10 amazing things to do in SA

Posted 6 September, 2017 John Pedler

South Australia is almost embarrassingly rich in scenic delights and exciting activities. From the desert to the coast, there’s so much to explore. Get in on the action with these top-shelf experiences.  

Raptor Domain, Kangaroo Island

Raptor Domain has provided a second chance for injured, rescued and orphaned birds that are no longer suited for release into the wild. See owls, eagles and other birds of prey in full flight, and watch how the clever black-breasted buzzard opens an emu egg. Get up very close and personal with Australia’s unique reptiles and, if you have the nerve, check out the action in the Venom Pit – home to some of the country’s more toxic denizens.  

Camp and 4WD in the Flinders Ranges

So many choices! From the craggy ramparts of the Gammon Ranges in the north, to the valleys and canyons of the southern Flinders, there are remote campsites and rugged 4WD trails galore. For high adventure and low-range action, tackle the tracks on one of the station properties that have opened their doors to visitors. Head deep into the Ranges through rocky gullies and along ridgetops to find your own patch of secluded camping paradise.    

Quad biking at Waitpinga Farm

Take a spin on the practice track before heading off across this south-coast farm. A scenic tour takes in glorious views of the Southern Ocean and the pounding surf at Waitpinga Beach. An adventure tour really gets the heart pumping, as you weave among gum trees on sandy tracks, tackle rocky creek crossings and scoot across grassy plains.  

Visit Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake in summer

Summertime photos of the Blue Lake always look photoshopped, but no, it really is that blue! A greenish-grey during the cooler months, this volcanic crater lake goes through its dazzling summer makeover around November each year. It may be pretty as a picture now, but it was probably less appealing when it blasted into existence around 5000 years ago. For a close-up look, take a tour to the lake surface via the old pumping station and well shaft.

Photos of the Blue Lake always look photoshopped, but no, it really is that blue!

 

Swim with the sea lions at Port Lincoln

Imagine being underwater with a dozen excited puppies. That’s what swimming with sea lions is like. As curious as they are playful, they’re always up for a face-to-face encounter with the weird bug-eyed strangers on their turf. The way these zippy little sea mammals twist and turn, surely they must be boneless. With bursts of speed of up to 40km/h, it’s probably best not to get caught up in a game of chasey.