Boarding a big blue bus emblazoned with a golden kangaroo, I really didn’t know what to expect of the destination I was travelling to. I had never been to Kangaroo Island before and the only pre-conceived notion I had was that it must hold a sizable population of Kangaroos – after all it was named after them!
To my delight, I was surprised by the beauty, tranquility, history and of course the wildlife Kangaroo Island offered, just a few hours from bustling Adelaide.
I started my journey by traveling from Adelaide to Cape Jervis Ferry Terminal. This is a 1.5 hour journey through Fleurieu Peninsula. This journey offers sights and sounds of South Australia’s quaint farming regions. From Cape Jervis, I boarded the “Spirit of Kangaroo Island”, one of two regular ferry plying between the mainland and Kangaroo Island. The travel time across the “Backstairs Passage”, the strait between mainland and eastern end of Kangaroo island, is approximately 45 minutes. Make sure you get a window seat on the ferry - if you’re lucky, you might be able to get a glimpse of a few dolphins swimming alongside the ferry.
After arriving at Kangaroo Island, if you are catching a shuttle to your accommodation or joining a group tour, the familiar blue buses can be found easily adjacent to the Jetty. If you brought your own vehicle, you will be able to drive off the ferry straight into the centre of town.
The breathtaking landscapes, the tranquil atmosphere, rich history of the land and the vibrant wildlife of Kangaroo Island is on full display immediately as you step off the ferry at Penneshaw. Here are a few of the many highlights of my tour of Kangaroo Island:
American River
I was fortunate to stay at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge at American River. The tranquility of this location is truly unique. The wildlife and nature take centre stage and drowns out noise of human activity. The perfect place to unwind and relax. 
Seal Bay Conservation Park
Kangaroo Island provides a variety of wildlife experiences, but none more spectacular than the Seal Bay guided tour. A conservation expert will guide you down to Seal Bay beach which is home to a colony of Australian Sea Lions – an endangered species. If you are lucky, you will get to see young pups playing in the sand or trying to hang ten on a wave. There is no enclosures or barriers between you and the colony – it is an unmatched wildlife experience!
Remarkable Rocks
From winding tree-line roads to gentle sloping hills, monolithic rock formations to breath-taking coast lines, Kangaroo Island has got all the inspiration you need and then some. The remarkable rocks are an iconic sight. Formed by lava flow some 500 million years ago, these natural sculptures painstakingly carved by wind stand proudly at the Flinders Chase National Park. 
Admirals Arch
Admirals Arch is straight out of a Hollywood movie set! A natural rock arch created by the powerful forces of the wind & ocean is home to a colony of fur seals. The jagged rocks protruding from the floor of Admirals Arch and the crusty stalactites reaching down from the ceiling give the impression a scene from an epic movie is just about to unfold.
Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
The Koala is the star of the show at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Walking amongst the Eucalyptus lined trails, you are sure to get your fill of this furry creature. The laid-back Koala is slow moving but wild so always listen to your guide – you might even learn a few new Koala factoids.
Leaving Kangaroo Island, I had the distinct feeling that this would not be my last visit to this delightful island. So, I made sure to talk to the locals and ask for their recommendations and what they considered must-do experiences. Here is what made the list.
Raptor Domain Birds of Prey Experience – Highly recommended
A unique presentation by birds and reptiles native to Kangaroo Island and beyond by Raptor Domain.
Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge Nocturnal Tour
Wallabies, kangaroos and possums are just a few of the creatures you can spot on this one of a kind night time wild life excursion.
Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari
Departing daily from Penneshaw, this is the best way to spot the marine life of Kangaroo Island - dolphins, seals, eagles and more!
4WD Bush Getaway Adventures
If you are up for something more exciting, Quad bike your way through 250 acres of scenic landscapes and nature trails. You will be sure to spot plenty of Kangaroos and other wildlife.
Cygnet River Artisan Trail
Take your taste buds on a tour of Kangaroo Island by spending the day walking the Cygnet River Artisan Trail. Local producers have put together an experience that will have you sampling some of Kangaroo Island’s best wine, honey and other locally produced culinary products.
Clifford’s Honey Farm
The Ligurian bees of Kangaroo Island are the last genetically pure population of the Ligurian honey bee in the world. Take the tour at Clifford’s Honey Farm to learn about the history of this industrious creature and a taste it’s delicious product.
Getting to Kangaroo Island
There are few ways to get to Kangaroo Island, you can bring your own wheels, book a guided tour or fly in. If you decide to drive or catch a guided tour, you will need to transfer over to the Sealink Ferry for the ocean crossing. The crossing from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw takes approximately 45 minutes and if you brought your own car, you can drive it straight into the ferry and drive off at the other end. The ferry holds up to 50 cars but space is limited so make sure to book in advance.
Kangaroo Island is a big island – in fact it is Australia’s third largest island so it has a lot to offer. If you want to take full advantage of your time on KI, taking your own vehicle is recommended. This allows you the freedom to explore the island on your time. There is no public transport and limited pre-booked taxi services on the island, so make sure to arrange for a way to get around so you aren’t disappointed.
Tip: Sealink provides a twice daily shuttle service from your Kangaroo Island accommodation to the ferry terminal – you must book in advance.
Kangaroo Island beckons you to explore it – I am sure I will be heading back at first opportunity.
Call us on 1300 854 897 to speak to one of our friendly consultants to tailor a holiday visiting stunning Kangaroo Island!
