Across a Continent: Ten Days From Adelaide to Perth Under Wild Skies
A ten-day stretch of road, reef and red earth that stitches southern Australia together—swim with sea lions, sandboard dunes, and sleep under unmissable stars.
You wake before dawn to the hush of the Outback folding itself back into day. A camp stove hisses. Tea steams in the palms of your hands while a horizon the color of old ochre begins to breathe light across the Flinders Ranges. By night ten days have passed, and you’ll be sipping a cold local beer on a wind-bleached beach in Esperance, having shared tracks with kangaroos, dove with wild sea lions, and learned a few words of Wirangu or Noongar from elders who still read the landscape as an atlas of stories.
Trail Wisdom
Hydrate for long drives
Carry at least 2–3 liters of water per person during daytime drives across the Nullarbor and refill at towns when available.
Layer for coastal and desert shifts
Mornings can be crisp and windy while afternoons heat up—pack a wind shell and breathable layers.
Respect marine wildlife
Observe sea lions and dolphins from a distance and follow guide instructions during water activities to avoid disturbance.
Protect from sun
Use high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective clothing for beach and desert sections.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Wilpena lookout routes that avoid the busiest loops
- •Lucky Bay and Cape Le Grand’s early-morning calm for wildlife viewing
Wildlife
Australian sea lion, Red kangaroo
Conservation Note
Many coastal segments fall within marine parks; follow guide instructions, avoid disturbing wildlife, and dispose of waste responsibly to protect fragile habitats.
The route crosses traditional lands of multiple Aboriginal nations and passages of early European explorers; the Nullarbor’s name derives from Latin meaning 'no trees.'
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers, Calmer sea swims, Milder inland temps
Challenges: Variable weather, Some sites busier
Spring (Sept–Nov) offers wildflower carpets in parts of Western Australia and comfortable temps for both beach and inland activities.
summer
Best for: Extended beach days, Warm ocean swims
Challenges: High inland heat, Strong sun
Summer brings ideal beach weather but can be hot inland; early starts and shade are essential.
fall
Best for: Good surf conditions, Fewer crowds, Pleasant hiking
Challenges: Cooler water temps, Occasional storms
Autumn calms crowds and delivers solid surf at Margaret River with comfortable hiking weather.
winter
Best for: Storm-watching, Migratory birdwatching
Challenges: Cooler, wetter southwest, Rougher seas
Winter is quieter and dramatic on the coast—expect cooler temperatures and potential sea swell closures for some activities.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Needed for rocky Flinders Ranges walks and dune scrambles.
Beach/swimwear and rashguardEssential
Protects from sun and surf during sea lion swims and surf lessons.
Lightweight sleeping liner
Adds comfort and warmth inside supplied sleeping gear on chilly nights.
High-SPF sunscreen & wide-brim hatEssential
Essential in exposed coastal and desert environments to prevent sunburn.
Common Questions
Is this trip suitable for solo travelers?
Yes—many solo travelers join guided overland tours; you’ll be in a small group with a guide handling logistics and camp setup.
How strenuous are the daily activities?
Activities are generally moderate: short hikes, surf lessons, sandboarding, and wildlife viewing; participants should be comfortable with active days and multi-night camping.
Will I have cell service along the route?
Service is intermittent, especially across the Nullarbor; towns have coverage but expect long stretches offline.
Are meals and camping gear included?
The tour is a camping-based package—guides typically provide communal meals and shared camping equipment; check the operator booking page for specifics on inclusions.
Can non-swimmers participate in water activities?
Non-swimmers can usually stay onshore or join guided viewing experiences; activities like snorkeling or swims require basic comfort in the water—ask the operator about alternatives.
Are there age limits or minimums?
Age and fitness requirements vary by operator—confirm directly, as some activities like surfing may have age or ability restrictions.
What to Pack
Trail shoes, sun protection (hat + sunscreen), refillable water bottle, light sleeping liner — for comfort across both desert nights and coastal days
Did You Know
‘Nullarbor’ comes from the Latin nullus arbor—literally 'no trees'—and the Nullarbor Plain is one of the world’s largest limestone karst landscapes.
Quick Travel Tips
Book shoulder-season for milder weather; bring cash for small towns; layer clothing for coastal/desert shifts; carry insect repellent for bush evenings
Local Flavor
After a day on the sand or trails, sample regional fare: fresh Coffin Bay oysters on the Eyre Peninsula, a glass of Margaret River Cabernet, and a pub meal in small towns where locals swap road stories—supporting local cafés and Indigenous tourism operators connects the trip to place.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest major airport: Adelaide (ADL). Total driving distance: ~4,000 km over 10 days. Expect patchy cell coverage across the Nullarbor. National park fees or permits may apply in Flinders Ranges and parts of WA—confirm with your operator.
Sustainability Note
This route crosses several sensitive coastal and arid ecosystems and marine parks—pack out all waste, avoid touching marine mammals, and prioritize Aboriginal-led experiences to support custodianship.