Coober Pedy, Lake Eyre & the Oodnadatta Track

Use Coober Pedy as the launchpad for one of Australia’s great desert journeys. This works as a 3–4 day loop for a capable 4WD, or you can see the spectacular bits from the air in a single day if the tracks (or the time) aren’t on your side.

Day 1 — Coober Pedy

Do the town: Umoona or the Old Timers Mine, the underground churches, a noodle for opal, and sunset at the Breakaways. Sleep underground.

Day 2 — Out to William Creek

Drive the Oodnadatta Track east to William Creek (~167km, unsealed — 4WD advised). Have a beer at the famous pub, and take a scenic flight over Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre — extraordinary, especially when the lake holds water. Camp or stay at William Creek.

Day 3 — Mound springs & the Track

Continue toward Marree if you’re looping, taking in the mound springs (Wabma Kadarbu) and outback ruins along the way — or turn back toward Coober Pedy. This is real remote touring: distances are big and services tiny.

Prefer the easy way?

Short on time or not in a 4WD? A scenic flight from Coober Pedy takes in the opal fields, the Painted Hills and Lake Eyre in a few hours — no corrugations required.

Go prepared. Unsealed roads can close after rain; carry water, fuel and spares, and check conditions before you leave. See outback safety.