One of the first things that the tourist must decide is how to get to Coober Pedy. As this opal-rich town is located in the middle of southern Australia’s Outback, getting there might seem to present problems, but in fact, there are plenty of ways to get to Coober Pedy without trouble.
Traveling by Plane
Undoubtedly, the easiest and fastest way to get to Coober Pedy is by airplane. Regional Air Express has flights between Adelaide and Coober Pedy Monday through Friday and on Sunday as well. The flight will take approximately 2 hours. It would be a good idea to book your flight well in advance of your projected visit, to make sure that there are seats available – Coober Pedy is a popular destination.
Taking the Bus
It is also possible to make the trip to Coober Pedy from Adelaide by Greyhound bus. These buses are air-conditioned and will provide a comfortable alternative to flying, and are a more economical choice. There is a bus leaving every day, and the trip generally takes about 11 hours, as Coober Pedy is about 500 miles (843 kilometers) from Adelaide. The bus leaves in the evening and will arrive in the very early morning, probably to take advantage of the cooler night temperatures.
By Train
The Ghan is the train that will get you from Adelaide to Manguri, which is the closest station to Coober Pedy. Manguri is 28 miles, or 47 kilometers, from Coober Pedy, and you will have to arrange for transportation from there to the town itself. Your travel agent or the hotel where you will be staying can probably provide you with more information about this. The Ghan leaves Adelaide for Alice Springs (the ultimate destination) only on Sunday and Friday, and you will arrive the next day. You should be aware, however, that getting to Coober Pedy by train will probably be the most expensive way of traveling.
Going by Car
If you already live in Australia, and are interested in visiting Coober Pedy, it will be easy to simply use your own automobile. However, as the conditions in this area of the country are rigorous, you should make sure before you start that your auto is up to the trip. Breaking down in an area where temperatures are often over 100 degrees F can be hazardous.
The visitor to Australia can rent a car to make the trip to Coober Pedy easily at any of the car rental agencies in Adelaide. You should be aware that the trip will take considerable time, as Coober Pedy is 500 miles from Adelaide. The trip could easily take about 11 hours, and would probably be best accomplished by traveling in the evening and at night, to avoid the worst of the heat.
Enjoy Your Stay, Regardless of How You Get There
The manner you choose to get to Coober Pedy will depend upon a number of factors, cost and available time being the most important. Once you have arrived, be sure to relax and enjoy the sights and inhabitants of one of the world’s most unique towns.