Simpson Desert Information

One of the last great motoring adventures in the world is the 500 kilometres of the Simpson Desert between Birdsville and Mount Dare. It's remote, challenging and equally impossible during summer and when it's wet. It calls for fastidious planning and preparation, but the reward is a journey you'll never forget.

There are plenty of choices when it comes to choosing a route, because oil exploration in the 1950s and 1960s laid down a network of tracks in the enormity of the Simpson.

The French Track, the most direct and popular route, runs roughly east-west, between Purnie Bore and Poeppel Corner. Generally a west-east crossing is easier, as prevailing winds give the dune ridges gentler gradients on their western faces. But driving east-west saves the warm, soothing waters of Dalhousie Springs as a fitting finale. Allow three to five days for a comfortable crossing.

A Desert Parks Pass is required for travel through the Simpson - Witjira National Park. It includes a handbook, park maps and wildlife information. For further details contact the Department for Environment and Heritage's Desert Parks Hotline on 1800 816 078.

Safety

Travel through the Simpson Desert - or anywhere in the Outback - should not be taken lightly. It's best to travel in tag-along format with other drivers, taking plenty of extra food, fuel and water. Safety gear must include a scanning UHF radio or satellite phone. Fuel consumption will also double or triple in the soft sands, so don't leave yourself short. Replenish fuel supplies at Birdsville, Mount Dare or Oodnadatta.