Transport & Hire in South Australia

By Car

If you're looking for the freedom to explore South Australia at your own pace, the best option for you is hiring or driving your own vehicle.

South Australia is connected with a network of well maintained roads, making it possible to reach even the most remote corners of the state. While roads between regional centres are generally sealed, you'll find many unsealed roads if you're planning to explore remote regional areas. If you're planning to travel further afield, consider whether you need a four-wheel drive. 

Road conditions change rapidly, especially in outback areas. Visit our alerts page before setting off to monitor conditions and make sure to carry ample supplies. Remember, distances can be significant, so plan your journeys accordingly, take regular breaks and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.  

Hiring a car is straightforward, with numerous rental agencies available at Adelaide Airport and throughout major towns.

By Air

There are two airlines that travel within South Australia commercially: Rex and Qantas. 

At the time of writing, Qantas operates routes from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, Whyalla, Mount Gambier and Port Lincoln, while Rex flies to Coober Pedy, Ceduna, Port Lincoln and Mount Gambier. Please note, flight routes and availability are subject to change. For up-to-date flight information please consult the airline's website.

Looking for domestic or international flights to South Australia? Head to our fly to Adelaide page for more information.

Private flights

There are a number of private operators offering everything from scenic flights to private charters.

Platinum Aircraft Charter is based in Adelaide and provides aviation services all over Australia, Chinta Air Tours specialise in scenic flights and air tours throughout South Australia and the Australian Outback, Airtours offers authentic experiences alongside travel between destinations and Air Adventure Australia organises air safaris for those who want to get off the beaten track with an expert guide.

By Boat

Less than two hours drive from Adelaide, the SeaLink ferry can transport you and your car across to Kangaroo Island. There are scheduled departures each day with extra services during peak times. 

If you are travelling to the state's west, you can take the Spencer Gulf Searoad vehicle and passenger ferry to connect you from the Yorke Peninsula to the Eyre Peninsula. The ferry cuts between the two peninsula's and saves saves a long drive around the Gulf, departing Wallaroo on the Yorke Peninsula and arriving at Lucky Bay on the Eyre. While the ferry schedule varies seasonally, there is usually one ferry a day operating for travellers. Fares range from $36 for walk on adult passengers and $165 dollars for a vehicle - with additional fees for caravans and motor homes. 

Another popular way to explore South Australia is to slowly meander down the Murray River on a houseboat. With a drivers licence being all you need to take the helm and many different houseboats available to rent or charter, it's one of the best ways to explore the Murray River Lakes and Coorong and Riverland regions. 

By Coach

All interstate and regional coaches arrive and depart from the Central Bus Station at 85 Franklin Street in Adelaide's CBD. 

Greyhound Coaches has connections to Adelaide from most major Australian cities, and is a great option for those travelling north to outback South Australia. 

LinkSA operates routes in and out of Adelaide, as well as a number of routes between regional centres in the Adelaide Hills, the Riverland, the Barossa Valley and the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Sealink runs coaches to and from the Cape Jervis ferry terminal, connecting with the ferry to Kangaroo Island. As well as operating this ferry, Sealink also offers tours to a range of regional South Australian destinations.

Stateliner coach routes connect Adelaide with major regional centres like Renmark in the Riverland, Mount Gambier on the Limestone Coast and Ceduna or Port Lincoln on the Eyre Peninsula. These routes pass through most regions and towns in South Australia, and are a great way to explore the far-flung corners of the state.

Peninsula Coaches service the Yorke Peninsula and the Copper Coast, with new routes operating between Adelaide, Port Lincoln and Kangaroo island.

By Caravan

Much like exploring by car, caravanning or campervanning offers the freedom and flexibility to explore South Australia at your own pace. But having your accommodation on wheels also gives you opportunity to experience a side of South Australia that's rarely seen by travellers; think waking up to private coastal vistas, the quiet serenity of the outback or ancient limestone cliffs glowing at sunrise. 

There's no doubt that caravanning or campervanning in South Australia is a magical experience – however, it's important to be prepared. 

While South Australia boasts many excellent campgrounds with amenities like showers, toilets, and power, remote areas may have limited facilities. If you're planning to sleep in more remote locations, make sure you have enough water with you for an overnight stay. Dump points for grey and black water are available at many caravan parks, rest areas, and some towns. 

Planning your route in advance is recommended, especially in remote areas. Make sure to check weather conditions and road closures, and remember that many caravans and campervans will not be suitable for off-road driving