Is it safe to drive the Nullarbor alone?

Yes, provided you have a reliable vehicle, sufficient water, and stick to the main highway.

How long does the Prospector train take?

The Prospector train journey from Perth to Kalgoorlie takes approximately 7 hours.

Do I need a permit to drive across the Nullarbor?

No, you do not need a permit, but you must adhere to quarantine regulations when entering Western Australia.

What is the best car for this trip?

A well-maintained 4WD or a reliable sedan is suitable for the sealed Eyre Highway.

Are there many roadhouses on the route?

Yes, there are regular roadhouses spaced out along the Eyre Highway providing fuel, food, and lodging.

Kalgoorlie

Flight Driving

Lake Heights to Kalgoorlie

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Lake Heights to Kalgoorlie covers approximately 3,800 kilometers across the Australian continent. The most efficient route involves driving to Sydney Airport, taking a flight to Perth, and connecting via the Prospector train. Alternatively, the road journey follows the M31 Hume Motorway and the A1 Eyre Highway across the Nullarbor Plain. This route traverses diverse landscapes from coastal New South Wales to the arid goldfields of Western Australia. Expect a multi-day commitment if driving, or a full day if flying and taking the train.

Total Distance: 3,800 km driving distance; 3,200 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Sydney to Perth followed by the Prospector train is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Lake Heights to Kalgoorlie Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	42 hours
Avg Price	$450 - $800	$900 - $1,400
Operator	Qantas	Personal Vehicle
Route	Sydney Airport (SYD) to Perth Airport (PER), then Prospector train to Kalgoorlie.	M31 Hume Motorway, A20 Sturt Highway, A1 Eyre Highway.
Tip	Book your Prospector train ticket in advance via Transwa to ensure seat availability.	Carry at least 20 liters of extra water when crossing the Nullarbor Plain.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Plan your fuel stops carefully on the Eyre Highway, as distances between stations can exceed 200 kilometers.
Time Zones
Remember that Western Australia is in a different time zone than New South Wales, usually 2 to 3 hours behind.
Vehicle Check
Perform a full mechanical inspection of your car before departing, focusing on tires and cooling systems.
Accommodation
Book roadhouse accommodation well in advance during peak holiday periods to avoid disappointment.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn, dusk, or night to minimize the risk of collisions with kangaroos and camels.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Stop every two hours for a 15-minute break to prevent driver fatigue on long stretches.
Emergency Supplies
Carry a satellite phone or a PLB, as mobile reception is non-existent for large sections of the Nullarbor.
Weather Awareness
Check the Bureau of Meteorology for bushfire warnings or flooding alerts before starting your journey.
Road Conditions
Monitor the Main Roads WA website for real-time updates on road closures or maintenance works.