The Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens - SA

To the uninitiated, Australia’s arid heart might seem barren and lifeless. In fact the opposite is true.

Our arid lands are home to thousands of highly evolved plant communities that are specially adapted to thrive in an environment where temperatures are extreme and drought can last for decades. Australia’s arid zone ecosystems are fragile and complex and they are found nowhere else on earth.

The Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden, in Port Augusta, was established in 1993 to research, conserve and promote the wider appreciation of Australia’s arid zone flora. Located on the shores of Upper Spencer Gulf with spectacular views to the ancient Flinders Ranges, the Garden showcases a diverse collection of arid zone habitats in a picturesque setting of more than 250 hectares.

But that’s not all. Because of its coastal location, the AALBG also features a biologically rich marine environment dominated by grey mangroves. This rare side-by-side combination of arid and marine environments, together with a fascinating regional and cultural history, makes this botanic garden very special.

Explore the Gardens with a Volunteer Tour Guide from 10.00am Monday – Friday (excluding public holidays). It’s a great way to experience the garden with a local who is passionate about the native plants and history of Arid Lands. Or take the self-guided tour on the four specially marked walking tracks.

Don't miss the garden and gift shop or the Cafe which is open weekdays and weekends for breakfast and lunch. Coffee and cake available all day.

Plenty of parking available for cars and caravans. The road out to the Matthew Flinders Lookout ends with a great view from the cliff up the Spencer Gulf. The Lookout is just a short walk from the ample parking area.