Is there a train from Parndana to Bunbury?

No, there is no direct rail link between Kangaroo Island and Bunbury.

How long does the ferry take?

The SeaLink ferry from Penneshaw to Cape Jervis takes approximately 45 minutes.

Are there petrol stations on the Nullarbor?

Yes, roadhouses are spaced roughly every 150 to 200 km along the Eyre Highway.

Do I need a permit to drive across the Nullarbor?

No, you do not need a permit, but you must adhere to state quarantine regulations.

What is the best car for this trip?

A reliable 4WD or a well-serviced sedan is recommended for the long-distance highway driving.

Parndana

Flight Driving

Parndana to Bunbury

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Parndana to Bunbury spans approximately 2,700 km across the Nullarbor Plain. You must first take the SeaLink ferry from Penneshaw to Cape Jervis, then drive to Adelaide Airport for a flight to Perth. Alternatively, driving the entire route via the A1 Eyre Highway takes roughly 30 hours of pure transit time. This route crosses the vast arid landscapes of the Nullarbor before reaching the lush South West of Western Australia. Expect significant fuel stops at roadhouses like Nullarbor and Border Village.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2,700 km, straight-line air distance 1,950 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Adelaide to Perth is the fastest method, taking approximately 8 hours total.

Cheapest Way

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

Compare Parndana to Bunbury Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	32 hours
Avg Price	$450 - $800	$600 - $900
Operator	Qantas	Personal Vehicle
Route	Ferry to Cape Jervis, drive to Adelaide, fly to Perth, drive to Bunbury.	A1 Eyre Highway through Port Augusta, Ceduna, and Norseman.
Tip	Book your Adelaide to Perth flight well in advance to secure lower fares.	Carry at least 20 liters of spare water and check your tire pressure before crossing the Nullarbor.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Always book your SeaLink ferry ticket in advance, especially during school holidays.
Fuel Strategy
Fill your tank at every major roadhouse on the Eyre Highway to avoid running out in remote sections.
Wildlife Awareness
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk on the Nullarbor to minimize the risk of hitting kangaroos.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as mobile reception is non-existent for long stretches of the Nullarbor.
Rest Stops
Use the designated rest areas every two hours to manage driver fatigue effectively.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Check
Ensure your cooling system and spare tires are in perfect condition before starting the Nullarbor crossing.
Emergency Supplies
Pack a satellite phone or PLB if you are traveling solo through remote Western Australia.
Weather Alerts
Check the Bureau of Meteorology for bushfire warnings during the summer months.
Road Conditions
Monitor the Main Roads WA website for any closures or roadwork updates on the Eyre Highway.