Mount Isa
Expect the unexpected.
Welcome to Mount Isa — a place where big skies, red earth, mining history, outback adventure and genuine country hospitality come together.
Known as the Oasis of the Outback, Mount Isa is much more than a stop on the way through. It’s a destination worth slowing down for.
With its spectacular Selwyn Ranges, iconic mining landscape and easy access to Lake Moondarra, Mount Isa offers a surprising mix of experiences. From going underground in a mine or a hospital to discovering ancient fossils, watching the sunset over the outback or simply enjoying the relaxed pace of life in the west, there’s plenty to see and do.
Dig into the Isa
Mount Isa’s story is deeply connected to mining, innovation and the people who built a city in one of Australia’s toughest environments.
Head to Outback at Isa and explore the region’s mining and natural history. Take the Hard Times Mine Tour underground, discover ancient fossils at the Riversleigh Fossil Centre and learn about the people and stories that shaped Mount Isa.
For another glimpse into the Isa’s remarkable past, visit Mount Isa Underground Hospital & Museum and discover the incredible story of Australia’s first and only underground hospital, along with the heritage-listed Tent House and Beth Anderson Museum.
Experience the outback
Mount Isa is also the perfect base for exploring the wider North West.
Take a day trip into the wider North West. Head to Fountain Springs via the Ballara Mining Trail just 60k East of the Isa. As a self drive experience, you can explore old mining sites, cemeteries, a railway tunnel and at the end of the trail you will arrive at Fountain Springs, famously known for the scene in Crocodile Dundee when she is filling up her water bottle and the croc grabs it… yep, that spot! (there is no croc in that waterhole, they used a pretend one)
If you’ve got the time, venture further afield to Gregory River, Adels Grove and Boodjamulla National Park, Lawn Hill Gorge or discover the ancient landscapes and fossils of the Riversleigh World Heritage Area. These destinations are a longer adventure from Mount Isa, but they’re exactly why it’s worth allowing extra time in the region.
Mount Isa City
Go on a 2-hour city tour with North West Tours and learn about the unique mining history of our great city.
North West Tours also offer a half Day tour to Mark Kathleen Uranium Mine. A unique informative tour that gives you just another reason to tell your mates to visit the region.
Take a drive to one of Mount Isa’s lookouts and see just how vast the city and surrounding landscape really are.
The changing colours of the red earth, ranges and mine create some of the best views around town — particularly as the afternoon light begins to fade.
Come for an event.
Stay for the experience.
Mount Isa knows how to put on a show.
The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is one of the biggest events on the Australian outback calendar, bringing the city alive with rodeo action, entertainment and country hospitality held on the second weekend every August.
But you don’t need to visit during rodeo season to experience the spirit of the Isa.
Throughout the year, you’ll find local events, community activities, markets, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to meet the people who make this place what it is.
Don’t just pass through. Stay a little longer.
Got a boat?
Get out on the water, the Barra are waiting!
Just a short drive from the city, Lake Moondarra is a favourite local escape for fishing, boating, birdwatching, picnics and relaxing beside the water.
And when the sun starts to disappear, make an evening of it.
Moondarra Cruises’ Last Light on Moondarra offers a completely different way to experience the Isa. Cruise across the lake at sunset, enjoy good company and an outback platter, BYO your favourite drinks and watch the landscape turn golden.
With return bus transfers from your Mount Isa accommodation included, it’s an easy way to finish your day.
Mount Isa is the kind of place that rewards travellers who give it time.
Spend a day discovering its mining history.
Spend another exploring the lake and surrounding landscape.
Watch the sunset from the water.
Enjoy a meal, meet the locals and slow down to the pace of the outback.
Give yourself a good few days and you’ll discover there’s much more to Mount Isa than first meets the eye.
Your Mount Isa adventure starts here.
Stay. Explore. Discover.
Experience the unexpected.
