Maree

Maree is a tiny, remote settlement on the western edge of Lake Eyre in South Australia, not the Northern Territory—but its stark beauty and outback character are pure Red Centre. The name 'Maree' (often spelled Marree) evokes the spirit of the old Ghan railway and the legendary Afghan camel trains that once crossed this desert. Today, it's a quiet crossroads where the bitumen ends and the iconic Oodnadatta Track and Birdsville Track begin. The silence is immense, broken only by the wind and the occasional road train. This is a place for travellers who crave raw, unfiltered outback—salt lakes, red dirt, and a sky that stretches forever.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Eyre – Australia’s largest salt lake, a vast white expanse that transforms into a surreal wildlife haven after rare floods. Scenic flights from Maree offer unforgettable views.
• The Old Ghan Railway Ruins – Explore the remnants of the original Afghan Express line, including the historic station and water tanks. A poignant glimpse into outback rail history.
• Marree Man – A colossal geoglyph etched into the desert, visible only from the air. Its mysterious origins add to the outback lore.
• Camel Treks & Afghan Heritage – Learn about the cameleers who opened the interior. Some local operators offer short camel rides or heritage talks.
• Oodnadatta Track – One of Australia’s great outback drives, passing artesian springs, ghost towns, and the iconic Pink Roadhouse.
• Birdsville Track – The legendary 517-km route to Birdsville, crossing the gibber plains and the Cooper Creek floodplain. A bucket-list adventure for 4WD enthusiasts.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers pass through Maree in a day while driving the Oodnadatta or Birdsville Tracks. If you’re self-driving, allow at least two hours to explore the town and its historic railway precinct. For a deeper experience, plan an overnight stay—there’s basic accommodation and a pub. Combine with a scenic flight over Lake Eyre (book ahead in Coober Pedy or William Creek) for a truly memorable half-day detour.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coober Pedy – The opal-mining capital, famous for its underground homes and lunar landscapes. A 2.5-hour drive west.
• William Creek – Tiny pub-and-airstrip settlement on the Oodnadatta Track, gateway to Lake Eyre flights. 1.5 hours north-west.
• Oodnadatta – Historic town with the iconic Pink Roadhouse, artesian bore baths, and the start of the Oodnadatta Track. 2 hours north.
• Birdsville – End of the Birdsville Track, famous for its pub, the Big Red Bash music festival, and the Simpson Desert. A full-day drive from Maree.
• Flinders Ranges – Dramatic mountain scenery, gorges, and Aboriginal rock art. About 4 hours south-east via the Stuart Highway.
• Lake Eyre South – Accessible via the Oodnadatta Track, with viewing platforms and interpretive signs. Combine with a flight for the best perspective.

Please check official sources for current details.