlights, making it important to choose one that aligns with your interests and schedule.
Booking your Lake Eyre tours and flights well in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Doing so ensures you secure your preferred flight times and pricing and allows you to prepare for an unforgettable adventure in one of Australia’s most unique landscapes.
Explore the best Lake Eyre tour options from Adelaide, Broken Hill and Alice Springs/Uluru. Compare duration, pricing, flight options and highlights to find the journey that suits your time frame and style of travel.
Discover the unique experiences offered by various providers when you Compare Lake Eyre Tours and Flights 2026.
3 DaysFlights Included
AU$3,995
Lake Eyre Tours & Flights from Adelaide to Adelaide
Adelaide → Adelaide
Flight Options
Standard 1.5hr scenic flight over Lake Eyre included
Upgrade available: extended 2hr flight
Optional full-day Birdsville flight with pub lunch
Highlights
Warburton Groove, Tirari Desert, Lake Eyre South, Oodnadatta Track, Mound Springs, Coward Springs, Flinders Ranges, Prairie Hotel, Ochre Pits and Farina ghost town.
Lake Eyre Tours & Flight from Broken Hill to Broken Hill
Broken Hill → Broken Hill
Flight Options
2hr Lake Eyre South & North + Warburton River flight
Optional full-day Birdsville scenic flight with lunch
Flights are selected as add-ons at booking
Highlights
Flinders Ranges, Oodnadatta Track, Coward Springs, Old Ghan Railway, Birdsville Track, Lake Eyre National Park, Leigh Creek, Ochre Pits and Farina ghost town.
Lake Eyre Tours Flights with Wilpena Pound Coober Pedy
Adelaide → Adelaide
Flight Options
Optional Wilpena Pound scenic flight
Lake Eyre 2hr scenic flight option
Optional full-day Birdsville flight with lunch
Highlights
Wilpena Pound, Clare Valley, Brachina & Bunyeroo Gorges, Prairie Hotel, Coward Springs, William Creek, Coober Pedy underground stay, opal museum and Woomera Rocket Park.
Lake Eyre Tours & Flights via Wilpena Pound, William Creek & Coober Pedy
Adelaide → Adelaide
Flight Options
Optional Wilpena Pound scenic flight
Lake Eyre 2hr scenic flight or Birdsville full-day flight
Optional Painted Desert flight from William Creek
Highlights
Wilpena Pound, Brachina Gorge Geological Trail, Parachilna, Oodnadatta Track, Coward Springs, Mound Springs, William Creek, Painted Desert, Coober Pedy underground stay and Woomera.
Lake Eyre – Alice Springs or Uluru to Adelaide via Coober Pedy & Oodnadatta Track
Alice Springs / Uluru → Adelaide
Flight Options
Optional 1hr Lake Eyre scenic flight from William Creek
Optional 2hr extended Lake Eyre flight
Optional Painted Desert flight by arrangement
Highlights
Coober Pedy underground stay, opal museum, Dog Fence, Oodnadatta Track, William Creek, Mound Springs, Coward Springs, Mutonia Sculpture Park, Marree, Farina and Flinders Ranges.
Corner Country – Arkaroola, Innamincka, Coongie Lakes, Lake Eyre, Birdsville, Strzelecki & Oodnadatta Tracks
Adelaide or Broken Hill → Broken Hill
Flight Options
Optional Wilpena Pound scenic flight
Optional Arkaroola scenic flight
Optional Lake Eyre and Birdsville scenic flights
Highlights
Wilpena Pound, Arkaroola Ridge Top Tour, Lake Callabonna, Strzelecki Track, Innamincka, Cooper Creek, Coongie Lakes, Dig Tree, Birdsville, Big Red, Birdsville Track and Marree.
Simpson Desert Crossing via Oodnadatta, Dalhousie Springs, Birdsville Track & Lake Eyre
Adelaide → Adelaide
Flight Options
Optional Birdsville flight over Lake Eyre, Goyder Lagoon and Simpson Desert
Optional Marree scenic flight over Lake Eyre
Optional Birdsville fly-out via Rex Airlines
Highlights
Coober Pedy, Painted Desert, Oodnadatta Pink Roadhouse, Dalhousie Springs, Simpson Desert crossing, Poeppels Corner, Big Red, Birdsville, Birdsville Track, Marree, Lake Eyre National Park, Farina and Flinders Ranges.
Welcome to an unforgettable journey! You’ve made it to the 2026 Outback Australia Tours from Spirit Safaris, where adventure meets the awe-inspiring beauty of Australia’s wilderness. Join our 2026 Outback Australia Tours and experience the thrill of the outback firsthand.
Our tours provide a premium, personalized experience (max 4 adults per 4WD), which allows for a deeper connection with the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Australia. From the moment you step into our 4WD, you’ll feel the difference.
2026 Outback Australia Tours …
During your journey, you can expect to encounter some of the most stunning natural wonders and wildlife that Australia has to offer. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights into the flora and fauna, giving you a comprehensive understanding of this unique environment.
As part of our 2026 Outback Australia Tours, you’ll discover hidden gems and breathtaking views that few have the privilege to see.
Record breaking rains in Queensland and Northern Territory means more spectacular flooding of Lake Eyre, and rich green grasslands and wonderful waterfalls up north.
The recent record-breaking rains in Queensland and Northern Territory have created a vibrant ecosystem, making places like Lake Eyre a spectacular sight. This influx of water brings life back to the arid landscape, creating a stunning contrast of colors and attracting wildlife.
Our 2026 Outback Australia Tours cover a range of iconic locations, including Cape York and Thursday Island, Gulf Savannah Way, Kimberley, Karijini and Pilbara, Canning Stock Route, Lake Eyre tours and flights, Simpson Desert, Channel and Corner Country, Nullarbor Whale Watch, and an Old Ghan Rail Tour from Adelaide to Alice Springs. Each destination offers its own unique adventures and experiences.
With our 2026 Outback Australia Tours, you’ll embark on a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories and stories to share.
Even more as listed below and updated on the website HERE
Furthermore, our tours are designed to cater to various interests, whether you’re looking for thrilling 4WD experiences, peaceful nature walks, or in-depth cultural encounters with Indigenous communities.
Stay up to date with our latest offerings, including new tour dates and special events, by checking our website regularly. We strive to provide you with the most current information to make planning your adventure easy and enjoyable.
2026 Outback Australia Tours – New List
When you embark on our 2026 Outback Australia Tours, you will not only witness stunning landscapes but also have the chance to learn about Australia’s unique ecosystems, including its diverse plant and animal life.
Every aspect of our 2026 Outback Australia Tours is designed to immerse you in the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Australia.
Lake Eyre Tours and Flights – Click here Our Lake Eyre Tours and Flights offer a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful area, particularly during the wet season when the lake fills with water, attracting countless migratory birds and creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Simpson Desert & Lake Eyre – fly over Goyder Lagoon option See hereFor those keen on adventure, our Simpson Desert & Lake Eyre tours include the option to fly over the iconic Goyder Lagoon, providing a stunning perspective of the landscape below.
Karijini Pilbara Marble Bar Burrup Tour here – https://www.spiritsafaris.com/Pilbara-Karratha-Karijini-ToursThe Karijini Pilbara Marble Bar Burrup Tour invites you to explore breathtaking gorges and unique geological formations, offering opportunities to swim in natural pools and witness the stark beauty of the Pilbara region.
Kimberley Tours – from Darwin and Broome are just one example of the incredible adventures included in our 2026 Outback Australia Tours.Our Kimberley Tours from Darwin and Broome are designed to showcase the rugged beauty and cultural significance of this region, featuring stops at iconic waterfalls and ancient rock art sites.
Experience the stunning landscapes of the NSW Outback Cameron Corner Mungo Bourke Broken Hill Warrumbungles Macquarie Marshes tour, which highlights the diverse beauty of New South Wales’ outback regions.
Gulf Savannah Way Tours – Cairns to Darwin or Darwin to CairnsTravel along the Gulf Savannah Way and discover the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, with tours from Cairns to Darwin that provide a glimpse into the rich experiences offered by Northern Australia.
Cape York & Thursday IslandhereOur Cape York & Thursday Island tour includes visits to pristine beaches and lush rainforests, ensuring a well-rounded experience of this beautiful area.
Outback Queensland & Dinosaurs Tours Australia – hereJoin us for the Outback Queensland & Dinosaurs Tours Australia and discover the fascinating history of Australia’s prehistoric past, exploring significant fossil sites and learning about the ancient creatures that once roamed this land.
Join us on our 2026 Outback Australia Tours to explore the fascinating history interwoven with Australia’s prehistoric past.
Canning Stock Route – from Broome or Alice Springs The Canning Stock Route offers a rare glimpse into one of Australia’s most remote and historic paths, showcasing the beauty of the outback and its rich history.
The 2026 Outback Australia Tours will take you along iconic routes, revealing the stories of the land.
Old Ghan Railway Route tour – by steam and 4WD Oodnadatta Track Lake Eyre Adelaide to Alice SpringsExperience the heritage of the Old Ghan Railway Route tour, which combines the nostalgia of steam travel with the adventure of 4WD touring along the Oodnadatta Track.
Cameron Corner & Channel Country Tours – Cameron Corner Strzeleki Track, Birdsville Track and Oodnadatta Track ToursThe Cameron Corner & Channel Country Tours provide a deep dive into the Australian outback’s culture and history, connecting you to the land in a meaningful way.
West Coast Western Australia – Perth to Broome via Kalbari, Monkey Mia, Karijini and more – seeOur West Coast Western Australia tour from Perth to Broome showcases stunning coastal scenery and unique wildlife experiences along the way, making it a trip to remember.
Travel with us on our 2026 Outback Australia Tours for an adventure that will awaken your spirit of exploration.
NSW TOURS & NSW OUTBACK TOURS – 1 day, Half day & Multi Day –from SYDNEY and BROKEN HILL – Lightning Ridge, Mungo National Park, Darling River Run, Silo Art Trail Tours, Hunter Valley & Blue Mountains EscapesFor adventurers, our NSW TOURS & NSW OUTBACK TOURS provide multiple options ranging from day trips to multi-day explorations, allowing you to customize your adventure.
Spirit Safaris is committed to providing an unparalleled opportunity to explore Australia’s majestic wilderness. Our expert guides ensure a rich and informative experience, making every moment memorable.
Our commitment to excellence shines through in our 2026 Outback Australia Tours, ensuring every detail enriches your experience.
These new tours for 2026 at early bird rates now selling fast so take advantage of the Early Bird rates (+ SAVE $500 before end of October, or $400 before end of November for 8 or more day tours, if booked and paid in full)
Thank you adventurers if you joined a tour with us this year – You have helped make 2025 a very memorable and busy year with lots of fun across Australia.
The 2025 outback tour season is nearly over – but there’s still plenty happening.
Its been a very busy year for us with record breaking floods in Queensland flooding Lake Eyre, and tours including Cape York and Thursday Island, Gulf Savannah Way, Kimberley, Canning Stock Route, Lake Eyre tours and flights and many more.
These tours are still available in 2025 and 2026, and we are happy to tailor tours for you and / or your friends and family – tell us what you want here
NSW TOURS & NSW OUTBACK TOURS – 1 day, Half day & Multi Day – from SYDNEY and BROKEN HILL – Lightning Ridge, Mungo National Park, Darling River Run, Silo Art Trail Tours, Hunter Valley & Blue Mountains Escapes,
NSW TOURS & NSW OUTBACK TOURS – 1 day, Half day & Multi Day – from SYDNEY and BROKEN HILL – Lightning Ridge, Mungo National Park, Darling River Run, Silo Art Trail Tours, Hunter Valley & Blue Mountains Escapes
Spirit Safaris offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this majestic wilderness. These tours promise an intimate, personalized experience,allowing you to connect deeply with nature and your amazing country
LAKE EYRE FLOOD WATER -TOURS & FLIGHTS – SEE IT NOW
Join A Tour Now And Experience The Lake Eyre Floods Tours & Flights 2025 Spectacular
See It Now ! + 2026 Early Bird Savings
PLUS – EARLYBIRD RATES for 2026 Tours + New Tours & Dates
Massive Floodwaters from Queensland still have the Birdsville Track closed and have produced a rare spectacle in this remote centre of Australia – Greening the landscapes as water approach Lake Eyre via the Cooper Creek and Diamantina River and Goyder Lagoon
Cooper Creek has closed the Birdsville Track, and more recent rains have closed access to Innamincka from the south, via the Stzelecki Track. Halligan Bay and Madigan Gulf are over 2m deep.
SEE IT NOW – Don’t miss this massive flood experience !
Spirit Safaris offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this majestic wilderness. These tours promise an intimate, personalized experience, allowing you to connect deeply with nature and your amazing country
Flood Water in Diamantina River and Goyder Lagoon flowing to Lake Eyre
Lake Eyre Tours and Flights 2025 lets you witness this amazing spectacle. In 2025, nature has orchestrated a breathtaking transformation in Australia’s heartland.
Following record-breaking rains across Queensland’s Channel Country, the usually arid landscapes of Cooper Creek, Goyder Lagoon, and Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre have surged to life, creating a rare and mesmerizing spectacle. This phenomenon, occurring only a few times each century, has seen floodwaters from the Diamantina and Cooper systems converge, revitalizing the outback with a burst of desert life. (SciTech Daily, Earth Observatory, Australian Traveller)
Here are dates and availability by month ….. CLICK BLUE ARROW to MOVE MONTHS HERE >>>> …
Spirit Safaris’ “Lake Eyre Tours and Flights 2025” offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness this natural wonder. Their expertly curated tours provide both 4WD adventures and scenic flights, allowing travelers to experience the outback’s rebirth from multiple perspectives. A highlight includes a 2-hour flight over Lake Eyre, showcasing the Warburton Groove’s major inflow, the Tirari Desert, and landmarks like Elliot Price Conservation Park and Belt Bay. (Spirit Safaris, Spirit Safaris)
As the floodwaters continue their journey, they bring with them a resurgence of wildlife. Birdlife, including pelicans, swans, and banded stilts, are expected to flock to the region, taking advantage of the newly formed wetlands. The convergence of these natural events offers a fleeting window to experience the outback in a state of vibrant renewal.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-decade opportunity to immerse yourself in the outback’s dramatic transformation. Join Spirit Safaris’ “Lake Eyre Tours and Flights 2025” and be part of this extraordinary journey through Australia’s rejuvenated landscapes.
FLIGHT OPTIONS
CHOOSE YOUR PREFERRED FLIGHT (1 OR 2 ) WHEN BOOKING …
Option 1 – LAKE EYRE FLIGHT 2 HOURS – to top of Lake Eyre where birds are often nesting and feeding
LAKE EYRE FLIGHT 2 hours – Views Lake Eyre North and South, Halligan Bay, ABC Bay, Belt Bay, Silcrete Island, Warburton Groove, Cooper Creek, Warburton & Macumba River entry to Lake Eyre. Flight reaches further into Lake Eyre where birds are often nesting and feeding. This flight is the most popular. Lake Eyre South & North + Warburton River Dingo Fence | Muloorina Station | Top Of Lake Eyre North | Madigan Gulf | Warburton River | Cooper Creek | Neales River | Warburton Groove |Jackboot Bay | Belt Bay | Lake Eyre South | Marree Man And So Much More. $600 PP
Option 2 – LAKE EYRE BIRDSVILLE & COOPER CREEK FLOODS – FULL DAY WITH LUNCH
Depart Marree As above plus Lake Eyre Birdsville Goyder Lagoon & Cooper Creek Floods – Full Day With Lunch includes viewing Lake Eyre | Birdsville Hotel | Simpson Desert | Cooper Creek | Goyder Lagoon | Coongie Lakes – The best way to see Birdsville without travelling on the dirt road. This flight covers Lake Eyre North & South, the Marree Man, the Channel country, Goyder Lagoon stopping for lunch at the Birdsville Hotel. Includes viewing Lake Eyre | Birdsville Hotel | Simpson Desert | Cooper Creek | Goyder Lagoon | Coongie Lakes – Head back to Marree towards Innamincka, over the Diamantina, Strezlecki Desert, Coongie Lakes & Cooper Creek. Great day trip to see the magnitude and expanse of our water system. $ 1495 PP
Option 3 – INNAMINCKA AND BIRDSVILLE DAY FLIGHT AND 2 LANDINGS
Depart William Creek for a scenic flight over Lake Eyre North including Silcrete Island and Jackboot Bay as you track towards the Cooper Creek Inlet. Enjoy views over the Cooper Creek and Birdsville track crossing and Lake Hope before landing at Innamincka. A short walk (approx 500m unless a pick up is available) to the Innamincka Hotel for a morning tea and some free time.
Return to the skies for Birdsville flying overhead Coongie Lakes, the top of Goyder Lagoon and Diamantina. Enjoy a pub lunch at the Birdsville Hotel before boarding for the return flight to William Creek. The return flight includes Big Red, Eyre Creek, Goyder Lagoon, Cliffton Hills, Simpson Desert, Kallakoopah Creek, Warburton inlet and groove and Dalhunty Island. Includes a one hour lunch stopover at Birdsville (own expense), full commentary via headsets worn by all guests and superb window views.
By Richard O’Neill – Spirit Safaris“So hello…” I begin casually, sitting across from an old friend and mentor—John Ivering, the engineer behind one of the outback’s most iconic (yet largely unsung) infrastructure projects: the Nappa Merrie Bridge, also locally known as the Burke and Wills Bridge. John and I go way back. He was my engineering lecturer at university in the mid-1970s, and these days we often catch up over a morning swim and coffee—when I’m not out exploring the remote corners of Australia with Spirit Safaris.
The Bridge with Many Names
The bridge in question spans Cooper Creek in far southwestern Queensland, near the famous Burke and Wills Dig Tree and historic Nappa Merrie Station once owned by Sir Sidney Kidman. While we often refer to it as “John’s Bridge,” the official plaque calls it the Burke and Wills Bridge—a touch ironic, as John notes with a laugh: “Burke and Wills never had a bridge!”
The Dream and the Design
The story begins in the early 1980s when Bob Willing, an engineer and hydrology enthusiast, envisioned a route across the ever-unpredictable Cooper Creek—where water levels could shift from bone-dry to 20 kilometers wide.
“Bob was the initiator,” John explains. “He got me on board to design the bridge and together we toured the outback to persuade the shires to support the idea.”
In 1974, a major flood event provided unexpected help: NASA satellite images captured the full spread of Cooper Creek, and somehow, Bob managed to acquire over 100 of those aerial photographs. “We used a stereoscope to estimate elevation and plan a feasible route. That’s how we narrowed the site down to where the bridge now stands—where the creek is ‘only’ about 300 meters wide,” John recalls.
Designing a bridge in such a remote, flood-prone location demanded innovative thinking. The road to engineering standards didn’t run straight.
Built to Withstand Huge Floods
While John designed for about two meters of overtopping, recent floods may have exceeded even that.
Bridge Design
“The standard is to build for a one-in-100-year flood,” John says. “But out there, you get floods every year. So I suggested a submersible bridge, which was unheard of at the time. It cut the cost in half.”
The bridge’s design also had to allow for strong current flow and debris impacts, like floating trees. “We offset the footings to counteract current pressure and built the deck in three continuous sections to provide redundancy if one part took damage.”
Even the handrail was a point of debate. “We had to make it stronger than standard—while still low enough to avoid catching debris and forming a dam.”
Not Just a Bridge — A Legacy
Over the years, John’s bridge has quietly earned international attention. He once contributed a half-page description to the International Bridge Engineers Association, who promptly asked for more: “They said, ‘That’s different. Tell us everything.’”More than a piece of infrastructure, this bridge helped reopen historic stock routes once used by Kidman and the great drovers. It connected isolated communities, made life just a little easier for people of the outback, and challenged traditional engineering norms.“It might not be the biggest,” John reflects, “but it’s the most different bridge I ever built—and I’ve built about 50.”
A Touch of History Nearby
Just down the road lies the Burke and Wills Dig Tree, a symbol of tragedy and tenacity in Australian exploration history. As John notes, “There was controversy about which tree was the real one—both had ‘DIG’ carved into them—but I saw the one with regrowth around the hole. That seemed convincing to me.”
And Still Going Strong
John fondly recalls a visit years ago when he saw workers trying to remove a sunken approach slab with jackhammers. “I told them, ‘Just jack it up and pack it underneath.’ They were surprised and pleased. I told them, ‘Don’t worry—I designed it.’”
A Bridge for the People
“This bridge added something special to my CV,” John says. “Australia has been good to me, and it was nice to give something back. It’s a bridge that went against convention. And it worked.”
At Spirit Safaris, we’re proud to travel across John and Bob’s bridge on our outback adventures—especially when guiding guests to places like the Dig Tree, Lake Eyre, Innamincka, Birdsville and the Corner Country.
Floodwaters will recede, but stories like these—and the bridges that make them possible—stand the test of time.
Words: Richard O’Neill, CEO – Spirit Safaris With heartfelt thanks to John Ivering, engineer, mentor, and adventurer.
You too can see the Burke and Wills Bridge, the real Dig Tree and the amazing Lake Eyre & Cooper Creek floods – Email is for latest information here https://www.spiritsafaris.com/contact/
Here are our New Wilderness & Outback Tours for 2025 including Tasmania Wilderness Explorer, East Coast Sydney to Cairns, Arkaroola and Cameron Corner, Channel and Corner Country Alice Springs to Birdsville Innamincka Broken Hill Mungo Adelaide, Old Ghan Railway Oodnadatta Track Lake Eyre 4WD Tour – See details below…
PLUS some “Wisdom for Life’s Journey” from Eleanor Roosevelt “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.”
** To make that Easier … Here’s a Gift of Presence for You *
Your FREE ValuesAligner -from my book Creation Journeys – See HERE
NEW TOURS FOR 2025
EARLYBIRD SAVINGS OF $500 APPLY * – BOOK BY DECEMBER 31ST
Now You have a bigger range of new tours to choose from – so stay tuned and there’s more to come !
All tours are shown on the All Tours calendar here. These are tours that are currently scheduled. If not clear, Please Ask. Slide the month arrow to change months.
Extra toursand extra dates, and destinationsare available if numbers travelling and other factors enable. – Please Ask or complete the Quiz below…
You will receive better answers faster from us if you supply the answers to this quick Quiz about your tour needs like Numbers travelling, Date Range Available, Region, Duration etc Here’s the easy way to tell us – at Tour Quiz Here
Next scheduled tours are here – and we can do bespoke tours …
2025 TOURS … SAVE – $500 EACH FOR EARLYBIRD BOOKINGS BEFORE – December 31st
