The meaning of the word "Kanku" is shelter. And the "Breakaways" part comes from the European settlers to capture the awe-inspiring visual beauty of the area. These towering and vibrant mounds form all sorts of terrain, from mountains & valleys to scenic cliffs. Home to a wide array of native flora, including mallee and acacia species, as well as various wildlife such as the fat-tailed dunnart, the red kangaroo, and echidnas. The formation of the Breakaways' landscape is believed to result from an ancient inland sea evaporating due to a continental shift that led to a warmer climate. This place showcases the remarkable diversity of our amazing world. From the lookout points, the expansive vistas are simply awe-inspiring. They accentuate the vast open spaces and the vibrant backdrop. As the sun hits the rocks and sand at different angles, it paints the desert in all sorts of colours. 'Salt & Pepper' and 'Castle' (rock formations) are visible to the east, along with the rest of the hills and valley. Both lookout points are easily accessible by car, and a vehicle entry permit is required. You can obtain the permit online or from the Coober Pedy Visitor Information Centre. Let us begin by acknowledging the Antakir­in­ja Matun­t­jara Yankun­yt­jat­jara people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.