There are more than a quarter million mine shafts in the Coober Pedy area, and visitors are warned to be on the lookout for them when traveling alone -- or run the risk of falling into one and remaining undiscovered for days on end, or not being found at all.
In fact, straying by one’s self around Coober Pedy, especially by a woman, is advised against, and it’s not just falling into a mine shaft that is the danger.
Unless you're already traveling with a group, it may be best to stay with organised Coober Pedy tours, or stay very close to the heart of town.
ACTIVITIES
Browse the Coober Pedy shops for opals. If you don’t know your opals, stick with a guide who knows, as you could wind up with cheap low-quality stones. Or see Know What You're Buying
Visit the Coober Pedy opal museum in the centre of town. Learn about opals and some mining history.
Visit a Coober Pedy opal mine and underground home. There are a number of organised tours you can take.
Go fossicking for opals. Best to do this in a designated opal field.
If you have the time and wish to do it, travel with the mail truck on a 600-kilometre round trip from Coober Pedy to Oodnadatta and William Creek for a different traveling experience.
ACCOMMODATION
There are hotels, motels, hostels and camping grounds in the Coober Pedy area. You might want to stay in underground accommodations.
DINING
Try the Coober Pedy restaurants, Greek tavernas and dugout cafes. As with most mining towns there is a mixture of people of different races, so there’s a variety of ethnic fare as well.
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