Record breaking rainfall across Australia’s interior is flowing toward South Australia, setting the stage for another extraordinary flood year at Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre. In response to these rare conditions, Journey Beyond’s premium smallgroup tour operator Outback Spirit has announced that bookings are now open for a 2026 tour season, offering travellers the chance to witness one of the nation’s most remarkable natural spectacles.
Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre is one of Australia’s great outback enigmas, the country’s largest salt lake and the 13th largest in the world. When in flood, the normally arid landscape transforms as rivers, channels and floodplains converge within Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre National Park, igniting the desert with colour and life. Vast expanses of water attract prolific birdlife, creating a spectacle often likened to a living Albert Namatjira painting.
Following record rainfall, inflows are moving steadily toward the lake, with forecasts indicating that water levels could surpass previous major flood events. Experts suggest Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre may reach full capacity for the first time in decades and only the fourth time in its recorded 160year history making this a truly once in a generation event.
Alicia Triggs, Executive General Manager, Sales and Partnerships at Journey Beyond says, “Lake Eyre is always unpredictable you never truly know when it will be a flooding year. We were fortunate last year to witness fantastic water levels, and 2026 is already proving even more remarkable. It presents a truly exceptional opportunity for travellers, and we’re proud to offer guests a frontrow seat to this extraordinary natural phenomenon.
Now is the time to witness this natural spectacle, with a brand new Outback Spirit itinerary. “Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre is best experienced from a bird’seye perspective, and with a limited season and departure dates available, we encourage agents to secure places early. Previous special flood seasons have sold out quickly.” Triggs added.
“Words can’t describe how beautiful Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre really is during flood years. We’re thrilled to be able to once again share this breathtaking spectacle this year,” says Cesar Piotto, Journey Beyond Executive General Manager Touring. “Flooding usually occurs only once every three years, making it remarkable to see water levels surpass those of previous major flood years so soon after the last season.
Now is the moment to seize the rare opportunity to experience this waterfilled wonderland in flood in 2026.” Piotto added.
Launched for this season, the brand new Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre and Flinders Ranges (Adelaide–Adelaide) tour is a seven day, all inclusive small group journey, created in response to this year’s conditions. Travelling aboard a five star all terrain Mercedes Benz coach, the experience has been meticulously crafted to showcase the spectacle in its prime, offering enhanced access from both the ground and the air including a guided walk into the magnificent Wilpena Poud. The itinerary delivers exceptional access, combining remote outback exploration, carefully timed scenic flights, and expert guides.
Tour highlights include:
The 7-day Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre and Flinders Ranges all-inclusive tour is priced from $6,490pp* twin share with 13 departures on 18, 26 May, 3, 11, 19, 26 June, 4, 12, 20, 28 July and 5, 15, 23 August 2026. *Terms & Conditions apply.
Don’t miss out on this rare once in a lifetime opportunity. To learn more about Outback Spirit and Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre and Flinders Ranges, or to book your experience, visit www.outbackspirittours.com
Images | https://journeybeyond.canto.global/b/NQ493
