South Australia’s guide to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre

SA Tourism travel blog

Stretching a mind-boggling 144 kilometres by 77 kilometres, South Australia’s Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre in the Flinders Ranges and Outback, truly is a natural wonder. Its seemingly-endless expanse of shimmering salt crystals lure travellers year-round, but the real magic happens when the lake is flooded by desert rain. Once every few years, networks of channels, streams and floodplains converge in Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park, bringing with them an abundance of wildlife, stunning natural beauty and dreamlike pink and orange hues.

To discover Lake Eyre in all it’s glory, check out our guide detailing how and when to visit, what Lake Eyre tours to do and where to stay during your time in the outback.

For more information and to check current conditions, see the Bureau of Meteorology website.

1. HOW TO GET THERE AND HOW TO SEE IT

FLY OR DRIVE

Lake Eyre, Outback South Australia

The best way to get to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is by plane. Fly from Adelaide to South Australia’s underground opal town, Coober Pedy, spend a couple of days exploring, then hit the skies for a tour over Lake Eyre with Wrightsair or Chinta Air.

If you’re an avid four-wheel-driver, fly from Adelaide to Coober Pedy, hire a car and follow the outback loop or take the pressure out of driving and experience the real outback with a 4WD drive tour.

Before driving, please keep in mind that Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is one of the most remote places in Australia. See our Flinders Ranges and Outback driving safety tips and make sure you prepare.

JOIN A TOUR

One of the most popular (not to mention jaw-dropping) ways to experience this natural wonder is on a Lake Eyre Tour. Choose from a range of specialised Lake Eyre tour guides to view Lake Eyre from the air or from the ground.

/Courtesy of SA Tourism. View in full here.