Image: SATC Media Gallery
Day 1
Adelaide to Port Augusta
Distance 310km - Driving Time 3.5 hours
Begin your adventure at the Britz Adelaide branch, where you’ll pick up your fully equipped 4WD. Head north through the picturesque Clare Valley, famous for its rolling vineyards and world-class wines, this is a great spot to enjoy a gourmet lunch or pick up supplies. Continue your drive to Port Augusta, a coastal town and the gateway to the outback. Visit the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden for a taste of the desert flora. top at Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest winery in the region, or take a short walk along the Riesling Trail. Upon reaching Port Augusta, visit the Wadlata Outback Centre to learn about the region’s history and Aboriginal culture. Don’t miss the Water Tower Lookout for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes.
Where to stay: Discovery Parks – Port Augusta
Day 2
Port Augusta to Flinders Ranges
Distance 190km - Driving Time 3 hours
Drive north to the majestic Flinders Ranges, one of South Australia’s most iconic natural landscapes. Explore Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheater of mountains, and enjoy hikes suited to all skill levels. Visit Brachina Gorge, known for its rich geological history and chance encounters with yellow-footed rock wallabies. Spend the night at a campsite within the ranges, surrounded by stunning vistas and abundant wildlife.
Where to stay: Discovery Parks – Wilpena Pound
Day 3
Flinders Ranges to Marree
Distance 300km - Driving Time 4.5 hours
Depart the Flinders Ranges and make your way to Marree, the official start of the Oodnadatta Track. Along the way, stop at the Prairie Hotel in Parachilna to sample its famous platter, featuring kangaroo, emu, and camel - which may not be for everyone, but if you are a meat lover, you can put it on your list to try. Once in Marree, explore the historic Ghan Railway Station and take photos with the town’s eclectic collection of sculptures made from recycled materials. Stay overnight at the Marree Hotel or a local campground.
Where to stay: Marree’s Oasis Caravan Park
Day 4
Marree to Coward Springs
Distance 130km - Driving Time 2 hours
Kick off your journey on the Oodnadatta Track, driving through the vast, open landscapes of the outback. Visit the ruins of the Curdimurka Railway Siding and take in the stunning views of the surrounding desert. Arrive at Coward Springs, where you can relax in the natural artesian spa and explore the restored railway museum. Camp overnight under the stars in this tranquil oasis.
Where to stay: Coward Springs Campsite
Day 5
Coward Springs to William Creek
Distance 90km - Driving Time 1.5 hours
Continue along the Oodnadatta Track to William Creek, one of the smallest towns in Australia. On the way, detour to view the extraordinary Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda), a massive salt lake that transforms into a shimmering spectacle after rare rains. In William Creek, visit the historic William Creek Hotel and consider taking a scenic flight over Lake Eyre for a bird’s-eye view of its otherworldly beauty. Stay the night at the William Creek campground.
Where to stay: William Creek Campground
Day 6
William Creek to Algebuckina Bridge
Distance 120km - Driving Time 2 hours
Drive from William Creek to the Algebuckina Bridge, the longest bridge on the old Ghan Railway. Stop to explore the ruins and learn about the area’s rich railway history. Take time to walk across the bridge and admire the serene views of the Neales River. Camp nearby for the night, enjoying the rugged beauty of the outback.
Where to stay: Algebuckina Bridge Campsite
Day 7
Algebuckina Bridge to Oodnadatta
Distance 80km - Driving Time 1.5 hours
Head to Oodnadatta, the end of the Oodnadatta Track. Stop at the iconic Pink Roadhouse, known for its quirky character and hearty meals. Explore the town’s attractions, including the Oodnadatta Railway Museum and nearby Aboriginal cultural sites. Stock up on supplies and enjoy an overnight stay in Oodnadatta overnight.
Where to stay: The Pink Roadhouse Camping Area
Day 8
Oodnadatta to Coober Pedy
Distance 230km - Driving Time 3.5 hours
Leave Oodnadatta and travel south to Coober Pedy, the opal mining capital of the world. Discover the town’s unique underground homes, churches, and opal mines. Visit the Umoona Opal Mine and Museum for an immersive experience in the history of opal mining. Spend the night a nearby campsite.
Where to stay: Oasis Tourist Park
Day 9
Coober Pedy to Woomera
Distance 370km - Driving Time 4 hours
Break up the long drive from Coober Pedy to Port Augusta with an overnight stop in Woomera, a fascinating town with a rich history in aerospace and military research. On your way, stop at Lake Hart, a stunning salt lake where you can stretch your legs and take in the surreal, shimmering landscape. Once in Woomera, visit the Woomera Heritage and Visitor Centre, which showcases the town’s unique role in Australia’s space and weapons testing history. Don’t miss the Rocket Park, where you can see an impressive display of rockets and missiles used in past experiments. For stargazing enthusiasts, Woomera’s clear night skies offer an incredible opportunity to marvel at the stars.
Where to stay: Woomera Traveller’s Village and Caravan Park
Day 10
Woomera to Port Augusta
Distance 170km - Driving Time 2 hours
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Woomera before continuing your journey to Port Augusta. Along the way, stop at Pimba, a small roadhouse town, for a quick break or refreshments. Once in Port Augusta, explore the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden, which features a stunning collection of desert flora and walking trails with views of the Flinders Ranges. Take a stroll along the Port Augusta Wharf to enjoy the coastal scenery before settling in for the night.
Where to stay: Discovery Parks – Port Augusta
Image: SATC Media Gallery
Day 11
Port Augusta to Clare Valley
Distance 150km - Driving Time 2 hours
Break up the journey with a stop in the picturesque Clare Valley, renowned for its rolling vineyards and world-class wines. Spend the day exploring the region’s charming towns, such as Sevenhill, home to the historic Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest winery in the valley. Visit Martindale Hall, a grand Georgian-style mansion that offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past.
Enjoy a relaxing evening at one of the valley’s cozy accommodations, indulging in local cuisine paired with award-winning wines.
Where to stay: Clare Valley Caravan Park
Image: SATC Media Gallery
Day 12
Clare Valley to Adelaide
Distance 160km - Driving Time 2 hours
Complete the final leg of your journey, heading south from Clare Valley to Adelaide. Take time to stop at Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, nestled in the Adelaide Hills. Wander through its quaint streets, lined with artisan shops, galleries, and cafés. If you’re a nature lover, consider a detour to Mount Lofty Summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Adelaide and its coastal surroundings.
Return your Britz 4WD in Adelaide, marking the end of an unforgettable 12-day adventure through South Australia’s rugged and beautiful landscapes.