Photo: No machine-readable author provided. 17177 assumed (based on copyright claims). / CC BY-SA 3.0
Stretching across the vast, flat expanse of southern Australia, the Nullarbor Plain is one of the world's most extraordinary landscapes—a treeless, limestone karst that feels like driving on the edge of the earth. This iconic crossing along the Eyre Highway offers travellers a true outback adventure, with endless horizons, unique wildlife, and the thrill of traversing one of the longest straight roads on the planet. For international visitors, it's a bucket-list journey that reveals the raw beauty and isolation of the Australian interior.
Highlights & What to See
- Bunda Cliffs: Towering sheer cliffs that drop dramatically into the Great Australian Bight, offering breathtaking ocean views and the chance to spot southern right whales (June–October).
- Head of the Bight: A dedicated visitor centre with a boardwalk overlooking a whale nursery—prime whale-watching territory.
- Eucla Pass and the Old Telegraph Station: Historic ruins and a museum that tell the story of the region's telegraph and early settlement.
- Koonalda Cave: A limestone cave system with ancient Aboriginal rock art and evidence of early human activity (permit required).
- Nullarbor Roadhouse: The iconic outpost for fuel, supplies, and a classic outback photo opportunity.
- Stargazing: With zero light pollution, the night sky here is a dazzling spectacle—bring a blanket and look up.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most travellers allow 2–3 days to cross the Nullarbor from Ceduna (SA) to Norseman (WA), covering about 1,200 km. This pace lets you stop at key lookouts, stretch your legs on the cliffs, and enjoy the solitude. If you're a keen birdwatcher or want to explore caves, add an extra day. The crossing is best done in the cooler months (April–October) to avoid extreme heat.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Yalata Aboriginal Community: Learn about Indigenous culture and the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara lands.
- Great Australian Bight Marine Park: Extends along the coast, perfect for whale watching and coastal walks.
- Ceduna: The eastern gateway town with seafood, art galleries, and the start of the Nullarbor crossing.
- Norseman: The western terminus, a historic gold-mining town with supplies and accommodation.
- Eyre Peninsula: South of Ceduna, known for stunning coastlines, shark cage diving, and seafood.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Uluru — Ek2030372672 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Kings Canyon — Zoharby / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Watarrka National Park — Jorge Lascar / CC BY 2.0
- Coober Pedy — qwesy qwesy / CC BY 3.0
- Eyre Highway — Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Ceduna — Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Norseman — Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0