Outback Safari

The Outback describes the remote and rural parts of Australia where few people live. Given that the vast majority of the population lives along the coast, the Outback can refer to many different places, with different climates and conditions. The key to successfully driving through and exploring the Outback is preparation.

Australia is extremely large; outside the populated coastal areas, there are vast swathes of empty, unpopulated land. There isn’t much traffic in remote areas, so motorists need to be prepared for anything – from a breakdown to unexpected weather and beyond.

It’s recommended that you carry enough food, water, and fuel for your trip, as well as surplus should you end up stuck somewhere. Each person needs about 10 litres of water per day, plus enough extra water for 3 to 5 days. You should also have a first aid kit, compass, flashlight, tools, at least one spare tyre, and a car jack you can operate.

Many parts of the Outback are true desert areas where daytime temperatures can hit 50° Celsius while night temperatures can drop to -10°C. Those travelling through the Outback should have adequate clothing and bedding for both eventualities. You should bring sufficient shade material for hot, daytime temperatures as well as warm blankets for night. You should also bring matches or lighters with which to start a fire for warmth or to attract attention, especially if you’re travelling to isolated areas.

There are many areas in the Outback where you cannot get a mobile signal. If you’re spending time in the Outback, you should have another means of communication for emergencies. Some people choose to get a satellite phone. Others might rent a two-way high-frequency radio. You might also want an Emergency Position Indication Radio Beacon with which emergency services can locate you. The choice is up to each individual, but you should have a plan for an emergency.

One of the lures of the Outback is the wildlife, but you should also know it can present challenges. Watch for cattle, which often graze around and cross unfenced roads. Wildlife is most active at sunrise and sunset, which can lead to accidents when animals wander into the road. Take care when driving during these times.

The Australian Outback can’t be found anywhere else in the world. There are many popular tours available to allow people to experience the outback for themselves, from the dry, arid town of Coober Pedy to the massive icon of Uluru.

One of the best outback holidays is undoubtedly the magnificent monolith of Uluru (Ayers Rock). While you can visit Uluru on your own, travelling as part of a small organised tour allows you to explore many of the lesser known, yet almost as spectacular, sites in this area.

Just because you’re travelling to the outback doesn’t mean you have to rough it. The Sails in the Desert Hotel is a five star resort - in the desert. This lavish hotel comes complete with all the indulgences necessary for a luxurious travel experience, with some of the premier rooms even having their own private spa on the balcony.

Coober Pedy, or ‘Opal Capital of the World’, is the world’s largest opal mining area, located in northern South Australia. The town is well known not only for its premier opals, but also for its magnificent underground homes. The locals began building these underground homes, accommodation, shops and galleries many years ago as a way of retreating from the harsh heat during the day.

If you intend staying in Coober Pedy, why not check in to one of the underground hotels such as the Desert Cave Hotel. Not only will you experience this unusual style of accommodation, but many guests comment that they sleep better than ever before in this quiet, cool environment. However don’t for a second imagine you will be living in a cave. No, these International Standard hotel rooms are rather impressive, with great facilities including colour TV and WiFi inside every room. ◀