Flight Destinations
Flights to Mount Isa
Destinations in Australia
The mining industry is behind the founding of Mount Isa, where they are still actively mining zinc, lead and silver, which makes up much of the local economy. It's a relatively small city in a remote part of north-eastern Australia (in Queensland), though there are a number of worthwhile sites to visit while you are there.
Flights to Mount Isa
Mount Isa Airport (airport code: ISA) is just a small airport but the town’s remote location means there are several airlines offering flights to Mount Isa. From the UK all flights will require two stops. Qantas Airways and British Airways both connect in Melbourne and Brisbane, but Virgin Atlantic transfers in Sydney and then in Brisbane. You can go a completely different route on a flight to Mount Isa with American Airlines via Los Angeles and Brisbane, and you can get a flight through Singapore and Brisbane with Singapore Airlines. Most flights are just under 40 hours long, but Virgin's is 55.
Mount Isa Tourist Attractions
Underground Hospital
A WWII era underground hospital was built in Mount Isa, to protect against bombings. Local miners provided the excavating expertise and today it is an interesting and unusual tourist spot.
The Outback at Isa
The Outback at Isa is the most popular tourist attraction in Mount Isa, with a collection of different things to see and do. The main part of the site is the Hard Times Mine, where you can take a tour through some authentic mine shafts to see what life was like to work underground. Also at the Outback is an art gallery, interactive historical and cultural museum and an archaeological centre. The outdoor park is a nice place to walk around, shaded by trees.
Lake Moodarra
Lake Moodarra is a man-made lake a short distance north of Mount Isa. Not only does it supply the town with drinking water, it’s a lovely spot for picnics, swimming and water sports. Bird-watchers are also very fond of the area as well. Lake Moodarra is the only body of water in an otherwise dry region.
Frank Aston Museum
You can learn more about the history of Mount Isa, particularly the mining industry and the local aboriginal people, at the Frank Aston Museum. Their exhibits include a mix of subjects and should have something of interest for everyone.
Exploring the Actual Outback
You can get out of town and head into the countryside to see more of Australia's famous Outback. Whether you are going hiking, camping or roaring around on a 4-wheel drive ATV, you can get away from civilization no matter which direction you go. Just take care about where you are headed because there is a lot of wilderness around Mount Isa.
When Should You Visit Mount Isa?
The weather is hot all year round in Mount Isa, but some months are somewhat more comfortable than others. If you can arrange it, try to plan your trip in either June or July when it is the coolest. Those months typically reach around 25C (78F) during the day and it does cool off nicely at nights. From September until April, temperatures will be above 30C (88F). It is generally dry through the year, so rain should not be much of a problem.