The region of the Flinders Ranges and Outback South Australia covers the area starting 200km north of Adelaide at Crystal Brook and extends to the state's borders in the north, east and west. The Flinders Ranges is a majestic mountain range stretching for 300km and offering experiences of the outdoor variety. The area is noted for its scenic beauty, unique flora and fauna, fascinating geology and heritage. Outback SA is a vast region noted for its harsh environment. Despite the vastness the region offers a diverse range of experiences coupled with the stark beauty of its sandy and stony deserts, salt lakes and arid wetlands.

The vegetation and wildlife of the Flinders Ranges is quite varied. South Australia's floral emblem the Sturt Desert Pea is commonly found, as are magnificent River Red Gum tees. Much of the area is National Park, and the extensive area of rolling hills of the Flinders Ranges National Park is home to numerous Red Kangaroo, Emus and Galahs.

Wilpena Pound, 430 km north of Adelaide was formed by rugged mountains. It's inner walls and cliffs are clothed in vegetation and the area has an abundance of wildlife and bushwalking tracks.

There are three major deserts in South Australia's northern Outback area, Sturt's Stony Desert, the Simpson Desert and the Great Victorian Desert. Scattered throughout the Outback are vast dry salt lakes of enormous size, the largest being Lake Eyre. Unprecedented rains have now transformed this dry bed into a massive inland sea.

The discovery of opal in the Outback resulted in the establishment of mining towns; most notably Coober Pedy, the largest opal-mining town in Australia. Situated on the Sturt Range, Coober Pedy is known to the world for the unusual underground lifestyle its inhabitants have adopted. Visitors can stay in a choice of underground accommodation and eat in underground restaurants.

South Australia enjoys hot dry summers with relatively mild nights and cool winters, with most rainfall occurring during May to August. Adelaide's average daily maximum temperature in January is 29ºC, and in July 15ºC. South Australia is the driest of the Australian States and Territories. Its average annual rainfall is 528 mm, but just over 80 per cent of the State receives an average of less than 250 mm of rain a year.

Adelaide boasts a Mediterranean climate, perfect for enjoying the great Australian outdoors. Warm and temperate with long hot summers and short mild winters, with low rainfall. The average temperature ranges from 15°C (58°F) in July, to 29°C (84°F) in January. One of the hottest places in the area in summer is Coober Pedy, 863km (536 miles) northwest of Adelaide, reaching temperatures of up to 45°C (113°F).