By Car in Perth

The Eyre Highway crosses the continent from Port Augusta in South Australia to Western Australia's transportation gateway, Norseman. From there, take the Coolgardie-Esperance Highway north to Coolgardie, and the Great Eastern Highway on to Perth. Driving to Perth—2,580 km (1,600 mi) and 30 hours from Adelaide, and 4,032 km (2,500 mi) and 56 hours from Sydney—is an arduous journey, which should be undertaken only with a car (and mental faculties) in top condition. Spare tires and drinking water are essential. Service stations and motels are spaced at regular intervals along the route.

Driving in Perth is relatively easy; just remember to stay on the left-hand side of the road. Peak traffic hours are 7:30 AM-9 AM heading into Perth and 4:30 PM-6 PM heading away from the city center. Country roads are generally well maintained and have little traffic. There are no freeways and few two-lane highways outside the Perth metropolitan area. "Self-Drive Tours Within WA," a free 72-page booklet that suggests itineraries around Perth, Fremantle, and the state, is available from the Western Australia Visitor Centre and major car-rental companies.

All major car-rental companies have branches at the international and domestic airport terminals. A good budget alternative is Network Car Rentals, which can arrange airport pickup and drop-off.

Contacts

Avis (08/9325-7677 or 13-6333. www.avis.com.au). Budget Rent A Car (1300/362848. www.budgetwa.com.au). Hertz (13-3039. www.hertz.com.au). Network Car Rentals (1800/736825. www.1800rentals.com.au).