Explorers Way: Port Augusta to Coober Pedy

PREPARE FOR AN EPIC AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE HEART OF THE OUTBACK ON THE EXPLORER'S WAY.

The breathtaking scenery of the outback is beautifully entwined with the history of South Australia along the Explorer's Way. The 3000 kilometre journey from Adelaide to Darwin takes you through the Clare Valley, one of South Australia’s famous wine regions, before making its way to the spectacular Flinders Ranges and into the outback. The vast untouched wilderness, far-reaching skies and the wide open road stretching out in front of you make this epic outback journey unlike any other in the world. We've collated all the best things to see and do along the Explorers Way, between Port Augusta and Coober Pedy. 

Download Explorers Way road trip map 

PORT AUGUSTA TO COOBER PEDY 

Anna Creek Painted Hills 

Hidden in the South Australian outback lies one of nature’s greatest and oldest masterpieces. The vast, magical landscape of Anna Creek Painted Hills is a spectacular outcrop of otherworldly, deep orange mountains that emerge from the flat desert landscape. Carved out in the red earth of the outback, it’s hard to believe this 80-million-year-old beauty is actually an extinct inland sea. Only accessible by air, jump aboard a Wrightsair tour from Coober Pedy, William Creek or Arkaroola and you'll not only see this ancient landscape from the air, but you’ll also get to land among it and explore on the ground.

Coober Pedy

Some 800 kilometres and a few playlists later, you’ll be cruising the final South Australian stretch of the Explorer’s Way road trip. Welcome to Coober Pedy, where you can sleep deeply (underground) after your epic road trip. The backdrop to many movies, the underground mining town is famous for its sun-baked lunar landscape, fascinating history and quirky lifestyle. Descend beneath the ground and discover a labyrinth of underground houses, hotels and shops. Other must-dos while in town include visiting Crocodile Harry’s Underground Nest, The Big Miner, Umoona Opal Mine and Museum and Josephine’s Gallery and Kangaroo Orphanage. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Coober Pedy, then head to bed 25 metres below the earth’s surface. From modern dugouts to hotels tucked inside hills, and campsites burrowed into the red dirt of the outback, unearth the best places to unwind underground with our guide to Coober Pedy’s best accommodation. Up above ground, head just outside of the townsite to take in yet another breath taking outback view - the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park.