Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or a history buff – there’s something for you in South Australia.
South Australia has some of the most unique landscapes in the country.
It is perhaps the most underrated state, often overshadowed by Australia’s most iconic landmarks. But don’t be fooled—you won’t be short on iconic experiences when you visit South Australia!
Here are our top 5 unmissable highlights!
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Visit the Murray Night Sky
South Australia has the darkest night sky in Australia. The River Murray International Night Sky is located 90 minutes from Adelaide. It’s Australia’s only national park in the sky, and you can find it in the Murraylands region of South Australia.
Top highlights:
- Camp under the stars
- Take incredible photos of the milkyway
- Experience the only national park in the sky
This area is free from light pollution, which means the night sky here is completely black. The stars here could be the brightest that you ever see!
A playground for photographers, astrologers and campers – experiencing the Murray Night Sky is a magical experience.
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2. Visit the Flinders Ranges National Park
Discover a landscape that is over 600 million years old. The Ikara/Flinders Ranges are a set of rugged sandstone formations which vastly span across the South Australia region. If you’re into outback exploration, then this is a one-of-a-kind experience.
The scenery here is dramatic and wild, with creeks that meander through deep cut valleys and red gum trees that scatter around the orange landscape. This area is a go-to for adventurers, hikers and nature lovers.
Top Highlights:
- Hike around the ranges
- Spot the Aussie wildlife in its natural habitat (there’s kangaroos everywhere!)
- Discover the geological history
The Flinders Ranges National Park is a must-do if you’re looking for an authentic experience in the Aussie outback.
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Go Shark Diving in Port Lincoln
Port Lincoln in South Australia is the only place that you can dive with Great White Sharks in South Australia. Dive deep and dangerous and watch these fascinating and majestic creatures from the safety of a protected cage.
Top Highlights:
- A bucket-list activity for ocean lovers and thrill seekers
- Get up close with one of nature’s most dangerous creatures
- Experience diving in the wild
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Wander through Adelaide
Go and visit the regal city of Adelaide!
Adelaide is a pretty city with plenty of architecture to explore. It’s the only city in Australia that is situated within a national park. There’s plenty of green spaces scattered amongst the urban.
Go for something yummy to eat at Adelaide’s countless restaurants and various eateries.
Wander around the city and take in the architecture or visit the metropolitan beaches for a combo of urban with nature. And if you’re after a taste of grapes, check out the wine regions close to Adelaide. Mclaren Vale and the Barossa Valley are just a stone’s throw away from Adelaide, so you’re not far from some of the best wines in the world. If you find yourself in Adelaide, why not take a day trip into wine country?
Top Highlights:
- Explore the relaxed beach bars
- Visit the wine regions near Adelaide
- Wander through the city and explore the architecture
- Taste your way through the city and explore food in Adelaide
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Check out the pink lakes
The pink lakes in South Australia are another unique part of South Australia.
Why are the pink lakes pink? The pink lakes create an optimal environment for microbes to thrive in. These conditions are warm, sunny and salty. The microorganisms there will thrive in such an environment, so they will create pink pigments.
Did you know there are several different pink lakes in South Australia? The largest salt pan lake is the Kati Thanda/Lake Eyre, which is about 750km away from Adelaide. Or if you want to visit a pink lake closer to Adelaide, check out Lake Bumbunga.
Top Highlights:
- Take photos of this iconic, bubblegum coloured lake
- 4WD around the outside of the lake to get a full view