Bungaree & Burra UnEarthed

Exploring South Australia’s Past with Bungaree & Burra UnEarthed

Traveling through South Australia offers a chance to step into the stories that shaped the region. The Bungaree & Burra UnEarthed tour is designed for history buffs, curious adventurers, or anyone eager to learn about early settlement and local industry. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed itineraries and traveler feedback, it promises a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local charm.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the focus on authentic sites like Bungaree Station, still run by the descendants of its original owners. Second, the visit to Burra Copper Mine provides a glimpse into Australia’s mining history, blended with sights like Mount Bryan, home of the remarkable Sir Hubert Wilkins. Third, the tour’s small group setting (up to 12 travelers) ensures a more personal experience and meaningful interaction with the guide.

One potential consideration is the price point of $139, which covers two key stops but does not include lunch. For those who enjoy a leisurely, informative day with a guided narrative, this is likely a fair value. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, cultural insights, and scenic drives rather than those seeking high-adrenaline adventures or extensive outdoor activities.

Key Points

Authentic historical sites: The tour visits Bungaree Station and Burra Copper Mine, providing genuine local stories.
Small-group experience: With a maximum of 12 travelers, expect a more intimate and engaging day.
Expert narration: The guide offers full narration, bringing the history to life—perfect for history enthusiasts.
Scenic drives and views: Travel via Spalding past the Bundaleer water channels and Mount Bryan for eye-catching scenery.
Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
No lunch included: You’ll need to budget for your own meal during the free time in Burra.

A Full Day in South Australia’s Past and Present

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of South Australia’s early settlement, its pioneering spirit, and its ongoing agricultural and mining industries. It’s an excellent choice if you want to step off the beaten path and learn about local stories that aren’t always found in guidebooks.

Starting at Bungaree Station: A Living Heritage

Your day begins at Bungaree Station, located just outside of Clare. This site is more than a historical relic—it’s still a working farm run by the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations of the Hawker family. The farm spans about 70,000 hectares, with around 100,000 Merino sheep grazing on its pastures. The layout and buildings haven’t changed much since 1841, giving visitors a real sense of stepping back in time.

Expect a two-hour guided tour that covers the station’s history, from its Aboriginal name meaning ‘My Country or Place of Deep Water’ to its development as a major sheep grazing operation. The guide’s narration is likely to include stories of the land’s significance to the indigenous people, early European settlers, and the ongoing family legacy. If you’re interested in Australian pastoral life, this is a highlight that offers both education and picturesque views.

Journey to Burra: Mining and Cultural Heritage

After Bungaree, your journey takes you toward Burra, a town famed for its copper mining history. The route passes through Spalding, known as the midpoint of the iconic Heysen and Mawson trails, and past the Bundaleer water channels—engineering marvels that played a part in South Australia’s irrigation history.

Once in Burra, you’ll get to see the Midnight Oil House, made famous by the band’s 1987 album Diesel and Dust, representing the connection between local industry and culture. You’ll also pass Mount Bryan, notable as the birthplace of Sir Hubert Wilkins, an explorer who made history by flying across both poles and pioneering polar aviation. This provides a fascinating slice of local history that often remains under the radar.

You’ll have some free time to explore the cafes and antique stores, which makes for a relaxed afternoon. This optional time allows you to soak in the town’s atmosphere, pick up souvenirs, or grab a bite before heading back.

Value and Practicalities

At $139, the tour offers a full-day experience with included entry fees to Bungaree Station and the Burra Copper Mine. The inclusion of transportation, narration, and the small group size makes it a compelling value for those interested in South Australia’s history and scenery.

However, lunch is not included, so you may want to bring a snack or plan to eat in Burra. The tour starts at 9:00 am and lasts approximately eight hours, giving you ample time to absorb the sites without feeling rushed.

The pickup service adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in or near Clare. The tour is designed to cater to most travelers, with accessible options for service animals and a maximum group size of 12, ensuring a personalized experience.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience suits those who enjoy learning stories behind places, touring with a knowledgeable guide, and exploring regional towns. It’s ideal for history lovers, small-group travel enthusiasts, or anyone interested in Australian rural life beyond the beaches and cities.

The combination of authentic site visits, scenic drives, and storytelling creates a well-rounded day. Given the moderate price and the inclusion of key site fees, it offers solid value for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of South Australia’s past.

The Sum Up

Bungaree & Burra UnEarthed is an authentic, thoughtfully curated day trip that combines history, scenery, and local culture. Its focus on accessible storytelling, small-group intimacy, and genuine sites makes it perfect for travelers seeking meaningful experiences away from busy tourist spots. The absence of lunch is a minor drawback, but the overall value and quality of the stops more than compensate.

If you’re curious about the roots of South Australia’s pastoral and mining industries, enjoy scenic drives with informative narration, and want a relaxed but engaging full-day adventure, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited to those who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences and personalized attention.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup, making it easy to start your day without worrying about arranging transport.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, receiving a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed, but specific age restrictions are not detailed.

How long is the total tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding back at the meeting point.

What sites will I visit? You’ll explore Bungaree Station with its pastoral history and the Burra Copper Mine, along with scenic drives past notable landmarks like Mount Bryan.

Is food included? No, lunch is at your own expense, so plan ahead for a meal during your free time in Burra.

Overall, this tour offers a fascinating window into South Australia’s rural past, perfect for those with a keen interest in history and local stories. Its small-group setting ensures a personable experience, making it a memorable addition to your Australian itinerary.