Crossing the Nullarbor in a campervan is a must-do for any adventurous traveler seeking to explore the vast and beautiful Australian outback. This epic journey spans over 1,100 kilometers and offers breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of your trip, including must-see attractions, tips, and important information.
(Source - Australian Traveller)
First things first, let’s talk about the route. The Nullarbor Plain is a flat, arid area that spans across the southern part of Australia, from Norseman in Western Australia to Ceduna in South Australia. To cross the Nullarbor, you’ll need to take the Eyre Highway, which runs for 1,675 kilometers from Perth to Adelaide. The journey can take anywhere from 2 to 5 days depending on how often you stop and how much you explore along the way.
The best way to experience the Nullarbor is by renting a campervan, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace and to camp in some of the most spectacular locations. Now, let’s get to the good stuff - the must-see attractions along the way. The Nullarbor is home to some of the most unique and beautiful landscapes in Australia, and there are plenty of places to stop and explore. Here are a few highlights:
The Great Australian Bight
One of the must-see attractions on the Nullarbor Plain is the Great Australian Bight, which stretches for over 1000km along the southern coast of Australia. This incredible coastline is home to stunning cliff formations, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the coast, stop at one of the many lookout points to take in the views, or even go whale watching.
Great Australian Bight (Source - Mamamia)
The Nullarbor Links Golf Course
The Nullarbor Links Golf Course is the world's longest golf course, stretching over 1365km from Ceduna in South Australia to Kalgoorlie in Western Australia. The course comprises 18 holes, with each hole located at a different town or roadhouse along the Eyre Highway. Even if you're not an avid golfer, this unique attraction is worth a visit for its sheer novelty value.
The Bunda Cliffs
The Bunda Cliffs are a series of spectacular limestone cliffs that run along the southern coast of the Nullarbor Plain. These cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean and are an excellent spot for whale watching during the winter months. There are also several lookout points along the Eyre Highway that offer stunning views of the cliffs and surrounding landscape.
The Nullarbor Roadhouse
The Nullarbor Roadhouse is a popular stop for travelers crossing the Nullarbor Plain. It offers a range of services, including fuel, food, and accommodation, making it a convenient place to refuel and rest. The roadhouse also has a resident population of kangaroos, which are often seen grazing on the surrounding grasslands.
The Big Galah
The Big Galah is a popular roadside attraction that you won’t want to miss. This giant statue of a pink and grey galah bird stands 8 meters tall and is located in the town of Kimba, South Australia. It’s a great spot to take some fun photos and stretch your legs after hours of driving.
Caves at Eucla
The Caves at Eucla are an impressive sight to behold. These ancient limestone caves have been formed over thousands of years and are located just east of the Western Australia-South Australia border. The caves are accessible by a wooden boardwalk, which takes you through the different chambers and showcases the stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Caves at Eucla (Source - Scoop)
Tips and Advice
Plan Your Route and Stops in Advance
Crossing the Nullarbor Plain is a long journey, and it's important to plan your route and stops in advance to ensure that you have enough time to see everything you want to see. It's also a good idea to book accommodation in advance, as there are limited options along the way.
Stock Up on Supplies
It's essential to stock up on supplies before crossing the Nullarbor, as there are long stretches of road without any towns or petrol stations. Make sure you have enough food, water, and fuel to last the journey, and consider carrying spare tires, tools, first aid kits, and other emergency supplies. Preparation is key to any road trip in the Australian outback, especially due to its remoteness.
Be Prepared for the Climate
The Nullarbor Plain has a harsh climate, with extreme temperatures and little rainfall. It's important to be prepared for the conditions, with suitable clothing and equipment for both hot and cold weather. It's also important to carry plenty of water and stay hydrated, particularly during the summer months.
Watch Out for Wildlife
The Nullarbor Plain is home to a range of unique wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and dingoes. It's important to watch out for these animals on the road, particularly at dawn and dusk when they are most active. It's also important to drive carefully and observe the speed limit, as there are often long stretches of straight road that can be tempting to speed on.
Petrol
An essential supply to keep in mind is petrol. The Nullarbor is known for its long stretches of road with no petrol stations, so make sure to fill up whenever you can. It’s a good idea to carry extra fuel in jerry cans, just in case. You can plan your petrol stops by using a fuel app or website, such as Fuel Map Australia, which shows you petrol stations and fuel prices along your route.
Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223
20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013
Phone: 1800 216 223
440 Sheridan Street, Cairns,
Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223
273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg,
Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223
23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah,
Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223
