Port Augusta

Port Augusta is called ‘the crossroads of Australia’ because roads from Sydney to Perth and Adelaide to Darwin all pass through…as do The Ghan and the Indian Pacific.

This regional hub, where the outback meets the ocean, is a major tourism, shopping, government, and commercial centre. The city offers a vibrant range of cafés, pubs and restaurants, and accommodation options.

At the Wadlata Outback Centre, get the whole story on the region by creeping through the jaws of Max, a giant ripper lizard, to begin a journey through the Flinders Ranges and Outback’s ‘Tunnel of Time’. The Port Augusta Visitor Information Centre onsite is where you can discover more about the region and book tours and accommodation. Half- and full-day 4WD and larger coach tours can also be booked.

Other attractions include the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden, the Royal Flying Doctor Service regional air base, the Water Tower Lookout (with 360-degree views of Port Augusta), and the Military Memorabilia Museum. Or, just spend a lazy afternoon enjoying the water and sunshine on Port Augusta's foreshore.

Hop aboard the Pichi Richi Railway for the full-day Afghan Express (visit the website for departure dates and details), then treat your artistic side to the Platform Gallery at the Railway Station, or view local and contemporary art at Port Augusta Cultural Centre, Yarta Purtli, next to Gladstone Square.