How to get to Kingscote

Planning how to get to Kingscote opens the gateway to the amazing world of Kangaroo Island for you. This cosy town in South Australia is the region's main transport hub, welcoming travellers eager to see unique wildlife and seascapes. You can get here in various ways: by a quick flight or a scenic combined route by car and ferry.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the island is to fly directly to Kingscote Airport (KGC). It receives regular flights and is well connected to the city, allowing tourists to start their holiday almost immediately after landing.

If there are no direct tickets, it is most convenient to fly via the city of Adelaide, located 119 km away, from where frequent connecting flights operate. There is also an air connection with the city of Port Lincoln, although this option is further away and may require more complex route planning.

There is no railway station in the city of Kingscote itself, as the island location excludes the presence of trains. The railway network ends on the mainland part of the country.

The nearest major transport hub is Adelaide, which can be reached comfortably by train from other regions of the continent. Another option on the mainland is the city of Port Lincoln, but it is located significantly further from the crossing to the island.

Direct bus services that would take you straight to the centre of Kingscote without transfers do not exist due to the water barrier. The main route for tourists usually involves a bus trip from the city of Adelaide to the ferry terminal at Cape Jervis.

This journey allows you to enjoy coastal views before transferring to the ferry. The distance and travel time depend on connections, but the transfer is usually organised quite conveniently and logically for travellers.

A trip by car to Kingscote is a true adventure that necessarily includes a ferry crossing. The most popular route starts in the city of Adelaide: you will have to cover about 187 km, which will take approximately 3.5 hours including the road to the port.

For travellers departing from the city of Port Lincoln, the path will be much longer — about 832 km. Such a trip will require more than 10 hours behind the wheel, so it is recommended to plan stops for rest and refuelling in advance.

To ensure your trip to Kingscote and Kangaroo Island goes perfectly, it is worth considering a few local features. Here is a list of practical recommendations that will help you prepare for the trip:

1. Clothing and Items: The weather on the island is changeable and often windy. It is recommended to bring layered clothing and a reliable windbreaker, even if you are travelling in summer.
2. Transport: Public transport is poorly developed. The best way to get around is car rental, as attractions are scattered over large distances from each other.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carrying some cash for small cafes or markets is useful.
4. Health and Safety: The sun is very strong here, so high SPF cream is mandatory. Be careful on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk, due to the risk of wild animals appearing.
5. Communication: The main language is English. Locals are very friendly and speak with a characteristic Australian accent, but understanding them will not be difficult.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary to be relaxed and polite here. The greeting "G'day" will bring a smile. Tipping is not mandatory but is welcomed for excellent service.
7. What to Avoid: It is strictly forbidden to bring honey and bee products onto the island due to quarantine to protect the unique Ligurian bees. Violation threatens a large fine.
8. Extra Tip: Refuel your car at every opportunity when leaving the town. Petrol stations in remote parts of the island may close early or be found rarely.

Following these simple rules will make your holiday comfortable and safe, allowing you to fully focus on the beauties of South Australia.