Is the Nullarbor dangerous?

It is safe if you are prepared, carry water, and avoid driving at night.

How long does it take to drive?

Most people take 3 to 4 days to drive comfortably from Mandurah to Adelaide.

The Indian Pacific train runs between Perth and Adelaide, but it is a luxury experience, not a commuter service.

What is the best car for the trip?

Any reliable, well-maintained vehicle is fine; 4WD is not strictly necessary for the highway.

No, there are no permits required for driving the Eyre Highway.

Mandurah

Adelaide

Flight Driving

Mandurah to Adelaide

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Mandurah to Adelaide involves crossing the vast Nullarbor Plain. You can fly from Perth to Adelaide in 3 hours or drive the iconic Eyre Highway. The drive is a bucket-list journey covering 2700 kilometers of desert and coastal cliffs. Adelaide offers a Mediterranean climate and a vibrant cultural scene. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for the long, isolated stretches of the Nullarbor.

Total Distance: 2700 km driving distance; 2100 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Perth takes 3 hours 10 minutes, plus the 1-hour drive from Mandurah to Perth.

Cheapest Way

Flying with a budget airline like Jetstar is often cheaper than the fuel and accommodation costs of driving.

Compare Mandurah to Adelaide Routes

	Flight Direct from Perth	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 10 mins	28 hours
Avg Price	$150 - $400	$600 - $800 in fuel
Operator	Qantas, Jetstar	Personal Vehicle
Route	Perth Airport (PER) to Adelaide Airport (ADL).	National Highway 1 (Eyre Highway).
Tip	Jetstar often offers the cheapest fares if booked at least a month in advance.	Budget for at least three days of driving to safely cross the Nullarbor.

Travel Tips

Fuel
Never pass a fuel station on the Nullarbor without checking your tank; distances between stations are vast.
Time Zones
Remember that South Australia is 1.5 hours ahead of Western Australia.
Water
Carry at least 20 liters of drinking water in your car at all times.
Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of kangaroos and camels on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
Accommodation
Book roadhouse rooms in advance during peak holiday seasons.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
The Nullarbor is monotonous; stop every two hours to avoid highway hypnosis.
Vehicle Prep
Check your oil, coolant, and tire pressure before leaving Mandurah.
Communication
Mobile coverage is spotty; consider a satellite messenger for emergencies.
Road Trains
Maintain a safe distance behind road trains and only pass when you have a long, clear view.