Coober Pedy, Australia

Since February 1, 1915, when opals were first discovered in Coober Pedy, most of the world’s best gem-quality opals have come directly from the pits and ‘dugouts’ of this diverse and culturally rich town in the center of Australia’s Red Rock Center Outback. Of course, today, Coober Pedy relies equally on tourism as opals for employment and financial success. And, with good reason! Coober Pedy has much to offer the visitor! So much, in fact, I spent six wonderful days and nights exploring!

How to Get There

By Air: http://www.regionalexpress.com.au  Air travel is great for a quick trip anywhere in the vast expanse of Australia, and the overview of the landscape unsurpassed, but I prefer the close up interaction with the land and people that I get by driving or other land travel options.

By Car: check into renting a caravan (mini-RV) at http://www.rv.com.au.  Caravans come fully equipped for luxurious ‘camping’ and are a wonderful mode of transportation for your Outback Adventure! Caravanning was the mode that I chose, and I had a blast! I could (and did!) stop to watch a herd of kangaroos munching the grasses (and watching me), pulled off the highway to eat a fine picnic while listening to the silence, and slept comfortably in my pull down bed (with sheets and a pillow)- all for a little cash and a lot of rich experiences! Caravan parks abound in the Outback, many with internet services, swimming pools, community gathering spots and even, an occasional watering hole (pub).

By Train: Up from Adelaide on the South coast, straight up the the Red Rock Center of Australia’s Outback, The Ghan (originally, called the Afghan Express) is a mode of transportation that offers a glimpse into the days of old. The Ghan has a variety of accommodations for the overnight trip. http://www.gsr.com.au.  

Where to Stay