Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Petra Nesti, Pexels
Coober Pedy, located in the Australian Outback, is globally recognized as the "opal capital of the world" and offers a distinctive travel experience due to its extensive underground dwellings. Visitors can explore a subterranean world featuring homes, churches, museums, and hotels, which provide a cool escape from the scorching desert heat.
For socialising, visitors can head to underground bars, such as those found at the Desert Cave Hotel or Opal Cave. The Big Winch Lookout also features a cafe and bar, offering a place to gather and enjoy sunset views over the unique landscape. The town's main street, Hutchison Street, provides several cafes and restaurants.
Top 6 Things to do in Coober Pedy
Activities in Coober Pedy revolve around exploring its subterranean world, understanding opal mining, and experiencing the unique Outback landscapes.
1. Umoona Opal Mine & Museum
One can delve into Coober Pedy's rich history at the Umoona Opal Mine & Museum. This award-winning underground attraction offers insight into Aboriginal and European settlement, showcasing fossils from an ancient inland sea. Visitors can explore an original opal mine, witness a genuine opal seam, and experience what an old and modern underground home feels like. An informative documentary, 'The Story of Opal,' is also shown in an underground theater.
Cost: Entry to the museum is free. Guided tours are available, costing approximately A$14 for adults and A$7.50 for children. Family rates may also be available.
Transport: The Umoona Opal Mine & Museum is centrally located on Coober Pedy's main street (Hutchison Street) and is easily accessible by walking from most central accommodations.
2. Old Timers Mine
At the Old Timers Mine, one steps back in time to 1916. This self-guided tour allows you to explore an original opal mine, complete with tunnels and explanations of early opal locating and mining methods. It also features a museum providing a glimpse into early life in Coober Pedy and an opportunity to walk through a dugout house. A 'noodling' pit is available to try searching for opals.
Cost: Expect entry fees for self-guided tours; specific recent costs for Old Timers Mine were not widely available in the last three years but are typically around A$15 for adults.
Transport: The Old Timers Mine is generally accessible by walking from the town center.
3. Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park
Experiencing the vast, rugged beauty of the Outback is possible at Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, located outside Coober Pedy. This 15,000-hectare park features striking sandstone tablelands that display spectacular reds and oranges, especially at sunset. The area is also home to native flora and fauna. One can drive through the loop road to see landmarks like 'The Castle' and 'Salt and Pepper', and views of the Dog Fence and Moon Plain.
Cost: Vehicle entry fees apply, typically ranging from A$11.20 to A$13.90. Permits can be obtained from the Coober Pedy Visitor Centre. Guided tours are also available from various operators, with prices starting around A$99 for a combined town and Breakaways tour.
Transport: This park is approximately 25-30 km north of Coober Pedy. It is best accessed by driving a personal vehicle (4WD recommended for unsealed roads, though 2WD may be possible) or by joining a guided tour. Taxis can cost A$40-A$50 one way.
4. Underground Churches
Visiting Coober Pedy's underground churches offers a unique spiritual and architectural experience. The Serbian Orthodox Church, with its striking scalloped ceiling and rock-carved sculptures, provides a majestic underground atmosphere. St Peter and Paul Catholic Church is also noteworthy as the first underground church in Coober Pedy.
Cost: Entry to the Serbian Orthodox Church typically has a fee of around A$5. St Peter and Paul's Catholic Church often operates on a gold coin donation.
Transport: These churches are located within Coober Pedy town and are generally within walking distance or a short drive from the town center.
5. Big Winch Lookout & 360 Cinema
The Big Winch Lookout provides expansive views over the Coober Pedy township and out to the Kanku-Breakaways, offering a perfect spot for magnificent Outback sunsets. It features a unique steel tree made from scrap iron. The Big Winch 360 cinematic experience immerses visitors in an Outback journey, providing a unique perspective on the region's pioneering spirit. The complex also hosts a cafe and bar.
Cost: Visiting the lookout itself is free. The 360 cinematic experience has an entry fee, approximately A$60 for a family (2 adults & 3 children).
Transport: The Big Winch Lookout is located on Italian Club Road, a short drive from the main street. It is accessible by car.
6. Josephine's Gallery & Kangaroo Orphanage
At Josephine's Gallery & Kangaroo Orphanage, one can admire Aboriginal artwork while also having the chance to meet orphaned kangaroos and other local wildlife such as wombats, birds, and lizards. Public feedings of joeys are often available, offering an interactive experience.
Cost: Specific entry costs were not consistently available in recent reviews, but some orphanages and galleries may ask for a donation or have a small entry fee.
Transport: This attraction is located within Coober Pedy, generally accessible by walking or a short drive depending on your starting point within the town.
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