Ready to cross the iconic Nullarbor? This ultimate road trip guide has everything you need—from quirky stops and wild landscapes to outback travel tips and stargazing gems. Here’s everything you need to know to make your outback adventure safe, scenic, and totally epic.
Alright, fellow road trippers and adventurers, buckle up as we drive across the land with never-ending horizons and no trees – the Nullarbor!
There’s a section along the Eyre Highway known as the “Nullarbor”, which is basically fancy latin for “no trees”. And boy does it live up to its name! It’s like Mother Nature just put up a “no trees allowed” sign and only allowed shrubs to lay roots in the area. But the Nullarbor is more than just a barren land – it’s full of historical tales, quirky wildlife and a bunch of must-see spots that will have you snapping insta-worthy photos and making epic road trip memories.
You’re probably wondering why it’s called the Eyre Highway, right? Well in 1800s a brave adventurer named Edward John Eyre decided, “You know what’s a good idea? Crossing a barren land, in the middle of nowhere, called the Nullarbor!” I could imagine everyone around him would have been like “You’re crazy, mate!” But you know what they say about explorers, right? They’re the ones who make out-there decisions and then turn them into captivating campfire stories!
So, Edward and his team set out on this epic expedition, where they faced treacherous weather, had their supply levels dwindle down to perilously low levels (I mean, they almost ran out of water to make a good cuppa!), no doubt had the the occasional argument with his travel buddies and kangaroos (probably), and most certainly had some serious “wtf, we’re lost” moments. But hey, he made it across (hence why he has a highway named after him) and probably got a few cool stories or two out of it.
But before you follow in Edwards footsteps and begin your epic quest, let’s share some pro tips to help you plan your adventure!
Must See Marvels along the Nullarbor
Bunda Cliffs: Think postcard level ocean views for the perfect insta-worthy shot.
90-Mile Straight: Yep, you read that right – 90 miles of dead-straight road! It’s actually the longest straight road without a turn in Australia! So grab a photo in front of that sign!
Eucla Telegraph Station: This station was part of the Overland Telegraph Line, a telecommunication system that connected the eastern and western coasts of Australia. Today, the Eucla Telegraph station is abandoned and serves more as a cultural and historical landmark. So why not have your own Indiana Jones moment as you check out these ruins near the ocean!
Tree of Shoes: Who says art has to be in an art gallery!? This is Nullarbor’s version of an art installation – a tree adorned with shoes! If you’ve got a spare set of shoes you’re willing to part with be sure to leave your mark!
Stargazing Spectacular: With little light pollution, the Nullarbor is a stargazer’s paradise! I remember the first time I gazed up at the night’s sky when we camped along the Nullarbor – it was as if I was camping under a cosmic disco ball!
“Welcome to the Nullarbor” Sign: A photo or it never happened!
Close Encounter of the Space Station Kind: Be sure to check out Balladonia Museum and get up close to some cool history – most notably the 1979 fiery re-entry and crash of NASA’s Skylab Space Station!
Giant Kangaroo: Yep, here’s your chance to get up close to a kangaroo – well, sort of. This photo op is a homage to what makes Australia, well Australia – Kangaroos and Vegemite!
Wildlife Wonders
Animal enthusiasts and nature nerds ( hello, me!) get ready to potentially meet the wildest characters this side of the Outback! You’re almost guaranteed to see a Wedge-tailed Eagle soaring the skies of the Nullarbor (or at the Cocklebiddy Roadhouse where they have a rescued Wedge-tailed Eagle living in a large enclosure). And if you’re really lucky, you might get to see Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and even Camels!
A warning: Dingoes do roam the area and, despite looking similar to our dogs at home, they are wild animals. For yours and their safety, Dingoes should not be approached or fed.
Where to Stay
When traveling along the Nullarbor, finding accommodations that suit your needs and preferences is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. While the Nullarbor is known for its remote and rugged terrain, there are still options for places to stay that cater to various types of travelers. Here are some options to consider:
Roadhouses: After hours of driving along the Nullarbor your body is probably ready for a nice rest on a real bed. Roadhouses offer a little slice of comfort in the middle of the wilderness. You’ll find motel rooms, bathrooms with running warm water, televisions and a local pub where you can feast on some true outback grub and beers!
Caravan Parks: If you’re more of the caravanning/camping type, you can find caravan parks attached to most of the roadhouses along the Nullarbor. Whilst they offer fewer creature comforts (you’ll most likely only have access to a shared bathroom), they provide plenty of opportunities to experience the Aussie outback first hand.
Free Camp Sites: If you’re set up to be completely self-sufficient, there are free camp spots along the Nullarbor where you can truly experience camping out under the stars.
Prep like a Pro!
Car Check: Your vehicle is your trusty steed or rather, it’s your partner in adventure. Give it some love before setting off by making sure it has had a complete check over by a qualified mechanic. Once you set foot (or wheels, rather) onto the Nullarbor, there’s aren’t many opportunities to have a mechanic check that suspicious sound, fix your engine or change your tyres.
Tunes, Tunes, & More Tunes: Make a road trip playlist that’s as epic as the Nullarbor itself. Need some inspo? Why not check out some classic Aussie Rock. Whatever you listen to, it’s your personal soundtrack to adventure!
Get stuck into an Audiobook: If a playlist isn’t your thing, why not download a book from Audible or wherever you get your audiobooks from. Consider it your virtual travel buddy. Note: I recommend downloading a book that is at least 10-14 hours long before you set out on your adventure. There’s minimal internet coverage along the Nullarbor.
Snacks and Sips: Stock up on road trip-worthy snacks, water and other beverages like you’re planning to host a part in the middle of nowhere. You never know who might show up.
Extra Fuel: There’s not a lot of service stations along the Nullarbor, so be sure to safely store some extra fuel just in case you need to fill-her-up and there’s not a fuel station in sight.
Satellite Phone: There’s not a lot of phone coverage along the Nullarbor, so if your phone signal goes bye-bye, a satellite phone is like the Bat-Signal for help. Cue the superhero music!
Pack clothes for all Seasons: Australia might seem like a country that only has one temperature – hot! But the Nullarbor weather can change more often than you change your socks!
Map it Out: Embrace your inner explorer with maps, GPS and travel guides. Remember, even Google can’t navigate the wild like you can.
This is your chance to embrace the weird and wonderful along the Nullarbor. So hit the bitumen and make the road trip the stuff of legends – or at least a really awesome instagram feed!
Much love,
L, X
Psst. Follow me on social media!
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