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Coober Pedy

Natural Landmark in South Australia

Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole

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About Coober Pedy

The opal-mining capital of the world, Coober Pedy is famous for its underground (dugout) homes, churches, and hotels carved into the rock to escape temperatures that regularly exceed 50°C. The surrounding landscape of white opal-spoil mounds, ochre desert, and stark gibber plains is otherworldly. The nearby Breakaways and Dog Fence are major natural attractions in their own right.

About

The opal-mining capital of the world, Coober Pedy is famous for its underground (dugout) homes, churches, and hotels carved into the rock to escape temperatures that regularly exceed 50°C. The surrounding landscape of white opal-spoil mounds, ochre desert, and stark gibber plains is otherworldly. The nearby Breakaways and Dog Fence are major natural attractions in their own right.

Warnings

Extreme Heat (45–50°C+) From November–MarchNever Enter A Mine Shaft Without A Guide — Fatal Falls OccurFuel Up In Town — Next Services Can Be 200+Km AwayUnderground Buildings Can Be Disorienting

Getting There

Map of Coober Pedy

850km north of Adelaide via the Stuart Highway. Rex Airlines flies daily from Adelaide (1.5 hrs). Stuart Highway is sealed all the way.

Visitor Tips

  • Stay in an underground hotel for the full experience. Visit the Breakaways at sunrise or sunset for best photography. Noodling (surface opal hunting) is permitted on the opal fields.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
National

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
1–2 days
Best Time
May–September (avoid extreme summer heat)
Hours
Open 24 hours. Underground attractions have set hours.

Good to Know

Wheelchair AccessibleDog Friendly

Highlights

Dugout Homes And Underground ChurchSerbian Orthodox Church UndergroundOpal Mine ToursThe Breakaways Scenic ReserveDingo Fence (Longest Fence In The World)Crocodile Harry'S Dugout

Activities

Underground Mine ToursNoodling For OpalsVisiting Dugout Homes And ChurchesDriving To The BreakawaysOpal BuyingGolf On The World'S Only Underground Golf Course

Features

Available:Wheelchair Accessible
Available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Accommodation (Underground Hotels)RestaurantsFuelSupermarketVisitor Information CentreHospitalATMs

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