Flinders Ranges named one of the world's best places to visit

Find out why Explore Travel, an outdoor lifestyle publication with a monthly reach of 4.6 million people, has included the Flinders Ranges in their list of must-see travel destinations.

Ancient wonders and international appeal

Located 500km north of Adelaide, Nilpena Ediacara National Park boasts the world’s richest repository of Ediacaran fossils.

These fossils have drawn the attention of researchers, paleontologists, conservationists, including NASA and Sir David Attenborough.

Notably, this national park plays a pivotal role in the Flinders Ranges' World Heritage listing bid.

Immersive experiences

The park offers a range of experiences, from guided fossil exploration tours to a ground-breaking audio-visual journey that takes you back in time to the earlier evidence of life on our planet. This state-of-the-art exhibit, housed in the refurbished Blacksmith’s Shop, includes 3D animations depicting ancient Ediacaran life forms projected directly onto a 550-million-year-old fossil bed.

Researcher’s paradise

Nilpena is an active research site and being able to observe and understand what is happening is all part of the national park's new fossil experience.

During a visit to the park, it’s very likely that you’ll be witnessing ground-breaking research happening. One such project, funded by NASA’s Exobiology Program, is currently underway at Nilpena and aims to validate computer algorithms that examine fossil evidence and match what has been discovered in Nilpena’s ancient seafloor.

Planning your visit

Please note that as this site is of huge international significance and to ensure that it’s protected, you’ll only be able to visit by booking a guided tour. Tours run twice a week (Wednesday and Saturday) and will allow you to explore the ancient world of the Ediacaran period.

There are no overnight facilities or areas to freely undertake recreation.

When to visit

Since its opening in early 2023, Nilpena has become a popular tourist destination and we encourage you to book a tour well in advance.

Nilpena Ediacara National Park is closed from 1 December to 15 March each year.

Start planning your visit to Ikara-Flinders Rangers National Park and Nilpena Ediacara National Park.

Keen on camping in the Flinders Ranges? Your guide to camping at the Flinders Rangers National Parkhas helpful tips to help you prepare.

Find out Why visiting Nilpena Ediacara National Park should be on your bucket listand discover Nilpena: A land of wonders and connection for Traditional Owners.

Image credit: Sandpit