Arkaba
Flinders ranges, south australia
Arkaba
Eco Lodges
since january 2018
Arkaba’s beautifully restored 1850’s homestead, welcoming just ten guests at a time, is surrounded by 60,000 acres of privately-owned and carefully protected outback. Nestled within the Flinders Ranges, a five-hour drive from Adelaide, the unusual blend of semi-arid and temperate habitats supports 1,200 species of plants and nearly 300 species of birds.
Against the dramatic backdrop of the Elders Range and Wilpena Pound, ancient sea beds and arid salt lakes have given way to spectacular rock formations, cypress pines and river red gums; this is an ancient landscape where kangaroo mobs, emus and colonies of the near-endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby are once again increasing in number to roam free.
“Arkaba” in the local indigenous dialect means land of abundance. For over ten years Arkaba’s focus has been to reverse the detrimental effects of livestock-grazing by regenerating habitats and welcoming back native species. Environmental awareness and conservation are integral to the Wild Bush Luxury guest experience.
CONSERVATION
Arkaba works with the Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC), Australia’s leading conservation group, both in learning techniques to apply to conservation programs and in helping channel donations to the AWC.
As a private wildlife conservancy, Arkaba endeavours to put in place successful conservation programs across the property, focusing primarily on feral species eradication and reversing the effects of years of livestock grazing. The removal of feral herbivores and predators from the landscape has had a marked impact on native wildlife.
COMMUNITY
Committed to source as much of its produce and services as is possible from the local community and to more broadly use South Australian products.
CULTURE
The five-bedroom heritage homestead was built in 1856 and retains its original Flinders region settler lines.
Works with Pauline Mackenzie, a local Adnamatna elder who still speaks the Adnamatna language fluently, tells her story to guests and provide them with an immersive experience into Arkaba’s history and culture, provides a glimpse into Australia’s Aboriginal history and the issues that confront Aboriginal society today.
COMMERCE
Arkaba’s primary business is in tourism and this alone allows its conservation mission to be undertaken in a symbiotic relationship. The wildlife and natural experience for guests is being continually improved due to the conservation work carried out on the property and the funds guests provide enable the commitments (both financial and in-kind) that Arkaba is making to its environment.
Arkaba’s Highlights
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Guestrooms. Relax in a stylish rugged oasis in the original layout of 1850s’ homestead has been retained, delightfully making all of the five guestrooms unique.Rooms are named after one of the surrounding mountain ranges and each room has a distinct character feel about them. Arkaba is proudly without wifi, telephones, televisions, minibars or any of the typical features of a hotel to distract, the focus is on the experience and one of the most beautiful properties in Australia.
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Dining. Arkaba has adopted a ‘buy local’ principle and our head chef uses the very best of South Australia’s produce to craft the food program with a few native elements to add a unique intrigue and interest.
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Bush Camps. The Arkaba Walk is inclusive of two nights camping in deluxe swags on one of our signature star beds. Located in some of the most scenic spots on the private 63,000 acre Arkaba property, our walking bush camps have been built to blend as seamlessly as possible with the surrounding environment, while providing you with stunning views from every corner.
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Wildlife conservation at Arkaba’s private conservancy is an ever-changing and ever-improving endeavour which has immensely enhanced the wilderness experience. Exploring the natural environment of the Flinders Ranges is a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Whether you’re hiking on the guided Arkaba Walk, or enjoying safari drives, you’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the region’s remarkable biodiversity and the delicate balance of life in this unique landscape.
