Marla

Marla is a tiny, remote roadhouse settlement on the Stuart Highway in the far north of South Australia, just a stone’s throw from the Northern Territory border. It’s the last fuel stop for hundreds of kilometres in any direction, a true outpost that feels like a frontier town. For travellers driving between Alice Springs and Coober Pedy or Adelaide, Marla is an essential pit stop — but it also offers a glimpse into the stark, beautiful isolation of the Australian outback.

Highlights & What to See

• Marla Roadhouse – The heart of the settlement, serving hearty outback meals, cold drinks, and fuel. It’s a classic roadhouse where you can stock up on supplies and chat with fellow travellers.
• Indulkana (Iwantja) – A nearby Aboriginal community, part of the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands. The Iwantja Arts centre is renowned for vibrant contemporary Indigenous art, well worth a visit to purchase authentic works directly from artists.
• Stargazing – With virtually zero light pollution, Marla offers some of the darkest skies in Australia. On a clear night, the Milky Way stretches overhead in dazzling detail.
• Woomera Prohibited Area – While not accessible without permits, the vast defence testing range to the south adds a layer of intrigue to the landscape. The nearby Woomera township has a museum explaining its role in rocket and weapons testing.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers stop for 30 minutes to an hour to refuel and grab a bite. If you want to explore the art centre at Indulkana or do some serious stargazing, plan for a half-day. Overnighting is possible at the roadhouse’s basic motel or caravan park, but there’s not much else to do — treat it as a convenient break on a long drive rather than a destination.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coober Pedy – 240 km south, famous for its opal mines and underground homes.
• Alice Springs – 400 km north, the vibrant heart of the Red Centre and gateway to Uluru.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – 500 km north-west, home to the iconic monolith and domes.
• Oodnadatta Track – A historic outback route that starts near Marla, leading to the ghost town of Farina and the stunning Lake Eyre region.

Please check official sources for current details.