Birdsville Track

Stretching 517 km from Marree in South Australia to Birdsville in Queensland, the Birdsville Track is one of Australia’s most iconic outback routes. This unsealed road traverses the starkly beautiful Simpson Desert, crossing the Cooper Creek floodplains and the vast gibber plains of the Sturt Stony Desert. For international travellers, it’s a journey into the heart of the Australian outback, offering a raw, immersive experience of red dirt, endless horizons, and a rich pastoral history.

Highlights & What to See

• Marree – This historic railhead town is the southern gateway, where you can see the Afghan camel driver heritage and the famous Marree Man geoglyph.
• Mungerannie Hotel – A legendary outback pub midway along the track, perfect for a cold beer and a chat with locals; it also offers basic accommodation and a hot shower.
• Cooper Creek Crossing – A muddy, often flooded crossing that is the track’s most challenging section; after rain, it becomes a wetland teeming with birdlife.
• Birdsville – The northern terminus, famous for the Birdsville Hotel and the annual Birdsville Races; explore the historic town and the Big Red sand dune.
• Simpson Desert National Park – Accessible from the track, this park features towering red sand dunes and unique desert wildlife; a detour to Poeppel Corner (where three states meet) is a highlight.
• Dalhousie Springs – A side trip from the track leads to these thermal springs in the Witjira National Park, offering a refreshing soak in the desert.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 3 to 4 days to drive the Birdsville Track comfortably, giving time for stops at key sites and potential delays due to road conditions. Many travellers combine it with the Oodnadatta Track or Strzelecki Track for a longer loop. The best time to travel is during the cooler months (April to September); summer heat can be extreme, and flooding can close the track. A high-clearance 4WD is essential, and you must carry plenty of water, fuel, and supplies.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Oodnadatta Track – A historic route linking Marree to Oodnadatta and beyond, passing the unique mound springs and railway ruins.
• Strzelecki Track – Another desert track that connects Lyndhurst to Innamincka, offering access to the Cooper Creek and the remote Innamincka Regional Reserve.
• Coober Pedy – Famous for its opal mines and underground homes, this town is a detour west of the track and provides a fascinating contrast.
• Lake Eyre – Australia’s largest salt lake, which occasionally fills with water, creating a spectacular bird spectacle; access via the Oodnadatta Track.
• Flinders Ranges – South of Marree, these ancient mountains offer stunning scenery and Aboriginal rock art sites; a worthwhile add-on to your outback adventure.

Please check official sources for current details.