Silhouette of two vehicles at sunrise on the Birdsville Track — Sunrise on the Birdsville Track

Some of the most iconic Australian four-wheel-drive routes pass through the regions of South Australia. The Oodnadatta, Strzelecki, Googs Track and the Anne Beadell Highway all rightly hold their place in Australian outback travel folklore. From the Simpson and Great Victoria Deserts to the Nullabor Plains and the Great Australian Bight. There are so many great drives showcasing the diverse environments and stunning scenery on offer in South Australia.

The Birdsville Track is one of the best known off-road routes. Once an isolated stock and mail route, today it is a popular four-wheel drive journey. The track runs between Birdsville in south-west Queensland, to Marree in central-eastern South Australia. While not a challenging drive, it is still well worth the journey.

An old locomotive from the Ghan Railway Line — One of the old locomotives from the Ghan Railway Line

The Oodnadatta Track is another iconic South Australian trek. Following the route of the former Ghan Railway and Overland Telegraph Line, it offers striking scenery and history. Natural artesian springs also line the route.

One of only two access points to Kati Thanda (Lake Eyre) is off this track. Whether full from flooding rains, or bone dry, Lake Eyre is an impressive sight.

Marianne walking across the dry surface of Lake Eyre

At the southern end of the track is the town of Marree. Marree is a great spot to base yourself for your Lake Eyre visit or scenic flight. It also offers plenty of other interesting things to see, including Ghan railway remnants and the Tom Kruse Museum.

Alternatively, you can stay at Muloorina Station, which is on the way to Level Post Bay, the other access point to view Lake Eyre. Here you can camp around a pretty waterhole while enjoying the abundant birdlife. Take a short walk from camp and relax in a natural artesian spring.

Camped by the edge of the water at Muloorina Station

In terms of dramatic and spectacular scenery, it is difficult to go past the Flinders Ranges. This region, with ancient mountains, towering rock formations and deep gorges formed over millions of years, is one of the most picturesque places in the state. It is rich in Aboriginal history and home to a huge variety of wildlife and vegetation. Travelling through this stunning region is a truly memorable experience and it is well worth exploring.

View of the Flinders Ranges from Razorback Lookout

The Anne Beadell Highway is one of the most isolated routes in the state, passing through the Great Victoria Desert. Spectacular scenery like the Serpentine Lakes district, make this arduous journey worthwhile. The atomic bomb testing sites at Emu, are a reminder of the dark past of this region.

The Great Australian Bight sure does live up to its name. With its dramatic coastline, it offers up some of the most challenging four-wheel driving in South Australia.