Trail summary
Hike overview
The Ravine des Casoars Hike is a rewarding 7.4-kilometre journey through the namesake wilderness protection area in South Australia. Classified as a grade 3 hike, it typically takes between 2 and 3 hours to complete. The trail winds its way along the ravine valley, following the creek bank at times and offering scenic overlooks of the valley floor below.
This path holds historical significance. In 1802, French explorer Nicolas Baudin encountered the Kangaroo Island Emu here, mistakenly identifying it as a cassowary. Tragically, this flightless bird became extinct at least a decade before the first official settlement arrived in 1836.
The adventure begins on Ravine des Casoars Road, 7 kilometres south of the Playford Highway near Cape Borda Lightstation.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 89 m
Min elevation: 15 m
Total climbing: 155 m
Total descent: -155 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Ravine, Stokes Bay, Parndana, Kingscote, Penneshaw
Accessing Ravine des Casoars requires a journey to Kangaroo Island. From Adelaide, you can either catch a ferry from Cape Jervis (around a 1.5-hour trip) or fly into Kingscote Airport (a 30-minute flight). Once on the island, you’ll need a car to navigate the 80km distance west to the Ravine des Casoars. The route from Kingscote involves following the Playford Highway and West End Highway, offering a scenic drive through Kangaroo Island’s heart.
Photo gallery
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Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
About the region
Carved out of Flinders Chase National Park in 1993, the Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area shelters Kangaroo Island's western tip. Its diverse landscapes range from rugged coastlines with sandy beaches to rocky gorges carved by rivers, all interwoven with pockets of dense forest. The park's French name translates to "Gully of the Cassowaries," a poignant reminder of the dwarf cassowary, a flightless bird that once thrived here but is now extinct.
Today, the Ravine des Casoars provides a vital habitat for a variety of Australian wildlife, including endangered species like the southern cassowary (a relative of the extinct dwarf cassowary), the glossy black-cockatoo, and the western quokka. Visitors can explore this wilderness by hiking designated trails, camping under the stars, or simply observing the abundant wildlife. A highlight of the area is the Remarkable Rocks, a collection of precariously balanced granite boulders that draw visitors from around the world.
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Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
1 Review on “Ravine Des Casoars Hike (7.4km)”
The Ravine Des Casoars Hike, located in the Ravine Des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area on the western end of Kangaroo Island, is a truly scenic and varied walk. As you make your way through, you’ll experience a mix of rugged terrain, river crossings, and rocky paths, which add a bit of a challenge. The stunning landscapes include expansive caves, beautiful sand dunes, and vibrant wildflowers. The highlight of the hike is the impressive caves at the end of the beach, where you’ll find fascinating stalagmites and stalactites. It’s a rewarding experience that combines adventure with breathtaking natural beauty.