Coober Peedy, Simpson Desert, Lake Eyre National Park, Strzelecki & Birdsville Tracks

Many of the outback townships were founded with an ignorance relative to the time. For example, Maralinga and Mirikata were used for government nuclear testing and rocket tracking before we new of the potential harm and older towns such as Gordon were laid to pave the way for prosperous and fertile farmlands. With no regard for the harsh climatic conditions these towns struggled to survive. Some were abandoned as late as the 1960’s while others by this time, were already in ruins and these have become the Ghost Towns of South Australia.  

You can visit libraries whose shelves are filled with dust covered books and hear the winds howl their way through broken windows, banging open doors. It is said that some of the old timers still live in these towns or could these nightly sightings be the hauntings of lonely prospectors, determined to fulfill their dreams.

Lake Torrens and Lake Frome to the west and east of the Flinders Ranges National Park are usually found as nothing more than large dry salt pans.  The majority of town residents live underground in dug-outs. Originating as mines, these unusual homes continue to improve in size and structure as the mines become larger. Many run by solar power and they are ideal in the hot climate of the desert. Natural insulation keeps temperatures constant and natural lighting is provided through tunnels carved into the rock with glass panels concreted into the holes. If you have the opportunity for an overnight stay, take it!

 

Click on the company for more details

Owen Correa Outback Adventure Tours - We'll help you prepare, plan and run your own adventure,  with all the necessary safety equipment. You drive your own 4WD and we just tag-a-long.

Trek Australia from Melbourne to Darwin - A 14 day trip from Melbourne, into South Australia, the Kimberly's, Bungle Bungle National Park, Katherine, the Devils Marbles, see the Flinders ranges, Kings Canyon............and the list goes on.

Sunrise in the Outback 4WD Tours - Offer a range of tag-along and passenger tours especially put together to ensure your safety and satisfaction. Whether you're looking for adventure or total peace and quiet with spectacular views, the Outback of Australia offers the perfect getaway.

Campwild Adventures  - We avoid the crowds and tour buses as we drive and hike on the less travelled tracks, far into the outback wilderness of South Oz and the NT or down hiking trails to deserted beaches on Kangaroo Island.

This information has been supplied by local tour operators and travelers alike. You can submit your recommendation to our bulletin board, to be added here.