2 Weeks in South Australia: Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and the Outback

An epic two week escape to South Australia can feel like three trips rolled into one. Start with the elegant city of Adelaide, savor world class wines in nearby valleys, wander pristine beaches and rugged coastlines, then swap the sea breeze for red dust and starry skies in the Outback. In just 14 days you can experience cosmopolitan culture, wildlife encounters, and vast arid landscapes in a single, unforgettable itinerary. This guide lays out a practical, beautifully paced plan for a rewarding two weeks in South Australia, with time reserved for slow mornings, immersive experiences, and plenty of room to breathe.

Why this two week South Australia itinerary works

South Australia offers a diverse trifecta that fits perfectly into a two week timeframe:

• Adelaide as a cultural and culinary hub to kick things off
• Kangaroo Island, a wildlife lover’s paradise with pristine beaches and dramatic coastal scenery
• The Outback, where red landscapes, ancient geology and clear night skies create a sense of vastness hard to match

Key benefits of this plan:

• Logical flow from city to island to inland outback keeps travel days manageable
• Highlights a mix of food, wine, wildlife and adventure
• Flexible enough to swap in optional activities such as hot air ballooning, scenic flights, or extra wine tastings
• Built for different paces, from relaxed mornings to active days

Seasonality matters in South Australia. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) bring mild temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer can be hot in the outback, so plan early starts and plenty of hydration. Winter is cooler, especially in the outback, but cities and coastal areas stay comfortable for exploring.

Week 1 — Adelaide and Surrounds

This week centers on the city of Adelaide, its neighborhoods, and nearby day trips that showcase wine, wildlife, and culinary culture.

Day 1: Arrival in Adelaide

• Check into your hotel and refresh after your flight.
• Start with a relaxed self guided stroll along North Terrace and the River Torrens.
• Explore the city center: Rundle Mall for shopping, Coffee at a local roastery, and a late afternoon walk through the Adelaide Botanic Garden.
• Dinner options: a modern Australian menu on Gouger Street or a riverside restaurant in the East End.

What to love on day one:

• A sense of the city’s approachable pace
• Easy access to parks, galleries and the do-it-yourself food scene

Day 2: Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf

A day spent among cool climate vines and charming German heritage.

• Morning drive to the Adelaide Hills, just 20 to 40 minutes from the city.
• Stop at Mount Lofty Summit for panoramic views over the city and coast.
• Visit Cleland Wildlife Park for a close encounter with kangaroos, koalas, and other Australian fauna.
• Afternoon in Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement: timber lined lanes, artisan shops, beer halls and hearty meals.
• Optional cellar doors in the Hahndorf or nearby wine regions for tastings.

Why this works:

• A gentle day that balances nature, culture and cuisine
• Perfect first impression of South Australia’s rural charm

Day 3: Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale wine day

Two of South Australia’s most famous wine regions are within easy reach.

• Barossa Valley (classic choice): long, sunlit rows of Shiraz vines, a mix of family run wineries and grand cellars. Highlights include ...

  • Hentley Villa or Penfolds for tastings
  • A leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant
  • Optional hot air balloon ride over the valley for a memorable morning

• McLaren Vale (alternative): exquisite coastal scenery, boutique wineries and olive groves.

  • D’Orsogna family estate, Wirra Wirra, or Oliver’s Taranga for tastings
  • Beachside lunch in Port Noarlunga or a seaside winery
  • A stroll along the coast and a short coastal hike

Tips:

• Choose one region to avoid a rushed day. If you love red wines, Barossa is perfect; for a coastal wine experience, McLaren Vale is ideal.
• Book tastings in advance, especially for popular wineries.

Day 4: City culture and coast closer to home

• Begin with the Art Gallery of South Australia or Migration Museum to soak up local culture.
• Grab a light lunch at the Central Market, a vibrant hub of fresh produce, baked goods, and international bites.
• Afternoon stroll along Glenelg Beach, the city’s popular seaside precinct. Ride the tram from the city to the sandy foreshore and enjoy an ice cream or a seaside fish and chips.
• Sunset at the jetty or a small bar in Moseley Street.

What makes day 4 special:

• A balance of museums, food hall vibes and a relaxed coastal walk
• A gentle end to a week of city and countryside exploration

Day 5: Travel to Kangaroo Island

• Morning or early afternoon ferry from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island (about 45 minutes by sea).
• Check into your KI accommodation and begin to unwind in this island paradise.
• Short afternoon activity: a coastal walk near Penneshaw or a sunset at a quiet beach.

Practical notes:

• The Cape Jervis to Penneshaw ferry is a highlight in itself, with views of coastline and sea life.
• Allow flexibility in the afternoon for a restful start on the island.

Week 2 — Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is famed for wildlife encounters, rugged coastlines, and pristine landscapes. Spend several days here to truly absorb the pace and beauty.

Getting there and where to stay

• Getting there: As noted, KI is reached by ferry from Cape Jervis. You can also arrange a domestic flight from Adelaide to Kingscote or Stokes Bay, depending on your flight options and time.
• Where to stay: Choose a nature forward lodge, a beachside retreat, or a small guesthouse in Kingscote or Penneshaw. Proximity to wildlife parks and beaches helps maximize your time.

Top KI experiences to plan around:

• Seal Bay Conservation Park for close up seal viewing on the beach
• Flinders Chase National Park for dramatic coastal scenery
• Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch for iconic landscapes
• Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for kooalas and other wildlife
• Kingscote for a relaxed town vibe and seafood

Day 6: Seal Bay and the southern coastline

• Start with Seal Bay Conservation Park, home to a colony of fur seals.
• Lunch in a coastal café and a stroll along the sandy shores of the south coast.
• Afternoon visit to nearby caves or a winery with ocean views.
• Evening wildlife spotting in a low light setting near your lodging.

Why this day works:

• Shifts you from inland city life to a natural wildlife encounter in a controlled environment
• Tour options range from guided tours to self guided walks

Day 7: Flinders Chase National Park and the Remarkable Rocks

• Full day exploring Flinders Chase National Park.
• Must see: Remarkable Rocks, a striking sea worn granite formation; and Admirals Arch, a natural arch carved by the sea.
• Short drive to nearby canyons or a walk along a coastal cliff path.
• Sunset at a lookout with dramatic sea views.

Tips for this day:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds and to catch good light for photography.
• Wear sturdy footwear for rocky trails and bring sunscreen and water.

Day 8: Hanson Bay and wildlife encounters

• Morning walk at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary where you may spot koalas in Eucalyptus trees and other native animals.
• Optional kayak or stand up paddle board along a calm part of the coast if available.
• Afternoon resting on a quiet beach or visiting a local olive farm or winery.

Day 9: Kingscote and local culture

• Take a relaxed day in Kingscote, the island’s largest town.
• Visit the quaint wharf area, local galleries, and the Kangaroo Island Feeding Barn to see farm animals.
• Dine on fresh seafood with views across the water and consider a sunset cruise if offered.

The Outback Experience — Flinders Ranges

After Kangaroo Island, the Outback beckons with its red dust, wide skies and ancient landscapes. The Flinders Ranges, especially the Wilpena Pound area, is a classic outback base.

Getting there from Kangaroo Island

• Travel plan: Fly from Kangaroo Island to Adelaide, then rent a car for the drive to the Flinders Ranges. The drive time from Adelaide to Wilpena Pound is roughly five to six hours, so plan for an early start and a late arrival.
• Alternative route: If you have more time, you can drive from KI to Adelaide and then onward to the Flinders for a longer but scenic journey.

Day 10: Arrival and first exploration

• Check into your Flinders Ranges accommodation near Wilpena Pound.
• Short late afternoon walk along a marked trail to get your bearings and to watch the sun set over the red outback.
• Evening stargazing in a place with minimal light pollution.

What to bring:

• Layered clothing for cool mornings and warm afternoons
• A good pair of hiking shoes and sun protection

Day 11: Wilpena Pound and the heart of the ranges

• Guided or self guided walk into Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheater and geological wonder.
• Optional scenic flight over the Pound or the surrounding ranges for a bird’s eye perspective (extra cost, time permitting).
• Afternoon visit to Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorge for dramatic landscapes and potential wildlife sightings.

Why this day matters:

• Wilpena Pound is the signature experience of the Flinders Ranges
• The surrounding gorges reveal color chemistry and geological stories that are quintessentially Outback

Day 12: Arkaroola or Elderslie day trip options

• If time and energy permit, a day trip to Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary provides more rugged terrains and superb stargazing.
• Alternative: A quieter day exploring local Aboriginal rock art and old mining sites, with a relaxed pace and more time to reflect on the vast silence.

Day 13: Return toward Adelaide

• Start the journey back toward Adelaide, breaking the drive with a stop in a small town for lunch and a relaxed evening.
• Overnight in or near Adelaide to set you up for departure.

Day 14: Departure from Adelaide

• Depending on your flight time, you may have a final morning in the city for a last coffee, a quick market visit, or a short stroll along the River Torrens.
• Return your rental car and depart with memories of wide skies, red earth and wildlife encounters.

Practical tips for a 2 week South Australia adventure

• Transportation and pace
  • A central theme of this itinerary is driving your own path. A rental car provides flexibility for day trips and spontaneous stops.
  • Allow buffer time for ferries, flights, and weather delays, especially in peak season.
  • In Adelaide, a rail or bus pass can supplement driving for city sightseeing.

• Best time to visit

  • Spring (Sept-Nov) and autumn (Mar-May) are ideal for milder weather and vibrant landscapes.
  • Summer can be hot, especially in the outback; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
  • Winter is mild in cities but can be cool at night in the outback.

• Where to stay

  • Adelaide: A modern hotel in the city center or a boutique property near the river for easy access to cafes and galleries.
  • Kangaroo Island: A wildlife-forward lodge or a coastal retreat with easy access to Seal Bay and Flinders Chase.
  • Flinders Ranges: A lodge near Wilpena Pound or an outback styled campsite for starry skies.

• Food and wine highlights

  • Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are perfect for day trips with winery tastings and gourmet lunches.
  • Sample local seafood along the coast and farm to table produce in the Hills.
  • Try regional specialties such as lamingtons, barramundi, and fresh oysters when available at coastal towns.

• Wildlife safety and etiquette

  • Always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife.
  • Follow park rules in Flinders Ranges and Kangaroo Island for your safety and the animals’ well being.
  • Night drives can be hazardous for wildlife; use guided night tours when offered.

• Packing list essentials

  • Lightweight clothing for day time and a warm layer for mornings and evenings
  • Sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and a water bottle
  • A camera or smartphone with a good lens for landscape photography
  • Reusable bags for market shopping and day trips

• Safety and health

  • Carry a basic first aid kit, especially for outback days
  • Hydration is critical in hot weather; drink water regularly
  • Check local advice for weather and park closures, especially in remote areas

• Budget considerations

  • Wines and gourmet meals in Barossa and McLaren Vale can be premium; allocate funds for a couple of premium tastings
  • A mix of free nature walks and guided tours offers a balanced budget
  • National park passes and some attractions have entrance fees; factor these in

Sample day by day snapshot

• Day 1: Arrive in Adelaide, explore city center, Botanic Garden, and Gouger Street dining.
• Day 2: Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf, with wildlife and German heritage vibes.
• Day 3: Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale wine day, deluxe tastings, and a scenic lunch.
• Day 4: City culture and coast, finish with a sunset stroll along the river.
• Day 5: Ferry to Kangaroo Island, light afternoon exploration.
• Day 6 to Day 9: Full Kangaroo Island immersion, Seal Bay, Flinders Chase, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch, Hanson Bay, Kingscote.
• Day 10: Travel to Flinders Ranges, arrival and sunset views.
• Day 11: Wilpena Pound guided or self guided walk, scenic drives.
• Day 12: Optional Arkaroola day trip or rock art and local history.
• Day 13: Return toward Adelaide with a relaxed pace.
• Day 14: Departure from Adelaide.

Conclusion

Two weeks in South Australia offers a compact but deeply rewarding travel experience. Begin in Adelaide with its refined urban energy and nearby wine country, then lose yourself on Kangaroo Island where wildlife and coastline meet in pristine harmony. Finish with the ancient drama of the Flinders Ranges, where red earth and starry nights remind you that the land itself is your travel companion. This itinerary balances culture, cuisine, wildlife and adventure in a way that feels intimate rather than rushed.

If you are ready to plan your South Australia escape, start with your preferred dates, book your flights to Adelaide, reserve a KI ferry or flight, and secure a car rental for flexibility. With careful planning and a little bit of leap day luck, your two week journey through Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and the Outback will become a cherished travel memory you will want to relive again.

Would you like me to tailor this itinerary to specific dates, a preferred pace, or a focus on certain activities such as food tours, wildlife experiences, or scenic flights? I can adjust the days, add more details on accommodations, or include alternative day trips based on your interests.