Is the Nullarbor road paved?

Yes, the entire Eyre Highway is fully sealed and suitable for standard passenger vehicles.

Can I take a bus to Adelaide?

There is no direct bus service from Kalgoorlie to Adelaide; you must travel via Perth.

How long is the train ride?

The Indian Pacific takes approximately 26 hours from Kalgoorlie to Adelaide.

Are there camels on the road?

Yes, wild camels are common on the Nullarbor and pose a significant hazard at night.

No permits are required for standard travel on the Eyre Highway.

Kalgoorlie

Adelaide

Train Driving

Kalgoorlie to Adelaide

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Kalgoorlie to Adelaide spans approximately 2,500 kilometers across the Nullarbor Plain. You can travel via the iconic Indian Pacific train, which departs from the Kalgoorlie Railway Station. Alternatively, driving the Eyre Highway offers a rugged outback experience through Norseman and Ceduna. The rail journey is famous for traversing the longest straight stretch of railway track in the world. Expect vast desert landscapes and remote roadhouses along the highway route.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2,500 km, straight-line air distance 1,850 km.

Fastest Way

The Indian Pacific train is the most efficient way to cross the Nullarbor without the fatigue of driving.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest if traveling with multiple passengers, costing roughly $400 in fuel.

Compare Kalgoorlie to Adelaide Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	26 hours	28 hours
Avg Price	$600 - $1,200	$400 - $600 in fuel
Operator	Journey Beyond Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Trans-Australian Railway via Cook and Ooldea.	Eyre Highway (A1) via Norseman, Eucla, and Ceduna.
Tip	Book a Gold Service cabin for all-inclusive meals and beverages.	Carry at least 20 liters of extra water and spare fuel.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill your tank at every opportunity on the Nullarbor, as stations can be 200km apart.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize the risk of hitting kangaroos or camels.
Connectivity
Mobile reception is non-existent for long stretches; download offline maps before leaving Kalgoorlie.
Booking
Book the Indian Pacific at least three months in advance to secure lower fares.
Hydration
Keep a large supply of drinking water in your vehicle at all times.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and cooling system are serviced before attempting the Nullarbor crossing.
Fatigue Management
Follow the 'stop, revive, survive' rule and take breaks every two hours.
Emergency Beacon
Consider carrying a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) if traveling solo through remote areas.
Weather
Check for bushfire warnings or road closures on the Main Roads WA website before departure.