South Australia's Murray River - Go With The Flow
South Australia's Murray River including the Riverland, Murraylands, Mallee, Coorong and Fleurieu PeninsulaA diverse and ancient landscape...you'll wish you had more time!From Adelaide, the majestic Murray River is just over an hour's drive to the Murraylands and just under 2 hours before you reach the Riverland. It is also primarily accessible from Western Victoria. The Murray River and Mallee region is a five million hectare lions share of South Australia which takes in the Riverland, Murraylands, Coorong, and the Mallee and stretches from the Victorian border near Yamba in the north to the Great Southern Ocean and Encounter Bay. This is one of Australia's most spectacular environments. The Murray River in South Australia dominates this beautiful and diverse countryside as it carves 650km slowly past steep golden limestone cliffs, stately river red gums, lush citrus orchards, and vast green vineyards. This is the driest state on the world's driest continent, and the Murray provides more than half the water used for domestic and irrigation use. The scenery changes at every bend with birds of a bewildering variety flocking in from as far away as Siberia to nest among the reeds of countless wetlands. The Mallee is a diverse and intriguing landscape brimming with protected wildlife, and offering spectacular wilderness scenery. These vast and gently undulating sandy plains are broken by tracks of native mallee scrub and are alive with native flora and fauna. Across the Murray River and Mallee there are tens of thousands of hectares of some of the best national parks in the world. While the Coorong and the Bookmark Biosphere are the best known, all parks in the region are protecting some distinctive and often unique environment.
Begin your Murray River road trip on the Discover Murray River Trail. The river is a great destination however, if you stay longer, you'll discover so much about this diverse part of South Australian. For more information visit SouthAustralia.com Murray River Must Do's PS Marion crusing near Blanchetown Travelling the Murray River and Mallee regionHere's some great tips when travelling along the Murray River and in the Mallee. The region covers approximately 36,720 square kilometres in central eastern part of South Australia from the Adeliade Hills to the Victorian border. Some parts of the region are quiet remote so safety when travelling is paramount.Fruit Fly FreeIt's important that you don't carry fruit and vegetables into South Australia if coming from Victoria and New South Wales as large fines apply. Even travelling from other locations in South Australian into restricted Fruit Fly free zones with fruit and vegetables is prohibited to protect the large and valuable fruit and vegetable industries.  Morgan Ferry...all ferries are free in South Australia Ferries, Locks and WeirsSouth Australia also has eleven ferry crossings running 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They’re free to use. Navigating the Murray River wouldn’t be possible without the series of locks and weirs dating back to the 1920s and 1930s. Fourteen locks are still in use today across the entire Murray River region with Blanchetown's Lock 1 the first to be built. Getting Here and Around
Murray River TownsA mighty river historyThe riverside towns along the Murray River are as diverse as this magnificent waterway. They can be experienced using the Discover Murray River Trail and their stories are all connected because of the river. The townships are a blend of country towns and rural cities with a valuable river history. They include historic river ports, wharfs, museums, great country pubs and much more. The locals will happily point out the best fishing and camping spots or the best time of day to see the spectacular wildlife. Larger river townsIf you want somewhere a little busier, then head to Murray Bridge, Berri or Renmark. The Murray River is their lifeblood but with larger shopping choices, accommodation, restaurants, sporting facilities and pubs you're have a great time. River towns with characterAlong the Murray River, you'll find townships like Goolwa the historic river port and Blanchetown, informal places full of shacks and holiday homes. The Murray River is bustling over summer, visitors flock to the aquatic playground that is Lake Bonney in Barmera. Mannum is the birthplace of the paddle steamer and wonderful river port with historic Randell Street as the main town centre. Waikerie is the centre of the fruit and citrus industry and wonderful gateway to the Riverland. Nearby you'll discover the historic river port of Morgan. With a wonderful town walk, amazing river frontage and spectacular wharf. If you visit Loxton or Paringa, grab some fresh fruit for lunch or stop in at the bakery. You'll find some perfect places to throw down a picnic rug by the river. The area around Swan Reach is renowned for Big Bend, the tallest cliffs along the entire length of the Murray River. In fact, they've been likened to be just as spectacular as Uluru...that's amazing! A Mallee full of spiritExploring the Mallee Highway Touring Route (B12) is a great way to discover the natural beauty of the Mallee landscape and communities, drop into Pinnaroo and Lameroo with fantastic museums that showcase the challenges of the Mallee. Karoonda is another local hub and once a traditional winter camp for the local indigenous people. Murray River and Mallee, great people - strong communities. Murray River Adventure and OutdoorsExplore your adventurous sideFrom wakeboarding to barefooting and kneeboarding, when it comes to the water, the Murray River is waterskiing heaven and a whole lot more. Don't have the right gear? The locals have you covered. Hire watersports' equipment at most towns along the river. Pickup jet skis, kneeboards, kayaks and waterskis. If you want a little help, ski lessons and ski boat hire are also available. One big water parkChange pace and glide with the currents in a canoe or kayak. Most riverside towns have boat ramps and other facilities, to make sure your time on the water is unforgettable. One of Australia's most popular aquatic playgrounds is located in the heart of the Murray River region. Lake Bonney is perfect for canoeing, skiing, sailing and other fun watersports. There are safe, sheltered spots for swimming. Riverside campingGet really close to nature and camp along the Murray River. Campsites jostle for space with river red gums on riverbanks and in conservation parks. Pick up a permit from any of the Visitor Information Centres around the region. There's plenty of choice. The Riverland locals will point you towards Katarapko, Lyrup Flats or Danggali Conservation Park, popular around the region for its sheer vastness. Get close to nature and stay in the caravan parks at Mannum, Long Island, Berri and Renmark. Grab some good shoes, a swag and enjoy a trip 'out bush'. Sleep under the stars in one of the region's stunning conservation parks. Go fishingHave fun without getting your feet wet and cast a line in the Murray River. The river is perfect for fishing, no matter how experienced you are. Grab some bait and local advice from the nearest riverside town and you're set. Callop (yellow belly) is an easy haul. During the warmer months, there are plenty of yabbies in the muddy shallows. Bag, boat and size limits also apply in South Australia. Make sure you find out the latest when you pick up your bait. Murray River Attractions 100 year old PS Oscar W and ancient cliffs 65 million years of lifeWhen you’re around 65 million years old, you’ve had plenty of time to create some amazing things to experience, connect and engage with. History is a very important part of the Murray River but it’s not the only reason to visit. While you're enjoying the native animals, arts and crafts, great food and wine you can do so knowing you're standing on ancient grounds. Living heritageFor thousands of years, the Murray and the Coorong were home to Indigenous Australians the Ngarrindjeri and Nganguraku people. You can still find 'canoe trees' that were used to make eucalypt bark fishing boats along the river. Visit Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal site between Mannum and Swan Reach to find out more. Or while you're near Meningie pay a visit to Camp Coorong. Early settler historyThere are museums dedicated to European settlement. The three beautiful paddle steamers in Mannum, Goolwa and Renmark all date back to the turn of the twentieth century. All three still offer short cruises throughout the year. Back on dry land, Old Tailem Town Pioneer Village in Tailem Bend is one of Australia's largest pioneer villages. Twelve streets of memories and more than 90 buildings will take you back 'to the old days' and promise an authentic, historic, day out. One little surprise on your Murray River experience is the Swan Reach Museum. You can also experience Loxton's Historical Village. In the Mallee you'll find the Mallee Heritage Centre in Pinnaroo and Dolly's Golden Rain Tree Crafts and Heritage in Lameroo has a wonderful museum of the early life in the Mallee. Looking for something off the beaten track and very interesting visit Karoonda's Pioneer Park. Parks and sanctuariesThe Murray River is also home to some fabulous wildlife parks and sanctuaries. The amazing Monarto Zoo is a must-see. Take a shuttle bus tour to visit the lions, cheetahs, chimpanzees, giraffes and more. While conservation and sheep grazing blend seamlessly at nearby Saunders Gorge Sanctuary not far from Mannum. Go on a cruise past Big Bend - the tallest cliffs along the Murray River. Look out for native wildlife along the river, as you pass Big Bend at night. Call in at Big Bend by Night on your houseboat and experience the Australian bush and native animals in their natural environment. Really get off the beaten track and take a visit to Birds Australia Gluepot Reserve about 64km from Waikerie. It is home to 18 nationally threatened species of birds, 53 species of reptiles and 12 species of bats, some of which are nationally threatened. You can also explore the Mulga Sanctuary between Murray Bridge and Mannum. Mulga Sanctuary is a bird and wildlife sanctuary set on 160 acres of virgin terrain, Mulga Sanctuary boasts the most diverse selection of waterfowl in the region. In Pinnaroo you'll discover the little known Pinnaroo Animal Park and Bird Aviar. Murray River HouseboatsTakin' it easy! Hire a houseboat and relax with family and friends Hiring a houseboat on South Australia's section of the Murray River is the perfect way to experience the mighty Murray. Spend time with family and friends or just escape from life's fast lane with the ultimate low speed, relaxing holiday. Click here for packages and specials! From Customs House on the South Australian-Victorian border to Mannum and Murray Bridge there's options for everyone. Cook a barbecue as you cruise past a uniquely Australian vista of limestone and sandstone ochre coloured cliffs, majestic river red gums and abundant birdlife. Find a departure point with this South Australian Houseboat map. Click here to search for Houseboat Hire. Dangle a line while you cruise. Find a sheltered spot to stop for the night or pull ashore on a secluded sandy spot for a picnic or take a swim. A houseboat holiday makes days feel like weeks. Sit back and watch the world go by. A boat for every budgetThere are houseboats to suit all needs and budgets. Sizes vary from two berth to twelve berth and from basic to luxury finish. Costs and availability vary according to the season, so make sure you book in advance. Never hired a houseboat? No worries, we have some of the frequent questions and answers here. You'll need a standard drivers’ licence is all you need to 'captain' your own houseboat. You'll get full tuition before you depart, including information on river conditions, boating rules and mooring spots. You can also get a standard checklist of what to bring here. A floating holiday houseStaying on a houseboat is like staying in a holiday house, except this one floats. You’ll need to bring your own food and drink, but most other things are there. The luxury boats even have spas. All the standard safety equipment is on board too. You’ll find lifejackets, buoys and floatation aids, plus a two-way radio to use in an emergency. To find a houseboat that's perfect for you, visit the Murray River website houseboat page or contact Houseboat Hirers Association. Maps and chartsNow... will it be upstream or downstream? These guides are also available at the local Visitor Information Centres.
Cruising the Murray RiverRiver cruisingTake a cruise on Australia’s largest paddle boat, the Murray Princess and enjoy the abundant wildlife on the banks. There is a myriad of cruising options all along the Murray River in South Australia. Renmark River Cruises and occasionally the P.S. Industry fires up. Experience the tranquil Loch Luna Cruises near Kingston-on-Murray or Morgan's Scenic Cruises. In Mannum enjoy a short cruise on board Jester or book in for the Murray Princess. The P.S. Marion is one of the world's oldest sidewheeler paddle steamers built in 1897. A fantastic experience when its steaming. In Murray Bridge you can enjoy Captain Proud or the experience of an overnight Murray River Expedition cruise. Head to Goolwa and experience the Spirit of the Coorong or the P.S. Oscar W. For more on cruising the Murray River visit our river cruises page. Murray River Family HolidaysThe Murray River is magic for family holidaysThe Murray River is a glorious natural playground, brimming with things to explore and discover and its the perfect place for kids. This wonderful river is ideal for swimming, fishing, canoeing, skiing, tree climbing, birdwatching, houseboating and more. Mum and Dad, join in or just relax and soak up the sun. You'll find secluded spots that are perfect for a family picnic or camping. Enjoy the life of years gone in a heritage museum as you explore the region's history. Visit restored paddle steamers at Mannum and Renmark. Better still, book a cruise on one because it's a great way to experience the Murray River and see a working steam engine that's over a century old. Enjoy water sports?Lake Bonney at Barmera is thriving with waterskiers, windsurfers and jet ski fans. Don't worry, there are enough safe swimming areas for kids. You'll find plenty of fish too. Cast a line from the lake's edge, a boat, canoe or kayak. Take things at your own pace and hire a canoe. Ride the flying fox and play aroundEveryone will love the Monash Adventure Park. Swing on the Burmese rope bridge or soar on the flying fox. There's also a huge maze to get lost in, with a special surprise at the centre! Cook a barbecue or pack a picnic. Visit the Chocolates and More shop across the road for dessert. Lots of other fun playgrounds along the Murray River including Tailem Bend with the huge loco steam train and Murray Bridge has a wonderful sheltered playground near Sturt Reserve. Go wild and experience natureMonarto Zoo is a must-see. This huge, open range zoo features a diverse range of animals. Visit lions, giraffes, zebra and cheetahs. Jump on the Zu-Loop Shuttle bus to get up close to the rare white rhinoceros. There are so many parks to experience along the Murray River and Mallee. Stretch your legs on a Mallee bushwalking trail. It's good fun during the day but things get a bit spooky after dark. Not only do all the animals come out but you can see spiders' eyes shining from the riverbanks! No holiday to the Murray River is complete without visiting the legendary Murray Bridge Bunyip. For a small donation, he'll even leave his cave and roar at you! Murray River Food, Wine & Pubs Vineyards at Murtho on the Murray River Discover the tastes of the RiverlandAlmost a third of Australia's wine grape production happens in South Australia's Riverland. Believe it or not, the Riverland is home to the Southern Hemisphere's biggest winery and distillery, Berri Estates. Visit the cellar door to taste a wide variety of award-winning wines. Kingston Estate, Mallee Estate, Burk Salter and 919 Wines make great wines. Close to Murray Bridge, try Willow Point wines. Try brandy at Angove Family Winemakers in Renmark, next door to the award-winning Nine Vines Rose. History and heritageIn a nod to the region's history, Torambre Nissen Hut winery (near Loxton) has built a domed cellar door in the shape of a refurbished 1940s Nissen Hut (half-cylinder building). Combine great, local wine with a great, local view at the Banrock Wines and Wetland Centre. Overlooking the rejuvenated wetlands, take in scenic walking trails, story centres and bird hides plus delicious food. Speaking of pubs, to really quench your thirst, head to Overland Corner and visit one of South Australia's oldest and historic hotels. You'll won't find another one like it with it's stories of bushrangers and ghosts. Fine foods and produceThe Murray River region is bursting with great places to eat. Choose from friendly local pubs, small riverbank cafes, tasty restaurants and even houseboats. Inland, there are historic houses, juice bars or fun, rustic venues to satisfy your appetite. Many local eateries pride themselves on highlighting local produce. Why wouldn't they? Towns near the Murray River are responsible for 95 per cent of South Australia's citrus, stone fruit and almonds. Just drive along and you'll see roadside stalls offering tempting delicacies and fresh fruit. Things get a bit nutty on the Sturt Highway near Renmark. The Almondco Almond Hut features Australia's biggest range of almond-based products. Follow the trailTo help find your way around the region, pick up the handy Riverland Wine and Food Trail map which includes some of the best local cellar doors, tasty produce and fine chocolate. Murray River food and wine, it's a smorgasbord of tastes. Murray River Parks and Wildlife Cockatoos enjoy the protection of cliffs Naturally beautifulWalking trails and four wheel drive (4WD) tracks crisscross more than a quarter of a million hectares of parks. Bring a picnic or camp overnight and get close to our wetlands and diverse wildlife. The Murray River's thick mallee scrub is actually native eucalypt. These trees attract plenty of wildlife, so keep an eye out for the shy and rare ground dwelling malleefowl, which you'll only find in Australia's mallee region. Hundreds of species of birds live along the river. You'll find herons, darters and egrets, as well as yellow-billed spoonbills, grey teal ducks, pelicans and cormorants. Whether you are a serious ornithologist or a casual birdwatcher, this is for you. You'll also find bird hides dotted along the Murray River. Some local walks are in Tailem Bend, Mannum, Morgan, Cadell, Waikerie and a great walk at the Border Cliffs Customs House Wetlands. Take a tour Headings Cliffs and Chowilla Game Reserve Birds Australia Gluepot Reserve is a great place to see everything. Take a guided tour to see some of the 18 nationally threatened bird species or discover this special place at your own pace. You should also spend time in the vast Riverland Danggali Wilderness Park (north of Renmark) which became Australia's first United Nations' Biosphere, for its protection of mallee scrub and precious bird sanctuaries. The Bookmark Biosphere program in the Riverland incorporates conservation goals with land, cultural, and economic values, and is linked to 350 other biosphere systems around the world and is part of a UNESCO program aiming to integrate conservation with sustainable use of resources. Parks and wetlandsThe red gums and floodplains of the Chowilla Game Reserve are now internationally recognised wetlands. Along with Loch Luna Game Reserve and the Moorook Game Reserve, it's an important habitat for aquatic birds and mammals. Mulga Sanctuary and Wildlife Park features a walk-through aviary and other exotic wildlife. Enjoy both guided and self guided tours. The Murray River National Park is actually a group of islands which you can explore by foot, canoe or houseboat. So, with an abundance of naturally beautiful landscapes, the Murray and Mallee is calling you to come and have fun...all so close to Adelaide. Murray River Getting Here and AroundA vehicle is recommended to explore the river towns and surrounding areas. There is a lack of hire car businesses in the region. Car rentals are available in Adelaide for self-driving holidays.
The RiverlandBlanchetown, the gateway to the Riverland area of the Murray River (Blanchetown to Renmark and the Victorian Border), is less than two hours' drive from Adelaide. Most major towns are less than an hour away from there. Take Main North Road to the Sturt Highway (A20) and before you know it, you've arrived. If you're coming from Victoria through Mildura, drive south along the A20 until you reach Renmark. From Sydney, travel on the Mid-Western Highway (A24) and connect to the A20. Leave yourself some time to take a good look around. Murraylands Fruit Fly disposal bin at PInnaroo If you're planning to see the Murraylands region of the Murray River (from the Barossa to Murray Bridge and Pinnaroo) first, you'll probably be coming from Adelaide. The South Eastern Freeway (M1) heads straight to Murray Bridge in the heart of the Murraylands. It's only an hours' drive through the scenic Adelaide Hills. From Victoria, take either the Western/Dukes Highway (A8) or Princes Highway (A1) through to Tailem Bend. From Sydney, the Mallee Highway (B12) will take you to Pinnaroo or take the A20 to Sunraysia/Riverland and head to Loxton on the B55. The MalleePinnaroo is 240 kilometres from Adelaide and the shortest distance to Sydney and a mere five kilometres from the Victorian border. On the way, you'll pass through Tailem Bend, a handy place for a break and learn about the region's rail history as well as a gateway to the Coorong and Meningie. Travel by coach or busA regular bus service run by Premier Stateliner Coaches operates between Riverland towns and the Adelaide Central Bus Station on Franklin Street. Link SA also offers daily, direct coach travel between Adelaide and Murray Bridge. From there, catch connecting buses to the townships around the region. Greyhound Australia and V Line buses going from Adelaide to Sydney also travel via the Mallee to Albury then Sydney. For more information and timetables on these services, check the local Visitor Information Centres around the region. Take flightAdelaide Airport is a convenient airport where you can hire a car. There are private airstrips in Loxton, Waikerie, Renmark and Pinnaroo. The closest airport is in Mildura, an hour's drive away from Renmark and Paringa in the Riverland. Rex Airlines fly to Mildura from Melbourne. Drive safelyIf you're driving around the Murray River region and Mallee, you'll find mostly sealed, well signposted roads. There is also a vast network of dirt and unsealed roads so please be careful. Murray River maps are available at Visitor Information Centres. See our Murray River travelling tips for a safe journey. Murray River Driving TripsThe perfect driving holidayThe Murray River was voted by Qantas as No 1 Top Scenic Australian Road Trips and is a great driving region. Tourists flock to the Murray River for the water, wildlife and wonderful scenery but you can head off-road into one of our national parks and you'll transform your holiday.
Scenic drives 4WD in the Mallee If you're looking for something a little less rugged, there are many beautiful scenic drives around the Murray River. If you just want to drive without maps, then travelling from town to town is a visual delight along the Discover Murray River Trail. Get a copy from the local Visitor Information Centre. In the Danggali Conservation Park the Nanya's Pad Interpretation Drive (90-km loop) is named after an Aboriginal man who fled to the Danggali area in the late 1800s. This trip is accessible by 2WD vehicles and incorporates 14 stops that showcase Aboriginal heritage. The Mid-Murray Scenic Drive is a great cliff drive close to Adealide. This 80 kilometre loop starts in stunning riverside Mannum across the ferry heads through Bowhill, Purnong to Walker Flat and then across the river at the Walker Flat ferry. Or try the Mid-Murray Self Drive Eco Tour. Experience a 130km diverse and interesting drive from the Murray River through the foothills of the Eastern Ranges, along the beautiful Marne River back to the Murray at Wongulla to Mannum. For the experienced 4WDer in the MalleeExperienced four wheel drive (4WD) travellers should try the demanding Border Track in the Ngarkat Conservation Park. This 29 kilometre, one-way track skirts around the South Australian-Victorian border and covers some rugged land. The spectacular birdlife is an amazing. The track closes during fire danger season November to April. In the Mallee, the Mount Rescue Loop in Ngarkat Conservation Park is only a day trip from Tintinara (Dukes Highway). For some amazing views across the Mallee, it's worth the five kilometre walking detour to Tyms Lookout. Head off on shorter four wheel drive (4WD) adventures at Scorpion Springs, Baan Hill and Box Flat. For more four wheel drive (4WD) tracks, follow the historic footsteps of Edward White, the first surveyor to mark the South Australia and Victorian border. Take either the Ngarkat Loop track or the appropriately named Big Desert Loop. Visitor Information CentresSouth Australia's Murray River and Mallee Visitor Information Centres can help you make the most of your time in South Australia. The accredited centres are open seven days a week and they'll provide you with all the information you'll need for your travels around South Australia. They have a bright blue and yellow 'i' sign that they display.
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