Monarto
SA 5254 • South Australia
About Monarto
Monarto is a small town in the Murray and Mallee region of South Australia, located 63 kilometres east of Adelaide along the South Eastern Freeway. With a population of 203 at the 2021 census across 63.4 square kilometres, it has a fascinating history — in the 1970s the South Australian government acquired land here to build a satellite city for 150,000 people, but the plan was abandoned. Much of that land was later converted into the Monarto Safari Park, now one of Australia's largest open-range zoos.
Monarto is best known as the home of Monarto Safari Park (now part of Adelaide Zoo), a major tourist attraction featuring African and Australian wildlife roaming in open habitats. The town retains a quiet rural character with some hobby farms and lifestyle properties. Residents enjoy easy freeway access to Adelaide and proximity to the Murray Bridge region. The area attracts nature enthusiasts, lifestyle seekers, and those working at the safari park or nearby Murray Bridge.
Monarto falls under postcode 5254 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Hammond electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- LinkSA — Adelaide to Murray Bridge 50 min to Adelaide
Commute to Adelaide CBD
🛣️ South Eastern Freeway provides fast access to Adelaide. Murray Bridge is 15 min east.
No local shops or services. A car is essential for all daily needs.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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North Terrace
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Williams Street