Kimba District

Kimba District Tourism

Kimba District: A Traveler’s Guide to South Australia’s Hidden Gem

Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in South Australia? Look no further than the charming Kimba District. Located 366 km from Adelaide and halfway between the Eyre Peninsula and the Flinders Ranges, Kimba is the perfect base for exploring South Australia’s diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the top tourist attractions in and around the Kimba District. From nature reserves to historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Nature Reserves

Gawler Ranges National Park: Known for its spectacular rock formations, abundant wildlife, and scenic vistas, Gawler Ranges National Park is a must-visit destination. Hike through the park’s rugged terrain to see kangaroos, emus, and wallabies in their natural habitats. The park is located about 230 km west of Kimba.

Lake Gilles Conservation Park: Just a 30-minute drive from Kimba, Lake Gilles Conservation Park is home to Australia’s largest ephemeral salt lake. If you’re lucky, you might spot a wedge-tailed eagle or white-bellied sea eagle soaring overhead.

Koongawa and Yangie Bay Conservation Parks: These neighboring parks offer breathtaking coastal scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Look for ospreys, peregrine falcons, and hooded plovers as you hike through the parks’ dunes and scrublands.

Historic Landmarks

Kimba Railway Station: Built in 1913, Kimba Railway Station is a historic site that showcases the town’s rich railway heritage. The station was once a major hub for grain transport in South Australia, and today it serves as a passenger station for the Pichi Richi Railway.

Halfway Across Australia Sign: One of Kimba’s most iconic landmarks is the “Halfway Across Australia” sign, which marks the halfway point between Sydney and Perth on the Eyre Highway. Snap a photo with the sign and take a moment to appreciate just how vast and beautiful Australia is.

Wudinna Rock: This giant granite outcrop is located about 40 km north of Kimba. It’s a sacred site for the local Barngarla people, who call it Pirianda. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the rock’s cultural and geological significance.

Activities

Fishing: Kimba and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for fishing. Cast your line in the tranquil waters of Lake Gilles, or head to the coast for a chance to catch salmon, garfish, and snapper.

Hiking: With so many nature reserves nearby, hiking is a popular activity in the Kimba District. Choose from short walks or longer hikes that take you through a variety of landscapes, from coastal dunes to rugged mountains.

Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, head to the Kimba Swimming Pool. The pool offers lap swimming, a waterslide, and plenty of space for lounging on the deck.

Where to Stay

Kimba has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Choose from motels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds. Some of our top picks include:

- the Kimba Gateway Hotel Motel, which offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with a wide range of menu options;
- the Halfway Across Australia Caravan Park, which has powered and unpowered sites for caravans and tents; and
- Bungaree Station Bed and Breakfast, a historic homestead that offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the countryside.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your trip to the Kimba District, we recommend planning ahead. Check the weather forecast, pack for the activities you plan to do, and make any necessary reservations. You can find more information about the Kimba District, including contact details and maps, on the South Australia Tourism website. We hope you enjoy your visit to this hidden gem of South Australia.