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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip

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Set off on a classic road trip from Adelaide to Cape Jervis and ferry across to Kangaroo Island, car included, with sweeping ocean views along the way. Discover the island through wildlife encounters, food and wine experiences, and adventures from dolphin swims to quad biking at Vivonne Bay. Explore the wild landscapes of Flinders Chase National Park, visit sea lion colonies and birds of prey sanctuaries, and experience why Kangaroo Island is famed as a true island sanctuary.

BeachesNational parksWildlife & nature
Tour summary and feature

Self Drive Tour

This suggested tour costs from AUD$3,525 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Adelaide, finishes in Adelaide

8 days/7 nights

Glamping & Cabins

 Rental car included

 Viewed 95 times in the last 7 days

price pp from
AUD$3,525
twin share/double
price pp from
AUD$3,525
twin share/double
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Tour full itinerary
ITINERARY
Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 1
Arrive in Adelaide

Welcome to Adelaide, a charming city known for its relaxed pace, elegant architecture, and thriving food and wine scene. Whether you're exploring the Adelaide Central Market, sipping coffee in hidden cafés, or catching a sunset by the beach, Adelaide offers the perfect mix of culture, flavour, and relaxation.

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Please note, a one-way fee may apply

Adelaide to Cape Jervis

The drive from Adelaide to Cape Jervis takes you through the rolling vineyards and farmland of the Fleurieu Peninsula, with charming towns like McLaren Vale and Willunga perfect for wine tasting, local produce, and historic streets. Along the coast, stop at Port Willunga or Sellicks Beach to enjoy pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. Cape Jervis serves as the gateway to Kangaroo Island, with ferries departing from the harbour.

Cape Jarvis to Penneshaw (Kangaroo Island) on the Sealink Ferry

SeaLink Kangaroo Island’s ferry service operates between Cape Jervis and Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island. The journey takes just 45 minutes for the 16km crossing.

Cape Willoughby Lighthouse - suggested activity

Perched on Kangaroo Island’s eastern tip, Cape Willoughby Lighthouse is South Australia’s oldest lighthouse, first lit in 1852. The 27-meter granite tower guided ships through Backstairs Passage and now offers panoramic ocean views, walking trails, wildlife spotting, and a glimpse into the island’s maritime history.

Your accommodation: Seafront Kangaroo Island Holiday Park

The Seafront is perfectly situated in Penneshaw - Gateway to Kangaroo Island, and overlooks the magnificent Backstairs Passage. Kangaroo Island is totally unspoilt, white beaches, rocky outcrops and stunning coastline is home to an abundance of wildlife. KI is seven times the size of Singapore, literally crawling with wildlife.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 107 kms / 67 miles : 1.6 hours

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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 2
Penneshaw to Hanson Bay

Travelling from Penneshaw to Hanson Bay, you can stop at Seal Bay Conservation Park and join a guided tour to see Australian sea lions resting on pristine beaches, detour inland to the towering sand dunes of Little Sahara Adventure Centre for sandboarding or quad biking, and enjoy adventure experiences with Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action near Vivonne Bay. As you head further west, Kelly Hill Caves Conservation Park offers guided underground tours through impressive limestone formations before the landscape becomes wilder and more remote. Closer to Hanson Bay, the sealed road gives way to sections of well-maintained dirt road, adding to the sense of adventure as you arrive at this peaceful, wildlife-rich corner of the island.

Seal Bay Guided Tour - suggested activity

Experience the wild beauty of Seal Bay Conservation Park on a guided tour and get up close to a colony of Australian sea lions in their natural habitat. Learn about their behaviour, conservation efforts, and the fragile coastal ecosystem from knowledgeable guides. This is a unique wildlife experience, perfect for nature lovers and families alike.

Edge of the Earth Quad Bike Tour with Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action

Experience the wild south coast of Kangaroo Island on the Edge of the Earth Quad Bike Tour with Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action. Ride across rugged bushland, open grasslands, and rocky trails to reach a remote, untouched coastline where dramatic cliffs meet the powerful Southern Ocean. This guided adventure offers breathtaking scenery, a sense of true isolation, and an adrenaline-filled way to explore one of the island’s most spectacular and lesser-seen landscapes. 

Your accommodation: Hanson Bay Cabins

The Hanson Bay Cabins are located at the end of Hanson Bay Road, 3.5 km from the highway near Southern Ocean Lodge and Flinders Chase National Park. Each cabin features a slow-combustion wood fire and, a full kitchen including a dishwasher and microwave. Hanson Bay cabins feature stunning ocean views of the rugged Southern Ocean coastline.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 123 kms / 77 miles : 1.4 hours

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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 3
Explore Flinders Chase National Park

Explore the dramatic landscapes of Flinders Chase National Park, one of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic natural areas. Wander along scenic walking trails that lead to remarkable formations such as Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, where rugged cliffs, sea-sculpted rock, and coastal views create unforgettable scenery. Along the way, spot abundant wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, and seals, and take in the raw beauty of the Southern Ocean. 

Kelly Hill Caves Conservation Park - suggested activity

Kelly Hill Caves were formed over thousands of years as rainwater shaped the island’s limestone and were known to local Aboriginal people long before European settlement. Today, within Kelly Hill Caves Conservation Park, visitors can explore impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate formations on guided tours while learning about the caves’ geology, history, and discovery.

Your accommodation: Hanson Bay Cabins

The Hanson Bay Cabins are located at the end of Hanson Bay Road, 3.5 km from the highway near Southern Ocean Lodge and Flinders Chase National Park. Each cabin features a slow-combustion wood fire and, a full kitchen including a dishwasher and microwave. Hanson Bay cabins feature stunning ocean views of the rugged Southern Ocean coastline.

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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 4
Guided Koala Walk & Bush Fire Ecology Tour with Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Get up close to Kangaroo Island’s iconic wildlife on the Guided Koala Walk & Bush Fire Ecology Tour at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Wander through native bushland with expert guides, spotting koalas, kangaroos, and native birds along the way. Learn about the island’s unique ecosystem, including the role of bushfires in shaping the landscape and conservation efforts to protect local wildlife. This immersive tour is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Kangaroo Island’s extraordinary flora and fauna.

Your accommodation: Hanson Bay Cabins

The Hanson Bay Cabins are located at the end of Hanson Bay Road, 3.5 km from the highway near Southern Ocean Lodge and Flinders Chase National Park. Each cabin features a slow-combustion wood fire and, a full kitchen including a dishwasher and microwave. Hanson Bay cabins feature stunning ocean views of the rugged Southern Ocean coastline.

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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 5
Hanson Bay to Kingscote

Leaving the peaceful, wildlife-rich surroundings of Hanson Bay, you’ll see rolling farmland, native bush, and glimpses of the coastline unfold, and you might spot kangaroos or koalas in the wild. As you get closer to Kingscote, make sure to stop at Island Beehive to discover the island’s honey-making process and sample a range of unique local honey, and at the Kangaroo Island Brewery to enjoy a refreshing drink and locally crafted beers. Arriving in Kingscote, you’ll find a charming coastal town with cafes, galleries, and a scenic foreshore, the perfect base for exploring the rest of Kangaroo Island.

Kingscote

Kingscote, the main town on Kangaroo Island, is a charming coastal hub with a relaxed, friendly vibe. Visitors can stroll along the historic wharf, spot pelicans at Pelican Lagoon, explore local galleries and boutiques, or enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront cafes. 

Beekeeping Experience Tour with Island Beehive

Step into the boots of a beekeeper at Island Beehive. Suit up, explore active hives, learn about bee behaviour, and hold a frame full of bees. Finish with a tour of the extraction facility and taste the island’s rare Ligurian honey, an unforgettable, hands-on experience for nature lovers and curious minds.

Your accommodation: Ozone Hotel Kangaroo Island

Aurora Ozone Kingscote Hotel offers a unique waterfront location along one of South Australia’s most pristine coastlines. Enjoy stunning views over Nepean Bay from Parsons Restaurant, unwind at the Winch Bar and Guest Lounge, or relax by the swimming pool. Experience comfortable accommodation in the heart of Kangaroo Island.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 93 kms / 58 miles : 1.1 hours

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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 6
Half Day Food and Wine Tour with Kangaroo Island Trails

Discover the flavours of Kangaroo Island on a Half Day Food and Wine Tour with Kangaroo Island Trails. Visit local wineries, sample boutique cheeses, taste artisanal honey, and enjoy fresh produce at island farms. Along the way, learn about the region’s unique food culture and meet passionate producers, all while taking in the island’s scenic landscapes. Perfect for foodies, wine lovers, and anyone wanting a taste of Kangaroo Island’s culinary delights.

Your accommodation: Ozone Hotel Kangaroo Island

Aurora Ozone Kingscote Hotel offers a unique waterfront location along one of South Australia’s most pristine coastlines. Enjoy stunning views over Nepean Bay from Parsons Restaurant, unwind at the Winch Bar and Guest Lounge, or relax by the swimming pool. Experience comfortable accommodation in the heart of Kangaroo Island.

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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 7
Island Explorer Tour & Dolphin Swim with Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures

Experience the best of Kangaroo Island’s marine wildlife on the Island Explorer Tour & Dolphin Swim. Cruise along pristine coastlines to spot dolphins, seals, sea birds, and playful wildlife in their natural habitat. Hop in the water for an unforgettable swim alongside wild dolphins, guided by expert naturalists. This immersive adventure combines scenic cruising, wildlife encounters, and hands-on marine experiences, perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a unique way to connect with Kangaroo Island’s ocean wonders.

Penneshaw (Kangaroo Island) to Cape Jarvis on the Sealink Ferry

SeaLink Kangaroo Island’s ferry service operates between Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island and Cape Jervis. The journey takes just 45 minutes for the 16km crossing.

Cape Jervis to Glenelg

Travel along the coastline of the St Vincent Gulf to the iconic McLaren Vale wine region. Here, you can visit galleries and taste wine at some of the 45 cellar doors, including Yangarra, d’Arenberg, and Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard. Then travel towards Glenelg, where sandy beaches, the jetty, and vibrant cafes await.

Glenelg

Glenelg is a vibrant beachside suburb of Adelaide, set on the white sands of Holdfast Bay. Established in 1836 as South Australia’s first mainland settlement, it was once the landing site for the state’s earliest settlers and home to the Kaurna people long before colonisation. Visit the Bay Discovery Centre to explore local and cultural history, then enjoy Glenelg’s turquoise waters and soft sands. Perfect for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. Lined with bars, restaurants, and boutique shops, Glenelg is ideal for a relaxed seaside evening.

Your accommodation: The George Glenelg

The George Glenelg is a stylish and contemporary hotel perfectly situated on Glenelg’s vibrant beachfront. Offering modern rooms and suites with elegant décor, the hotel provides easy access to the beach, local dining, and shopping. With excellent facilities, including a rooftop pool and bar, it’s an ideal base for both relaxing coastal escapes and exploring Adelaide’s lively seaside precinct.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 108 kms / 67 miles : 1.6 hours

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Ultimate Kangaroo Island Roadtrip - Day 8
Return your vehicle to Adelaide Airport

Return your vehicle at the Adelaide Airport depot.

Farewell from Adelaide

Farewell Adelaide today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!

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