Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 89m
Min elevation: 15m
Total Ascent: 155m
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.
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Content use
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 89 m
Min elevation: 15 m
Total climbing: 155 m
Total descent: -155 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area.
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.
Closest towns to this walk: Ceduna, Kingscote, Koonalda, Nullarbor, Nundroo, Parndana, Penneshaw, Penong, Ravine, Rudall, Seal Bay, Stokes Bay, Vivonne Bay
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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.
6 Reviews 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.