Old Timers Mine — Attraction in Kondoolka

If you’re planning a trip to Coober Pedy, the Old Timers Mine is a must-visit attraction that offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s opal mining history. 

Authentic Underground Experience

The Old Timers Mine, originally hand-dug in 1916, provides a self-guided tour that allows visitors to explore the original tunnels and shafts. Upon arrival, you’re equipped with a hard hat and a detailed map, guiding you through the mine’s various sections. The mine is well-lit and ventilated, making it accessible even for those who might be apprehensive about enclosed spaces.  

Historical Insights and Unique Displays

One of the highlights is the preserved underground home, showcasing how miners and their families lived in dugouts to escape the harsh desert climate. The museum also features exhibits on early opal mining techniques and the history of Coober Pedy, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s heritage.  

Family-Friendly and Educational

The attraction is suitable for all ages, offering an engaging experience for children and adults alike. Kids can try their luck at the noodling pit, searching for opals in a safe and fun environment.  

Convenient Location and Amenities

Located on Crowders Gully Road, the Old Timers Mine is easy to find with ample parking available. The on-site gift shop offers a selection of opals and souvenirs, allowing you to take a piece of Coober Pedy home with you.  

Final Thoughts

The Old Timers Mine offers an authentic and educational experience that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Coober Pedy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for an engaging activity, or simply curious about opal mining, this attraction provides a memorable glimpse into the unique lifestyle of Australia’s...

This the absolute most wonderful place in Coober Pedy. I took my family here, two adult sons, daughter in law and my wife in March 2025. I had been here about 40 years ago as a younger man. The place has not changed a lot. The people that run the OLD TIMERS MINE are very gracious. The mine has been there for decades. I had a ring made for my wife on our anniversary of a brilliant solid opal a numbers of years ago. She had the misfortune of having a jewelry store "clean" it a year ago and they abraded the surface making it dull and rough. She always wears the ring. The owner (son of the owner and also owner) said he could fix it. He was able to use a varieties of machines to again polish the opal to its original brilliance. When I asked him how much I owed him, he said no charge, glad I could fix it. That is their awesome attitude. We took the mine tour and it was superb and fascinating. They have a large collection of old signs, mining equipment and even preserved insects. One of the vintage signs states: "Miners-no dynamite allowed in the theater". They also have a fine array of Opals from under $100 to many thousands of dollars for stunning one of a kind brilliant large opals. Coober Pedy is a long way from other towns, but if you go to Australia and you have the time to go to Coober Pedy (Aboriginal for "white fellas hole"), you MUST go to the Old Timer Mine. My and my family's very highest...

Totally recommend a visit to the Old Timers Mine. The mine, museum and underground house really make for a great overall experience and for $15pp it really is the best self guided tour my husband & I have been on. Staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable having been the owners for a few decades now. There's free noodling pits out the front which they encourage a fossick in. I'm sure they seed/freshen up on a regular basis as there was still plenty of opal bits to be found in the small noodling pits. The museum has not just the mine history, but also the town, and lots of artifacts and gemstone examples from the area. The underground house is laid out as used by the family who created it. All ages...