Your essential guide to visiting the Nullarbor

Stretching across the Eyre and Far West of South Australia, the Nullarbor offers a true wilderness experience. About 1000 km west of Adelaide and 1500 km east of Perth, it’s the world’s largest limestone plain, covering 270,000 square km. Just a 3-hour drive west of Ceduna, this vast area is nearly the size of Victoria or twice the size of Kangaroo Island, offering a true wilderness experience.

Before you go, we’ve spoken to the local rangers and compiled their top tips to ensure you make the most of your visit (and stay safe).

Why Visit the Nullarbor?

The Nullar­bor is the Tra­di­tion­al Lands of the Mirn­ing Abo­rig­i­nal Peo­ple who have deep cultural ties to the land.

Visitors to the Nullarbor are captivated by its open spaces, peace, and quiet. The lack of crowds allows for an escape where the big, wide-open skies offer spectacular stargazing opportunities. The region boasts cliffs over 120 metres high along the Great Australian Bight, providing breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes. To the West, you'll find pristine beaches and impressive escarpments.

Adventurous explorers can discover the Murrawijinnie Caves, which are open to the public, and the National Heritage Listed Koonalda Cave, known for its archaeological significance. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by sightings of dingoes, wombats, whales, dolphins, and even sharks in the surrounding waters.

Things to Do

1. Be Prepared: When exploring the Nullarbor, it’s important to let someone know your plans, carry sufficient food and water, and ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for the journey.
2. Visit Clifftop Lookouts: There are three designated clifftop lookouts offering safe and spectacular views of the Bunda Cliffs and the vast Southern Ocean and Far West Coast Marine Park.
3. Explore Murrawijinnie Caves: Open to the public, these caves of high cultural value offer a fascinating glimpse into the underground landscapes of the Nullarbor.
4. Whale Watching: From May to October, the Far West Coast Marine Park becomes a nursery for migrating Southern Right Whales, providing a unique opportunity to view these majestic creatures up close
5. Koonalda Homestead and Cave: Visit this historic homestead and cave to learn about the region’s cultural and historic pastoral significance.
6. Best Time to Visit: Winter months (that’s now!) are ideal for exploring the Nullarbor, with cooler temperatures making the experience more comfortable.

Things to Consider

1. Don’t drive or camp along the Bunda Cliffs: Only approach the clifftop via one of the three designated safe viewing areas, as cliff collapses are common and unpredictable across the Bunda Cliffs. The lookouts provide some of the best viewing opportunities looking either East or West along the cliffs.
2. Stick to Tracks: Don’t drive down a track unless there’s a sign directing it’s safe to do so. Don’t create new tracks, while rugged, Nullarbor is fragile and susceptible to erosion.
3. Follow Signage: Adhere to all signage to stay safe and informed.
4. Avoid Risky Photos: Don’t risk your life for that perfect Instagram photo – gravity doesn’t take a day off.
5. Camping Options: Currently, bush camping is only available at Koonalda Homestead within the Nullarbor WPA, ensure you book online before you arrive.

Accommodation is available at Nullarbor & Border Village Roadhouses and roadside stops offer temporary overnight locations along Eyre Highway.

Handy Tips

1. Best Time for Whale Viewing: August is the prime time for whale watching at the Head of the Bight.
2. Phone Coverage: Reliable phone coverage is limited to areas near the Nullarbor and Border Village Roadhouses.
3. Wildlife Sightings: Early morning and early evening are the best times to spot wild animals
4. Road Conditions: 4WD roads can be rough, and if they are wet, it's best to avoid them. High-clearance vehicles provide added peace of mind.

Exploring the Nullarbor Wilderness Protection Area and the Far West Coast Marine Park is a journey into one of Australia’s most remote and awe-inspiring regions. Enjoy the solitude and natural beauty while respecting the land and its cultural heritage.

For more information on planning your trip, visit parks.sa.gov.au.

Park of the Month

Throughout August, we’re celebrating Parks of the Far West and have a range of resources and activities for you to enjoy, find out more on the Park of the Month webpage.