South Australia Two Million Dollar Investment in Nature Tourism: Seventeen Innovative Projects to Showcase Stunning Landscapes

Published on December 1, 2025

The final round of South Australia’s Experience Nature Tourism Fund has been an incredible success, with $625,900 in grants unlocking over $985,000 in combined project value. A total of 17 innovative tourism projects have been selected to receive support, with a focus on attracting both domestic and international visitors to explore the state’s stunning natural landscapes.

Supporting Nature-Based Tourism Growth Across South Australia

Round 4 of the Experience Nature Tourism Fund is designed to give South Australia’s tourism operators the necessary resources to diversify and enhance their offerings. With funding directed toward the purchase of new equipment, vehicle upgrades, marketing initiatives, and infrastructure improvements, these projects aim to increase visitor numbers and showcase the extraordinary natural beauty of regions like Eyre Peninsula, Kangaroo Island, Yorke Peninsula, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Adelaide.

The funded projects highlight the growing demand for nature-based experiences, offering exciting opportunities for travelers. From citizen-science tours and astronomy expeditions to e-biking adventures and twilight kayaking, these initiatives are designed to create deeper connections between visitors and South Australia’s natural environment.

Key Projects Celebrating South Australia’s Natural Wonders

The coastlines of South Australia will see a particular focus as part of the funded projects. Areas like Kangaroo Island, Yorke Peninsula, and the Coorong will be home to projects that celebrate marine life, pristine ecosystems, and local biodiversity. One key initiative is the Research and Discovery Coastal Tours Kangaroo Island, which will improve boat capabilities to support the Reef Resilience Project. This project will monitor the health of the Great Southern Reef and help recover the ecosystem after an algal bloom event.

In the Fleurieu Peninsula, The Tailor Touring Co. is introducing “The Coorong Connection: A Cultural and Natural Encounter.” This new private tour will allow guests to explore the Coorong’s ecosystem and learn about Ngarrindjeri culture. The purchase of a LandCruiser 300 VX will enable safer and more comfortable access to remote locations, offering visitors an authentic and enriching experience.

Meanwhile, the Flinders Ranges & Outback region, set to be highlighted as a top tourism destination for 2026 by Lonely Planet, will see the introduction of a permanent Yarning Circle at Discovery Resorts – Wilpena Pound. This will enhance the region’s nature-based tourism offerings, providing visitors with a cultural bush tucker experience. Additionally, Catninga Hut will receive new visitor facilities to increase capacity and improve the overall experience for those exploring the national parks.

Expanding Regional Tourism Offerings

South Australia’s tourism sector is being boosted by these vital grants, which allow operators to offer new and diverse experiences for both local and international visitors. The funding is not just about enhancing the visitor experience but also about promoting the natural and cultural richness of the state. These projects provide travelers with the chance to discover new corners of South Australia, including remote national parks and coastal regions.

The $2 million Experience Nature Tourism Fund has now supported a total of 63 projects, with a combined value of nearly $3.5 million. These projects are not only expanding South Australia’s tourism infrastructure but are also focused on sustainability and responsible travel, ensuring the protection of the state’s unique ecosystems.

Noteworthy Projects and Success Stories from Round 4

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, has praised the success of the Experience Nature Tourism Fund, emphasizing that the state is well-positioned to offer travelers authentic and immersive nature experiences. She highlighted that there is an increasing demand for tourism that allows people to connect with nature, and South Australia is answering that call with new, innovative projects.

One standout project is the “Dolphin and Coastal Discovery Experience” by Neptunes Surf Coaching on Yorke Peninsula. This half-day guided tour will take visitors through Dhilba Guuranda–Innes National Park, one of the most picturesque coastal parks in South Australia. As part of the initiative, the “Walk the Yorke Shuttle” will be introduced for hikers, with optional equipment hire available to enhance the experience.

New Eco-Friendly Tourism Experiences

Kangaroo Island is also benefiting from the Experience Nature Tourism Fund. The Koala Sanctuary is introducing innovative koala-focused experiences to enhance its appeal, while Kangaroo Island Trails will launch a new 5-day guided eco-tour. This tour will provide visitors with the chance to explore Baudin Conservation Park, Flinders Chase, and other iconic conservation areas on the island, fostering a deeper understanding of local ecosystems.

In the Limestone Coast, Coffin Bay Tourist Association is developing 14 new interpretive signs throughout Kellidie Bay Conservation Park, Thorny Passage Marine Park, and Coffin Bay National Park. These signs, featuring QR codes that link to rich digital content, will help visitors learn more about the region’s marine life, enhancing their overall experience. Tracx is also purchasing e-bikes to expand its mountain biking tour offerings through Little Dip Conservation Park, making the experience more accessible to a wider range of visitors.

Enhancing Visitor Experiences in Adelaide and Beyond

In Adelaide and surrounding regions, several projects are being funded to enhance the tourism experience. Radelaide Tours will introduce a new family-friendly astronomy tour that will explore the night skies over South Australia’s national parks. This new offering will be made possible by the purchase of a 13-seater van, allowing for a more comfortable and immersive experience for groups.

SA eBikes is establishing an e-bike hub in Onkaparinga Gorge National Park, providing visitors with the opportunity to take part in Aboriginal cultural tours. These tours will be designed to meet broad accessibility needs, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy an enriching experience while learning about South Australia’s cultural heritage.

Minister Bettison’s Vision for South Australia’s Future

Minister Bettison emphasized that the Experience Nature Tourism Fund has not only supported tourism projects but has also contributed to the sustainable development of the state’s tourism sector. By creating opportunities for cultural exchange and nature-based travel, South Australia is positioning itself as a premier destination for global travelers seeking immersive and eco-friendly experiences.

A Bright Future for Nature-Based Tourism in South Australia

The Experience Nature Tourism Fund has proven to be an essential initiative in enhancing South Australia’s tourism offerings. By supporting a wide range of innovative projects that celebrate the state’s natural and cultural landscapes, the fund is helping to attract more visitors while preserving South Australia’s unique environments. As these projects continue to grow, South Australia is poised to become a leading destination for nature-based tourism, offering travelers an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

These new experiences will not only enhance South Australia’s tourism sector but will also contribute to the preservation of its remarkable environments. Visitors will have more opportunities to connect with the land, experience its beauty, and learn about its diverse ecosystems and cultures.