Our 4WD adventure begins at sunrise as we follow the Old Ghan railway route south to the historic landmark of Chambers Pillar. On the way, we explore the ancient and sacred Ewaninga rock carvings which the local Arrente Aboriginal people have been visiting for thousands of years. Learn about the cultural significance of these astonishing petroglyphs over a sumptuous European-style morning tea. Choose from a selection of home-made buns, fresh fruit, yogurt, teas, and Italian brewed coffee.Â
Next, we visit the remote Aboriginal community of Titjikala and its renowned art centre. This is a rare opportunity to purchase an authentic piece of Central Australian Aboriginal art without paying gallery prices*.
From there we follow in the footsteps of the early explorers, crossing the sands of the dry Hugh River, and ascending to a stunning lookout atop the Charlotte Range, from which the vast Simpson Desert and the distant Chambers Pillar come into view.Â
We travel the same red, sandy track the great John McDouall Stuart took more than 150 years before, passing through country that is still some of the driest, most remote wilderness on the continent, emerging amid the giant natural sandstone sculptures of the Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve.Â
You can choose to walk around and/or up to the base of this astonishing natural wonder. Either way, your guide will explain the geology of this amazing landscape, taking you back to when all this prehistoric countryside was under the sea, as well as relating the ancient Aboriginal Dreamtime stories that created these magnificent structures.Â
After your walk around and up to Chambers Pillar and around Castel Rock, relax and enjoy a gourmet lunch, prepared on-site by your guide under the shade of the majestic desert oaks, in this beautiful wilderness reserve.Â
In the afternoon we then return to Alice where your guide will take you to your accommodation after an unforgettable day in Australia’s Outback.Â
*Subject to Titjikala Art Centre opening days/hours.
