Photo: No machine-readable author provided. 17177 assumed (based on copyright claims). / CC BY-SA 3.0
Stretching across the southern edge of Australia, the Nullarbor Plain is one of the world's most remarkable and remote landscapes. This vast, treeless limestone karst platform offers a true outback experience, with endless horizons, dramatic sea cliffs, and a sense of isolation that is both humbling and exhilarating. Driving the Eyre Highway across the Nullarbor is an iconic Australian road trip, where you can spot southern right whales from the Bunda Cliffs, explore ancient caves, and camp under some of the darkest skies on Earth.
Highlights & What to See
- Bunda Cliffs: Stretching for over 200 km along the Great Australian Bight, these sheer limestone cliffs drop dramatically into the Southern Ocean. Look for whales (May–October) and watch the sunrise paint the cliffs gold.
- Eucla Pass & Old Telegraph Station: Explore the ruins of the original Eucla settlement, half-buried by sand dunes, and learn about the area's telegraph history.
- Murrawijinie Caves: A series of limestone caves and blowholes accessible from the highway, offering a cool respite and a glimpse into the region's geology.
- Nullarbor Roadhouse: An iconic pit stop for fuel, supplies, and a photo with the famous '90 Mile Straight' sign – the longest straight road in Australia.
- Koonalda Homestead: A historic sheep station with Aboriginal art sites and a mysterious underground spring, offering a fascinating detour.
- Head of the Bight: A dedicated whale-watching platform with interpretive signs, where you can see southern right whales and their calves close to shore.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most travellers cross the Nullarbor in 2–3 days as part of a longer road trip between Perth and Adelaide. If you want to fully appreciate the landscapes and wildlife, allow at least 3–4 days, including stops at the Bunda Cliffs, Eucla, and the Head of the Bight. Plan to drive during daylight hours, as wildlife (kangaroos, camels) can be active at dawn and dusk. The journey is not about speed but about embracing the solitude and vastness.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Ceduna: The gateway to the Nullarbor from the east, known for its oysters and Aboriginal art galleries.
- Norseman: The western starting point of the Eyre Highway, with historic gold rush architecture.
- Great Australian Bight Marine Park: Stretching along the coast, this park protects the whale nursery and offers remote camping.
- Yalata: An Aboriginal community with cultural tours and access to the Head of the Bight.
- Cook: A ghost town on the transcontinental railway line, worth a quick stop for its eerie abandoned buildings.
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 (Ayers Rock) — Ek2030372672 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) — Tourism NT / Attribution
- Kings Canyon — Zoharby / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Coober Pedy — qwesy qwesy / CC BY 3.0
- Eyre Highway — Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Head of the Bight — Nachoman-au / CC BY-SA 3.0