We owe it to the opal mining industry for bringing Coober Pedy to Australian tourism. This isolated, Outback town exists purely because of the availability of opals. This self-proclaimed 'opal capital of the world' has blossomed into a quirky tourist destination in the heart of Australia's harsh wilderness.
The name is derived from an English version of the Aboriginal phrase for 'white man in burrow.' A town has never been more appropriately named, since the majority of the population lives underground due the blistering heat. But this is just one of the characteristics of Coober Pedy that sets it apart from every other city in Australia.
Experience the unique ways the Coober Pedy residents deal with the blistering heat and isolated living. There's no place in the world like Coober Pedy and you won't soon forget your visit there.
Getting in and around Coober Pedy
Adelaide Airport
Getting into Coober Pedy isn't easy due to its isolated location, but it is possible. Air travellers to Coober Pedy must catch a shuttle flight in Adelaide operated by Regional Express. Flights are available a few different times of the day, most days of the week. You can also take a train or a bus to Coober Pedy from Alice Springs or Adelaide.
Coober Pedy Transport
Coober Pedy is small in population but almost endless in physical size due to the sprawling wilderness that surrounds it. Getting around Coober Pedy is best done by car, it can also be done by foot, however because of the heat you may enjoy the luxury of airconditioning!
Coober Pedy Car Hire
Cars hire companies aren't as plentiful in Coober Pedy as they are in larger cities. However, larger companies like Budget and smaller locally owned companies are both options when hiring a car in Coober Pedy.
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Coober Pedy accommodation
In a petite and isolated town like Coober Pedy, travellers shouldn't expect a wide selection of commercial luxury hotels. Accommodation in Coober Pedy stays true to the tradition of underground living. Visitors can expect a handful of quality, yet highly affordable accommodation where they can be comfortable and relax in Coober Pedy.
| Luxury |
- Desert Cave Hotel is an award-winning establishment with luxurious rooms, a delicious on-site restaurant, and flawless service.
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| Mid-range |
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| Budget |
- The Opal Inn Hotel is a family owned and operated establishment that offers an authentic outback experience at a price everyone can afford.
- The Desert View Motel is comfortable and spacious and gives you everything you need with friendly service.
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| Backpackers |
- Radeka's Down Under This underground backpacker's accommodation has all of the uniqueness of Coober Pedy as well as the affordability and flexibility that on-the-go travellers expect.
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Things to do in Coober Pedy
Underground Churches. Yes, even the churches are underground. Few experiences are as memorable as visiting an underground church and there are many to choose from in Coober Pedy, from Saint Peter and Paul's Catholic Church to the Serbian Orthodox Church.
Stargazing. Away from the bright lights of industry and population, the stars look entirely different. Night time stargazing tours allow visitors in Coober Pedy to experience the bright lights of the Australian sky.
Coober Pedy Opal Fields Golf Club. Experience what it's like to play golf at night with glow-in-the-dark golf balls. You'll get to carry around a piece of turf to tee off. Even golf in Coober Pedy has a unique twist.
Coober Pedy Drive In. The people of Coober Pedy are always looking to take advantage of the cooler evening temperatures. Take in a beautiful night under the stars while watching a movie at the nostalgic Coober Pedy Drive-in.
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Day trips in and around Coober Pedy
The Breakaways. The Breakaways are located about 30 kilometres outside of Coober Pedy and are a picturesque representation of the arid treeless and grassless region. Red mesas and rugged terrain are the home of rare plants and animals.
Tours Coober Pedy has many touring companies offering comprehensive tours of the area or even more focused excursions. See the beauties of the Outback, various open mines, and other attractions in a timely fashion with a guided tour.
Old Timers Mine Take a trip back in time as you tour one of the original opal mines dating back to the early 20th century. See how the industry used to operate and what working in an antique opal mine would have been like.
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