An update on the 2020 bushfires on Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island Bushfire recovery more than 2 years after January 2020

Like the rest of Australia, Kangaroo Island regularly experiences fires during the warmer months. Yet, the ‘Black Summer’ of 2019-20 saw large-scale bushfires in Australia making news headlines worldwide.

A disaster at a level never experienced here before, the bushfires on Kangaroo Island significantly impacted the landscape. Here is an overview of what happened, and how the island is recovering over two years later.

The 2019-20 summer bushfires on Kangaroo Island were the largest in the island's recorded history and burnt more vegetation than any fire on the island.

Country Fire Service, South Australia

How did the Kangaroo Island fire start?

During a scorching summer unusual for the regular Kangaroo Island weather pattern, lightning strikes ignited fires first on the north and north-eastern coasts of the island on 20 December 2019, then in Flinders Chase National Park ten days later.

Over several weeks, the Kangaroo Island fires burned 211,474 hectares of land, almost half of the island. It is unknown how many of the island’s wild animals perished, along with the estimated 32,000 head of stock and domestic animals that died. The widespread fires also damaged or destroyed homes, businesses—including some tourism venues—grazing land, forests, crops, machinery, and infrastructure, and two people tragically lost their lives.

Is Kangaroo Island still on fire?

No. Once the bushfire zone was declared safe on 6 February 2020, emergency aid was received from many organisations and individuals, including the Red Cross, the Australian Defence Force, BlazeAid and many volunteers.

Since then, the entire community has worked together to rebuild homes, re-establish the hard-hit primary production sector, and protect surviving wildlife. Islanders are ready for visitors to return and experience the fascinating and dynamic process of the Kangaroo Island Bushfire recovery journey first-hand.

How are the natural attractions recovering after the Kangaroo Island fires?

Fire plays a vital role in Australian landscapes. Bushfires in Australia trigger seed germination in some species and help provide nutrients. Fire is a natural ‘reset button’ and the recovery process can be seen everywhere. The island is bouncing back with deafening birdsong, content kangaroos and koalas, and flourishing flora. It must be seen to be believed.

Nature is a dynamic multi-tasker. Nature can adjust and process so quickly and subtly that we are not always aware of what is happening.

Dr P Rismiller, Pelican Lagoon Research and Wildlife Centre
Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail

Burnt trees with hollowed-out logs have become havens for insects and provide an important refuge for birds and small mammals seeking shelter and nesting sites. The regeneration of native vegetation is astonishing following the Kangaroo Island fires, with some wildflower species now being seen that haven't been recorded in more than 70 years.

Contact the Kangaroo Island Landscape Board to find out more about Kangaroo Island's biodiversity, along with specific programs and volunteer opportunities.

What does the Kangaroo Island Bushfire recovery look like elsewhere?

Ever since the fires, the island’s agricultural sector and community have shown inspirational resilience in the face of adversity, and the recovery has been truly remarkable. The sheep industry lost almost 10% of its stock during the fires but has now rebuilt most of the infrastructure, including thousands of kilometres of fencing. Crops have now been resown and pastures regenerated.

Kangaroo Islanders have worked together to turn the challenges from the 2020 bushfires into a more positive experience and have developed risk management plans to help prepare for future disasters.

What is open on Kangaroo Island?

The majority of the island is open for business over two years after the devastating Kangaroo Island fires. Local tourism operators are welcoming visitors back to explore and enjoy everything the island is known for—pristine wilderness, wildlife and a thriving food and wine industry.

It is easy to fill your holiday itinerary here whether you are travelling alone, with a group of friends, as a couple or with a young family. Kangaroo Island offers a wide range of fun-filled outdoor activities, relaxing beach locations, wineries, distilleries, breweries and plenty of outstanding eateries to suit everyone.

Visit the Kangaroo Island map for further information about what there is to see and do in South Australia's premier holiday destination.

Plan your trip
Interactive Map

Can I visit the National Parks on Kangaroo Island?

Yes, absolutely. Six of the island’s parks were unaffected and continue to provide visitors with opportunities to experience the island's nature and heritage.

96% of the internationally renowned Flinders Chase National Park on the western end of Kangaroo Island was severely affected by the bushfires, with much of the infrastructure and surrounding areas destroyed. Now the park has been reopened and iconic sites such as Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch are accessible again, along with some walking trails.

Heritage sites such as the lighthouses and cottages at Cape du Couedic and Cape Borda were not destroyed by the Kangaroo Island fires. Much has happened in the last two years, and the green vegetation springing out of the blackened landscape shows the true resilience of nature and the landscape. Visitors are also appreciating a rare opportunity to see bushland regeneration firsthand.

The world-famous Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail has been modified and is available for day-walkers who book with one of the licensed tour operators. A popular destination for passionate hikers and photographers, the trail gives hikers the opportunity to see plenty of wildlife.

For more up-to-date information on the park, including what trails are open, visit the National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia website.

Admirals Arch

Kangaroo Island Accommodation

Kangaroo Island offers a range of accommodation styles to suit everyone's needs and budget. Whether you are keen on camping in the bush to spot wallabies and koalas or prefer a cosy luxury retreat, the island has it all.

Numerous caravan and camping locations are available around the Island, including within the National and Conservation Parks. Search for, book and pay for a campsite on Kangaroo Island online.

A good range of hotels, motels, self-contained apartments, and beachside accommodation options are available to visitors, along with some Kangaroo Island luxury accommodation options for that special occasion. Search the available accommodation on Kangaroo Island to find a cosy getaway for you and your partner, a property to spoil the discerning modern traveller, or a comfortable hotel or motel where you can meet new friends and share stories.

Getting around Kangaroo Island

There are many ways to get around and tour Kangaroo Island. Bring your own vehicle over on the ferry for a self-drive tour or hire a car when you get here if you fly or arrive as a passenger on the ferry.

If you prefer to relax, hire a guide who can do the driving for you, while showing you around and sharing local insights. There are plenty of operators offering Kangaroo Island tours which can be personalised to your interests and needs.

Choose the best option for your holiday, then contact a tour provider or find a hire car company to suit you.

A rare opportunity to see Kangaroo Island recover

Right now, there is plenty to do and see while the island recovers from the bushfires. Experience the beauty of regenerating plants, enjoy the wildlife while easier to spot, and find new vistas once hidden by vegetation.

Hike the KI Wilderness Trail to see a regenerating landscape, discover the incredible range of wildflowers that have emerged since the Kangaroo Island fires or join a guided tour for a sightseeing experience with local knowledge. Want more ideas about where to go and what to see? Discover the top five local Kangaroo Island secrets and start planning your trip today.

Useful links

There is something for everybody on Kangaroo Island

Nature and Wildlife, Food and Wine, Adventure, or Relaxation. Kangaroo Island has it all, and more.

  • Visit

    Let us help you plan your visit to Kangaroo Island, including the Kangaroo Island ferry or…

  • What to do

    Come and experience our Island Life. Discover our spectacular nature and wildlife, our stunning…

  • Island Stays

    From seaside holidays to premium luxury Kangaroo Island accommodation. Whether you're in…

  • Stories

    Unearth the Stories of Kangaroo Island, connect to the people and discover Island Time, revel…