Lincoln Highway

The Lincoln Highway is one of Australia's most iconic outback roads, stretching from Port Augusta in South Australia to the Western Australian border. This legendary route cuts through the heart of the Nullarbor Plain, offering a true sense of isolation and adventure. As you drive, you'll encounter vast, treeless plains, dramatic limestone cliffs, and some of the darkest night skies in the country. It's a trip that demands preparation but rewards with unforgettable landscapes and a profound sense of remoteness.

Highlights & What to See

• Nullarbor Plain: The world's largest limestone karst landscape, a flat, arid expanse that stretches for hundreds of kilometres. Keep an eye out for southern hairy-nosed wombats and wedge-tailed eagles.
• Bunda Cliffs: Dramatic, sheer cliffs plunging into the Great Australian Bight. The best viewpoints are between the Nullarbor Roadhouse and Eucla.
• Head of the Bight: A prime whale-watching spot (June–October) where southern right whales come to calve. The viewing platform offers spectacular ocean vistas.
• Eucla: A historic telegraph station and the ruins of the old port. The nearby Eucla Pass is a great spot for wildflowers in spring.
• Ceduna: The eastern gateway to the Nullarbor, known for its oysters and Aboriginal art galleries. A good place to stock up on supplies.

Suggested Time to Spend

Driving the entire Lincoln Highway from Port Augusta to the WA border is about 1,200 km and can be done in two days of solid driving, but allow at least three to four days to fully appreciate the stops. Most travellers break the journey at Ceduna, Penong, and Eucla, with nights spent in roadhouses or simple motels. Plan to drive during daylight hours to avoid wildlife collisions and to soak in the scenery.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Eyre Peninsula: South of the highway, this region offers stunning coastal scenery, shark cage diving, and fresh seafood. Combine via Port Augusta.
• Gawler Ranges: A rugged, volcanic range with gorges and wildlife, accessible from the highway near Wudinna.
• Coober Pedy: The opal-mining town is a detour north from the highway, famous for its underground homes and lunar landscapes.
• Lake Gairdner: A vast salt lake north of the highway, perfect for photography and a taste of the outback.
• Yalata: An Aboriginal community with cultural tours and access to the Head of the Bight.

Please check official sources for current details.