Flinders Ranges & Outback

SA region named amongst world’s best destinations

In an exciting accolade, the Flinders Ranges, home to the newly established Nilpena Ediacara National Park, has been featured as one of the world’s must-visit destinations for 2024 by Explore Travel.

In an exciting accolade, the Flinders Ranges, home to the newly established Nilpena Ediacara National Park, has been featured as one of the world’s must-visit destinations for 2024 by Explore Travel, a prominent travel publication.

Located just 500 kilometers north of Adelaide, Nilpena Ediacara National Park has become a hub for the study of Ediacaran fossils, attracting attention not only from scientists and conservationists but also from globally recognized figures like NASA and Sir David Attenborough.

The park offers immersive experiences, including guided fossil exploration tours that allow visitors to glimpse the ancient Ediacaran life forms that once thrived here. However, the crown jewel of the park is its innovative audio-visual exhibit, created in collaboration with design studio Sandpit and renowned paleontologist Professor Mary Droser.

This captivating display utilizes cutting-edge 3D animation to bring to life the creatures that inhabited the region over 550 million years ago. Housed in the Blacksmith’s Shop, a meticulously restored historic building, the animations are projected directly onto a fossil bed, creating a mesmerizing journey through time.

Moreover, Nilpena Ediacara National Park plays a pivotal role in the World Heritage listing proposal for the Flinders Ranges, further highlighting its significance on the global stage.

As news of this prestigious recognition spreads, the Flinders Ranges and Nilpena Ediacara National Park are poised to welcome travelers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of the great outdoors, or simply seeking a unique adventure, this South Australian gem promises a one-of-a-kind experience.

To explore this extraordinary destination and discover its rich scientific and historical heritage, visit Nilpena Ediacara National Park. It’s a journey through time that awaits you in the heart of the Flinders Ranges.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Susan Close said that Nilpena Ediacara National Park is a place unlike anywhere else in the world. 

“This is a place where visitors can have the unique experience of witnessing the first evidence of animal life on Earth, which is truly amazing.”

“This recognition is just another shining example of the wonder of the Flinders Ranges and adds further legitimacy for the World Heritage listing.”

Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said “What a wonderful accolade for South Australia’s iconic Flinders Ranges & Outback, being recognised as one of Explore Travel’s world’s best places to visit in 2024.”

“We know in the 12 months to June 2023, visitors to the region pumped $690 million into our economy – as travellers enjoyed unique experiences such as ancient fossil tours, local beer at remote pubs, and stunning scenery.”

“Our epic Flinders Ranges & Outback region is featured in the state’s latest domestic tourism campaign, with the iconic red landscapes and heart-pumping experiences helping inspire visitors across the country to ‘Travel Our Way.”

Ranger-in-Charge of Nilpena Ediacara National Park Kym Geue said “Nilpena Ediacara National Park being named as one Explore Travel’s best places to visit next year is an honour.”

“Witnessing the first signs of life on Earth through the guided tours and the amazing audio-visual experience is something you will never forget.”

“Since the park opened in April 2023, the new attraction has proved popular with visitors and we look forward to welcoming more people to this incredible place in 2024.”

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