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Information for tourists

Although there is no restriction on tourists accessing the proclaimed opal fields at Coober Pedy, Mintabie, Stuart Creek and Andamooka, it is not recommended because of the many open shafts, deep bulldozer cuts, heavy machinery and use of explosives.

If you want to visit the opal fields, it is recommended that you use a recognised tour operator. For more information visit the local tourist information centres.

Andamooka

Opal was discovered in Andamooka in 1930. The Andamooka opal field covers an area of 263 square kilometres. It surrounds the town, located approximately 35 km east of Roxby Downs and approximately 250 km north of Port Augusta via Woomera.

Accommodation may be found in Andamooka and Roxby Downs.

Coober Pedy

Discovered in 1915 the opal fields cover an area of 4954 square kilometres, located on the Stuart Highway 550 km north of Port Augusta.

Coober Pedy is a modern town with all amenities and tourist facilities.

Mintabie

Located on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankuntjatjara Lands 32 km west of Marla, the Mintabie field was originally discovered in 1929 and covers an area of 213 square kilometres.

Access is restricted under the Pitjantjatjara Land Rights Act 1981. A permit to travel to Mintabie township can be obtained from Marla Police Station.

Stuart Creek

Discovered in 1947, the Stuart Creek opal field covers an area of 25 square kilometres, approximately 58 km north of Andamooka.

It is a remote waterless area without any significant shade trees, requiring a 4WD vehicle for access.

Stuart Creek opal field is only recommended for experienced opal miners and bush travellers.

Lambina and Welbourn Hill

It is not recommended that tourists travel to Lambina and Welbourn Hill.

There are six negotiated diggings over the two pastoral stations. Access is by service of Notice of Entry to genuine opal miners. See Prospecting and mining for opal outside proclaimed precious stones fields (.pdf 320kb opens in new window) for more information about the requirements to enter these areas.

Note: 
Visitors from overseas who wish to apply for a Precious Stones Prospecting Permit must have an unlimited working visa. The immigration online verification service will be used to confirm the status of all international passports prior to a permit being issued.