Flinders Ranges wilderness tours, South Australia

Environment
Our guests have the choice of four different types of accommodation. This includes camping, bunkhouses, deluxe ensuites or eco-villas. The eco-villas have a non-invasive design to the wildlife and environment as it complements the natural surroundings. Temperatures can often be very high, so the eco-villas contain the latest environmental design features to combat this. Rendered straw bale walls- provide thermal mass that minimises temperature variation within the villas. The polish timber floors over suspended concrete slabs minimises the temperature variation in the eco-villas. The walls are shaded from the sun by using wide verandahs. Windows and doors have been positioned to allow for cooling breezes to pass through the entire building. An important cooling design feature is the racked ceilings and natural exhaust venting at the peak of the ceiling space. This provides a natural cooling efficiency.

We chose our accommodation specially as it is a natural setting and also because it is a eco-certified with the level of advanced ecotourism demonstrating a commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

The campsites are the most natural and eco-friendly accommodation available at Rawnsley Park. For the camp fires our guides collect fallen fire wood to use which prevents the destruction of natural habitats. Due to the often arid nature of the area there is an understanding of an essential minimal water usage. All water is carried in and grey water carried out.

We purchase reusable items (utensils and containers) and buy food in bulk with minimal packaging. All waste is carried out and disposed of in an appropriate manner.

Our passengers will be visiting Aboriginal art sites. Here they will be able to learn about Aboriginal spirituality and cultures reflected in the preservation of cave paintings.

Community
Our guides have broad understanding of all the issues involved and are sensitive to the indigenous perspective. These issues are present and discussed with passengers throughout the tours.

We support local businesses and communities throughout the duration of our tours, local employment and support the use of local resources. Our passengers visit local shops and of course tourist attractions. At Clare Valley our passengers may buy products such as locally made wine or local produce at its restaurants and cafes supporting the South Australian economy.

We use re-cycled paper for all our office supplies and print only when essential. Most communications are done electronically.

Our advertising brochures are printed on recycled paper. The majority of our marketing is done electronically through emails and our website. Our full itinerary is available on our website which reduces the amount of hard copy brochures.