Journey across the mighty Nullarbor!
An Aussie iconic road trip across the more Nullarbor plain topped off with the stunning white beaches, crystal blue waters and national parks of southern Western Australia.
Watch this video for a quick taste of the Perth to Adelaide route:
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Perth to Adelaide Road Trip Highlights
Heading East
Start your Perth to Adelaide road trip adventure in Perth. Spend a few days exploring this vibrant city at either the beginning or end of your Nullarbor journey. If you have time, weave your way around the southern coast of Western Australia. Visit Margaret River, Albany, Wave Rock (Hyden), and Esperance before arriving in Norseman, the eastern gateway to the Nullarbor Plains. For more details on this section, check out our Southern Western Australia Loop page.
For a more direct route, head to Kalgoorlie through the golden outback. From Kalgoorlie, drive south to Norseman, surrounded by salt lakes and the red dirt of the Outback.
Nullarbor Adventure
From Norseman, journey towards the state border, driving Australia's longest straight road with surprising scenic changes. Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly active at sunrise and sunset. Avoid night driving due to the increased risk of encountering animals on the road.
Be prepared for quarantine inspections for fruit and vegetables when crossing state borders. The rules from SA to WA are stricter than the reverse. The quarantine point when traveling west to east is at Ceduna, about five hours from the border.
Experience the Bunda Cliffs
As you continue from Border Village, marvel at the Bunda Cliffs along the road. Stop at the Head of the Bight Centre, especially from May to September, to witness Southern Right Whales mating and birthing from the coastal viewing platforms.
Eyre Peninsula and Beyond
Ceduna is your first significant stop as you approach Adelaide. Don’t miss trying the local oysters! Explore the Eyre Peninsula for beautiful beaches and seafood. Allow at least three days for this detour, though it can be cold in winter.
If short on time, visit Venus Bay for coastal camping and the popular Streaky Bay. Continue to Port Augusta before exploring the renowned wine regions and scenery north of Adelaide.
Learn more details and useful planning tips about this route.
Watch our 8-minute video for more insights and planning tips for your Perth to Adelaide road trip.
Perth to Adelaide Road Trip Route Planning Tips
This route can be hot in summer, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C. Spring and autumn are ideal for travel, with milder temperatures. Consider the direction based on your plans and experiences to avoid driving with the sun in your eyes.
For wildflower enthusiasts, September is a great time to travel. The wildflower season in southern Western Australia typically runs from August to October, depending on rainfall and heat.
Travel and Booking Tips
Pick up your camper in either Adelaide or Perth. Information centers along the route offer helpful advice, and generally, you don’t need to book campsites in advance, except in larger towns or during school holidays. Freedom camping is available, perfect for self-contained campers.
Road and Wildlife Safety
The Nullarbor route is a two-lane sealed highway with remote stretches. Roadhouses provide fuel, basic groceries, and campgrounds. There is no need to carry extra fuel. Refer to the Camps Australia Wide Guide book or the Wiki Camps app for freedom camp locations. Information centers en-route are invaluable for local knowledge.
Wildlife sightings are common, including kangaroos, wallabies, camels, whales, and a variety of birdlife, including emus.