FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions – General
Ancient Land Tours offers personalised, small-group experiences in some of Australia’s most remote and remarkable landscapes. Our tours are led by local expert Dr Steve Milner, combining natural history, wildlife, geology, caves, conservation, and authentic outback travel with a strong commitment to sustainability and minimal impact exploration.
We specialise in the Far West of South Australia, including the Nullarbor Plain, Great Australian Bight, Yalata region, remote conservation reserves, and other seldom-visited outback locations. We also explore as far as the Gawler Ranges and the Flinders Ranges.
Yes. Many of our guests are experienced travellers who value discovery, learning, and authentic outback experiences over fast-paced adventure tourism. A reasonable level of mobility is required, but most activities are designed to be enjoyable rather than physically demanding.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but some tours involve walking on uneven ground, climbing small inclines, and spending extended periods in remote environments. We are happy to discuss the suitability of a tour before you book.
Most multi-day adventures involve camping in carefully selected remote locations. Depending on the itinerary, some tours may also include station stays, cabins, motels, roadhouses, or other accommodation options.
A detailed packing list is provided before departure. Generally, you will need comfortable outdoor clothing, hat, sturdy footwear, sun protection, favourite insect repellent, personal medications, and a sense of adventure. Also, a handy pack for water and other items.
This varies between tours. Some itineraries include equipment, while others require participants to bring their own such as sleeping bags. We will clearly advise what is included when you book.
Most tours include meals as specified in the itinerary. We aim to showcase quality South Australian produce wherever possible and provide wholesome meals suited to remote travel.
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and many other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Facilities vary depending on location. Some remote places have limited or no facilities and we use roadhouses when applicable. We will advise you of the expected conditions before departure.
We focus on private tours for two, or small groups ranging in size from 4 to 10 persons to ensure a more personal experience, greater flexibility, and minimal environmental impact.
Absolutely. Many guests choose private tours tailored to their interests, whether wildlife, photography, geology, caves, wildflowers, history, or simply experiencing the vast landscapes of the Nullarbor and the Far West of SA.
Our tours are designed primarily for adults, but we can tailor tours for families. Please contact us to discuss the most appropriate option.
Simply contact us through the website or directly by phone or email. We will discuss your interests, confirm availability, and guide you through the booking process.
Cancellation terms vary according to how close to departure you cancel. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance. Full details are available in our Booking and Tour Conditions.
Remote travel can be influenced by weather and road conditions. While we always aim to deliver the advertised experience, itineraries may occasionally be adjusted to ensure safety and provide the best possible experience.
While encounters with wildlife is anticipated as an integral part of the tour, there are no guarantees on the day; however, we will do our best to responsibly find and observe animals in their natural environment.
Yes. We travel through the traditional lands of several Aboriginal peoples and acknowledge their enduring connection to Country. We encourage respectful travel and support opportunities for guests to engage with Aboriginal-owned businesses and experiences where appropriate.
Some tours may involve Aboriginal guides, artists, cultural practitioners, or businesses. Where these opportunities exist, we seek to ensure tourism delivers benefits to local communities.
Definitely. Photography is encouraged, and many guests join us specifically to capture landscapes, wildlife, caves, wildflowers, and outback scenery.
No. Drone use is generally not permitted on our tours due to safety, privacy, cultural, environmental, and regulatory considerations.
Yes. Sustainability is central to our operations. We follow minimal-impact travel practices, support local businesses where possible, and encourage a deeper appreciation of the landscapes and ecosystems we visit.
Yes. We regularly develop customised itineraries for photographers, natural history groups, educational organisations, clubs, and special-interest travellers.
Scientific Research & Field Support FAQ
We assist researchers, government agencies, consultants, universities, documentary makers, and expedition teams with logistics, transport, remote-area operations, safety management, and local expertise.
Yes. We specialise in remote and difficult-to-access environments across the Nullarbor and Far West South Australia, including locations that require specialist planning and logistics.
Yes. We can provide location scouting, local knowledge, field logistics, transport, risk management, and on-ground support for documentary, commercial, and media productions.
Yes. Our experience includes support for research in ecology, geology, karst and cave systems, archaeology, palaeontology, entomology, mapping, and environmental assessment.
Where appropriate, we can assist clients in understanding permit requirements and connecting with relevant stakeholders, land managers, and local service providers.
Steve has expeditionary experience leading caving expeditions to places as far afield as Europe, Scandinavia, Central America, Asia, and Australia. His specialties include cave exploration, cave surveying, cave photography, environmental care, and vertical caving.
Andrew is a keen outdoorsman with a passion for exploration, education, safety, and expedition leadership. Andrew is president of the Australian Speleological Federation, Australia’s national caving body, He is certified in Wilderness First Aid and holds nationally recognized guiding qualifications in climbing, snorkelling / SCUBA diving, surfing, kayaking, and bushwalking.