kangaroo island 4 wheel drive tours

THE 10 BEST Kangaroo Island 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

4wd, atv & off-road tours in kangaroo island.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Kangaroo Island Hire a Guide
• Seal Bay Conservation Park
• Admirals Arch
• Duck Lagoon
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Kangaroo Island Scenic Nature and Wildlife Day Tour

2. Kangaroo Island Quad Bike (ATV) Tours

3. Small Group Kangaroo Island Tour - Best of KI

4. Small Group Kangaroo Island Evening and Night Tour

5. Small-Group Buggy Tour at Little Sahara with Guide

6. Small Group Kangaroo Island Tour - Seal Bay

7. Small Group Kangaroo Island Tour - Best of KI in 2 Days

8. Kangaroo Island Luxury Small Group 'Island Life' Full Day Tour

9. Kangaroo Island Luxury Small Group 'Flinders Chase Focus' Full Day Tour

10. Small Group Kangaroo Island Tour - Flinders Chase

11. Small Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour

12. Small Group Small Group Kangaroo Island Wine Tour

13. Small Group Kangaroo Island Tour - Dudley Peninsula

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Murray River Day Trip from Adelaide Including Lunch Cruise aboard the Proud Mary

RoofClimb Adelaide Oval Experience

Cleland Wildlife Park Experience - from Adelaide including Mt Lofty Summit

Mount Lofty Descent Bike Tour from Adelaide

Small-Group River Murray Dark Sky and Sunset Tour with Dinner

Adelaide City to Sea Bike Tour

3-Day Adelaide to Melbourne Overland Trip through Grampians and Great Ocean Road

Guided Wine Journey and Discovery Tasting Tour in Adelaide

10-Day Adelaide to Perth Adventure Tour

Victor Harbor and Southern Highlights from Adelaide

Abseiling Adventure in Adelaide

4-Night Murray River Cruise on the classic Murray Princess

Flinders Ranges 5-Day Small Group 4WD Eco Tour from Adelaide

3-Day Small-Group Swim with Giant Cuttlefish Trip from Adelaide

3-Night Murray River Cruise on the classic Murray Princess

Adelaide to Coober Pedy 7-Day Small Group 4WD Eco Safari

Twilight Ships Graveyard Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Kangaroo Island Scenic Nature and Wildlife Day Tour
• Kangaroo Island Quad Bike (ATV) Tours
• Small Group Kangaroo Island Evening and Night Tour
• Small Group Kangaroo Island Tour - Best of KI
• Small-Group Buggy Tour at Little Sahara with Guide
• Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action
• Exceptional Kangaroo Island
• Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours
• Kangaroo Island Bush Getaway Quad Bike (ATV) Tours

Kangaroo Island Tours

Explore Kangaroo Island with the original and leading Kangaroo Island touring company,  Exceptional Kangaroo Island . Choose from a range of creative and award-winning Kangaroo Island tours.

Since 1986, Exceptional Kangaroo Island has delivered the most bespoke and luxurious small group and private Kangaroo Island tours, featuring:

• incredible wildlife encounters
• spectacular inland and coastal landscapes
• enthusiastic, knowledgable and professional local guides
• premium local produce sourced primarily from Kangaroo Island
• the finest local beer and wine

Browse Kangaroo Island Tours

• One Day Tours
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• Three Day Tours
• Private Tours
• Other Tours

Exceptional Kangaroo Island offers a range of Kangaroo Island tours, catering to any interest, including wildlife, food & wine, art, bushwalking, birdwatching, photography and natural history.

One Day Kangaroo Island Tours

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Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours

Kangaroo Island

Tours Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours

Wilderness wildscapes day tour - dw, wilderness south coast day tour - 1dwsc, taste of kangaroo island day tour - 1dtki, wilderness island culture day tour - 1dwic, wilderness wildlife day tour- 1dwl, private touring, let’s stay in touch.

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An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Kangaroo Island, Australia

This post contains affiliate links, for which I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase.

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During our family gap year, we spent more time in Australia than any other country – 7 weeks to be exact. Despite that lengthy visit we just couldn’t see everything, as Australia is nearly as large as the continental United States!

One place I would have loved to visit is Kangaroo Island – it’s an incredible wildlife haven with gorgeous scenery and so much more. I’ve asked Aussie travel blogger Olivia McDonald to share her best tips for visiting Kangaroo Island. She loves exploring at home in Australia just as much as traveling abroad and shares her passion for the Land Down Under with readers all over the world!

Be sure to read up on how to plan your own amazing Australia itinerary as you plan your trip.

Situated off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island stands out as a unique and stunning destination that has loads on offer. To help you make the most of your trip to this Aussie gem, I’ve put together the ultimate Kangaroo Island guide.

Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this guide is your key to unlocking the best of this stunning island.

From choosing the perfect places to stay on Kangaroo Island to how to get around, I’ve got you covered in this guide. Discover the best things to do on Kangaroo Island, whether it’s hiking through untouched landscapes, encountering native wildlife, or simply basking on pristine beaches with some of the bluest waters you’ll ever see.

Get ready for an adventure like no other! 

Why you need to visit Kangaroo Island

Beautiful rugged coastlines, turquoise waters, top-rated beaches, native animals, unique natural formations and wines to taste. Shall I go on? 

There are loads of things to do on Kangaroo Island including visiting the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral arches at Flinders Chase National Park, watching seals in the natural habitat at Seal Bay or relaxing by the beach at Stokes Bay.

Whether you are a solo traveler from Australia, visiting from overseas with your partner or looking for a weekend getaway from Adelaide with family Kangaroo Island is well worth a visit.

Check out this list of cool things to do in Kangaroo Island:

• Look for kangaroos, koalas and more in Flinders Chase National Park
• Enjoy sunrise or sunset at the Remarkable Rocks
• Coo over adorable seal pups in Seal Bay
• Take in the stunning waters around Vivonne Bay Jetty
• Go tasting at Bay of Shoals Winery
• Explore underground at Kelly Hill Caves

Throughout this article you’ll see photos of Kangaroo Island to inspire your own trip!

How to get to Kangaroo Island, Australia 

To get to Kangaroo Island from Adelaide city/airport, you will need to drive about 1hr 30mins to Cape Jervis to catch the Sealink ferry across. Be sure to book in early if you are traveling during the summertime and are taking a car across as it books up fast!

The ferry is about a 45-minute trip and will drop you off at Penneshaw. 

From there, I recommend you stay in Kingscote due to the range of accommodation, shopping and dining options. Kingscote is about a 45-minute drive from Penneshaw. It’s a long travel day but it is definitely worth it once you arrive. 

You can skip the ferry and fly to Kangaroo Island , although expect to pay more and have less flexibility with scheduling. 

I highly recommend renting a car when traveling around Kangaroo Island. The roads vary but are generally suitable to drive without a 4-wheel drive. I rented a small economy car from Sixt via Discover cars and it was perfect for a solo road trip ! A few roads are dirt and gravel so be sure to drive slowly as the tires can slip, happened to me a few times and it is a bit scary!

Talk about sweaty hands when driving! 

Kangaroo Island Accommodation

I recommend you stay in Kingscote as there are enough cafes, restaurants, petrol stations and shops to get you by. There is a supermarket which I found great for picking up lunch for on the go (as there isn’t much past Kingscote) and a few great takeaway and dining options.

Although it is still rather quiet it’s the probably best you’re going to get on the island, other than perhaps Penneshaw which is only slightly smaller! Other parts of the island are more remote and lack some of the services that will make your trip smoother.

Aurora Ozone Hotel

I stayed in the Aurora Ozone Hotel which had everything I needed. 

The room I booked was the executive double room which had a single bed and a king bed, perfect for up to three people. There is Wi-Fi, air conditioning, comfy beds, a small fridge and some kitchen essentials. The room is cleaned daily which is always a treat when you’re on holiday.

An executive double room cost me AUD 239 per night which isn’t bad considering the limited options and my travels during peak holiday times in December. If you are traveling solo or with one other and want to save some money, I would check availability for the Standard Heritage Room which costs AUD 199 per night. 

There is a restaurant onsite with beach views that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. For $25AUD you can purchase a great buffet breakfast. The lunch and dinner options are typical bistro food that has a fair price for the location on the beach. 

Overall I enjoyed my stay at Aurora Ozone , the location was great, the staff were super friendly and the rooms were comfortable!

Kangaroo Island Seaview Motel

The Kangaroo Island Seaview Motel is a super cute modern beachfront motel at a mid-range price (approximately $170-AUD 270 per night depending on the time of year). 

I had my eye set on this place however it wasn’t available for the full 4 nights I required, sad face.  Perfect location on the main strip in Kingscote. Spacious options are available for groups of up to 4 people.

Kangaroo Island Seafront

If you prefer to stay in Penneshaw to stay close to the ferry and explore more dining options than Kingscote, Kangaroo Island Seafront is a fantastic option for a reasonable price. They offer plenty of unique opportunities like a family glamping tent and mini golf!

Expect to pay around $150 – $200AUD a night for a double room with all the basic amenities you need. The motel is walking distance from the ferry terminal so it’s very convenient.

The best time to visit Kangaroo Island

I’m sure you’re all thinking, you’ve sold me, I want to go to Kangaroo Island but when?

Summer is the most popular time to visit between December and February as the weather is perfectly warm for exploring the stunning beaches. It’s also the most expensive time of year to visit, especially over Christmas, New Years and Australia Day holidays.

Shoulder seasons of Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) are also ideal for avoiding peak time charges, skipping the crowds, and enjoying slightly cooler weather.

Wondering when to see seal pups on Kangaroo Island? They’re born anytime between January and June, so you’ll almost always see babies or young seals when you visit!

Where to eat on Kangaroo Island

Just like Kangaroo Island accommodation options, restaurants and cafes are limited, especially when you venture out of Kingscote or Penneshaw. I was on the island for 4 nights so was able to try the local favorite spots in Kingscote. 

The cost of eating out on Kangaroo Island can add up fast so I would suggest making the most of the large Drakes supermarket located centrally in Kingscote for breakfast and lunch options.

At the end of this post, I will cover my top tips for saving money when traveling Kangaroo Island including budgeting your meals. Keep in mind that all prices I list in this article about visiting Kangaroo Island are quoted in AUD and are accurate as of 2024.

For Breakfast, I recommend So Sando. Their eggs on toast for $8 are unreal! They also offer a range of gourmet toasted sandwiches and coffee.

I also tried the buffet breakfast at my Kangaroo Island accommodation, Aurora Ozone and it was a decent big breakfast. For $25 get yourself a hot buffet breakfast including bacon, eggs, hashbrowns, toast, cereals, pastries, and coffee and juices.

To get my money’s worth I sneakily took an apple and a few pastries to go to have on the road for lunch. It’s a buffet! Aurora Ozone also serves lunch and dinner however I didn’t get a chance to get it.

Other breakfast options include Rabbit Warren Bakery or Drakes Supermarket for a quick bite or for something a little fancier Cactus is apparently unreal! Labeled the funkiest cafe in Kangaroo Island, it boasts modern brunch options, character and quality coffee. 

As you venture an hour out for the day to places like Seal Bay and Flinders National Park, there are very limited lunch spots around.

In the morning before I left for the day, I would stop in at Drakes and grab something from the fresh grab-and-go bakery section, a piece of fruit, and some snacks to keep me going. This really helped me to keep costs down! You’ll also be so busy exploring Kangaroo Island that a picnic in a beautiful spot makes more sense logistically than trying to find a place to sit for lunch.

By the time dinner comes around, I’m sure you’ll be pretty hungry, a cheese and bacon roll and some lollies on the road is quick and easy but not the most filling!

My favorite place for dinner, which I wish I discovered earlier, was Amanda’s Takeaway. Amanda’s has loads of different meals prepped and ready to be reheated such as fried rice, pasta, curries, sushi, rice paper rolls, honey chicken, and loads of delicious options for only $14!

They also do a delicious roast chicken, chips, and gravy, absolute heaven! 

You can’t visit the beach in Australia and not enjoy fish and chips! I had a great meal from Kangaroo Island Fresh Seafoods , next to Ampol, quick, affordable and delicious! 

The last option I would suggest is Bella Cafe and Pizza Bar for dine-in or takeaway pizzas.

If you’re like me and like to unwind with a nice bottle of wine while on holiday, Kangaroo Island’s Sip & Save, located behind the Aurora Ozone Hotel, is the closest bottle shop.

Or even, better pick up your favorite wine from a winery tasting experience. The Aurora Ozone Kangaroo Island accommodation has a mini fridge for you to store your drinks and leftovers. 

Budgeting your trip to Kangaroo Island

Now let’s talk numbers. 

Depending on where you are traveling from and what time of year, costs will fluctuate for your trip.

For example, if you’re from Adelaide, you can skip spending money on flights and instead treat yourself to a few extra nights on Kangaroo Island. But if you are flying from anywhere in Australia or even overseas, a trip to Kangaroo Island can add up.

IF and I mean a big if, you don’t plan ahead and spend your money wisely. 

Before I get into how much it costs me to travel to Kangaroo Island from Brisbane (my home town), let’s quickly cover my true, tried and tested ways to save a few bucks when traveling Kangaroo Island.

Saving a few bucks every day does add up in the end!

Tips for Visiting Kangaroo Island on a Budget

Ok, so rapid-fire budget tips are…

• Only eat out for 1 meal a night
• Grab breakfast and lunch from supermarkets or bakeries
• Bring snacks from home
• Solo traveling is more expensive than with 1 other person, consider bringing a friend 
• Set aside extra cash for gas … it adds up fast when you go through a full tank in a couple of days traveling the island
• Pick Kangaroo Island accommodation that has free breakfast options . I did this in Fleurieu Peninsula and it was fantastic!
• Explore free attractions such as beaches, coves and hiking trails
• Travel with carry-on luggage only 
• Travel during shoulder seasons 
• Do your research ! Research menu prices, hotel prices, national park entry fees, petrol prices etc. 

How much does it cost to visit Kangaroo Island?

Okay now that we’ve covered my favorite ways to reduce my travel spending, let’s dive into how much it costs me to travel to Kangaroo Island for 4 nights during the peak season in December. Below are all listed in AUD.

• Flights from Brisbane to Adelaide = $665
• Accommodation for 4 nights = $1069
• Petrol = $110 Car Rental = $717 (I was under 25 so was hit with a young driver fee, but I get discounts from my corporate job!)
• Food & Drinks= $145
• National parks and tours = $52
• Ferry = $330

Total for 4 nights of solo travel (mid-range) in Kangaroo Island = AUD 3,088 (that’s about $2000 USD as of February 2024)

Now, this does seem like a lot, but as I mentioned earlier solo travel is expensive! If I were to travel with 1 other person I would have saved around $800. But this is not always possible!

Don’t stop exploring the world and doing what you want to do because no one can come with you! 

I also would have saved around $300 if I had booked a few weeks earlier as I would have had more Kangaroo Island accommodation options that are more suitable for 1 person. 

FAQ’s: Traveling to Kangaroo Island

Moving onto some commonly asked questions about Kangaroo Island accommodation, how to get around, and the best things to do!

Well, when it comes to where to stay on Kangaroo Island, you’re in for a treat! I highly recommend you stay in Kingscote. It’s the largest town on the island and offers a wonderful blend of convenience and charm. Kingscote has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from cozy bed and breakfasts to beachfront resorts. You can stroll along the Esplanade, grab some local seafood, and head to the beach for sunset, or sit down at one of the restaurants after a long day of exploration. And there are a few shops to explore if you have some extra time. Plus, it’s a great base for exploring other places to visit on Kangaroo Island since it’s centrally located.

Absolutely, it’s worth it! Kangaroo Island is filled with natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure. The landscapes are stunning, the wildlife is incredible, and the experiences are well worth the trip! From exploring gorgeous beaches to hiking through national parks and tasting delicious local food and wine, Kangaroo Island offers something for everyone. So, yes, staying on Kangaroo Island is definitely worth it in my eyes if you’re seeking an authentic and unforgettable Aussie experience.

The ideal duration for your Kangaroo Island adventure really depends on what you want to see and how much time you have. However, I’d recommend spending at least 3 to 4 days to truly savor what this island has to offer. This allows you to explore the major attractions, enjoy the local food and wine, and immerse yourself in the island’s serenity. If you’re short on time, know that driving the loop around Kangaroo Island just takes a few hours. You can see quite a big even in just 2 days on Kangaroo Island. Of course, if you have more time to spare, extending your stay will only allow you to explore more including off-the-beaten-path spots. So plan your trip based on how much time you can dedicate to this incredible destination!

While it’s possible to take a day trip to Kangaroo Island, I don’t recommend it. If you’re staying in Adelaide plan to spend at least 6 hours of your day on transportation alone. The one exception is if you’re visiting Kangaroo Island on a cruise ship excursion, in which case you can consider a foodie focused tour or a tour focused on nature and scenery . I would personally choose the latter!

Plan your trip to Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is a remarkable destination that offers a diverse range of accommodations and loads of gorgeous natural attractions.

From cozy stays in Kingscote to insane encounters with wildlife at Seal Bay, this island has something to offer every type of traveler.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, Kangaroo Island is a place that won’t disappoint.

So, start planning your trip to this Australian gem, and get ready to explore the beaches, national parks, and vibrant local culture that make Kangaroo Island a must-visit destination.

Don’t miss these helpful articles as you plan the rest of your trip to Australia:

• Action-packed Australia travel itineraries for every length of trip
• Melbourne to Sydney drive: the ultimate guide
• Kayaking Coles Bay, Tasmania
• Your 5 day Australia adventure in Port Douglas
• Visit Kuranda, the village in Australia’s rainforest
• Quicksilver Reef Cruises: see the Great Barrier Reef with kids
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: a family-friendly crocodile tour in Cairns
• The Best 10 Things to do on the Gold Coast with Kids
• Top 7 awesome family experiences in Margaret River
• Heading to Perth? See why you won’t want to miss this Pinnacles tour!

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Tips for a Fun Self Drive Kangaroo Island Holiday

We love Kangaroo Island, it’s one of the best wilderness escapes in Australia. A Kangaroo Island holiday offers remote beauty, amazing wildlife, and fabulous food and wine. Below we share tips from our week long road trip to help you plan your own Kangaroo Island holiday.

Planning your Kangaroo Island driving holiday

How to get to kangaroo island, what’s it like taking the sealink ferry with a car, getting around kangaroo island, what’s it like driving on the island, when is the best time to visit kangaroo island, how long should you stay on kangaroo island, how big is kangaroo island, deciding where to stay on kangaroo island, key areas to stay on the island, where did we stay, choosing which things to do on kangaroo island, has kangaroo island recovered from the 2020 bushfires, ready to start planning your trip.

This post contains affiliate links. Read our full disclosure policy  for more details.

We recently spent five days exploring the island and while you can see a lot in two or three days, having the fourth day meant we could take our time lingering when we found a special place, waiting for the right light or giving the animals more time to come out and play. The fifth day allowed us to learn more about life on the island on a guided day tour.

A Kangaroo Island holiday is on most Aussie bucket lists, and it should be, it’s an extraordinary place, but a visit here for most of us is a one-time thing, so there is pressure to get it right.

Karta Pintingga – Island of the Dead is the name given to Kangaroo Island by the Kaurna People. 

We had many questions before our trip, so I have pulled together the answers to help you plan.

You can fly to Kangaroo Island in just 35 minutes from Adelaide. There are also some direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in season. However, most visitors arrive on the island via the ferry terminal at Penneshaw.

Ferries leave the mainland from Cape Jervis, which is about one hour and 30 minutes south of the South Australia capital of Adelaide . 

As of late 2023, there is only one ferry service offering connections from the South Australia mainland to Kangaroo Island. The Sealink ferry offers 12 services a day and allows you to take your vehicle. The most popular times book out quickly, so don’t wait too long to book.

What we did : We booked the 9 am Sealink ferry and spent the night before at Port Elliot, which is about 60km from the Cape Jervis and a simple drive to the terminal in the morning. This gave us a day to see Victor Harbor and the wonderful Po rt Elliot . We also stopped by the beautiful town of Strathalbyn on the way.

Honestly, it’s a straightforward process. If you are taking your car on the ferry, you will see signs when you arrive at the wharf telling you where to queue. Park in the line and head inside the terminal to check-in. When you check in, they will issue you a boarding pass. Only the driver returns to the car; passengers are required to walk onto the ferry. Staff direct you on where to park and make it super easy. It’s a tight squeeze, but a team member will help if you are having trouble.

Tip: You cannot bring unwashed potatoes or honey onto Kangaroo Island to protect these industries from pests. Throw them out before you board.

Once aboard the ferry, you will find plenty of seating. Head upstairs if you want to enjoy the sea breeze on deck. The top deck is also where you will find pets on the trip. We spent most of the trip up here to take in the view. There is a kiosk on board for light refreshments on the main deck, and to keep you entertained, they play a video about the island, which is perfect for anyone who has done little planning – or for partners who like to let someone else do all the research 😉 Free wifi is also available if you need something to do, but it’s a quick trip – I mean, the famous Manly ferry in Sydney takes 30 minutes, so this is not a lot longer.

The previous day’s ferry was cancelled because of rough weather, so it might be best to factor a little wriggle room into your plans, as this can happen. 

Looking at the number of white paper bags around the cabin, plenty of people must feel a little seasick on the quick trip across to the island. Luckily for us, it was not too rough, and we were fine. 

It’s not the easiest place to get around for those without a car. There is no public transport on the island, not even taxis! A couple of shuttles make the trip to American Bay and Kingscote from the ferry. If you are arriving on foot, it would be a good idea to have a shuttle booked. You can either bring your own car or rental car over on the ferry or hire one on arrival. Three rental companies operate on the island: Budget, Hertz and Kangaroo Island Connect, which also rent campervans.

Alternatively, there are several tour operators who offer multi-day tours if you prefer not to drive. 

On a practical note, many car rental companies will not insure your vehicle after dark on KI roads. Make sure you clarify this when you pick up your car if you rent on the mainland. Also, before you book your vehicle, confirm you are permitted to take it on the ferry. We rented from Budget in Adelaide with no issues, but some budget-priced companies restrict you to the mainland.

The roads on Kangaroo Island are in pretty good condition. The South Coast Road, West End Highway, Playford Highway, and Stokes Bay Road are all sealed roads. Many of the other roads are not. However, they are well maintained and at least on our visit surfaces were good.

A four-wheel drive would be great to have on a longer stay as it would allow you to explore some of the less-visited spots. 

We rented an SUV, and it was all we needed to visit the major sites; although there are some 4WD tracks in Flinders National Park that require a 4WD to access.

Take extreme care driving here; the amount of roadkill we saw was alarming, particularly given how many creatures they lost in the bushfires. Avoid driving at dawn and dusk and if you need to be on the roads at those times, drive slower than you might usually and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.

Kangaroo Island is a year-round destination, but there are pros and cons to each season, so let’s go over them.

Summer – it never gets boiling hot on Kangaroo Island – 35 degrees Celsius is the maximum and not all that common; average summer temps are closer to 25 degrees. February is the hottest month, and this is really the only time of year that swimming is attractive for the average visitor. While it’s great for beach weather, the drawback is that much of the wildlife spends days hiding from the heat. Summer also sees accommodation prices hit a premium. Spring – Our pick of the best time to visit, spring sees wildflowers, baby animals, and great hiking weather. Winter – A winter visit will save you $$$, and while it’s cold, it’s not too bad. July sees the most rain, but on the positive side, koalas and kangaroos are born at this time of year. The coast looks just as spectacular, and bookings for attractions and restaurants are easier to come by. Autumn – May to June – We visited in May; the temperatures range from 18 to 25 degrees. This is the second most popular time to visit, it’s not too crowded, and the weather is reasonable.

It is not a question of whether you can see Kangaroo Island quickly, in a day or even two days; it is about what you will miss if you don’t fully explore the island.

• If you only have one day – do a guided tour of the natural sites  – these include wildlife spotting or parks.
• If you have two days – you can see all the best-known natural attractions and spend some time sampling the local food and wine .
• If you have three days – you have time to self-drive – spend at least one night on the western end of the island
• If you have four nights, do the first 4 days of our 5-day itinerary.
• If you have longer – you have time to swim, linger over wine tasting with a view, or book a couple of adventure activities. You could even attempt the 5-day Kangaroo Island Wilderness Walk .

Our self-drive itinerary was a slow-paced 4-day visit with an added day tour to make 5 days. You could certainly speed it up and have less dining and relaxation time and cover the key sites in three days.

Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third-largest island, after Tasmania and Melville Island. It is a similar size to Bali with a LOT fewer people.

The island is 160km long from east to west and takes about two and a half hours. From North to South, is 55km, and the drive takes about 45 minutes.

All up there is 500km of coastline. More than half of the island is declared a national park or conservation area.

Choosing a base was a tough decision. After spending some time there, we think it’s worth splitting your time on the island, so you don’t have a long drive to see the attractions at either end.

Two nights in the south or southwest at Vivonne Bay or at Western KI Caravan Park, which we loved, and then two days in the east is what we recommend. We chose Kingscote this time, but American Bay might be my choice if I return.

This is our personal take on the various towns on the island:

• Penneshaw – The second biggest town (pop 300) and location of the ferry terminal – good for short visits or early morning departures. Lots of accommodation, a supermarket and several shops and restaurants.
• Kingscote – 60km from Penneshaw, the biggest town on the island, with a range of dining and shopping. The closest town to the airport.
• American River – An excellent choice for anglers, seafood lovers and boaties. Its location is halfway between Penneshaw and Kingscote makes it a very suitable base for a long stay if you don’t want to split your stay between two properties. Visit the American River to eat your fill of delicious fresh oysters.
• Vivonne Bay – The best area for adrenalin and animal lovers – between Seal Bay and Flinders Chase.
• Western KI – Limited shops, no restaurants but plenty of nature and some of the best views, we loved our stay here. The Caravan Park is great but if you want something a little special Hanson Bay Cabins are the go.
• Emu Bay – 5km long beach just a 15-minute drive from Kingscote – also home to a cafe and brewery. Best for summer stays and getting away from it all.

We split our time between Western KI Caravan Park and   Ozone Hotel in Kingscote. 

Western KI Caravan Park  is the perfect choice for wildlife lovers and is fabulous value for money. Since the 2020 bushfires destroyed nearby Southern Ocean Lodge, this is your best bet for accommodation at this end of the island. 

We highly recommend splitting your time between the east and west of Kangaroo Island. It saves you big days of driving and allows you to get closer to the wildlife in their natural habitat. Within minutes of arriving at the park, we spotted koalas in the tree right by our cabin. 

Kingscote is a completely different experience and a better for exploring the local food and wine offerings. We would probably look for something self-contained if we visited again rather than staying in a hotel.

There likely won’t be time to do everything on this list, so read up and see which things appeal. While everyone’s idea of a must-see differs, I think the national attractions listed below should make every itinerary of Kangaroo Island. 

In a word, absolutely! At the time of our visit, life is pretty much back to normal. 2,100 square metres (about 45%) of the Island burned in the summer 2020 fires. This was mainly at the western end, and Flinders Chase National Park saw most of the devastation. 

The luxury property Southern Ocean Lodge on the western tip of the island was totally destroyed, but has been rebuilt and is now reopened and even more stunning than before.

Hanson Bay Cabins and the Western KI Caravan Park, which saw the most minor damage of the properties at this end, have a brand new state-of-the-art camp kitchen.

Wildlife numbers are down, but there is still plenty to see. The bush is regenerating and the key attractions in Flinders Chase have reopened for visitors. The only thing we were sad to have missed was the Platypus Walk , as it was closed. You can keep up with the latest on the park’s recovery here.

• We thought the Drakes Supermarket in Kingscote had the lowest prices. Good range of vegan food and local produce. Prices were not much different from the mainland.
• Arrive with a full tank of petrol – in March 2024 it was $2.18 and only $1.80-1.90 in Adelaide.  
• There are no shops between Penneshaw and Western KI other than the tiny General Store at Vivonne Bay. Make sure you bring food if you are heading this way. The caravan park sold essentials at pretty reasonable prices if you run short.
• Check out our tried and tested five day KI itinerary
• Take a look at the attractions on KI and decide what to include in your visit

Not sure where to head next?

Explore our Great Ocean Road itinerary if you are heading to Melbourne, or perhaps it’s time to see Wilpena Pound in the gorgeous Flinders Ranges.

Have questions about exploring Australia? Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help

2 thoughts on “Tips for a Fun Self Drive Kangaroo Island Holiday”

What a useful and great guide. This is definitely on my bucket list and hopefully I will get there one day. Thanks for the info. Would never have thought you couldn’t bring honey onto the island.

It certainly sounds like we want to spend many days on Kangaroo Island when we plan our Australia trip. I think we would enjoy the ferry ride over the to island too and then have our car for exploring. Good tip about things you can’t bring onto the island. We have seen that on road trips too when we cross certain zones. And we will certainly arrive with a full tank of gas!

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Kangaroo Island Self Drive Itinerary Ultimate Guide!

By: Author Catrina

Posted on Last updated: December 12, 2023

Categories AUSTRALIA , ROAD TRIPS , SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Looking for all the information you need to plan your trip and self drive itinerary of Kangaroo Island? You’ll find all the most up-to-date information below!

KANGAROO ISLAND SELF DRIVE ITINERARY

Where is kangaroo island.

Kangaroo Island, also known as KI by the locals, is located in the state of South Australia not far from the coast of Adelaide .

At 155 km long and 55 km wide in parts, Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third biggest island, behind Tasmania and Melville Island in the Northern Territory. The population is under 5,000 people.

Bush Fires on Kangaroo Island in January 2020

Kangaroo Island is very beautiful, with lots of unique beaches, landscapes and wildlife and remained Australia’s best kept secret until it hit the headlines worldwide in January 2020 due to the devastating bushfires that wiped out almost half of the island. 

Bushfires are common across Kangaroo Island in the summer months just like the rest of Australia, but the bushfires in January 2020 were the largest in the history of the island. 

48% of Kangaroo Island was destroyed by bushfires: around 210,000 hectares of land just gone, and tens of thousands of native species of wildlife perished to death.

Pretty much the whole western half of the island was impassable for the following couple of months after the bush fire damage. 

I visited Kangaroo Island just one month after the devastation and was glad to see the island was recovering and trying to rebuild, people were full of optimism and KI was determined to pick itself back up.

The locals were incredibly thankful for people who had taken their time to come and visit the island and support the local businesses and communities and often expressed their heartfelt gratitude to me for visiting, which was incredibly touching.

What is closed on Kangaroo Island due to bushfire damage?

The bushfires affected mostly the western half of Kangaroo Island, meaning for several months it wasn’t possible to go much further west than Parndana independently for safety reasons, and people could only visit if they joined a guided tour . 

Now however nothing is closed, although it’s always wise to check beforehand and to keep up to date with everything.

How can you help Kangaroo Island recover?

Kangaroo Island is slowly recovering, but they are really relying on tourism to help them put their lives, and their island back together.

Kangaroo Island’s economy relies mostly on agriculture and tourism, both of which were severely affected due to the bushfires.

The best way you can help the island recover is to come and visit Kangaroo Island yourself.

Spend a few days here and support the local businesses – hotels, restaurants, wildlife activities etc. Any money you spend here on the island will help the residents of Kangaroo Island much more than you’ll ever realise.

If you cannot get to Kangaroo Island you can make a  donation to the Australian Red Cross .

Things you must know before you visit Kangaroo Island

 – Kangaroo Island is very big – a LOT bigger than everybody expects when they arrive here! You absolutely need to hire a car or arrange a tour to be able to see anything on the island as everything is very spread out.

Apart from the limited twice a day bus service that connects Kingscote and American River to Penneshaw there is no public transport on Kangaroo Island.

 – There are a few tarmac roads on Kangaroo Island but many of them are dirt roads. This was my first time driving off-road and it was fine.

The roads definitely weren’t as bad as I had heard. If you stick to the main touristy sights you won’t do much off-road driving at all.

How long should you spend on Kangaroo Island?

Kangaroo Island boasts scenic coastal views and landscapes, with stunning beaches and exciting and varied driving routes. There is a slower pace of life here and it really deserves to be experienced on every South Australia itinerary .

Many people think one day, or two days/1 night is a good amount of time to explore the island, but in reality you can spend several days or longer here, especially if you want to do a proper road trip!

Whilst you can visit Kangaroo Island on a day trip from Adelaide, it is definitely not long enough. Plus it is a long way to go just for one day. 

If you just visit on a day trip you will be really pushed for time and definitely won’t be able to see all the main attractions on the eastern side of the island.

I really advise you to stay overnight on Kangaroo Island if you have the time.

Not only will your trip be less rushed and you will get to see more attractions, but it will mean you are contributing to the local economy, which in a time like now is so vital. 2 or 3 days is a good amount of time to see the island.

Getting to Kangaroo Island Ferry Terminal:

Many people think you just get the ferry straight from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, they don’t realise the ferry port is a fair drive away!

Whilst yes Adelaide is the nearest main city it is still 1.5 hours drive from Adelaide to the ferry terminal, which is located in Cape Jervis.

 – The only way to get to Cape Jervis ferry terminal is by car or by coach from Adelaide CBD. The coach leaves twice a day however, so most people opt to rent a car in Adelaide as it gives you far more flexibility.

Here is the coach timetable and fares from Adelaide to Cape Jervis .

Alternatively the ferry companies do coach pick-up services to and from Adelaide for an additional charge of around $30 per person each way.

Kangaroo Island Ferry Information:

 – The ferry goes from Cape Jervis on the mainland to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island.

 – There are two ferry companies: Sealink and Kangaroo Island Connect (KIC). Sealink has more services (5 or 6 ferries a day) whereas KIC only has 2 services per day. (Click on each link to see the respective timetables).

 – With Sealink the ferry costs $55 each way per passenger. If you bring a car across it will cost an extra $110 each way.

With KIC the ferry costs $34 for passengers however the ferry timings may not be as suitable as they only operate in peak hours. There is no option to bring vehicles across on the KIC ferry.

 – Bear in mind the sea can get quite rough when you are crossing on the ferry. Bring sea sickness tablets if you suffer.

 – The ferry journey across takes 45 minutes with Sealink and 30 minutes with KIC.

 – You will need to book the ferry several days in advance as spaces often sell out, especially the morning ferries and during the holidays.

Book Sealink ferry tickets here – be sure to scroll down as sometimes they have special offers and discounts! 

 – There is a little snack shop/cafe onboard the Sealink ferry and free wifi available too!

 – There are some strict rules with things you cannot bring on the ferry such honey and potatoes (to protect the native wildlife).

You’ll see quarantine bins and areas to leave things at the Cape Jervis port that are prohibited on Kangaroo Island.

 – If you want to bring your dog onto Kangaroo Island you’ll need to contact the Kangaroo Island Council.

Remember dogs are not allowed in National Parks or Wilderness Protection Areas and must be kept on a lead when in public.

Renting a car

 – You can bring your own car or a hire car from the mainland and bring it across to Kangaroo Island on the ferry if you wish.

However if you want to bring a hire car across you MUST tell the car rental company when you are booking that you will be taking the car to Kangaroo Island as you need a specific 4×4 and unsealed road cover to take the car across (as many of the roads on Kangaroo Island are dirt roads).

 – Getting the extra insurance cover for the rental vehicle and paying an extra almost $200 on a return trip for the vehicle alone on the ferry (you still need to pay for the passengers) can make it quite expensive to bring a rental car across to Kangaroo Island.

So what many people (myself included) choose to do is to just hire a cheap car on the mainland then leave it at Cape Jervis ferry terminal (parking is free). They then just pay the cheaper passenger fare on the ferry.

When they get to Kangaroo Island they can either join a tour or rent a car/campervan there – they are equipped there with three car rental companies next to the ferry terminal (KI Connect, Budget and Hertz).

All of them have 4x4s and camper vans with the unsealed road cover.

Money Saving Tips for Kangaroo Island

 – Especially if you are on a budget you may want to consider bringing food across from the mainland as food is considerably more expensive on Kangaroo Island.

There aren’t many supplies and shops on the island and food has to be imported so it is naturally more pricey compared to the mainland.

 – Whether you choose to bring a rental car across to Kangaroo Island or hire one once you get there, make sure you book your car hire online beforehand as opposed to just turning up without a booking.

Often the price of car hire can be as much as double if you don’t have a reservation!

 – Check what days cruise ships dock at Kangaroo Island as not only do the car hire price goes up on these days but the car hire sells out very quickly. Check the cruise ship schedule for Kangaroo Island here .

 – To save hotel costs and for the more adventurous of you, why not rent a camper van on Kangaroo Island?! I did this and had SO much fun, plus it means you can be a lot more flexible with your day.

Wildlife on Kangaroo Island

Visiting Kangaroo Island is a great opportunity to see lots of Australian animals in their native habitat. There are several nature reserves on Kangaroo Island to protect and preserve the wildlife.

The kangaroos on Kangaroo Island are slightly different to that of the mainland as a result of prolonged isolation. They have adapted to their habitat and are shorter and browner than kangaroos on mainland Australia.

*IMPORTANT!*: DRIVING IN THE DARK

If you will be driving around dusk or dawn be very careful of kangaroos hopping across the road. One hour before and after sunset and sunrise are when kangaroos are most likely to jump across the road.

There are no barriers on the roads, minimal street lights and lots of trees and bush on the side of the road so sometimes you may not see them coming.

If a kangaroo does jump across the road, even though it is an instant reaction it is important not to abruptly brake your vehicle.

Obviously you don’t want to hit the kangaroo, but also you do no’t want to cause an accident if there are any other vehicles around.

Also, by braking the vehicle it effectively lowers the bonnet of the car, meaning the kangaroo could potentially go straight through your windscreen and cause serious damage to you (yes sadly people have died this way).

If you just release your foot off the gas and keep going, if you do happen to unfortunately hit the kangaroo at least it will just bounce off your bumper as opposed to breaking your windscreen and potentially causing some serious damage to you.

Things to see on Kangaroo Island:

Parndana wildlife park.

The Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park at Parndana is one of the highlights on the island. You’ll see hundreds of different animals and lots of native wildlife here. And did you know the koalas on Kangaroo Island are all chlamydia free?

Many koalas on mainland Australia have the disease, which is devastating for the species, so no koalas from the mainland are allowed to be introduced onto Kangaroo Island.

I visited Parndana Wildlife Park a few weeks after the bushfires and they had built a makeshift hospital on site to care for the animals who had been severely injured in the fires (mostly koalas as they had been stuck up in the trees).

The hospital provides antibiotics and pain relief, treats burns and wounds and undertakes surgery where necessary.

At the wildlife hospital they were treating and nursing 250 koalas back to health, and 25 koalas had already recovered and been released back into the wild.

Sanji – the first koala who had come in on January 1st was still there as she had suffered immense burns to her body. She lost all her fur and had been covered in bandages for weeks.

The hospital were hoping to release her back into the wild within the next few weeks once she was fully recovered. She is the koala pictured below.

Entrance to Parndana Wildlife Park is $28 and opening times are from 9am to 5pm (10am to 4pm from May to September).

Head to Stokes Bay Beach – on your way on the left you will see a gorgeous pink salt lake you can pull over at!

Stokes Bay Beach

The north of Kangaroo Island is known for it’s incredible beaches and coastal scenery, and Stokes Bay Beach is the perfect example.

Located a 20 minute drive north Parndana Wildlife Park, Stokes Bay Beach is an absolutely stunning picture-perfect beach.

The secluded cove of Stokes Bay is one of Kangaroo Island’s best kept secrets and makes the perfect place to relax and soak up some rays! In fact it is one of the best places in South Australia to visit if you love beaches!

The sand is beautifully white, the beach is uncrowded and the water is ridiculously clear. There is even a gorgeous large rock pool you can cool off in!

Once you are at Stokes Bay car park (free parking plus toilets here), follow the signs that lead towards the beach.

You’ll see lots of rocks and big boulders and a big arrow that will point to the right, in the direction you need to go.

The screenshot below shows the location of the car park, Stokes Bay Tunnel and Stokes Bay Beach for clarity. You’ll also see Stokes Bay camp ground on the map if you wish to camp overnight here.

You will actually need to walk under the big rocks: a kind of ‘rock tunnel’  has been made here to reach the beach (see the pictures below) – it is quite exciting!

If you have any food in your bag make sure to keep it sealed and your bag closed!

I spotted a cheeky goanna (a giant lizard over 2 metres long similar to a Komodo dragon) heading for the food in my bag and I nearly died from the fright – those reptiles are so huge!

They have extremely sharp teeth and a venomous bite so be careful.

Still on Kangaroo Island’s peaceful north coast but a 40 minute drive east from Stokes Bay Beach will take you to Emu Bay – a small, quiet community with a mixture of holiday homes and locals.

Emu Bay is another beautiful beach and just like only a handful of other beaches here, the sand at Emu Bay is hard packed so you can drive on the beach with a 4×4.

For this reason the long Emu Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island (although it never gets crowded).

And if you stay here until sunset you may catch a sighting of the fairy penguins as they come back to shore after a long day at sea.

Kangaroo Island’s largest settlement: Kingscote is located not far from Emu Bay so stop off here for any supplies you need (food, petrol etc).

The Seal Bay Conservation Park  is one of Kangaroo Island’s most popular highlights.

Located on the south coast of the island, Seal Bay is home to the third largest Australian sea lion colony with an impressive 800 sea lions estimated here (that’s 5% of the total seal population in the world!!).

At Seal Bay you can actually go onto the beach amongst the sea lions – it is a truly unique wildlife experience!

In order to protect the rare and endangered Australian sea lion colony you will need to book on a tour to be able to access the beach. Tours run every hour and last approximately 45 minutes.

The first tour starts at 9.15 am and the last tour starts at 4pm (although they do sunset tours too!). Entry is $37 for adults. Make sure you book early to avoid disappointment – book tickets here!  

Tours need to be booked at least a day in advance. If you just turn up on the day without booking you won’t be able to access the beach, you’ll only be able to access the boardwalk.

Pennington Bay

Pennington Bay is a stunning and uncrowded spot located on the southern part of the island not far from Pelican Lagoon.

The coastal scenery here is out of this world: the water is a beautiful turquoise colour and the sand glistens white in the sun.

The raw untouched beauty of the beach here is truly breath taking. You’ll often see surfers and fishermen here during the day too as the conditions are perfect.

Pennington Bay is just 18km from Penneshaw (where the ferry port is) and so it makes a great place to go and watch the sunset if you’re staying at Penneshaw and don’t want to drive back too far in the dark.

Prospect Hill

A 3 minute drive from Pennington Bay will take you to the lookout at Prospect Hill. From here you can get a panoramic view of Pennington Bay.

However there are 346 steps to the top (yes I counted!) and the views were much better when you were actually at Pennington Bay, so in my opinion if you are short on time I would skip Prospect Hill and climbing all the steps to the top.

Penneshaw can be a popular place to stay on the islands it is next to the ferry terminal, however it is pretty dead at night. As soon as the last ferry stops the town literally shuts down with only a couple of restaurants open.

If you want more choice for dinner options you’ll need to drive the 60km to Kingscote, although bear in mind the drive would be in the dark so it is not ideal as you may encounter wildlife on the road.

Flinders Chase National Park

Flinders Chase National Park is the largest and most well-known nature reserve on Kangaroo Island.

It is a very large nature reserve located on the western side of the island and it is here you will find the world-famous Admirals Arch and iconic Remarkable Rocks.

Sadly 96% of Flinders Chase National Park was burnt in the latest bushfires, so as I visited a few weeks after the bushfires I was unable to get to Flinders Chase National Park.

However I would love to come back as the Remarkable Rocks and the coastal views as you drive to them is the highlight of Kangaroo Island for many people.

Be advised Flinders Chase National Park, and many of the other nature reserves on the island, are no drone zones.

Remarkable Rocks

Remarkable Rocks are, as the name suggests, pretty remarkable. They are giant granite boulders balanced precariously ontop of an outcrop and offer a wealth of opportunities for Instagrammable photographs.

Their unique and unusual shape was formed over 500 million years by the sea waves, rain and wind.

Lots of the formations are also covered in a vibrant orangey-red lichen which looks especially spectacular when photographed at sunrise or sunset.

Admiral Arch

Admiral Arch is another unique natural landmark on Kangaroo Island. The waves around here are very strong and over thousands of years of erosion this rock bridge/arch was created.

You’ll walk along the boardwalk to the arch, and often you’ll also see some New Zealand fur seals lying beneath the arch.

The Cape du Couedic Lighthouse is not far from Admiral Arch. The tower of the lighthouse was completed in 1909 and 2,000 stones were used to build the tower.

Driving in the dark on Kangaroo Island

As mentioned earlier, native wildlife on Kangaroo Island is often more active around sunset, with many kangaroos coming to the roadside.

For this reason it is smart to know what time sunset will be, as well as where you will be and where you have to drive back to for your accommodation.

You don’t want to pick a sunrise spot on one end of the island and then have to drive all the way across the island in the dark to get to your accommodation as it could increase your chances of hitting a kangaroo.

Always plan your day and route in advance, and allow extra time so you don’t get caught out.

Other things to do on Kangaroo Island:

 – Do a Limestone Caves Tour at Kelly Hills Conservation Park.

 – Go sand boarding at Little Sahara – giant sand dunes covering 2 square kilometres.

 – American River – great for swimming, sailing and fishing at Island Beach. The Pelican Lagoon here provides a habitat for swans, pelicans and other wetland birds.

 – Visit Clifford’s Honey Farm : Kangaroo Island is the only place in the world where you can find pure Ligurian bees from Italy and the whole island has been declared a bee sanctuary.

The honey tastes really unique as the bees feast mainly on native flowers.

Accommodation on Kangaroo Island

Camp grounds.

Many people choose to visit Kangaroo Island by camper van, in which case some good places to camp include Stokes Bay, D’Estrees Bay or Cape Gantheaume for $16.

Located one minute from the ferry terminal is Seafront Resort. The sea views here are brilliant and there is a great pizzeria below too.

Visiting Adelaide after Kangaroo Island?

If you visit Kangaroo Island you’ll most likely visit Adelaide too, the state capital of South Australia. Click on the link to find the Best Photo Spots in and around Adelaide.

Whilst it is only 100 kilometres or so to drive between Adelaide and the ferry terminal at Cape Jervis, there are lots of interesting and beautiful rugged and unique beaches to stop off along the way on the Fleurieu Peninsula so factor in some time to stop off and enjoy them.

The  caves at Port Willunga Beach are especially interesting and Instagrammable and are definitely worth a stop along the way! If you have time also stop off and enjoy the beaches at Carrickalinga and Port Noarlunga.

I left Adelaide in the morning and spent the best part of the day stopping off at the different beaches, before taking the last ferry (7pm) across to Kangaroo Island. This is always the quietest ferry of the day – there were only about 10 of us on!

Visiting Melbourne after Kangaroo Island?

If you will be heading towards Melbourne from Kangaroo Island be sure to stop off at Mount Gambier . 

Mount Gambier is a small city sitting just on the south east corner of South Australia on the Southern Ocean Drive – one of South Australia’s most beautiful roads.

It is roughly halfway between Adelaide and Melbourne and is full of incredibly unique things to do, such as enchanting sunken gardens, a magnificently blue crater lake and an impressive underground world of caves!

It makes a really nice overnight stop and is a must-see for those doing  the drive from Adelaide and Melbourne or vice versa.

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Catrina is a Travel Writer and ex-Flight Attendant based in Sydney, Australia. She has visited 85 countries and lived in several – including Italy, Australia, United Arab Emirates and England. Her work has been featured in a variety of popular travel publications including Fodors, Escape, Australian Traveller and Bear Grylls, as well as several international aviation and travel companies. She only writes about places she has personally visited, and aims to give real, honest advice to help her readers.

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