Dark Sky Gold Stars Sunset Dinner
- Duration: 6 Hours (approx.)
- Location: Mannum, SA
- Product code: GOLD SKY
Discover an enchanting journey in the heart of Australia's very first International Dark Sky Reserve.
Our Sunset Tour introduces you to one of the darkest places on earth with virtually no light pollution. Recordings of the Reserve regularly measure an average of 21.9 on a scale of 0 to 22. About 300 stars can typically be seen in Southern Hemisphere urban areas, where an estimated 5000 can be seen here, including a better view of the centre of the galaxy (the Milky Way) !
Cross the 3rd longest navigable River in the world on a ferry. Marvel at ancient cliffs, and take in the sights from incredible vantage points. This region has the tallest cliffs and the longest single bend along the entire length of the Murray River. Your tour meanders along the roadside path parallel to the River, amongst rolling hills and flat plains of a farming district with it's own story to tell. You'll see popular nesting grounds for cockatoos, and plentiful wildlife. We'll introduce you to the human stars of the region, explain the fabric of the society, and why it's so Dark here.
Tour includes *
· Tour of the night sky by an astronomer
· Use of provided telescope under red light to view the night sky
· Main meal at Pretoria Hotel, Swan Reach Hotel or Walker Flat
· MV Dragonfly Murray River Boat Eco-Cruise on board 16 seat flat bottomed boat
· Luxury travel in small group tour vehicle/s from Mannum to the Reserve area and return
· Insightful and light-hearted commentary by a local tour guide about locations enroute
· Fully enclosed trailer for transporting equipment and luggage upon request
* Itineraries are subject to change dependent on availability, minimum numbers and weather.
* Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Tour no longer included - refer to 'Please Note' section below
Murray River Eco Cruise Discover the beauty of Australia’s longest river. Relax and soak-up the serenity as you gently cruise away from your normal life. Your slow journey allows you to discover this unique Australian landscape. Enjoy expert commentary about the abundant birdlife and nature at its best on board the MV Dragonfly.
Swan Reach Hotel is a very peaceful location perched on top of golden cliffs with sweeping views of the mighty Murray River. Indulge in a hearty, traditional Aussie pub meal from this prominent location, just 10kms from the Swan Reach Conservation Park – the core site of the internationally accredited River Murray Dark Sky Reserve. Pretoria Hotel is equally enchanting with river views and excellent meals and is often visited on our tours.
Stargazing Session - you will have use of provided red torch lights and amazing viewing through a powerful telescope. Our astronomer will guide you through the night sky providing constant commentary about stars, constellations, planets, clusters and galaxies. The views are sure take your breath away.
Tag-along Option - join us on the tour in your own vehicle from Mannum or Swan Reach to the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve area and return. At checkout, please specify Swan Reach or Mannum so that we can communicate availability and locations. Please note: our tour vehicle must have reached a minimum of 6 people to depart before the Tag-along option is available.
PLEASE CLICK TO READ each of these headings below prior to booking:
*Please Note:
PENDING: once you book, if your order is returned as Pending, this means the tour has not reached minimum numbers. Once others book, our system will automatically send you an email with confirmation. Please wait for this before booking accommodation. If you do not receive confirmation 1 week prior to your tour, please contact our office preferrably via Email: hello@jugglehouse.com.au or Ph: 0480 043 778 to seek the possibility of an alternate date or refund.
GIFT CARDS: are valid for booking strictly 12 months from time of purchase. Please inform your gifted recipient to book as soon as possible without delay.
CHILDREN: We love children! Please note however, this Dark Sky Experience is quite a duration, and a late night return. Children of young ages may find the tour difficult to follow. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult, mindful of the enjoyment of other guests during the tour.
PRICE / AGES DESCRIPTION: Child 3-16 years, Adult 16 & over, Infant: 2 years and under (travel free but must be advised at time of booking and your own car seat must be supplied) No concession price.
WINTER HOURS: during the darkness of winter, the Murray River Eco Cruise may be reduced, cancelled or an alternate activity sought.
THIRD PARTY BOOKING PLATFORMS: itineraries and details listed here on Juggle House Experiences River Murray Dark Sky Tours supercedes any documentation listed on third party platforms such as Red Balloon, Klook, Viator / Tripadvisor.
NGAUT NGAUT ABORIGINAL TOURS: Unfortunately the Dark Sky tour itinerary no longer includes Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park. For direct booking enquiries please try contacting Mannum Aboriginal Community Association Incorporated (MACAI) Ph: 0475 914 632 or Email: macai-committee@outlook.com
Photo credits: Ben Goode (Cover Photo & Big Bend Cliffs Photo) & Dave Hartley Photography, Mannum
