Exceptional rains in Northern South Australia and Western Queensland mean that inland lakes are filling and desert rivers are running. Therefore the Bush Safari Company is once again offering some of the worlds most exciting and unique adventure safaris. Since 1972 Rex Ellis has run many boat safaris throughout inland Australia, and many of these have been written up in his latest book, Boats in the Desert.

The parties are small, consisting of  3 - 10 people in two or three boats. We use heavy duty stacer flared bowed flat bottom punts. They are fitted with canvas canopies and comfortable padded seats with back rests. It is possible to stand up while traveling. No matter how hot the weather it is always cool on the water, and camps are usually had under the deep shade of Coolibah trees next to the river. A lot of time is spent swimming. All this is important, as these trips are often carried out in mid summer. Nature is our main focus, but there is much of general interest to be had.

We enjoy some of the most idyllic and scenic camps possible, with prolific bird life the dominating feature. If they are biting we eat the tastiest freshwater fish in the world (yellow belly & black bream). Dingoes often trot next to the boats on shore, and sometimes swim across the river in front of us.

The 4WD segments getting to and back from the rivers or lakes, are excellent value, and packed with interest. Travel in big roomy air conditioned OKA 4WD. The best of food and wine, and great camaraderie are assured. Cosy swags with built in mossy nets or tents & domes are supplied.

This Trip
Departures for Warburton River – Lake Eyre Safaris

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DARLING RIVER BOAT SAFARIS 10 Days Ex. Wentworth ( NSW) $2,200

Big rains in the River Darling catchment in late 2009 and 2010 have resulted in a flooding Darling River.
Bush Safari Co intend operating several boat safaris in the Darling during the early part of 2010, along different sections of the river. In March 2008 we operated a boat safari from the start of the Darling (Barwon/Culgoa junction) down to Bourke, but this is a much bigger flood.

The Darling is Australia’s longest river. It runs in a deep bed, taking a very meandering course. River Red Gums, Black Box and River Coober and the principal larger trees lining its banks. Its course is through semi desert country, passing through numerous sheep stations. Many of the homesteads overlook the river.

• The wildlife is abundant both on and off the river, as the surrounding country has also experienced good rains.
• Prolific birdlife is ever present. As well as kangaroo and wallaby, there are also feral animals such as wild pig and goat.
• Each bend provides a new riverscape, the enormous gnarled River Red Gums a constant delight.
• We fish for Yellowbelly Callop and Black Bream.
• The idyllic camps on the high banks overlooking the river are a big part of this trip.
• Camp in cosy swags inside insect domes.