northern territory road trip itinerary

An Unforgettable Northern Territory Road Trip: See the Best of the Top End!

Looking for the perfect Northern Territory road trip itinerary? This guide to the Top End has you covered.

Planning a journey through the Northern Territory’s Top End might sound a bit intimidating at first. But it’s one of the best – and easiest – Australian road trips to plan.

From the stunning wildlife and culture of Kakadu National Park to the refreshing swimming holes of Katherine and Litchfield, I’ve navigated these rugged roads myself and have come up with what I think is the perfect itinerary to see this part of Australia in a short amount of time.

This trip hits Australia’s most interesting capital city plus three amazing national parks.

As part of my recent half-lap of Australia, I took this exact road trip – although I have adapted it for those who may not have as much time as we did. Here’s everything you need to know about road tripping Australia’s Top End, including the useful travel tips I gathered along the way. 

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

How many days for a Northern Territory road trip?

You can do this Top End road trip in a week but I recommend at least 10 days to really enjoy the experience.  

Northern Territory road trip itinerary

One of the best road trips in Australia, here’s what this itinerary looks like over 10 days:

Days 1-2: Darwin

• Days 3-5: Kakadu National Park
• Days 6-7: Katherine
• Days 8-9: Litchfield National Park

Day 10: Back to Darwin

Northern territory map.

How to do this NT trip

Should you take a tour of the Top End or self-drive? Obviously I think driving the route yourself is the best way. You’ll be able to stop where you want and plan your schedule around the time you have available.

I know it can seem daunting to road trip the NT, but it’s really easy to do.

Rent a car in Darwin , if you don’t have your own wheels. You don’t need a 4WD – a 2WD is fine as all the main roads are sealed. However, if you want to get off the beaten path in some of the national parks, a 4WD will allow that.

I recommend renting a campervan or motorhome so you have your accommodation on wheels! This is the most fun way to see this part of the NT. Motorhome Republic has a huge range of campers as well as cars with rooftop tents.

For accommodation along the way, you can book hotels or cabins or campsites. I’ve suggested accommodation options for all types of travel for each of the stops outlined.

Darwin is one of the most interesting capital cities in Australia. It’s quite unlike anywhere else in Australia and worth a few days of your time.

Arrive in Darwin and pick up your rental car or campervan .

I have a full guide to the best things to do in Darwin , and a must-do is the city’s famous markets. If you can, time your arrival in Darwin with one of them.

The Mindil Beach Market is the most popular Darwin market. Held Thursday and Sunday evenings during the dry season, the market has everything from food, clothing, jewellery, art and more. The food here is a mix of Asian cuisines – Darwin is closer to Bali than Sydney – as well as deep-fried crocodile and delicious desserts. Make sure you head over to the beach to take in the stunning sunset.

The other markets I recommend are the Parap Market (Saturday) for even more amazing food, and the Rapid Creek Market (Saturday and Sunday), which is where many Darwin locals come to buy their fresh produce.

Take a stroll through the Darwin waterfront area, where you can find shops, restaurants and bars. Cool off in the Wave Lagoon , a swimming spot that’s safe from the crocs and stingers.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, climb into the Cage of Death at Crocosaurus Cove to get up close and personal with crocodiles.

I highly recommend a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory to learn about the region’s history and culture, and take a look at the body of Sweetheart, a 5-metre-long crocodile. Bonus: it’s free.

Sunsets in Darwin are absolutely stunning, so make sure to find a good spot to watch the sky light up in vibrant colours. I love the Nightcliff Beach area, where you can finish sunset with a bite from one of the food trucks. Or splurge on a sunset cruise in Darwin Harbour .

Before you continue on this Northern Territory road trip, stock up on food and water as your next stop is Kakadu National Park. You’ll also want to buy your drinks in Darwin, as you can’t buy takeaway alcohol in Kakadu.

Where to stay in Darwin

The  DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade  has harbour views and an enormous pool. It’s only a short drive to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Check rates and availability on  Expedia  and  Booking.com

Also in the Waterfront precinct, the  Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront  has modern rooms, many with water views. Check rates and availability on  Expedia  and  Booking.com

For caravanners and campers, the  Discovery Parks Darwin is the closest caravan park to the city centre. It has two pools and caravan sites and cabins. This is where we stayed and it was a great spot.

The  Darwin FreeSpirit Resort  is a bit further out from the city but gets a big thumbs-up for its resort-style pool and more modern cabins.

Days 3-5: Darwin to Kakadu

Head south from Darwin to Kakadu National Park, Australia’s second-largest national park. It’s an easy 151km drive (1 hour and 45 mins) on the sealed Arnhem Highway.

Kakadu National Park is usually top of many Australia bucket list experiences , with cultural sites, wildlife, flora, fauna and scenery unlike anywhere else in Australia – or even on Earth.

This park is HUGE – a third of the size of Tasmania! – so you need at least 3 days to see it properly, although you could easily spend a week here.

There are many things to do in Kakadu National Park that it can be overwhelming, so here’s how I recommend spending a few days.

You’ll need a Kakadu National Park Pass to enter the park. You can buy it online or from the visitor centre. A 7-day pass costs $40 for adults and $20 for kids, although they are cheaper in the wet season. Note that your NT Parks Pass won’t get you access to Kakadu, so you’ll need to buy both for this Top End road trip.

Kakadu day 1

When you arrive in Kakadu, stop by the Bowali Visitor Centre to pick up a Kakadu Visitor Guide and chat with the rangers. They’ll be able to tell you if any parts of the park are closed or other up-to-date info.

If you haven’t bought your Kakadu National Park Pass online already, you can pick it up here.

Then, head to Cahills Crossing for a chance to spot crocodiles. This crossing is also a great place to fish – although keep an eye on the crocs who won’t mind stealing your catch!

In the evening, catch the sunset at Ubirr . At the top of this rock formation, from the Nadab Lookout, you’ll find incredible views stretching out over the vast Kakadu floodplains all the way to Arnhem Land.

Before you get to the top of Ubirr, however, stop in to see the Aboriginal rock art sites along the trail. The oldest paintings here date back thousands of years.

Where to stay

If you’re not camping, book a room at the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel or Aurora Kakadu Lodge .

For campers and caravanners, book a site at Aurora Kakadu Lodge or Malabanjbanjdju or Burdulba campgrounds. While Merl campground is the closest to Ubirr, it’s known for having a LOT of mosquitos that won’t make for a pleasant stay.

Kakadu day 2

Visit Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) to see ancient rock art and learn about the Indigenous history of this region. Here, you’ll see paintings of people, kangaroos and fish, as well as Namarrkon, the famous Lightning Man. He’s depicted as a grasshopper-like creature who makes the powerful lightning and thunderstorms every summer.

The Nanguluwurr art gallery has even more incredible rock art, including the painting of a masted sailing ship – a representation of early contact between Aboriginal people and Europeans.

There are also handprints and the typical animals in x-ray style, all painted in ochre.

Head up the Nawurlandja Lookout for stunning views or take a stroll around Anbangbang Billabong . The billabong walk is 2.8km easy loop around the billabong, passing through paperbark forest and savanna woodlands.

Take a sunset cruise on Yellow Water Billabong to see the diverse birdlife – and spot plenty of salties!.

Cooinda Lodge has a range of accommodation options, from camping to hotel rooms.

Mardukal campground is a lovely spot with many shady sites, toilets and showers.

Kakadu day 3

Start your morning with a visit to the Warradjan Cultural Centre to learn about the local Indigenous culture and history. There are informative exhibits on the moiety system, Creation stories, the six different seasons of Kakadu and the wildlife of Kakadu. There are also displays about the arrival of the Balanda (Europeans) and the impact of mining on the park and local people.

End your trip to Kakadu at one of the following swimming holes for a refreshing swim: Maguk , Gunlom (currently closed) or Motor Car Falls .

You’ll have to backtrack to Cooinda Lodge for the night if you’re not camping.

For campers, I recommend the Maguk Campground . Accessible by 4WD (although we did see some 2WD cars), sites are shaded by pandanus and palm trees. 

Got more days in Kakadu? Check out my full guide to Kakadu National Park , which includes a 5-day itinerary.

Days 6-7: Kakadu to Katherine

Head further south, about 215km (1.5 hours), to one of my favourite towns in the NT: Katherine .

Right in town, you’ll find Katherine Hot Springs , natural thermal pools that are perfect for a soak and a picnic.

About an hour out of Katherine, in the town of Mataranka, are Bitter Springs and Mataranka Springs , two more beautiful swimming spots.

But the highlight of Katherine is nearby Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge). This stunning area features a series of 13 sandstone gorges, which you can explore by boat , canoe or on foot – and it’s only 30km from Katherine.

No visitor should miss the short, 1.8km return trail to the Baruwei Lookout. This is where you’ll get the best views over Nitmiluk Gorge.

But if you’ve got a bit more time and energy, try one of the longer Southern Walks. We did the 11.8km Butterfly Gorge trail, which leads to the second gorge. There’s a “beach” at the end of the trail and from here you can jump in for a swim – if you dare!

The second section of Nitmiluk is Leliyn (Edith Falls), about 60km from Katherine. There’s a lot of competition, but I think it’s the most beautiful spot in the NT. This stunning waterfall cascades over multiple tiers into a crystal-clear swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery. Swimming here is one of my favourite things to do in the Northern Territory .

Where to stay in Katherine

We stayed at the  Riverview Tourist Village in our camper trailer. We loved it so much that we ended up staying there for more than a week over two different visits! It’s right by the hot springs, so you can be first in when the gates open in the morning. There are cabins and caravan sites.  Check rates online .

Other great accommodation options in Katherine are:

• The  Contour Hotel , set on four acres of tropical gardens. There are tennis courts, a swimming pool, restaurants, barbecue facilities and a bar. Check rates and availability on  Booking.com  or  Expedia
• Knotts Crossing Resort – Close to the Katherine River, this resort has a range of accommodation options, from cabins to motel-style rooms. It also has a restaurant and swimming pool. Check rates and availability on Booking.com

Don’t want to stay in Katherine? Then you can actually stay right in Nitmiluk National Park. The famous  Cicada Lodge  is operated by the Jawoyn people and has hotel rooms, cabins and a campground. Check rates and availability on  Booking.com  or  Expedia .

There are also several park-managed campsites  in the national park.

Days 8-9: Katherine to Litchfield National Park

Time to hit the road again, this time returning north to the stunning Litchfield National Park, famous for its swimming holes and waterfalls.

From Katherine, it’s an easy 255km (2.5 hours) up the Stuart Highway.

Litchfield is the highlight of many travellers’ trips to the NT. It’s smaller than Kakadu, but it packs a punch with its natural beauty and refreshing swimming spots.

There’s a lot to see and do in Litchfield National Park , so I recommend spending two days here.

As you enter the park, stop by the Magnetic Termite Mounds , unique structures created by tiny termites that can be as tall as 4 metres.

Next, head to Florence Falls and take the short walk to view the spectacular double waterfall. If it’s busy, leave your car in the same car park and make the short walk to Buley Rockhole to take a dip in the tiered pools.

After a refreshing swim, continue on to Tolmer Falls for more stunning views.

One of the most popular spots in Litchfield National Park is Wangi Falls . The waters here are deliciously refreshing, and you can swim across the swimming hole to the two waterfalls. It feels like you’re in a movie set. There’s also a huge, grassy area by the natural pool that’s perfect for a picnic.

Where to stay in Litchfield National Park

There are several camping areas right within Litchfield National Park. Popular spots include Florence Falls Campground and Wangi Falls Campground – you’ll need to  book online in advance  to get a spot.

For glamping, Litchfield Safari Camp  is in a great location on the western side of the park, about a 10-minute drive from Wangi Falls – so you can be up early to get there before everyone else! Hideaway Litchfield  has luxury cabins built from shipping containers, each named after a place in Litchfield.

There are also several caravan parks. We stayed at  Litchfield Tourist Park , which has cabins and caravan/campsites. The caravan sites are generously sized and shaded. There are also cabins and even a 3-bedroom homestead for those travelling in a group. There’s a pool and cafe on site. It’s about a 45-minute drive to Wangi Falls from here.  Check rates and availability online . 

The drive from Litchfield to Darwin is a short 106km (1 hour 15 mins), so feel free to sleep in and take a leisurely drive back. Or get up early to beat the crowds for a final swim in your favourite Litchfield swimming hole.

On your way back to Darwin, join one of the jumping crocodile cruises on the Adelaide River . It’s a unique experience to see these ancient creatures in their natural habitat, and the tour guides are always full of interesting facts and stories. Just remember to keep your arms and legs inside the boat at all times, eek!

Once you’re back in Darwin, head to the airport for your flight home.

Best time to do this NT road trip

The best time to do this road trip is during the dry season , which runs from May to October. This is when the weather is most pleasant and there is less chance of roads being flooded or closed due to rain.

However, if you don’t mind a bit of heat and humidity, the wet season (November-April) can also offer some unique experiences, such as watching the stunning storms and thundering waterfalls and seeing the lush green landscapes come to life. Check road conditions before setting off on your journey – roads are frequently cut off by flooding.

How to get to Darwin

Flying is the best way to get to Darwin to do this trip. Darwin is connected by air to all the Australian capital cities (except Canberra and Hobart), with daily flights from most of those cities.

CHECK FLIGHTS ONLINE

You can then rent a car at Darwin International Airport when you arrive.

One of the best ways to reach Darwin – in my opinion – is via the Stuart Highway. The Adelaide to Darwin drive is one of the best road trips in Australia and something everyone should do at least once in their lifetime!

Or you could road trip to Darwin from Broome or from Cairns.

Greyhound buses travel to Darwin from Alice Springs (21.5 hours), Broome (1 day), Katherine (4.5 hours) and Kununurra (11 hours). When you arrive in Darwin, you can rent a car to do this Northern Territory road trip.

For an epic Australian bucket list experience, take The Ghan all the way from Adelaide to Darwin. This luxury train traverses the Australian Outback for 3 days before arriving in Darwin. Once you arrive, rent a car and hit the road for this NT road trip.

Northern Territory road trip tips

Here are some handy travel tips I picked up along the way while doing this NT road trip.

Get roadside assistance . It’s always a good idea to have roadside assistance in case of any emergencies. This can give you peace of mind when driving long distances and through remote areas.

Stock up on supplies. This road trip includes a lot of time in national parks. You’ll want to stock up on food, water and other supplies in Darwin and Katherine.

Fill up at every opportunity. Fuel stops can be few and far between, especially when you get into the national parks, so fill up whenever you can.

Use an app to check fuel prices. We paid some pretty high prices for diesel in the NT. To save money, we used the PetrolSpy app to compare prices and find the cheapest fuel.

There’s little phone coverage. I was quite surprised at how limited mobile phone coverage was on both the main highways and in the national parks. Telstra is generally better than other networks. However, we rarely had service when inside the national parks.

Get a paper map . It’s hard to get lost on this road trip, but I do always like to have a physical map like this Hema map – especially when the mobile phone coverage is so patchy.

Don’t drive at night. Wildlife is abundant around this area – kangaroos, buffalo and birds. Driving at night greatly increases your chances of hitting an animal. Stick to driving during daylight hours.

Got more time?

If you’ve got more time than 10 days and want to explore the NT further, then go further south. After Katherine, you can continue on to a few different places.

Devils Marbles

A unique and otherworldly landscape of giant granite boulders, the Devils Marbles are a must-see stop on your road trip. Take a walk around these ancient rock formations and marvel at their natural beauty.

Alice Springs

Known as the gateway to the Red Centre, Alice Springs is a vibrant outback town with plenty to see and do. Visit the Alice Springs Desert Park and learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the area, or learn about Indigenous art at the Araluen Arts Precinct.

MacDonnell Ranges

The MacDonnell Ranges are a stunning mountain range that stretches for over 600km across the Red Centre of Australia . Take a scenic drive through the ranges and marvel at the spectacular landscapes, or go for a hike through the gorges and waterholes.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

No trip to the NT is complete without a visit to Uluru , one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. Watch the sunset over this sacred monolith, learn about its cultural significance to the traditional owners, and take a guided tour around its base. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon

Just a short drive from Uluru, you’ll find Watarrka National Park and Kings Canyon. Take a hike through the canyon to see stunning views of the red rock walls and lush oasis below. You can also take a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of this breathtaking landscape.

Final thoughts: Top End road trip

I hope this guide has given you a taste of what it’s like to drive through the Top End of the Northern Territory. There’s so much to see and do, and each day will bring rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife and captivating culture. Take your time, stay safe on the roads and enjoy exploring this beautiful part of Australia.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Are you planning a Northern Territory road trip?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Australia travel articles:

• How to plan an epic Adelaide to Darwin road trip itinerary
• The best things to do in Darwin
• The best things to do in Katherine, NT
• The best things to do in Nitmiluk National Park
• The ultimate guide to Litchfield National Park
• How to spend a few days in Kakadu National Park
• 19 spectacular things to do at Uluru
• How to spend a few days in Alice Springs
• The ultimate Australia bucket list

AUSTRALIA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book your flight to Australia online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in Australia. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Australia on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Australia will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
• Pack sunscreen (look for SPF50 or higher), a hat and sunglasses because the sun is hot!

PIN IT FOR LATER: NORTHERN TERRITORY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Save this NT road trip to Pinterest so you can plan your epic trip later!

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

MORE INFORMATION

ABOUT WORK WITH ME CONTACT PUBLISHED WORK

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES

© 2024 REBECCA AND THE WORLD

Privacy Policy

I ACKNOWLEDGE THE WURUNDJERI AND BOON WURRUNG PEOPLE OF THE KULIN NATION AS THE TRADITIONAL OWNERS OF THE LANDS AND WATERWAYS OF THE AREA I LIVE ON. I PAY MY RESPECTS TO ELDERS PAST AND PRESENT AND CELEBRATE THE STORIES, CULTURE AND TRADITIONS OF ALL ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLE ACROSS AUSTRALIA.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

The Best Northern Territory Road Trip Destinations | 15 Must-See Places For Your Itinerary

Did you know that the Northern Territory is astonishingly big? The NT is 1.4 million square kilometres of breathtaking landscape lined with a fantastic coastline. If going on a road trip to Australia’s hidden gem is on your bucket list, we’ve got the itinerary for you! 

The Northern Territory’s tropical climate makes it a perfect place to explore the great outdoors. You’ll learn more about the rich Aboriginal culture and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds that make this place unique and special. 

The area is so vast and filled with must-see landscapes. You’ll need to plan your itinerary accordingly to avoid missing out on the fantastic array of watering holes, outback towns, and national parks. Here are the 15 must-see destinations for a northern territory road trip of a lifetime. 

Jump To Section

How Long Do I Need For A Northern Territory Road Trip?

Even though the Northern Territory is a huge state (did you know it is six times bigger than Britain?), you can still explore many great sights in a week or two. You can actually explore several unique destinations in just three days if you only have time for a short road trip. This short northern territory road trip can include Uluru, Darwin, or Alice Springs. 

However, if you want to make the most of what the region offers, it would be best to allocate 7-14 days. This duration will give you enough time to discover archaeological sites, swim in rivers and waterfalls, and watch wildlife, among many other exciting activities. 

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is a vast archeological site considered a living cultural landscape. It offers a peek into how Aboriginal people lived thousands of years ago. Its famous rock art reveals the Indigenous people’s creation stories, their way of life, and the skills that allowed them to thrive. 

The park’s exceptional cultural and natural values allowed it to secure a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List . It has the honour of being one of just four places in Australia that has made it onto the prestigious list for both cultural and natural significance. 

How Do I Get To Kakadu National Park?  

You may book a flight to Darwin and hire a vehicle from there to drive yourself to the park. If you want an easy driving and sleeping option in one, consider hiring a campervan . You can also book a tour if you feel like going with a group on a bus or a four-wheel drive. 

Where Can I Stay in Kakadu National Park?

The 20,000 square kilometre park has four main areas that offer hotels and cabins. If you’re planning to be closer to the area’s extraordinary biodiversity, you can set up your tent or park your caravan at one of their campsites.

What Should I Do While I’m in Kakadu National Park?

• Swim in Gunlom Plunge Pool
• Visit the ancient Aboriginal Rock art and tour the outdoor galleries with an indigenous guide.
• Cruise down the East Alligator River to spot some giant saltwater crocodiles in the region.

Channel Point Coastal Reserve 

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, then Channel Point Coastal Reserve is a dream destination. As one of the Northern Territory’s most fertile fishing grounds, it offers an unforgettable day for boaters and experienced anglers. 

How Do I Get To Channel Point Coastal Reserve? 

You should only list this destination on your itinerary if you have four-wheel-drive equipment and skills. Make sure also that you have experience travelling in coastal conditions. You can drive towards Litchfield National Park and take the unsealed route to the north of Wangi Falls reserve.

Expect a 240 km journey from Darwin. There is about 67 km of unsealed 4WD road on the journey, so it would be wise to have a 4WD recovery kit handy. 

Where Can I Stay in Channel Point Coastal Reserve? 

The reserve has ten camping areas with basic facilities such as public toilets, showers, fire pits, a boat ramp, and a wash-down area. Make sure to secure a permit so you can access the reserve.

What Should I Do While at Channel Point Coastal Reserve? 

• Set up camp
• Ride a boat
• Watch wildlife

Please remember that you need a fishing permit issued by the Northern Land Council to enter Aboriginal land and waters. 

Litchfield National Park

Many travellers and nature lovers are drawn to Litchfield National Park’s stunning waterfalls. You can view them from a helicopter or swim in one of its cool plunge pools. It also offers a magnificent opportunity to discover clusters of weathered sandstone pillars at the Lost City or see the fields of magnetic termite mounds.

The picnic grounds lining the Wangi Waterfalls can give you a front-row seat to see some frilled-neck lizards, frogs, and marsupial mice dart along the water’s edge.

How Do I Get To Litchfield National Park? 

You could include this destination in your northern territory self-drive itinerary by renting a car or hiring a campervan in Darwin. Travel time is usually an hour and a half with no stops. 

Where Can I Stay In Litchfield National Park? 

The park offers a landscaped area to set up your tent or park your caravan. You can choose a site that suits you and your family’s needs. There are basic facilities such as a laundry area, barbecue equipment, a sink, and a refrigerator that guests can use.

What Should I Do While I’m in Litchfield National Park? 

• Visit historic ruins and scenic lookouts
• Swim in one of the park’s plunge pools
• Take a helicopter ride to see the sights
• Go bushwalking and spot wildlife
• Drive a four-wheel drive 
• Take part in ranger-guided activities
• Go fishing in the Upper Finnis River

Nitmiluk Gorge  

Nitmiluk Gorge is a slice of paradise known for its majestic beauty and spectacular size. The land, owned by the Jawoyn people, offers a fantastic view of its thirteen gorges, rock art sites, and thundering waterfalls.

You can immerse yourself in the ancient culture and traditions of the Jawoyn people as they share their stories and guide you through a series of sustainable and immersive adventures.

How Do I Get To Nitmiluk Gorge? 

You can hire a vehicle and self-drive from Darwin. Take the Stuart Highway towards Katherine and head along Gorge Road until you reach the park. Expect the trip to last for about three and a half hours.

Where Can I Stay in Nitmiluk Gorge? 

The park has unpowered and shaft-powered camping and caravan sites, cabin accommodations, and a tent village. The camping site offers basic outdoor kitchens, laundry facilities, barbecue areas, a swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi. If you don’t feel like cooking, you can dine in the Jatti Pool Restaurant ; however, it’s only open from April to October.

What Should I Do While I’m at Nitmiluk Gorge Caravan Park? 

• Go canoeing – you can hire a canoe at the visitor centre.
• Swim in marked areas
• View Aboriginal rock art
• Spot wildlife
• Go bushwalking and hiking
• Ride a mountain bike
• Go boating, and fishing  
• Join ranger-guided activities

East MacDonnell Ranges 

These parallel ranges run east and west of Alice Springs offer several great gaps, gorges like the Trephina Gorge , as well as sites that have aboriginal significance. It also provides a peek into the past through the Arltunga Historical Reserve , the location of the 1930s gold rush. 

How Do I Get To The East MacDonnell Ranges? 

From Alice Springs, you can either join a tour or hire a car to get you to East MacDonnell Ranges. You can easily access the first 75 kilometres of the road in a standard vehicle and tour Trephina Gorge. You will need a 4WD car to see other attractions beyond that point.

Where Can I Stay Near The East MacDonnell Ranges? 

You can set up camp or park your caravan in the centre’s established campgrounds. However, you will need an off-road caravan to get to this point. There are basic facilities such as toilets, water supply, barbecues, and picnic tables ‌you can use. If you want to experience roughing it out in the great outdoors, the park also has gorgeous bush camping areas without facilities. This will give you a great unplugged camping experience. 

What Should I Do While I’m in The East MacDonnell Ranges?

• Go bushwalking
• Drive a four-wheel-drive vehicle
• Swim in waterparks
• Ride a BMX bike, and a go-kart
• See the sights at the Arltunga Nature Reserve.
• Join an astronomy show and an outback dinner 

Kings Canyon 

King’s Canyon , located at the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, rises 270 metres above sea level. Four hundred forty million years in the making, the Canyon offers diverse geological structures and sandstone domes. 

The indigenous community of the Karkke Aborigines leads an immersive cultural experience that brings its visitors on a journey into their culture and traditions. Their musical instruments, medicines, and language reveal their connectedness to nature. 

How Do I Get To Kings Canyon? 

You can take a five-hour car ride from Alice Springs using the sealed Stuart and Lasseter Highway. Alternate routes include the unsealed Mereenie Loop Road. You can use a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access this road. Ensure that you secure a permit, too.

Where Can I Stay in Kings Canyon? 

There are powered and unpowered campsites that provide a scenic view of the canyons. There are dedicated parking bays for your caravans designed to accommodate your motorhomes with ease. These campgrounds are equipped with several amenities for independent travellers, groups, and families. 

What Should I Do While I’m in Kings Canyon? 

• Camp at the Uluru-Kata National Park
• Go glamping at King Canyon’s Resort
• Swim in the resort pool
• Watch the sunset 
• Hike towards the Rim Walk
• Join an immersive cultural experience

Ayers Rock 

Ayer’s Rock Resort’s campground is an excellent location to pitch your tent, caravan, or motorhome. This aboriginal-owned location also offers many experiences, from shopping to relaxing at the spa and hiking adventures. 

The resort offers a sweeping view of the majestic Uluru, a giant rock with a deep spiritual and cultural significance. It is one of Australia’s most respected and recognised landmarks. 

How Do I Get To Ayers Rock? 

You can get a direct flight to Yulara from several cities such as Melbourne, Alice Springs, Sydney, and Darwin. You can also take a 465 km car ride from Alice Springs as part of your Northern Territory road trip. Hiring a campervan at the airport or joining a tour are also some of your travel options. 

Where Can I Stay Near Ayers Rock? 

If you want to experience the beauty of Uluru, you can stay at the Ayers Rock Campground . You can choose to park your campervan, motorhome, or caravan in one of the powered campsites or stay in an air-conditioned cabin. You can also sleep under the stars and pitch your tent under desert oaks. Make sure you choose the right tent to ensure you have a comfortable stay. 

The campsite offers barbecue equipment, a swimming pool, a playground, laundry facilities, and an outdoor kitchen for your convenience and enjoyment. 

What Should I Do While I’m at Ayers Rock? 

• Spend a day at the cultural centre
• Go bird watching
• Visit rock art formations
• Watch the sunrise and sunset
• Join ranger-guided activities 

Katherine is an excellent road trip pit-stop since it’s sandwiched between two destinations, Darwin and Alice Springs. This home to the Tjuwaliyn Thermal Pools is flanked by soft sandy beaches and majestic paperback trees. 

The Katherine Gorge boasts walking tracks, waterfalls, swimming holes, and rivers safe from crocodiles. This place also has something for history buffs- the Springvale Homestead, the oldest homestead in the Northern Territory.

How Do I Get To Katherine? 

You can hire a vehicle from Darwin Airport and drive yourself to Katherine. You can also join a tour or take a bus or train to reach the town. If you arrive in Katherine via public transport, you can easily hire a car in the area to get you around. 

Where Can I Stay in Katherine? 

The caravan parks in Katherine are considered some of the most comfortable in the region, so you’re assured of a good night’s rest amidst the sounds of nature. Some parks are a short distance away from bushwalking trails and boat cruises. Facilities include communal cooking areas, toilets, swimming pools, and a cafe. 

What Should I Do While I’m in Katherine? 

• Swim in waterfalls, billabongs, waterfalls, and rivers. 
• Visit the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre
• Enjoy hiking and bushwalking
• Tour Museums
• Soak in Katherine Springs

Finke Gorge National Park

The main attraction of the Finke Gorge National Park is Palm Valley, a maze of pinnacles, gorges, and sandstone amphitheatres. It is home to its namesake, the Central Australian Cabbage Palm , a plant only found in Australia. 

The park also provides a captivating experience of driving along the Finke River, one of the oldest catchments in the world. Visiting artists also revel in the unique rock formations found in the Amphitheater.

How Do I Get To Finke Gorge National Park? 

You can use Alice Springs as your starting point for this trip. You can hire a vehicle from there and travel 138 kilometres to the park using Larapinta Drive. The last 16 km is the sandy bed of the Finke River, so it would be best to use a high clearance 4WD vehicle on the get-go. 

Where Can I Stay in Finke Gorge National Park? 

You can pitch your tents in the designated camping areas along the Finke River. There are communal fire pits, gas barbecues, picnic tables, and toilets that you can use. 

What Should I Do While I’m in Finke Gorge National Park? 

• Take a hike
• Go on a picnic
• Climb the Kalaranga Lookout
• Wander through the Mpaara Walk and Mpulungkinya Walk

Dundee Beach Holiday Park

Only 140 km away from Darwin, Dundee Beach Holiday Park is an excellent location to enjoy the ocean. It’s every fishing enthusiast’s dream with its unspoiled fishing areas, accessible boat ramps, and exceptional fishing charters. 

Its pristine beaches offer a peaceful tropical escape made more memorable by a spectacular sunset view. You’ll get a chance to reconnect with nature and commune with turtles, birds, and crabs. 

 How Do I Get To Dundee Beach? 

You can drive yourself from Darwin and travel for about 140 km to get to the park. All roads are sealed, so any type of vehicle will do. 

Where Can I Stay in Dundee Beach? 

There are powered and unpowered camping sites that can accommodate your tents and caravans. You can use the park facilities, including a laundry area, barbecue equipment, boat ramp, and shops. Check out the local guidelines regarding legal beach camping to see where else you can pitch your tent in the area. 

What Should I Do While I’m at Dundee Beach? 

• Join chartered fishing tours
• Go boating and fishing
• Enjoy birdwatching and mud crabbing 
• Hang out at the Dundee Beach Trailer Boat Club

Gunn Point Peninsula is a beach paradise with about 55 kilometres of pristine shoreline. It’s only an hour’s drive away from Darwin, making it an ideal part of your Northern Territory road trip. It’s a popular fishing and boating destination because of the accessibility of boat ramps. 

How Do I Get To Gunn Point?

You can reach Gunn Point Beach after an hour’s drive from Darwin. Take the Howard Springs road from the Stuart Highway and travel for about 50 km until Gunn Point. Roads are sealed so that you can use any type of vehicle. However, you can take your 4X4 on designated access points if you’re up to the challenge. 

Where Can I Stay Near Gunn Point? 

You can set camp in one of the designated areas, but you have to ensure to light up a small campfire only. There are no freshwater or toilet facilities, so you have to prepare for these situations accordingly. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy some unplugged camping . 

What Should I Do While I’m In Gunn Point? 

• Collect seashells
• Go fishing and boating 

Tennant Creek 

If you want the genuine outback experience, make sure you drop by Tennant Creek as you travel along the Stuart Highway. This Red Centre destination offers a perfect mix of nature and culture with its iconic rock formations, historical reserves, vast cattle station, and gold mining heritage sites.

You can glimpse the rich Aboriginal culture and history at the Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre, considered one of the best in the Northern Territory. After a day full of exciting activities, you can have a relaxing picnic at the picturesque Lake Mary Ann. 

How Do I Get To Tennant Creek?

You can access Tennant Creek by car, either by driving south from Katherine, east from Queensland, or north from Alice Springs. You can also book a tour or ride a bus to reach the place. 

Where Can I Stay In Tennant Creek? 

There are several powered caravan sites to park your motorhome or camper without unhitching. You can also pitch a tent in one of the location’s remote bush camping sites. Facilities are limited in some camping sites, so you have to be prepared for it. 

What Should I Do While I’m In Tennant Creek? 

• Visit Aboriginal art galleries
• Explore the Battery Hill Mining Centre
• Swim and picnic at Lake Mary Ann
• Go on a self-guided walk at the Tennant Creek Telegraph Station
• Spot wildlife at Davenport Range
• Wander around the Pebbles
• Enjoy birdwatching at Connels Lagoon

If exploring Kakadu National Park is on your itinerary, Jabiru is an excellent base since it has all the services you need for a stress-free trip. This main township has shopping centres, a library, and a service station. You can also enjoy its 50-meter swimming pool, sports club, and nine-hole golf course to warm you up for your next adventures.

How Do I Get To Jabiru?

You can travel south by car through the sealed Stuart Highway from Darwin. Expect a three to four-hour drive and plenty of opportunities for pit stops along the way.

Where Can I Stay In Jabiru?

You can set camp in one of the 186 powered and 100 unpowered caravan and campsites in Aurora Kakadu Lodge . It is an ideal place to stay since all Kakadu tours pick up and drop off at the lodge. You’ll feel refreshed after a long day of activities with their swimming pool, poolside bar, and lush tropical gardens. 

What Should I Do While I’m In Jabiru? 

• Get to know more about Kakadu at the Bowali Visitor Centre
• Take a scenic walk along the Bowali track
• Immerse yourself in Aboriginal art at the Marrawudi Gallery
• Participate in ranger-guided activities

Kununurra’s favourable weather ‌and breathtaking landscape make it an ideal place to visit during your NT road trip. It has things to do and places to visit for everyone- walking trails, wildlife, freshwater springs, history, and art. 

It also hosts world-class events, such as the National Argyle Swim, Waterski Competitions, and farmer’s markets.

How Do I Get To Kununurra? 

You can book a flight to Broome or Darwin, then hire a car and self-drive Kununurra. Travel from Broome usually takes 10-11 hours, while it takes about six hours to drive from Katherine. You can travel via a 4WD via the unsealed Gibb River Road from Broome if you’re up to it. 

Where Can I Stay In Kununurra? 

Kununurra has an assortment of powered caravan parks and camping sites that can fit your needs and budget. Most of them have pools, barbecue areas, shops, and visitor centres. 

What Should I Do While I’m In Kununurra? 

• Ride a four-wheel-drive at Gibb River Road
• Take a cruise on Lake Argyle
• Ride a helicopter over Mitchell Falls
• Trek through Bungle Bungles
• Join an aboriginal tour 
• Hike through Mirima National Park

The Devils Marbles

You can find boulders that are precariously balanced and scattered across a vast valley at the Devils Marbles . This mesmerising place is a sacred site owned by the Warumungu people. It was formed a million years ago and continuously eroded, creating a new view for every visit. 

You can learn more about this geological wonder through a self-guided walking trail peppered with information boards and signages.  

How Do I Get To The Devils Marbles

You can take a four-hour car ride from Alice Springs via the Stuart Highway or take an hour’s drive from Tennant Creek. 

Where Can I Stay Near The Devils Marbles? 

You can stay at a camping site or a camper park at Devils Marbles. There are picnic areas, barbecue facilities, and a fire pit; however, you need to drive a few kilometres to get firewood. There are public toilets and water, but no shower facilities. 

What Should I Do While I’m At The Devils Marbles? 

• Go on a self-guided walking trail
• Go bush camping
• Spot wildlife, birds, crabs, and unique plants
• Climb and wander around the boulders

When Should I Visit The Northern Territory? 

May to October is the region’s dry season. This is the best time to visit the Northern Territory. It is the time when the Red Centre is at its coolest. 

Do You Need A 4WD In The Northern Territory? 

You can take a road trip through the Northern Territory and visit several unique spots using a regular car. However, there are attractions ‌you can only access through a 4WD, such as some of the best areas in Kakadu National Park. Some gorges, waterfalls, and swimming holes are only accessible via unsealed roads, where four-wheel drives are necessary. 

Related Questions

Are there dry areas in the northern territory .

Alcohol is banned in over 100 places in the Northern Territory. These are generally restricted areas controlled by the Federal and NT governments. The communities and parks have signages at the entrance to tell if they are alcohol protected or general restricted.

Are There Crocodiles In The Northern Territory? 

The Northern Territory has the world’s most enormous crocodile population. There are 100,000 of these predators out in the wild. You can learn more about these fantastic reptiles via guided tours or cruises during your stay. Remember to heed safety warnings and never attempt to find a croc on your own. 

Related posts:

James Mitchell

Hi, I’m Jimmy Mitchell and I love exploring this great country with my wife and two boys. I have a 2015 Sterling LX that is the Mitchell Family camping machine. Lets Getaway is the website where I share things about my trailer as I learn them, and help other camper owners to enjoy their RV even more.

Recent Posts

How to Dry Out a Car After Leaving the Sunroof Open | A Comprehensive Guide

You may be surprised to know that leaving the sunroof of your car open is way more common than you think. Returning to find a wet interior can be frustrating and concerning. Left unattended, it can...

Should You Bleed Brakes With the Car On or Off? | Answering Your Questions

Your brakes are a very active part of your car and one of the most important. But when it comes to bleeding car brakes, there's some confusion about how to approach this process. So the big question...

Frugal Travel

3 week Northern Territory Road Trip- 12 UNMISSABLE Places

This post probably contains affiliate links from which I earn a small commission if you buy from them, at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much for stopping by!

Want to hear something truly mind-blowing? The Northern Territory is a whopping 1.4 million square kilometres big!

I mean, how can us mere mortals even comprehend such vastness? And believe me, the NT is vast . But that’s what makes it so impressive. The NT is where you need to go to learn more about Aboriginal culture and to really throw yourself into nature. I was surprised by how much I loved it.

So with such a huge amount of land to take on, it’s pretty important to know where you’re going. I’ve put together 12 unmissable Northern Territory highlights for the ultimate Australian road trip that will take you all the way from the Devils Marbles up to Darwin.

Table of Contents

What kind of vehicle do you need?

As you might well know, Tom and I converted an old 2wd Toyota Hiace into a campervan and this is what we travelled around in, including for our time in the Northern Territory. For this Northern Territory self drive itinerary,  a 2WD is perfectly fine.

Before I got to the Northern Territory, I was convinced that there would be tonnes of dusty dirt roads that were rough and difficult to drive, but this is not the case. For much of this road trip, we were on the Stuart Highway which runs straight through the middle of Australia, connecting Adelaide and Darwin. This road is well built, tarmac and probably better than the highway that runs the length of the east coast .

So, to put it simply, you do not need a 4wd to experience the red centre and Northern Territory. I was so glad to have the space our campervan gave us. If you’re not visiting Australia long enough to justify the commitment of buying a campervan, it’s super easy to rent one. Check out vroomvroomvroom.com to compare campervan rentals, or if you would prefer, 4x4s with a camping set up included.

How long do you need?

First things first, the Uluru to Darwin drive totals 25 hours worth of dive time – but that’s half the fun of it. This route is vast but honestly one of the most incredible landscapes you can experience. Because of this though, I recommend spending between 2.5-3 weeks driving on your Northern Territory road trip. I know that might sound quite long if you’re on a time limit but I really think anything less will mean missing out and spending a lot of time driving rather than seeing things.

Where will this epic road trip take you?

To be honest, the Northern Territory is somewhere where you could be doing a different thing every day in each location for a long time. Additionally, the exact route you take will depend on your overall direction of travel. For us, we drove to the red centre via outback Queensland, visited the Devils Marbles, went down to Uluru and back up to the Devils Marbles before continuing north to Darwin. For ease though, I’m going to base this guide on the idea that you’re travelling from South to North. Here’s a break down of the Northern Territory road trip itinerary:

• Uluru National Park – 4 nights
• West Macdonnell Ranges – 1 night
• Devils Marbles – 1 night
• Daly Waters – 1 night
• Katherine – 1 night
• Nitmiluk – 2 nights
• Adelaide River – 1 day
• Litchfield – 2 nights
• Darwin – 4 nights

When is the best time of year to visit the Northern Territory?

It’s super important to know that the Northern Territory has 2 season – wet and dry. The wet season runs from November to April and the dry from May to October.

Tom and I visited in the Map and this not only meant that we didn’t get caught in rain (in fact, we didn’t see a single drop at all) but it is also the cooler time of year. Really though, the NT never gets that cool and the humidity levels remain pretty high. due to the more predictable weather, I do recommend visiting in the dry season as everything is about getting outdoors and into nature.

In the rainy season, it can really rain, with there also being a chance of cyclones and generally torrential downpours. Saying that though, I’ve heard so many people talking about how beautiful the national parks get, full of life and greenery so it can definitely have its perks!

How to find the best campsites

WikiCamps is your best friend for the road trip! This nifty little app shows you all the campsites in Australia ranging from the free ones to the big-name campgrounds making it really easy to find a pitch for the night. As it allows you to search for free sites, it’s easy to save a lot of money using this app so is an essential if you’re travelling on a budget. I’ll be telling you about my favourite campgrounds for this road trip below, but to learn more about Wikicamps (and how much I love it) take a look at my guide here .

Northern Territory packing essentials

With crazy season and temperature variations in the NT, it’s the sort of road trip where you’re going to need a few extra things. Tom and I did this road trip in the dry season but we had nights in the red centre where we were sleeping under layers of clothes and days in Darwin where we were hit with humidity. Here’s what I recommend packing:

• Sleeping bag – Some nights in the red centre it got down to about 4 degrees Celcius making for a really chilly night in the van. Tom and I would sleep in jumpers, in our sleeping bags under our duvet and it made it so much cosier. Ours packed away really small and were lightweight making them easy to store in the day as well.
• Coat – This is definitely not something I thought I would need when driving through the outback but even in the day time it was super chilly and it would have been far less enjoyable without one.
• Mosquito net – This is for your camper doors because trust me, the last thing you want is to be sleeping with a heap of mozzies. Also, the flies can be really bad in the NT and they’re no fun either. I picked up a second-hand mosquito net and just cut it down to fit our side and boot door and pegged it around the door trim when we wanted them open.
• Flynet hat – Attractive? No. Think you can go without one? Think again! Honestly, the flies can be horrendous and you’ll soon get fed up with them going in your mouth, eyes and nose. Trust me, everyone will be wearing them.
• Mosquito repellant – So important for this road trip! As soon as you get vaguely near water in the NT they come out so be prepared.
• Fly spray/zapper – As gross as it is, with the flies being so bad you’re going to want something to keep them under control inside the van. I recommend getting some fly spray or a small fly zapper as well as your mosquito nets just to keep your sanity.
• Sunscreen – No matter what the temperature, the Australian sun is fierce so pile this on!
• Water bottle / Camelbak – There are so many incredible walks and hikes to do that you’re going to need to bring plenty of water with you. As soon as we reached Daly Waters it got a lot hotter and we went nowhere without bottles of water on us. If you’re going to be doing long hikes in the summer then do not go without a Camelbak . There aren’t many refill stations around on some walks (including the Uluru base walk) so you’ll need to go prepared.

The BEST places to see on your Northern Territory Road Trip!

You guys, I had a genuine fear that after driving for days from Brisbane to Uluru, that I was going to see it as ‘just a big rock in the middle of nowhere’. But it was so not the case. I don’t think I will ever, ever forget the drive into the Kata Tjuta national park with Uluru right in front of us. It’s truly incredible.

I have a full guide you can read about to plan your days for visiting Uluru here but here’s a breakdown of what you can do and how freakin’ awesome it is:

• Uluru Base Walk – This is a flat and easy 10km walk that takes you around the whole of Uluru, offering incredible views and a chance to learn more about Dreamtime Stories and spot indigenous artwork and native fauna.
• Visit the Cultural Centre – This is the best way to learn about the importance of Uluru for the rightful landowners, the Anangu people. It’s small but packed with loads of information about why Kata Tjuta is so important, their culture and the fight they took on to get their land back. Take a look at their website here .
• Watch the sunset over Uluru – How can you not do this? There is a designated ‘sunset carpark’ for this which is where you’ll get the best views. As the sun sets, Uluru turns a fantastic deep orange/red colour. Be sure to get there early though as the car park is small!
• Do the Mala and Liru walks – These are smaller walks around Uluru but are equally as beautiful.
• Visit the Field of Light – This is simply BREATHTAKING. The sheer scale of it is astounding and it literally felt like I was walking across a bed of stars. You cannot drive to the location yourself and have to book a tour to take you there and back. Be sure to book in advance as slots fill up quickly – you can check availability on their website here .
• Take a helicopter ride over Uluru – If there’s one place to do it, it has to be Uluru! Again, it’s something where spaces fill up fast so I recommend booking in advance. You can check availability and prices below.

2. The Olgas

The Olgas are the lesser-known (but equally as spectacular) rock formations within the Kata Tjuta National Park. They are just 50km away from Uluru and you can easily see them from some viewpoints. You can easily spend a day here and as you’ve come all this way, you might as well! Here’s what you can get up to on your visit to The Olgas:

• Do the Walpa Gorge Walk – This is an easy walk that takes you right into the heart of the gorge. You’ll get an awesome panoramic view over the park.
• Do the Valley of The Winds walk – This is a longer and more challenging walk but worth it. The walk is divided up into 3 sections with the last section being pretty tricky, so you have the option to do some or all of it.
• Drive over to the Dunes Lookout – At the end of your day, stop over here for an awesome view of The Olgas and Uluru.

Where to stay near Kata Tjuta National Park

Outside the national park.

There are no free campsites within the national park but there are a few within driving distance. About 15 minutes outside the park is a lay-by where overnight camping is permitted, or about an hour down the road is the excellent Curtin Springs Wayside Inn . This is a free campsite which has toilets and showers which may be well needed on a road trip!

Inside the National Park

The town of Yulara is actually located within the national park and has a range of accommodation options. For your road trip I recommend booking a stay at the Yulara campground which makes it so much easier to visit Uluru and the Olgas. Additionally, the coach for the Field of Light trip only picks up and drops off from here so that’s something to keep in mind.

3. Mount Conner Lookout

If you’ve seen my Uluru vlog (psst… take a look here if you haven’t) you’ll know that I thought Mount Conner was Uluru *face palms*. So here’s my heads so you don’t fall for this as well! You’ll see this huge rock as you drive towards Uluru and it’s well worth a stop at the lookout. I recommend an overnight stop here though to break up the drive and soak in the views.

• Admire the view of Mount Conner from the lookout point.
• Climb the sand dunes to the huge salt lake.
• stargaze the night sky (honestly, it’s awesome here!

Where to stay near the Mount Conner lookout

Conveniently, there is the Mount Conner lookout rest area to spend the night at. It’s just a small area on the side of the road but there are toilets and a great view. What more do you need?

4. The West MacDonnell National Park

Just a short drive from Alice Springs is the impressive West Macdonnell National Park. This national park is definitely not one I had heard of beforehand (in fact I think we only found out about it when we were in Alice Springs… first-class planning going on here) but it’s well worth spending a day here. In the summer it would be an awesome place to spend the day swimming and in the winter it’s still perfect for walks and wildlife spotting. Some sites here have an entrance fee or are on 4wd tracks, but there are plenty of freebies to keep you busy if you’re on a budget.

• Simpsons Gap – This is the first stop you’ll reach coming from Alice Springs. Take the track into the Gorge to the waterhole where you can take a dip if you fancy. The walk into the gorge follows a dried-up river bed which is pretty impressive.
• Ellery Big Waterhole – If you’re not into long walks then Ellery Big Waterhole is for you. This is just a stone’s throw away from the car park and IMO, the most beautiful spots. It kind of feels like there should be some fairies hanging out here. Or mermaids. I’d be happy with either.
• Ochre Pits – These brightly coloured stone pits are culturally important to the local Arraranta Indigenous people. The different stones are used to make ceremonial paints and is therefore a protected site.
• Ormiston Gorge – This is the most popular swimming spot in the summer and a really beautiful place to relax.

Where to camp near the West MacDonnell Ranges

There are plenty of campsites in the West MacDonnell Ranges at a number of locations. Take a look at the Northern Territory website here for a map of their location and more details.

5. The Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu Conservation Reserve)

The huge granite structures are something you will not forget seeing any time soon. This unique formation has formed over millions of years when lava was first pushed to the surface. Over time, cracks formed breaking the granite into rectangular chunks and wind and rain have then eroded the edges to form the boulder shape.

Additionally, Karlu Karlu is a sacred ground for the Warumungu Aboriginal people and is a key part of their creation story. As you walk around the area you will see signs asking you not to take photos of certain areas because of this. Please be respectful and responsible travellers!

To learn more about the Devils Marbles take a look at my full guide here, but below is an outline of what you can do here:

• Learn about the cultural significance – Take a look at the information signs in the visitor areas to learn about the significance of Karlu Karlu for the indigenous people.
• Do the Yakkula Walk – This is a loop walk that will take you on a decent route around the rocks formations.
• Take in an epic sunset – Watch sunset at the Nyanjiki Lookout where you will be able to see for miles.
• Do the Nurrku walk –  This route will take you around the other section of the reserve and finishes at the day visitor area (where there is also wifi, just FYI)
• Go snap happy – This reserve is pretty damn photogenic; just remember to only take photos where it’s permitted.

Where to stay near the Devils Marbles

To make things even better, there is the Karlu Karlu campground which is quite literally in the middle of the Devils Marbles. It’s incredible! There is an honesty box system by the entrance where you need to pay a tiny $3.30 per person to stay and from there you can park where you want. It’s definitely one of the best campsites I stayed at!

6. Daly waters

At first, you could easily drive through Daly Waters and not quite realise what a gem it is. Yes it may be small but it is 100% somewhere you will neither regret, nor forget visiting. Daly Waters is famous for its pub and campground very conveniently located right next to it. With hundreds of bras hanging from the ceiling and all sorts of ‘stuff’ (that’s really the only way to describe it) covering the walls, it’s the definition of quirky and has become an outback institution. It’s a bit like stepping into a crazy little town. It was definitely one of my Northern Territory highlights.

• Marvel at the interior decor  – Trust me, you won’t have been in a pub quite like it.
• Sip up some local beers – As well as providing a really unique place to camp the night, they also have a great selection of beers on offer, so you might as well give a couple a try while you’re there.
• Tuck in on their famous Beef ‘n’ Barra BBQ – I didn’t try this myself but it looked seriously good! The pub has a massive BBQ outside where they whip this up throughout the year.
• Check out the old fashioned petrol station opposite – I’m not even sure if it actually works anymore but it looks like something out of a film.
• Enjoy the evening entertainment – To top it off, the pub hosts live bands and musicians in the afternoon and evening, as well as happy hour. The entertainment when I was there included a rather eccentric musician who lives on a riverboat and his furry chickens… Yep!

Where to stay in Daly Waters

The Daly Waters pub of course!

7. Katherine

Katherine is one of the largest settlements in the Northern Territory and will be the most civilisation you will have seen in a while. It’s not the fanciest of places – in fact, the busiest place I saw in the town centre was outside the courthouse (yikes) BUT there are some beautiful spots to check out and get back to nature.

• Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs – It might sound like a strange thing to do when it’s hot outside anyway, but it’s truly fantastic.
• Stock up at actual supermarkets – Doesn’t sound that exciting on paper but after not seeing anything more than an IGA, you’ll be glad to have an actual choice and not spend a fortune on groceries.

8. Nitmiluk National Park

Nitmiluk sits right at the bottom of Kakadu but if you’re in a 2 wheel drive, is far more accessible. If you’re looking to splash out on a kayak tour then this is the place to do it. The huge sandstone gorge is spectacular and makes for a great day of being outdoors.

• Hike Katherine Gorge – There are a few walks you can do here of varying lengths. I did one that took about an hour to a lookout point which was incredible. Just don’t do it in the midday heat!
• Kayak through the gorge – Tours range from a few hours to overnight tours like this one here .

Where to stay near Nitmiluk

There’s only one place in Nitmiluk to stay for the night and that’s at Edith Falls. Not only is this campsite right in the heart of the national park but it’s also right next to Edith Falls itself. What better way to finish off a day hiking than swimming under a waterfall?

9. Litchfield National Park

If there’s one park that you cannot miss in the Northern Territory it has to be Litchfield. I love this place! With a combination of waterfalls, swimming holes and bizarre animal homes, there’s plenty to do here. What’s even better is that so much of the top things to do in Litchfield are 2wd accessible and can be reached after just a short walk from the car parks. Take a look at my full guide to visiting Litchfield here .

• Swim at Buley Rockhole – These cascades of rock pools are a brilliant place to swim. The lower pools are deep enough to jump in and the water is refreshing on a hot day.
• Visit the giant Magnetic Termite mounds – You will have probably seen termite mounds on the roadside throughout your drive (some with clothes on – what’s with that haha?) but these can reach a whopping 5m in height so are pretty impressive. Be sure to visit early to avoid the coach tours.
• Swim at Florence Falls – This is most likely going to be the busiest spot but a swim here is a must.
• Catch the views at Tolmer Falls – This spectacular waterfall is the perfect place for the most incredible views. You can do the short walk to the viewing platform or take a 6km hike around it.
• Walk to the top of Wangi Falls – An awesome 3km loop trail that will take you to the peaceful top pools where you can swim again and get some incredible views.

Camping at Litchfield National Park

Just to top everything off, a night at Litchfield means a night next to a waterfall. Wangi Falls Campground is the best place to camp in Litchfield and another chance to swim in a plunge pool. The campground does get busy so be sure to claim your spot early in the day.

10. Mataranka

Mataranka is a teeny tiny town you’ll pass through so you might as well stop here. It’s one of those small towns that doesn’t have an awful lot going on but it does have one incredible place you can’t miss, which unsurprisingly, is what it’s most famous for.

Mataranka hot springs – They are exactly that! A lush thermal pool in amongst the forest. Bliss!

11. Adelaide River

Don’t be fooled by this name, it’s definitely in the Northern Territory still. Adelaide River is just a little south from your final stop of Darwin. Adelaide River is actually a small township but it also refers to the river itself which is where you’ll find some interesting critters to see!

The Original Adelaide River Jumping Crocs Cruise – The Northern Territory is known for its crocs and this tour is a fantastic way to see them. On this tour you’ll be taken down the river in search of the many crocodiles that live and breed there. When I went, the guide was fantastic, informative and had a real passion for the animals.

I freakin’ LOVE Darwin! This city was probably the biggest surprise to me as I had no idea what to expect. It turns out, Darwin is a fantastic city with plenty going on and a great community feel about it. I honestly feel is a true gem that’s not really on the backpacker radar quite yet which is great if you want a  city experience without that kind of feel. For more details, take a peep over at my guides to visiting Darwin here and here . Here’s a little bit of what you can expect though:

• Check out the awesome food scene – If you’re a big foodie then Darwin will not disappoint! The Waterfront has a great selection of food and Stokes Hill Wharf offers a market hall type dining experience but with seating outside overlooking the water. For a bit more alfresco dining, check out the food trucks at the Nightcliff Foreshore.
• Visit Mindil Night Winter Markets – Another perk of taking a Northern Territory road trip in the dry season is the chance to visit Mindil. It’s located right next to Mindil Beach and has tonnes of food, crafts and live entertainment going on. Don’t miss out watching the sunset over Mindil Beach either!
• Watch the best sunsets from pristine beaches – I don’t know how the NT does it but there was literally not a single night in Darwin where the sunset was rubbish. Not. One. Head down to one of the many beaches such as Causaurina, Lee Point or Cullen Bay for a blissful end to the day.
• Swim in the sea (without getting eaten by crocodiles) – You can’t just jump into the water in the NT because of the crocs BUT you can still swim. There is the lagoon and wave pool at the Waterfront, Leanyer waterpark (which is free) for a swim in a pool or if you want to swim in the sea, visit Causaurina Beach on a Sunday morning when the Surf Life Saving Club is on.

Phew! This was definitely a post I started writing, not quite realising how long it was going to be, so well done if you’ve made it to the end. The Northern Territory is honestly one of the most epic and unforgettable road trip routes you can do in Australia. Are you ready for your trip? Take a look at my road trip packing tips here .

Like it? Pin it for later!

Australia Camper Relocations: How to get the Cheapest campervan hire in Australia ($1 a day!)

20 Amazing routes to road trip in 2020

You may also like.

The BEST things to do in Exmouth WA

Is the cheapest Great Barrier Reef tour any good? My review of Compass Cruises

An afternoon taking in the Glass House Mountains

Leave a reply cancel reply.

• Travel Guides Plan your adventure
• Destinations Our favourite places
• Tours Book a trip
• Travel Companies Independent specialists
• Travel Guides
• Destinations
• Travel Companies

The Best Northern Territory Road Trip

Wild journeys through australia's barren outback.

Sara Jane Armstrong

• In this guide
• Sydney to Melbourne inland road trip
• Adelaide to Perth road trip

Northern Territory road trip

• The Great Ocean road trip
• Coral Coast road trip
• Recommended itinerary

There’s nowhere more quintessentially Australian than the Northern Territory. The sands are rust red, the skies are empty, the animals look like they crawled out of a sci-fi movie. Aboriginal culture and history are preserved better than anywhere else in the country and the landscapes are dramatic and desolate. It’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in the ‘real’ Australia.

Staying safe in the Outback is crucial. If your car breaks down, do not leave it. Rangers will find a car, but they will not find a lone straggler who has gone for help. Carry more water than you think you’ll ever need, with 1 litre per hour recommended for hikers, to stay hydrated in the sweltering deserts. Check your car and camping space for spiders, and learn which ones are harmless in advance. If you see a snake, stay perfectly still and let them pass you by, and never wander through the bushes they may call home.

It can seem intimidating, but that’s what makes a Territory trip such an adventure.

Approx. distance: 2,320km (1,440 miles) (one way)

Duration: At least seven days

Suggested route:

Darwin—Jabiru, Kakadu—Gunbalaya—Katherine—Tennant Creek—Alice Springs—Uluru National Park

Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu National Park

Northern Territory road trip itinerary

You can spend at least a week travelling this route, broken up into the following stages:

Stage one: Darwin to Jabiru, Kakadu (253km, three hours)

Stage two: Kakadu to Gunbalaya (57km, one hour)

Stage three: Gunbalaya to Katherine (255km, four hours)

Stage four: Katherine to Tennant Creek (675km, seven hours)

Stage five: Tennant Creek to Alice Springs (509km, five hours)

Stage six: Alice Springs to Uluru National Park (468km, four hours)

Highlights on the Northern Territory road trip

Kakadu national park.

Glinting eyes between the river reeds in Kakadu track travellers to the park, where Australia’s most intimidating predators reign. Gigantic crocodiles, towering gorges, and sweeping rivers, everything in Kakadu is supersized. The park itself, spanning 20,000 sq/km could be explored for days on end. With thick rainforests hiding hidden pools and waterfalls,

Opt for a trip along the East Alligator or South Alligator rivers. Not far from the town of Jabiru and the campsites, they offer the best spot to spy some of the 10,000 crocodiles that roam the park. Follow the safety protocol strictly when travelling in Kakadu and never swim anywhere that isn’t marked as safe. If you can, take a river cruise through the Jim Jim Creek, travelling out into the South Alligator River. These tours are led by Aboriginal guides, experts on the land, it’s flora and it’s deadly fauna.

To reach highlights like the Jim Jim Falls or the Maguk Gorge, you need to have access to a 4WD.

Indigenous history and rock art in Arnhem Land

Explore Arnhem Land

Most visitors skip Australia’s indigenous heritage hub in favour of the more accessible sites in Alice Springs. They’re missing out on a unique opportunity to connect with Aboriginal communities in their ancestral homes, and to learn about the country’s history.

The area is restricted to protect the indigenous communities of the Arnhem Land, so you’ll need to file for a free permit online. Applications should be made 10 working days in advance. An off-roading vehicle is recommended, and visitors are asked to remember that each inch of the land they’re covering holds cultural and spiritual significance.

Start only 15km from the border of Kakadu National Park, at Gunbalanya. The community sits in the foreground of the Stone Country, where rough-hewn gorges, crocodile-filled waters and the shadow of Injalak Hill define quintessential Australia. Injalak is an ancient Aboriginal site, covered in rock drawings which date back up to 8,000 years.

If you’re visiting the area in August, add a couple of extra days to your itinerary and take the day’s drive up to Nhulunbuy. Here, you can attend the annual Garma Festival, Australia’s largest indigenous cultural gathering, which showcases Aboriginal art, dance, music and storytelling.

Paddle through Nitmiluk National Park

Stop for fuel at Katherine, then head 30 minutes north to Nitmiluk National Park. The 13 gorges that wind through the park cut limestone figures that stretch out to the skyline, easy to explore on foot, by boat, or by helicopter.

A favourite for adventurous travellers, the park rents out canoes. Take up a paddle and navigate your way to waterfalls, secluded swimming spots and caves painted with ancient Aboriginal art. The fourth, sixth and ninth gorges are accessible by canoe, with camping spots available there if you want to spend a night in the wild. There are also campsites available at the park entrance and accommodation in Katherine if you prefer to spend one day in the park.

Walking, you can travel through the park completely free, and have access to a wide range of lookouts, waterfalls, and natural pools. And, for the intrepid, there’s the full Jatbula Trail. Taking the five-day hike, you’ll be following an ancient songline, clambering over volcanic rock and night swimming mirrored pools that catch the cloudless, starry skies. Pre-booking and moderate fitness are essential for this route.

If you’d prefer a more relaxing route through Nitmiluk, cruises run at sunrise and sunset. These cruises are led by guides from the traditional owners of the land, the Jawoyn. Alternatively, you can catch a helicopter, flying you out to almost inaccessible pools and giving you a birds-eye view of the gorges.

Cross the great red desert

The small town of Tennant Creek makes for a convenient waypoint on your way down to Alice Springs. Take an opportunity to stock up on gas and food, and use one of the town’s many accommodation options for the night.

The stark red sands of the Tanami Desert can feel like a mirage on the long road to Alice. Flat, dusty plains are marked by spirals of sand that rise like tornados in the wind, disrupting the wispy tips of the native plant life. Unique and hostile, an environment like this is home to some of Australia’s most interesting wildlife.

Pay careful attention to the road, because giant monitor lizards will saunter across your path with no regard for speeding cars. Look to the shadows for sheltering echidnas and thorny devils, or to the skies for swooping peregrine falcons.

When you reach Alice Springs, you’ll find yourself amongst far more people than you’ve seen since Darwin. The only major town in the country’s centre, Alice caters to tourists and you’ll find plenty of options for accommodation, gas and food.

Kata Tjutas at Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park

Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park

Australia’s most iconic skyline wraps around the giant standing rock Uluru. Though it’s one of the country’s most recognisable sights, no picture prepares you for the shifting shades of the oranges and reds and the vastness of the rock.

At around 550 million years old, the monolith has guarded over the landscape since before the dinosaurs and is an unsurprisingly significant figure in Aboriginal spiritualism and creationism. To learn about the rock’s role in the Dreamtime, walk around the base of Uluru with a local Anangu guide. They will teach you about the flora and fauna, and about the caves that provided shelter in the harsh desert for thousands of years.

Close the road trip with one of Australia’s most spectacular sights. The sunset over Uluru is one of the most dramatic on earth, cut with shades of red and orange against the blackening sands, a living mimicry of the red, black and yellow of the Aboriginal flag.

Great Ocean Road Trip

About the author.

SJ Armstrong is a travel writer and infrequent blogger from London. She specialises in slow and budget travel across 6 continents, including 6 months travelling around Australia. Her writing has appeared in various online outlets and magazines, and more of her published work can be found here .

Featured travel companies

Venture North Safaris

Cultural and nature tours of northern australia.

Ethical Adventures

Responsible tours to the top end.

Echidna Walkabout

Unique wildlife & conservation experiences, featured travel companies view all, why horizon guides.

Impartial travel guides

Our guides are written by the leading experts in their destinations. We never take payment for positive coverage so you can count on us for impartial travel advice.

Expert itineraries

Suggested itineraries and routes to help you scratch beneath the surface, avoid the tourist traps, and plan an authentic, responsible and enjoyable journey.

Specialist advice

Get friendly, expert travel advice and custom itineraries from some of the world's best tour operators, with no spam, pressure or commitment to book.

Our guides are 100% impartial and are written by independent, professional travel journalists. We make money by charging carefully-screened travel companies to list their business on our website. Our advertisers have no influence on our editorial content and we never accept payment for positive coverage.

Read more about how we work and what we believe in here .

• Travel guides
• Work with us

Sitemap , Privacy Copyright © 2024 Horizon Guides

Look The World In The Eye

4 Week road trip itinerary for the Northern Territory

Holidaying in the Northern Territory feels a little bit like what I imagine it’d be like to holiday in the wild west. The speed limit along the one and only highway is 130 kilometres per hour and there are distances of hundreds of kilometres with nothing more than a roadhouse or 2. The temperatures frequently soar over 35 degrees celsius and almost everything there can kill you, and to be blatant, quite often it wants to. Yes, I’m talking about the prehistoric lizards that inhabit almost every body of water you’ll come across.

Itinerary overview

4 week northern territory itinerary, litchfield national park.

• Hike in to Walker Creek and camp beside your very own private pool.  We chose site #3 as it had a huge pool and mini waterfall – read our blog post about it here
• Swim at Wangi Falls 
• Swim at Florence Falls
• Check out the Magnetic Termite Mounds (smart little buggers those termites are!)
• Surprise Creek Falls   ​4WD ACCESS ONLY

​ Where to Stay:

• Walker Creek Campground ($3.30 per adult)
• Wangi Falls  ($6.60 per adult)
• Florence Falls  ($6.60 per adult)
• ​ Surprise Creek Falls ($3.30 per adult)   4WD ACCESS ONLY

Kakadu National Park

Edith falls (leliyn – nitmiluk national park).

• Swim across the large pool to the waterfall
• Hike to the upper pools (2.6km round trip)
• Hike to Sweetwater pool (9km round trip)
• Leliyn Campground ($12 per adult)

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

• Hike – there is a large network of trails here. Pat’s lookout is short and has an incredible view.
• Mountain Bike ride the new trail network
• Canoe through the various gorges
• Camp – Plenty of hike (or canoe) in sites!
• We were meant to do the hike in late August but the trail was closed due to catastrophic fire danger. We’re heard that it’s awesome, so we’re pretty bummed we missed it this time.

Where to Stay:

• Nitmiluk Gorge Caravan Park ($23 per person unpowered) – Quite expensive, however handy to access the gorge, walking trails, tours etc.

Also whilst in the area stop in to the Katherine Hot springs !

• Bitter Springs – a crystal clear, warm, slowly flowing river. Jump in in one spot, float down in the current and pop out down the other end.
• Mataranka thermal springs
• Bitter Springs Campground ($30 unpowered site)

Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

• Hike – a variety of lengths available.
• Enjoy the unique scenery
• Karlu Karlu Campground ($3.30 per adult)

Alice Springs

• Check out Megafauna Central to see fossils and history from the Miocene era
• Hike or Mountain bike the many kilometres of trails around the Old Telegraph Station
• Browse the local art galleries
• Get a beer and pizza at Alice Springs Brewing Co
• Enjoy vegan french toast and good coffee at the café, House of Tallulah
• Head to the West & East MacDonnell Ranges for epic gorges, swimming holes and hikes
• Swim laps at the aquatic centre
• Gap View Hotel ($20 for an unpowered site is about as cheap as it gets in Alice, and bonus, there’s a pool)

West McDonnell Ranges (Tjoritja)

• Simpsons Gap
• Standley Chasm (we haven’t been here)
• Swim and hike at Ellery Creek Big Hole
• Swim and hike at Ormiston Gorge 
• Swim and hike at Redbank Gorge
• Mount Sonder Hike (16k return)
• Click  here   to read about our 9 day hike on The Larapinta Trail!
• Ellery Creek Big Hole ($3.30 per person)
• Ormiston Gorge ($6.60 per person, showers)
• Redbank Gorge ($3.30 per person)

East MacDonnell Ranges

• Ridgetop Hike – 9km from Trephina Gorge to John Hayes Rock Hole
• Check out Australia’s oldest and tallest Ghost Gum
• John Hayes Rock Hole  4WD ACCESS ONLY
• Trephina Gorge ($3.30 per person)
• John Hayes Rock Hole ($3.30 per person)  4WD ACCESS ONLY

Kings Canyon

  Uluru & Kata Tjuta

• Bus Sunset & Dune Walk (Beautiful Sunrise of both Uluru and distant Kata Tjuta)
• Talinguru Nyakunytjaku ​
• Car Sunset (Imaginatively named)
• Base Walk (or Run!)
• Lungkata Walk
• Kuniya Walk
• Cultural Centre
• Dune Viewing
• ​Sunset Viewing (also a great lunch spot!)
• Valley Of The Winds
• Walpa Gorge
• Ayers Rock Resort ($57 for 2 adults in a van, even if unpowered. Tent site is $46.50)

Enjoy, in our opinion, the Territory really is the wildest place in Australia.

Share this:

Similar posts.

2 Weeks in Tasmania – Beaches, National Parks and more!

Is this the clearest water in Australia? Bitter Springs, Northern Territory

5 of the Best Places to Swim in Australia

Hike-in Camping at Walker Creek in Litchfield National Park

8 Reasons to take a Road Trip through Canada

Hiking and camping at the highest single-drop waterfall in Australia

Hi were leaving soon to travel the NT for 6 weeks, thankyou this website has given us some good ideas, however we are hoping to visit Arhem land also.

I’m stoked to hear it’s helped you guys out!

I hope you have an incredible time, it’s such an awesome place.

Hi, Thanks for this share, will definitely be saving it for the next time we go to the NT.

Have you seen the helicopter tours? Was definitely the highlight of our trip last time. The helicopter tour we did was – https://phs.com.au/tours/uluru-kata-tjuta/ . Have fun travelling!

Hey Aaron, thanks!

Helicopter tour sounds epic!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Jessica Pascoe

Part-time travel writer exploring the world one weekend at a time

Luxury Northern Territory Road Trip – 2 Week Itinerary

In April 2019, Will and I embarked on a luxury Northern Territory Road Trip, one of our most memorable adventures to date. We explored Darwin to Uluru and onwards to Kings Canyon. 16 days, 2,700 kilometres (1,677 miles), limited phone reception and what felt like limitless time, a massive luxury in itself!

‘There’s time enough for everything in the Never-Never’ Jeannie Aeneas-Gunn, We of the Never-Never

Why you should go on a luxury Northern Territory Road Trip

I had many preconceptions of the NT before visiting, believing a Northern Territory road trip would be tough-going; too hot, too long, too basic. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Check out my Published Articles for samples of work on the Northern Territory

Yes, I nearly walked into the webs of some absolutely monstrous spiders, we met some rather odd characters and being sweaty was the new norm, however we stayed in some unbelievable luxury accommodation, experiencing iconic Northern Territory glamping, and went on some bucket-list adventures. The scenery is simple breathtaking; from the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park to the desert majesty of Uluru. As stereotypical as it sounds, a Northern Territory road trip allows you to experience the ‘real’ Australia. If you are adventurous at heart, Crocodile Dundee was part of your childhood, but you’re not willing to sacrifice your creature comforts, follow this 16-day luxury itinerary to explore Australia’s Northern Territory.

1. Darwin and Litchfield National Park 2. Mary River Wetlands and Kakadu 3. Katherine and Mataranka 4. Alice Springs 5. Kata-Tjuta and Uluru 6. Kings Creek Station and Kings Canyon

Darwin and Litchfield National Park

We started our Northern Territory road trip in the ‘Top End’, spending our first few days getting acclimatised in the tropical, laid-back city of Darwin before hitting the road. There’s debate around the best time to visit Darwin, as the Top End has two distinct seasons, the Wet and the Dry. We opted for the shoulder season, at the end of the Wet season. This meant we still got to enjoy the wild swimming and lush greenery of the top end, with manageable humidity, whilst not being drenched in tropical storms every day. Not everything was open in Darwin, notably the famous outdoor Deckchair cinema, but the NT isn’t overun with tourists so we found April a great time to visit Darwin.

We caught a Jetstar flight from Sydney after work on a Friday, landing close to midnight. Exhausted, and immediately sweaty, we grabbed a quick 15 minute uber to our hotel. Our driver, John, was a quintessential Territorian; tanned, wearing a wife beater, so relaxed it took him a good few minutes to finish a sentence and most notably, incredibly welcoming. We knew when we were in a completely different part of Australia to metropolitan Sydney when he started describing wading through croc-infested mangrove swamps to find mud crabs as a first date idea. John dropped us off at the H Hotel, a relatively modern and centrally located accommodation option. There were some other pricier and probably nicer options down by the waterfront but we had allocated more of our budget towards some Northern Territory glamping options, so H Hotel suited us fine. If you’re looking for other accommodation options, check out the link below.

If you’re planning a trip to the Northern Territory, travel insurance is essential. Check out this comprehensive World Nomads Travel Insurance Review to find out more.

Our first 2 full days in Darwin were spent shopping, eating and exploring, before opting for one of the classic day trips from Darwin, a visit to Litchfield National Park. 2 days was plenty of time to spend in Darwin itself in our opinion and we would have been a bit restless if we’d stayed longer. If you have more than 1 day to spend in Darwin, we highly recommend the following activities;

• Dinner at romantic Pee Wee’s on the Point, for an iconic territorian sunset with delicious food and wine – the barramundi is a must!
• Explore Darwin’s waterfront, including bars, restaurants and the man made beach and wave pool
• Grab fish and chips on Stoke’s Hill Wharf
• Grab lunch at P M and Eat, a funky venue serving small plates that wouldn’t be out of place in Melbourne

If you’re planning your Northern Territory Road Trip, pick up your copy of Lonely Planet South Australia & Northern Territory

On Day 3 in Darwin, it was time to take one of the classic day trips from Darwin and visit local’s favourite Litchfield National Park. We’d looked into  4WD hire in Darwin for our Northern Territory road trip, giving ourselves the most flexibility for our trip with the option of exploring unsealed roads if we wanted to. We booked our car with AVIS Car Hire and collected it from Darwin Airport, however there are lots of other car rental providers offering 4WD hire in Darwin to choose from. Make sure you check the maximum kilometres allowed per day as you will be going over some of the more basic options. We opted for a 4WD Toyota Kluger that allowed an additional 300KM at 0.25 cent per kilometre plus it offered assisted-cruise-control; which made the long trips much less tiring.

The drive to Litchfield National Park takes about an hour and a half on sealed roads, but there are unsealed roads within the park itself that you can explore in a 4WD. If you’re not interested in driving yourself, you can opt for one of the many providers offering Litchfield day tours. Most of our day at the beautiful and lush Litchfield National Park was spent at various well-known wild swimming spots, including Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockholes, as well as Tolmer Falls (not suitable for swimming but still ridiculously impressive). There were lots of hikes and shorter walks to various waterfalls to enjoy; just make sure you’ve invested in a good quality travel backpack for all your day trip essentials.

I’ve written a post on rating all of the wild swimming spots we visited in the Northern Territory, including Litchfield National Park, check it out here.

Mary River Wetlands and Kakadu

Heading east from Darwin to Kakadu, the next destination on our Northern Territory road trip was Wildman Wilderness Lodge, located in the Mary River Wetlands on the edge of the world heritage listed Kakadu National Park. The drive from Darwin is roughly 2 hours east on the Arnhem Highway. We stopped off for a quick detour just before crossing the Adelaide River at the The Original Adelaide River Queen Jumping Crocodile Cruise.

This family owned and operated tour provider runs regular 1 hour cruises on the Adelaide River where you can get up close and personal with wild estuarian (commonly referred to as salt water) crocodiles. They feed the crocodiles pork to encourage interaction, which is part of their natural diet, and try to minimise impact on the ecosystem. The sight of a 6 foot crocodile jumping out of the river not more than a metre away from the edge of the boat was both amazing and terrifying!

We arrived into Wildman Wilderness Lodge later on in the afternoon, and were greeted by owners Carol and Jerry with an iced tea and briefing of the lodge. Wildmans was the first of the Northern Territory glamping options we’d booked and we were not disappointed. Wildmans was a veritable oasis after a the long dusty drive. This safari-style lodge, a luxurious Kakadu accommodation option located in the middle of national parkland, has 15 glamping tents and 10 air-conditioned cabins, as well as an infinity pool and central lodge where the restaurant and bar are located.

We opted for the 3-night Wildman Kakadu Adventure, which includes breakfast, daily 3-course dinner with delicious food, a river cruise on the Home Billabong and a day trip to Kakadu National Park. We also added on the Leichardt Point private sundowners for a treat one evening, which included a cheese plate and bubbles at an undisturbed Mary River wetlands lookout. It turned out that we were some of the first guests for the season, as Wildmans is closed during the Wet season, and Tim the restaurant manager was in the process of writing up his cocktail menu, and tested new recipes on us including a delicious lemon myrtle gin fizz using a South Australian Green Ant Gin.

Our guide for the Home Billabong river cruise, the Leichardt Point sundowners and Kakadu day trip was Wade, a bearded bushman with aboriginal tattoos who has a deep passion for his country and land, having started guiding it Nitmiluk 15 years ago. He tells us how he met with traditional owners who opened his eyes to true understanding of the nature and history of Australia and the bush. He’s also an avid photographer, and went out of his way to ensure Will had every opportunity to capture gorgeous photos. During our sundowners, he was sprawled in the grass and getting attacked by mosquitoes for the perfect sunset angle, something he’s done many times!

Wade also introduced us to some of the highlights in Kakadu, a sprawling national park the size of Wales, during our day trip. If you look at a Kakadu National Park map, you’ll see how massive it is, so a day tour of the highlights, including Nourlangie rock and Mamukala wetland, worked well for us. If you have your own swag or van and more time to spare, you can opt to camp in Kakadu for significantly cheaper than a stay at Wildmans. Check out the Kakadu national park website here for more information.

Katherine and Mataranka

Next stop on our Top End adventure was the town of Katherine and the Nitmiluk National Park, home to the famous Nitmiluk or Katherine Gorge. The drive from Kakadu to Katherine was a little illogical; we had to drive nearly back to Darwin before detouring back down south on the Stuart Highway, which took roughly 5 hours. We broke up the journey with a quick pitstop in Pine Creek, an old gold mining town with less than 500 inhabitants. We’d wanted to visit Mayse’s café, a recommendation from Wade, but as it was Easter it was shut, so we grabbed a bite to eat at the  Lazy Lizard . This tavern and caravan park is a decent stop off if you’re taking this journey at a slower pace. We made another stop about 60 kilometres outside of Katherine to visit the Edith or Leliyn falls for a quick dip, located on the western side of the Nitmiluk National Park.

As mentioned above, I’ve written a post on rating all of the wild swimming spots we visited in the Northern Territory, including Edith Falls and those around Katherine and Mataranka, check it out here.

After a quick swim, we carried on south to Nitmiluk. We were staying at Cicada Lodge, a boutique lodge owned by the traditional custodians of the area, the Jawoyn people with the Nitmiluk National Park itself. The lodge has 18 air-conditioned villas, each with their own yoga matt, bush-inspired toiletries and fluffy bath robes. There’s a 24 hour pool which is perfect for cooling off in after a day exploring the Nitmiluk gorge. All stays include complimentary sundowners and canapes, including sparkling Australian wine, so make sure you time your drive so as not to miss out! The 3 course optional dinner in their award-winning restaurant after sundowners is an absolute must with locally sourced produce cooked in innovative ways. If you’re looking for luxury Katherine Gorge accommodation options, you can’t go wrong with Cicada. However, if you’re looking for something a little cheaper, there are decent caravan and camping options.

The next day we went on a private helicopter tour, organised through Nitmiluk Tours, over the entire gorge system to an unnamed plunge pool for some undisturbed wild swimming. As I’ve already covered this in my wild swimming post, I won’t go into too much detail, other than to say it was one of the highlights of our Northern Territory road trip and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the region. Afterwards we drove into Katherine for toasted sandwiches a the Black Russian Caravan Bar before heading to the Hot Springs on the outskirts of town.

After a long relaxing soak, we made the last minute decision to drive an hour further south to the town of Mataranka, a town made famous through Jeannie Gunn’s famous novel, now a film, We of the Never-Never, a classic piece of Australian literature about the harsh realities of life on an outback station. There is a replica of the homestead, especially constructed for the 1980s film, in Mataranka that you can visit. We made the drive south to visit two well-known wild-swimming spots, Bitter Springs and Mataranka Thermal Pools. We also picked up a hitchhiker on the way, Tomek, a videographer from Poland who was hitchhiking his way throughout Australia with the biggest smile ever. You can check out some of his work on YouTube here.

Purchase your copy of We of the Never-Never from Amazon here

Alice Springs

The next day, we set off on the 4 hour drive back north to Darwin to catch an internal flight to Alice Springs and continue our journey in the ‘Red Centre’. The distance of Alice Springs to Katherine is over 1800 kms and would have taken 13 hours to drive, with not too many options of places to stop off. Despite feeling like we had all the time in the world, it made more sense for us to fly from Darwin to Alice Springs and drop the car back off. We landed quite late and checked into the very clean and functional Hilton Doubletree. We grabbed a quick drink and snack at the Jump Inn hostel, which had a huge selection of craft beers. You can buy a beer tasting paddle of 4 beers for $20.

The next morning we were up at 4:30am for a hot air balloon ride over the MacDonnell Ranges with Outback Ballooning. The price included complimentary transfers from our accommodation in Alice Springs, and a 30 minute flight over 10-20kms distance as the sun rose over the ranges, before sparkling wine and a light breakfast in the middle of the desert. Aside from the powerful sound of the balloon being inflated with hot air, it was incredible peaceful as we drifted quietly over the desert. The staff are friendly and professional and I highly recommend this bucket-list experience.

Once we were dropped back at the Hilton we walked into the centre of town and grabbed breakie at Page 27, just off Todd Mall, a café that wouldn’t be out of place in Melbourne with its laneway location and eclectic mix of furniture including an old barista station turned table and old barber’s chair. We then spent the rest of the afternoon browsing the large variety of galleries showcasing aboriginal art. Alice Springs is famous for being the hub to purchase aboriginal art and in recent years there’s been a huge improvement in standards ensuring art is ethically purchased. There are local artists selling their wares by the side of the road, and some studios where you can watch the artists at work.

I fell in love with a stunning piece by Tony Sorby but unfortunately it was way out of our price range! Instead, we came home with a ceramic dot painted kangaroo by an artist named Mary Young Perrurle, who lives in the Santa Teresa Community. Our kangaroo is a smaller version of those proudly displayed in Alice Springs airport. We finished off our day in Alice Springs with dinner at the Alice Springs branch of Hanuman located in our hotel before a much-needed early night.

Kata-Tjuta and Uluru

The next day we headed to Alice Springs airport to collect our second car hire of our Northern Territory road trip that we booked through Thrifty. We had booked another 4WD but unfortunately they were out so swapped us for a 2WD. Luckily the roads to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and the Ayers Rock resort are all sealed so we managed fine without a 4WD. We decided to drive directly to Kata-Tjuta in time to do a hike, and the drive took just under 6 hours through the desert, red dirt and bright blue skies. We saw a wild camel by the side of the road – the only reason for any semblance of traffic on this long drive!

Arriving at Kata Tjuta, or the Olgas, we started the Valley of the Winds hike, a challenging Grade 4 hike winding through the domes. We went as far as the first lookout due to time; we wanted to get back to the Uluru sunset viewing area for our first Uluru sunset. Watching the sunset of Uluru really is a special experience, watching the way the colours change with the light. It’s a photographer’s dream. Arrive early to get a good spot without too many people’s selfie sticks in your way.After sunset, we drove to the Ayers Rock Resort, who have the monopoly on accommodation near Uluru. There are various options available; we opted for the 5-star Sails in the Desert, which includes a gumtree lined swimming pool, several dining options and the Mulgara Gallery showcasing indigenous art. I really wanted to experience one of the better known Northern Territory glamping options available, Longitude 131, but at $3000 a night (!) it was far more than we were willing to spend.

Our next day was spent experiencing sunrise over Uluru from the sunrise viewing platform, which I think I preferred to sunset but only just! There are so many ways to explore Uluru, whether you’re exploring Uluru with kids or as a couple like we were. We decided to hire bikes from Outback Cycling to cycle the 10km base walk around Uluru. I loved cycling this, it’s amazing to be able to see the many facets of Uluru up close without having to struggle walking in the intense heat, and would recommend this over the camel or Segway tours that are available – in fact we were actually going faster than the Segway’s and overtook at least 2 groups.

As you make your way around the base, there are various points that are sacred to the Anangu people and they ask you respectfully not to take photos. I was really disappointed to see fellow tourists of various nationalities and ages completely disregarding these signs and snapping away, so I urge anyone intending to visit Uluru to please think carefully about your decisions and to respect the traditional owners who are kindly allowing us to visit this unique part of the world. I won’t get into the debate over the Uluru climb, but needless to say we chose not to climb and I’ve welcomed it closure as of October 2019.

We were lucky to visit Uluru during the Field of Light exhibition, which will be in place until December 2020. This critically acclaimed installation by Bruce Munro is made up of 50,000 individual spindles of light with Uluru silhouetted in the background. There are various ways to experience the Field of Lights, and we decided to combine it with the well-known Sounds of Silence Uluru dining experience. If you’re not sure what to wear to Sounds of Silence Uluru, I recommend wrapping up warm and wearing closed-toe shoes – I opted for jeans and a jumper with hiking boots. Sounds of Silence Uluru starts with a complimentary bus transfer from your accommodation to a dedicated viewing platform over Uluru.

You’ll be spoilt with sparkling wine and canapes served as the sunsets, before a 3-course bush-inspired buffet dinner including food such as crocodile and kangaroo. Our chef for the night, Bish, was a one-man band producing high quality delicious food. There’s unlimited beers, wine and soft drinks available. After dinner, there is a didgeridoo performance before all the lights are switched off and the resident star talker Sam takes you on a journey throughout the southern night sky. I have never been anywhere in the world where the stars are as clear as they were during our Sounds of Silence Uluru experience. Afterwards we were free to wonder throughout the Field of Lights exhibition for a good half hour or more before our return bus transfer.

Kings Creek Station and Kings Canyon

I was really excited the next day to drive to Kings Creek Station, a working cattle station 3 1/2 hours drive from Sails in the Desert. Kings Creek Station was built in the mid-80s by the owner, Ian, who is known as a ‘great soul’ by his employees. The station offers varying accommodation options, and we had booked in for the Dreamtime Escarpment package, which was by far my favourite Northern Territory glamping option. Arriving at reception, we were escorted down a dirt road (the 4WD would have been useful here) by General Manager Tarn in her red, battered Toyota Hi-Luxe with Leo the dog hanging his head out of the back. The road opens up to 3 glamping tents built into the escarpment with views over the desert, and a separate swimming pool built into an old shipping container for cooling off.

We were in the ‘Drover’s Camp’ tent, which comes complete with an outdoor bathtub, outdoor shower, molten brown products and matching robes. The package includes a cheese platter, a generous drinks package (we had 3 bottles of wine and 6 beers provided for 1 night) and a self-cook BBQ hamper and breakfast basket. Other than Tam dropping our dinner off at 6pm, we didn’t see another soul as the other tents weren’t booked. We took a long leisurely bath before fetching our own firewood from the desert, enjoying the blissful isolation and silence. Will cooked up on our steak and sausages, before we grabbed a blanket and toasted some marshmallows over our firepit.

After one of our best night’s sleep (the bed was ridiculously comfy), we cooked up our bacon and eggs and set off to Kings Canyon Resort, a half an hour drive away. Kings Canyon Resort, on the edge of the famous Kings Canyon, provides both resort style accommodation and camping opportunities. We opted for a package deal where we got 50% off our second night in the resort accommodation. We didn’t think much of the resort itself, especially after a night glamping at Kings Creek Station. Kings Canyon resort was in need of a refurbishment and our room’s hot water wasn’t working so we had to be moved. In hindsight one night would have been plenty. That night we ate in Carmichael’s restaurant, before an early night.

The next day we were up early to complete the challenging 6km Kings Canyon Rim Walk located in the Watarrka National Park, a highlight of a visit to Central Australia. The hike starts with some steep steps up to the canyon rim and it’s very strenuous, even if you’re fit and healthy, so do be aware of this when planning your visit. Make sure you carry plenty of water with you – there is no shade at the top of the canyon around the rim itself. If you’re fit and able enough to do this walk, the Kings Canyon Rim Walk is by far one of the best walks I’ve done since living in Australia and I highly recommend it.

For our last night of our luxury Northern Territory road trip, we treated ourselves to the ‘Under the Desert Moon‘ dining experience. We met outside of the main restaurant where we were greeted by Jonty, our chef for the evening, and he served us 3 canapes with Yellowglen prosecco. He’d whipped up some beetroot drenched smoked salmon, tomato parmesan and sea salt and maple-cured pineapple and strawberries. We were then led to a circular hidden dining area, with a central firepit, fairy lights and tikki torches for a stunning 5-course meal served with matching wines, including kangaroo, barramundi and quandong bush fruit. It was a perfect end to our trip.

Checking out in the morning, we made the 4 hour drive back to Ayers Rock Airport, winding down the windows to enjoy the last of the fresh desert breeze. We were able to fly direct back to Sydney, so this worked out as both convenient and time-efficient. We were incredibly sad to leave the Northern Territory and head back to reality; in an ideal world I would have loved to have kept driving south all the way to Adelaide.

I hope this luxury Northern Territory road trip itinerary has been useful and can help you plan your next 2 week break from work!  

Disclaimer:  This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through my link, I may receive a small commission at  no  additional cost to you.

Related Posts

Best Weekend Trips from Sydney: Jervis Bay

Best Weekend Getaways from Sydney: The Southern Highlands

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Outback Australia Road Trip Essentials (17 useful tips)

A road trip through the Northern Territory is an incredible experience and it is worth doing a little planning before you go. Unlike many other Australian road trips, the Australian Outback has a few unique factors you need to take into account for a successful trip.

So if you are planning a road trip to the Top End, our Outback Australia road trip essentials are a great place to start. We share 17 useful travel tips to ensure you get the most out of your trip to the NT.

We cover all the basic information you need to plan your trip plus some insider tips to ensure you have a great (and safe) time. So whether you choose to explore the Outback by 4WD camper, car or motorhome, these Northern Territory camping and road trip essentials will give you plenty of ideas to help you plan to ultimate Outback Experience.

• 1 Outback Australia Road Trip Essentials
• 2.1 Choose the right vehicle
• 2.2 Understand the rental agreement
• 2.3 Check all equipment before you go
• 2.4 Avoid paying credit card fees
• 3.1 Carry Maps
• 3.2 Drive to the road conditions
• 4.1 Check the Ranger Program Schedule
• 4.2 Book tours in advance
• 4.3 Avoid the crowds
• 4.4 Be Croc Wise
• 5.1 Arrive early at campgrounds
• 5.2 Pack Right and Light
• 5.3 Have cash on hand
• 5.4 How to Charge devices
• 6.1 Top up your fuel regularly
• 6.2 Plan meals in advance
• 6.3 Gas for cooking
• 6.4 Carry plenty of drinking water
• 7.1 Pack plenty of water
• 7.2 Start your hike early
• 8 More information
• 9 Book your Northern Territory Road Trip

Outback Australia Road Trip Essentials

In this article we cover plenty of Outback Australia road trip advice. So whether you are traveling to the Top End or Western Australia, these road trip tips will help you plan your trip.

We cover everything from the best type of vehicle rental, where to camp and how to get around.

If you are planning a Northern Territory road trip, here are two more articles to read in conjunction with this one:

• Two week Itinerary for a Northern Territory Road Trip
• Outback Australia Packing List
• The best things to do in Darwin

Campervan Hire

Choose the right vehicle.

Our first tip is to choose a vehicle that suits the terrain you are planning to explore. The Northern Territory is a big place and it is possible to stay on paved roads or spend most of your time off road. It is up to you!

If you plan to visit places like Maguk (Barramundi) Gorge, Jim Jim Falls or Koolpin Gorge in Kakadu National Park, you will need to take or hire a high clearance 4WD.

If you plan to travel only on paved roads to the main sites then a motorhome may be more comfortable / suitable for your trip.

If you prefer to stay in a hotel or cabin then a car will do just fine, although hotels are few and far between in the Northern Territory once you leave the major towns!

There are plenty of rental companies based in Darwin who offer return or one way rentals to other destinations like Broome or Alice Springs.

Due to high demand and a small window for travel in the dry season they do book out early, so we highly recommend booking as far in advance as you can to secure your vehicle of choice.

For a quick price check you can compare campervan and 4WD rental prices here.

Understand the rental agreement

One of the most important tips in our list of Outback Australia road trip essentials is to understand your rental agreement.

Driving conditions in the Outback can be much more variable than on on the East Coast so it is important to understand the agreement and any costs you will be liable for in the event of an accident.

There are a couple of important things you should check before signing the rental agreement:

• Check the agreement includes enough kilometres for your planned itinerary. For example, if you plan to drive from Darwin to Uluru and back you will most likely need unlimited kilometres included, as it is a 4,000 km (2,485 miles) round trip!!
• Check the insurance excess. Some campervans have a very high insurance excess (for example the 4WD Landcruiser we hired had an $8000 AUD excess). Rental companies will typically offer packages to reduce the excess but these are often expensive.
• Check if they have any special conditions you need to be aware of, such as areas/roads that are off limits. Ask questions so you are fully aware of your rental obligations.

Expert Tip: You can purchase separate travel insurance to cover the rental excess. This can be a way to reduce your excess and then you get cover for your personal belongings too!

Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.

World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Check all equipment before you go

We strongly suggest you check all the equipment in your rental is in good working order before you leave.

This can be a pain, and take a while, but it is absolutely worthwhile. We had an inflatable bed mat that didn’t inflate and a light which we couldn’t hang up due to a broken clip on our road trip to NT .

Thankfully we were able to purchase and be reimbursed for a new bed mat, but if we weren’t near a store this would have been very annoying. And uncomfortable!

If you plan to go off road you will need to check you have a snatch strap, spade, and an Emergency Position Indication Radio Beacon (EPIRB) in the event you get bogged or lost and there is no help available.

When activated the EPIRB transmits an emergency distress signal to Australian rescue authorities.

This is especially important as mobile reception is poor in many outback areas in the Northern Territory. Obviously this should only be used as a last resort, but we found it quite comforting to know we had it onboard.

A portable 4×4 air compressor is also handy to make travel off road more comfortable and is usually available to hire with your vehicle.

Important tip: Make sure you know how to engage 4WD on your vehicle and when to use it before you go.

Avoid paying credit card fees

Many rental companies charge high fees for paying by credit card. They also need to hold your (often large) excess on a credit card for the duration of your trip.

If you are travelling from overseas and want to avoid paying more for your campervan than you need to, we recommend transferring money instead with  Wise .

>> Click here to see how much you can save with Wise

Wise allows you to transfer money anywhere around the world at a fraction of the cost of a traditional bank transfer.

Setting up an account is quick and easy. We use and love Wise and highly recommend them.

Transfer money internationally with ease with Wise .

Wise is an online money transfer service which lets you quickly and easily transfer money much more cheaply than a bank. We use and love Wise!

Click here to find out more

Driving in the Northern Territory

Mobile reception is terrible throughout many parts of Northern Territory. That is why we recommend you have a GPS on board.

In addition it is useful to download online maps prior to leaving. And as a backup, when traveling in areas with poor reception we always carry a paper map.

The HEMA maps are excellent and we highly recommend them for Outback Australia. Click here to purchase the HEMA Northern Territory map.

Alternatively, the HEMA Australia Road Trip and 4WD Atlas includes detailed maps, 4wd tracks, fuel stops, campsites and points of interest, all in one convenient spiral bound book. Click here to see the HEMA Road Trip Atlas.

Drive to the road conditions

Always check with the local tourist information centre, the staff at campgrounds or the locals about current road closures and road conditions as they can change regularly.

If you are traveling in the shoulder seasons always confirm the roads and campgrounds you want to visit are open as some areas take longer than others to open up after the wet season.

Also avoid driving after dark whenever possible. Wild animals including buffalo and kangaroos and emus make driving after sunset a very risky activity.

For more tips on driving in the outback read this article 

Things to do

Check the ranger program schedule.

When planning your itinerary, check the Free Ranger Program Schedules at each of the National Parks for a list of free ranger led activities available.

You can find the schedules for each of the Northern Territory National Parks in the links below:

Kakadu National Park Activities  Nitmiluk National Park Activities Litchfield National Park Ranger Led Activities

Note:  There are very few activities running on the weekend in Kakadu National Park. We modified our itinerary to ensure we were able to join a Ranger guided walk at Ubirr and a basket weaving class with local indigenous women.

Related: 10 Best Road Trip Activities for Kids

Book tours in advance

For some activities, such as the gorgeous sunset or sunrise cruise on Yellow Water Billabong , and canoeing at Nitmiluk Gorge , it is worthwhile booking in advance to secure your preferred day and time as they are very popular activities.

>> Click here to check the price for the Yellow Water Billabong Cruise

Avoid the crowds

Some waterfalls and swimming holes get very busy and it is worthwhile planning to visit them either in the early morning or late afternoon.

Buley Rockholes, Wangi Falls and Florence Falls in Litchfield National Park were particularly busy during the school holiday and peak season period.

The other way to avoid the crowds at many of the swimming holes is to walk a little further!

Often there was more than one swimming hole and by walking a little extra we had the swimming hole to ourselves.

Be Croc Wise

ALWAYS read the signs and follow the instructions regarding swimming and crocodile safety.

It can be a little disconcerting seeing the warning signs, but if you use common sense and take note of the local advice, swimming can still be loads of fun.

Many of the waterholes in Kakadu are monitored for crocodiles at the end of the wet season and local information will confirm if it is safe to swim.

More information about crocodile safety can be found here.

Outback Camping Essentials

Arrive early at campgrounds.

Many campgrounds in the National Parks operate on a first in first served basis so they cannot be booked in advance.

One of our top road trip Australia tips for non-bookable campgrounds is to try and arrive by lunch time as many of the campgrounds fill up quickly during the afternoon.

If you still have more exploring to do with your car in the afternoon, simply leave a table and chairs on the site so others know it has been taken.

If you are looking to free camp on your Northern Territory road trip, then the WikiCamps app is essential. You can find more free camping hacks here .

Download the WikiCamps app now on Android or IOS .

Pack Right and Light

Be prepared for a road trip to the Outback with our Road Trip Packing List .

It can be tempting to fill the car with travel accessories to cover every possibility, but it soon becomes a mess and difficult to find a home for everything each day as you pack and unpack the car.

Our best tip is to pack what you need, but don’t over pack the car. Pack as many re-usable and eco-friendly products as possible to reduce waste and minimise impacts to the gorgeous parks you visit.

If you are taking your own vehicle and plan to camp instead of hiring a 4WD camper, this camping checklist will ensure you don’t forget anything.

To keep clothing organised, different sized packing cubes make a huge difference, especially when traveling with kids.

>> Click here to see our favorite packing cubes

Have cash on hand

Ensure you have a supply of cash in small bills to pay for self-managed campsites.

At these sites you fill in your details on an envelope and money is placed in the envelope and left at the campground for the ranger to collect. No change and no card payments are available.

Often the ranger will come through the busier campgrounds in the early evening and check payment has been made.

How to Charge devices

Most campgrounds are unpowered, so if you have electronic devices such as mobile phones, kindles, laptops, camera batteries, or lighting there are a couple of options to keep them charged.

Your first option is to charge your devices whilst you are driving.

• To charge your devices you will need a 12v USB port adaptor. Click here to see our favorite adaptor.
• For laptops and camera batteries you will need a voltage inverter like this one if you are from the US for 110V or this one if you are from Australia / UK for 240V. It runs off the cigarette lighter in the car and larger wattage options can charge off the car battery too.

Your second option is to carry solar panels.

There is an amazing array of portable solar panels for campervans on the market.

If you are planning a longer trip it is absolutely worth looking in to the different set ups and finding one that works with your van.

Fuel and Food Essentials

Top up your fuel regularly.

Always fill up your fuel tank when you pass a gas station, even if you have half a tank.

There are large stretches of nothing in the Northern Territory and you may not know when your next opportunity will be.

Plan meals in advance

There are large distances between supermarkets and few restaurants out of the main towns. For that reason we recommend you keep groceries topped up whenever you pass a supermarket.

It can be challenging to squeeze large quantities of groceries in to your campervan, but large supermarkets are not that common in the Top End once you leave Darwin.

There are major supermarkets in Darwin and Katherine.

Jabiru also has a supermarket with a good but basic range of groceries. Small (more expensive) general stores are in Pine Creek, Batchelor, and Adelaide River.

Read Next: Ultimate Outback Australia Packing List

Gas for cooking

In terms of cooking, many smaller campervans come with a portable gas stove that runs on butane gas canisters.

Make sure you have a number of extra butane gas canisters on hand so you don’t run out when you are far from anywhere! They can be purchased at most supermarkets.

The number of gas canisters you will need depends on how often and what type of food you cook.

To give you an idea, on our Northern Territory Road Trip we used 8 canisters in 14 days for a family of 4. We used the gas most mornings for coffee and toast and every evening to prepare dinner.

Carry plenty of drinking water

It is very important to stay hydrated on your road trip to the Top End. Dehydration can easily sneak up on you when daily temperatures are over 30 C (86 F) each day.

Note that drinking water is not always available at campgrounds. Ensure you have a jerry can suitable for storing drinking water in your campervan.

Otherwise you can purchase 10L boxes of spring water at most supermarkets.

In addition, consider traveling with a water filter bottle. They are handy on hikes to top up water from rivers and waterholes and a useful backup in campgrounds without drinking water if you run out.

We use and love the Grayl Geopress and have travelled around the world with it. It filters out 99.9% of waterborne pathogens, heavy metals, pesticides and sediment and filters 700ml of water in less than a minute.

>> Click here to see the Grayl Geopress water filter bottle.

Hiking in the Northern Territory

Pack plenty of water.

Ensure you take sufficient drinking water when hiking in the Northern Territory. Due to the high day time temperatures, it is recommended to carry at least 3 litres per person per day.

That is a lot of water to carry! We find the only way it is possible to carry enough water for 4 people is by placing a hydration reservoir in each day pack.

Hydration reservoirs hold a lot more water than water bottles and they come in all shapes and sizes.  

They are also more comfortable to carry than multiple water bottles as the weight is distributed more evenly in the pack. Our favourite hydration reservoir system is the Camelbak. It is even possible for a child to carry a small hydration backpack like this one .

Start your hike early

The heat can make hiking challenging, particularly with kids. Even in June/July, temperatures can reach 30 C (86 F) by late morning.

We recommend you set off at sunrise to beat the worst of the heat. Plan to return by early afternoon for a swim to cool off!

Expert Tip: If your vehicle comes equipped with an Emergency Position Indication Radio Beacon (EPIRB), take it with you when hiking / kayaking. In the case of a life threatening emergency it is the easiest way for you to contact rescue teams as mobile reception is poor.

More information

If you are looking for help to plan your Top End itinerary, check out our 2 week Northern Territory Road Trip Itinerary.

To make packing for your trip easy we share our full Outback Australia packing list here.  

Complete with a free downloadable checklist, we cover everything you need to pack for a trip to the Northern Territory.

For more information about the Northern Territory and the National Parks, here are some great resources to help plan your trip:

www.northernterritory.com www.parksaustralia.gov.au www.darwin.nt.gov.au

Book your Northern Territory Road Trip

For campervan rental in the Northern Territory we recommend Motorhome Republic  . They are one of the biggest motorhome rental companies in the world and offer great deals on a large range of vans.

For flights to Darwin or Alice Springs, your best bet is to start your search on Skyscanner . Remember to try and book outside school holidays for a better deal.

Search for hotels in Darwin here . With over 260 options you are sure to find the perfect place.

For multi-day tours out of Darwin, visit Viator for a wide range of options.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

I hope you found our NT road trip advice helpful. You can find more Australia travel articles here or more road trip inspiration here .

You may also like:

• Best gifts for Campervan travellers
• 10 Best Road Trip Activities for Kids
• Best road trip gift ideas
• Best US road trips

Bookmark or Pin and share to Pinterest

Rachel Rodda

Related Posts

25 Famous Australian Landmarks You Can’t Help But Fall In Love With

The Perfect Itinerary for a 2 week Northern Territory Road Trip

Top 10 Best Things To Do In Darwin Australia

Leave a comment cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

We are Rachel and Matt and we're here to help you adventure more as a family. Read more about us.

Looking For Something?

Popular Posts

40+ Best Road Trip Gifts For Travel Lovers [2024]

The Best Anti Theft Backpacks For Travel [2024]

Family Gap Year: Our Around the World Itinerary

2 Week Northern Territory Itinerary, Australia (2024)

The Northern Territory is a must-visit on any Australia road trip itinerary!

Famed for its Outback landscapes, rich Aboriginal culture, and otherworldly attractions, a trip to the NT is an awe-inspiring adventure you will never forget.

I have put together this complete 2 Week Northern Territory Itinerary to help you plan your trip ahead of time!

Table of Contents

2 WEEK NORTHERN TERRITORY ITINERARY

Here is an overview of an ideal 2 Week NT Itinerary with my recommendations of places to visit in this order:

• Darwin – Day 1 & 2
• Litchfield – Day 3 & 4
• Kakadu – Day 5 & 6
• Katherine – Day 7 & 8
• Devils Marbles – Day 9
• Alice Springs – Day 10 & 11
• Kings Canyon – Day 12
• Uluru – Day 13 & 14

DARWIN – DAY 1 & 2

Darwin is the capital city of Australia’s Northern Territory and the perfect place to start your adventures.

Upon arriving at Darwin International Airport, you can rent a car from here to begin your 2-week Northern Territory itinerary.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

Discover Cars are one of the world’s largest online car rental platforms with vehicles in 10,000+ locations.

Find the right car, in the right place, for the best price guaranteed!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN DARWIN

Darwin is most popular for its beautiful waterfront lagoon, incredible street art, buzzing nightlife, sunset cruises, calm beaches, and many more fun-fuelled activities.

See below for a list of fun things to do in Darwin for the first 2 days of your itinerary.

• Take photos of the street art
• Swim in the Waterfront Lagoon
• Set sail on a sunset cruise
• Join a Jetski tour with 007 Jet Ski’s
• Visit the Darwin Museum and Art Gallery
• Try the Gin at Charlie’s of Darwin
• Go deep-sea fishing with YKnot Fishing Charters

WHERE TO STAY IN DARWIN

Luxury: argus apartments.

MID-RANGE: VIBE HOTEL

BUDGET: DARWIN HOSTEL

LITCHFIELD – DAY 3 & 4

The next stop on your 2-week Northern Territory itinerary is Litchfield National Park, known for its beautiful waterfalls, refreshing swimming holes, and giant termite mounds.

From Darwin to Litchfield National Park, it’s approximately a 1-hour drive.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

Litchfield National Park is an adventurous wonderland filled with many stunning attractions, suitable for people of all ages. 

See below for a list of the best things to do in Litchfield National Park during your visit.

• Visit Florence Falls
• Take a photo of the giant termite mounds
• Go for a swim at Walker Creek
• Discover Wangi Falls
• Take a dip at Buley Rock Hole

WHERE TO STAY IN LITCHFIELD

Luxury: litchfield motel.

MID-RANGE: LITCHFIELD TOURIST PARK

BUDGET: BATCHELOR HOLIDAY PARK

KAKADU – DAY 5 & 6

Next up on this 2-week itinerary is Kakadu National Park .

Visiting Kakadu National Park is an incredible experience boasting an extensive amount of history, beautiful scenery, and ancient Aboriginal culture.

Whether you’re on the hunt for wildlife or want to see some of Australia’s most surreal landscapes, Kakadu has it all.

From Litchfield National Park to Kakadu National Park the journey takes around 2 hours.

Ditch Your Backpack, Get a Suitcase!

The Nomatic Check-In is the only luggage you’ll need with 90L capacity for those extended trips.

It’s sleek, it’s durable, and it will save your shoulders from pain by not having to carry any weight.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

From billabong cruises to scenic lookouts, see below for the best things to do in Kakadu during your visit.

• Yellow Water Billabong Cruise
• See the Nourlangie Rock Art
• Marvel at the view from Nawurlandja Lookout

WHERE TO STAY IN KAKADU

Luxury: mercure kakadu crocodile hotel.

MID-RANGE: COOINDA LODGE KAKADU

MID-RANGE: AURORA LODGE KAKADU

KATHERINE – DAY 7 & 8

After exploring the best places along the coast of Darwin , it’s time to head over to Katherine – a place where the Outback meets the tropics and is a must-see destination on your Northern Territory itinerary.

From Kakadu to Katherine the journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN KATHERINE

There are many great activities to try when visiting Katherine which are suitable for all sorts of travelers.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or a solo backpacker, there is something here to satisfy everyone’s needs.

See below for a list of the best things to do in Katherine.

• Boat cruise in Katherine Gorge
• Scenic flight over Nitmiluk National Park
• See the view from Baruwei Lookout
• Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs
• Visit Bitter Springs 

WHERE TO STAY IN KATHERINE

Luxury: ibis styles katherine.

MID-RANGE: PINE TREE MOTEL

BUDGET: PALM COURT BACKPACKERS

DEVILS MARBLES – DAY 9

Devil’s Marbles feature gigantic boulders that have been internationally recognized as the symbol of the Australian Outback and are a pretty incredible sight to see on your 2 week Northern Territory itinerary.

From Katherine to Devil’s Marbles it’s approximately an 8-hour drive. I also recommend stopping at Daly Waters Historic Pub along the way to break up the drive and grab a bite to eat.

DEVILS MARBLES

Also known as Karlu Karlu, which translates to round boulders , Devils Marbles are part of the aboriginal culture in Australia and as of 2008 when a historic ceremony was held, ownership of these rocks was officially given back to the site’s traditional owners.

Now the Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve is jointly owned by the traditional owners and the Parks and Wildlife Rangers.

There is more to do at Devils Marbles than you once thought. From walking trails to wildlife spotting, Devils Marbles really does have more than what meets the eye.

You have a selection of self-guided walking trails, weaving you in and around the different rock formations, soaking up the atmosphere, and learning about this incredible site of cultural interest.

Information signposts will guide you around the walk and teach you as you go. Be sure to check out the Nyanjiki Lookout for sweeping panoramic views over this unique landscape, especially at sunset.

VIEW FULL BLOG POST: DEVILS MARBLES NT

DEVILS MARBLES CAMPING

It’s possible to camp here at the Devil’s Marbles with a selection of camp and caravan sites available. Additional fees do apply if you wish to camp and you can book online in advance.

Public toilets and picnic tables are also available.

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

DEVILS MARBLES HOTEL

For those of you who would prefer to stay in a hotel when visiting Devils Marbles Australia, you’re in luck! 

The Devils Marbles Hotel is just 8km south of Devils Marbles and has a variety of accommodation options available including single-room cabins, ensuite rooms, deluxe cabins, and a caravan park with powered sites.  

Devils Marbles Hotel also has an on-site restaurant, bar, fuel, and swimming pool for all visitors.

Head to their website www.devilsmarbleshotel.com.au to book online in advance.

ALICE SPRINGS – DAY 10 & 11

Located right in the center of Australia, embodying the true Australian Outback, Alice Springs is somewhat of a forgotten gem, though it’s for sure not to be missed on your NT trip.

From Devil’s Marbles to Alice Springs it’s approximately a 4-hour drive.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN ALICE SPRINGS

• Visit Ormiston Gorge
• Go swimming at Ellery Creek Big Hole
• Discover Simpsons Gap
• Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

VIEW FULL BLOG POST: 4 FUN THINGS TO DO IN ALICE SPRINGS

WHERE TO STAY IN ALICE SPRINGS

Luxury: crowne plaza alice springs.

MID-RANGE: QUEST ALICE SPRINGS

BUDGET: ALICE SPRINGS YHA

KINGS CANYON – DAY 12

Next on this 2-week Northern Territory itinerary is Kings Canyon . If you are seeking a big day full of adventure then a visit to Kings Canyon is definitely for you.

Kings Canyon is located right in the middle of Watarrka National Park, just 3.5 hour’s drive from Alice Springs.

The canyon is famous for its walking tracks, rock climbing, and its views of chasms and cliffs.

You can also complete a 2km walk along the creek that opens up to some spectacular views of the canyon rim.

WHERE TO STAY AT KINGS CANYON

ULURU – DAY 13 & 14

Last but not least on this NT itinerary is Uluru .

One of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, Uluru is a sacred site that is so magnificent it’s been placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list TWICE!

Standing at 348 meters high, this landmass was formed over 500 million years ago, and not only can it be admired for its everlasting beauty but it has influenced the cultural values and beliefs of its traditional owners, the Anangu people.

From Kings Canyon to Uluru it’s approximately a 3.5-hour drive.

BEST THINGS TO DO AT ULURU

This breathtaking natural wonder of the world is perfect for everyone.

Whether you are seeking adventure, having a romantic holiday, or just wanting to learn more about the culture, there is something for everyone here.

See below for a list of awesome things to do at Uluru.

• Sunrise camel tour
• Sounds of Silence
• Sunset at Uluru
• Uluru Segway tour
• Field of Light
• Uluru helicopter ride
• Visit the domes of Kata Tjuta
• Learn to play the didgeridoo
• Take a photo on the dirt roads

VIEW FULL BLOG POST: 10 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN ULURU

WHERE TO STAY IN ULURU

Luxury: sails in the desert.

MID-RANGE: THE LOST CAMEL

MID-RANGE: DESERT GARDENS HOTEL

SUMMARY – 2 WEEK NT ITINERARY

So there you have it, an entire 2 week Northern Territory itinerary starting in Darwin and ending in Uluru.

From Uluru, you can return your rental car to Ayers Rock/Connellan Airport (AYQ) and there are daily flights departing from Uluru to the major cities within Australia.

Find All → Cheap Flights In Australia

WHAT TO PACK FOR NORTHERN TERRITORY

When visiting NT, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Australia Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Australia!

FINAL THOUGHTS – 2 WEEK NT ITINERARY

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about Northern Territory Australia, please leave a comment at the bottom of this post and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

This trip was in association with NT Tourism and Backyard Bandits.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Notify me of follow-up comments via e-mail.

Work with us

Support the site

Plan Your Trip

Travel guides

Destinations

Hotel guides

Find best tours

Travel Gear

Travel resources

How to start a blog

Photography guides

Follow On Socials

© 2024 Jonny Melon Adventure Travel Blog. All rights reserved.

Privacy Policy | Terms | Sitemap

• Explore Australia
• Photography Tips
• Travel Resources

• Northern Territory

10 Best Road Trips in the Northern Territory

10 best road trips in the northern territory.

Come with us as we explore the Northern Territory and show you Australia’s best kept secrets.  Here are 10 of the best road trips in the Northern Territory.

Incredible landscapes, quirky country pubs and unique outback towns and amazing road trips.  The Northern Territory is considered one of Australia’s best kept secrets. 

Discover some of the best secrets of Outback Australia as we road trip through the Northern Territory.

Explore the Northern Territory’s best road trips

Each of these journeys has something special to offer so if you’re planning to road trip in the Northern Territory there are so many to choose from.

Many of these roads in the Northern Territory are bitumen sealed and well-maintained however, there are a few roads included in this list that are partially unsealed and some are only for 4WD use.  Be sure you are aware of the road conditions and take care.

Don’t rush.  Take your time to see all there is to see.

Visit those quirky pubs, go off the beaten track, explore the unusual and revel in the remoteness of the Territory.  You will see tons of wildlife, stunning waterfalls and waterholes, rock formations that will take your breath away but most importantly, expect to meet some interesting characters along the way.

There are plenty of places to stay.  I do recommend you stop in at those quirky hotels like the Devils Marbles Hotel or Daly Waters.  The unique townships, roadhouses and isolated camping spots will make your road trip through the Northern Territory one of the best experiences ever.

Explorer’s Way – 3028 km

Recommended: at least 2 weeks

One of the early inland explorers, John McDougall Stuart trekked from South Australia to Darwin.  The Explorer’s Way cuts through the entire length of the Territory and will take you past many famous sites including Alice Springs, Devils Marbles, Tennant Creek, Mataranka Hot Springs and Katherine Gorge.

Take your time on the journey, there are many side opportunities which will enhance your Territory road trip.  Head off to see Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon or stop in at one of the many hot springs along the way north.  Enjoy the drive.

Where to stay:

Many hotels and roadhouses along the way are well-worth stopping off and enjoying an overnight stay.   You’ll meet some great local characters and enjoy some of the uniqueness of the Northern Territory.

Alice Springs

• Hotels: Double Tree Hilton
• Caravan & Camping:  Heritage Caravan Park

Tennant Creek

• Hotels: Goldfields Hotel Motel 
• Caravan & Camping:  Safari Lodge Motel and Camping
• Hotels: Cicada Lodge
• Caravan & Camping: Knotts Crossing Resort
• Hotels: Mindil Beach Casino & Resort
• Caravan & Camping: Hidden Valley Holiday Park

Darwin to Litchfield – 116 kms

An easy day trip from Darwin city that will show you another side of this tropical paradise.  Litchfield National Park is a pristine rainforest with magnetic termite mounds, waterfalls and swimming holes like Buley Rockhole or Florence Falls.  A perfect place for bushwalkers, there are plenty of trails and walking tracks to explore.  If you have a 4WD you can venture into the Lost City, a series of large freestanding sandstone formations that look like an ancient city in ruins.

• Hotels:  Rydges Palmerston
• Caravan & Camping: Litchfield Tourist park .

Darwin to Robin Falls – 122 kms

Recommended:  Day trip or long weekend

Robin Falls is a great place to visit for a day-trip or short camping trip from the main centres of Darwin or Katherine.  Just south of Litchfield National Park near the township of Adelaide River this gorgeous fresh water waterfall is a great place to visit.

The falls are reached by a short 20 minute walk following the crystal-clear creek.  With wildflowers and birds along the bush-walk, Robin Falls is a unique place to enjoy the Top End. Access to the area is seasonal so time your visit for early in the Dry Season.

Where to Stay

• Hotel – Mt Bundy Station
• Camp under the stars in the Robin Falls Park

Darwin to Kakadu – 253 klm

Recommended:  1 week

A road trip to Kakadu National Park is one of the most sought after destinations in the Northern Territory.  Stop off at the Adelaide River Jumping Crocodile Cruise along the way.  Plan to stay a few days at Kakadu to immerse yourself in this amazing part of the world.

Climb Ubirr Rock for a spectacular sunset or sunrise, do an Aboriginal Cultural Tour to see ancient rock paintings at Nourlangie and Ubirr and take a sunrise or sunset cruise on Yellow Water billabong.  World Heritage listed Kakadu is one of the most magnificent places in the world.

• Hotel – Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Resort
• Camping & Cabins – Cooinda Lodge

Nature’s Way – 457 klms

This roadie is the perfect round trip from Darwin to Kakadu and Nitmiluk National Parks, returning to Darwin.  It also takes in Pine Creek, made famous during the gold rush in the 1870’s.

Stop off at Adelaide River to visit Australia’s only War Cemetery and of course you must visit the Adelaide River pub to pay homage to Charlie the buffalo from the famed Crocodile Dundee movies.

• Hotel – Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront
• Caravan & Camping – Club Tropical Resort Darwin

Arnhem Way – 730 klms

Arnhem Land is one an off-the-beaten-path destination in the Northern Territory so if you’re looking to go remote, this is the road trip for you.

Take Arnhem Way to head to the Gove Peninsula, now known as Nhulunbuy.  Passing through raging rivers, savannah woodlands teeming with wildlife, wetlands brimming with fish, prehistoric crocodiles and spectacular birdlife.  Learn about Aboriginal culture through the locals who live remote continuing their traditional hunting and gathering activities.

You will need a permit to enter Arnhem Land, so check the Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation  and  East Arnhem Land  websites for more info.

• Nhulunbuy – Walkabout Lodge has both hotel and camping facilities
• There are a number of fishing lodges along the way offering accommodation and food.

Alice Springs to Darwin – 1497 klm

Recommended:  7 – 10 days

This road trip is one I’ve travelled many times and one that shows off the Northern Territory at its best.  There’s so much to see along the way so stay alert and enjoy the ride.

One of the most amazing places to see is Karlu Karlu, otherwise known as the Devils Marbles so make sure you enjoy a walk through this spiritual place.  Tennant Creek, Mataranka Hot Springs and Katherine Gorge are some of the highlights of this road trip. Take your time, there is so much more to see!

• Crown Plaza & Casino
• Big 4 McDonnell Range Holiday Park 
• Tennant Creek: Goldfields Hotel Motel
• Daly Waters: Daly Waters Hotel & camping sites
• Katherine: Knotts Crossing Resort

Red Centre Way – 690 klm

Recommended: 5 days or longer

Driving to from Alice Springs to Uluru via the Red Centre Way will give you spectacular views as you travel through red desert sands, spinifex and mulga forest.  The Red Centre Way travels west south west, towards Glen Helen passing by Ormiston Gorge and the start of the Finke River.

Formally known as the Mereenie Loop road, the Red Centre Way is unsealed for the most part requiring a 4WD.  A scenic route taking in Mount Sonder , Gosse Bluff , Kings Canyon and the spectacular Western MacDonnell ranges.  This is the heart of the Australian Outback.  Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park will be a further reward at the end of the drive.

A $5 permit is required to travel this route.  Available through Central Land Council 08 8953 4343 or through Glen Helen Resort, Hermannsburg Petrol Station and Kings Canyon Resort.

• Glen Helen Resort – motel, cabins and camping facilities
• Kings Canyon Resort – motel and camping facilities
• Sails in the Desert
• Desert Gardens Hotel
• Emu Walk Apartments
• The Lost Camel Hotel
• Outback Pioneer Hotel
• Mt Conner – Cabins and camping facilities available.

West MacDonnell Ranges – 135 km

This drive takes you from Alice Springs to Glen Helen Gorge and the start of the Finke River, but to get the full benefit of this road trip you need to stay a while.

Alive with wildlife, amazing scenery, and incredible rock formations and tons of hikes through the ranges, make sure you take your camera with you.   Sights include Simpson’s Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Redbank Gorge, and others along the way.

Where to stay

• Many camping sites on this road trip
• Ormiston Gorge & Ellery Creek Big Hole – camping under the stars

Binns Track – 2,230 km

Recommended: 10 days | 4WD only

One of the Northern Territory’s newly created 4WD trecks.  Travel from Mount Dare on the South Australian border to the Top End gold mining township of Timber Creek.  You will explore the East MacDonnell Ranges, the Davenport Ranges, Tennant Creek and Gregory National Park.

Passing massive sand dunes as you pass through the East MacDonnell Ranges, ancient rock carvings of the Arrernte people of Central Australia.  Pan for gold in the abandoned gold rush towns of Arltunga and fossick for semi-precious stones at Gemtree before visiting Karlu Karlu or Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve.

As you head offroad, you’ll pass through enormous cattle stations and onto the Judbarra or Gregory National Park, well-known for its Barramundi, Boab trees and limestone landscapes.

• Many camping sites are accessible on this road trip
• Alice Springs: Ross River Homestead
• Camping under the stars

Getting to the Territory

A road trip through the Northern Territory is one of Australia’s classic adventures.  The journey will take as long as it takes however 10 days should get you there, with short stops along the way.

• East:  Head west towards Mt Isa and the Barclay Highway.
• West:   Drive east from Broome, turn left to Darwin or right to Katherine.
• South:   Head north from Adelaide.

If you prefer:

• Air: Domestic and international flights are serviced from a range of destinations across Australia, Europe, the US and nearby Asia.  Although at the time of writing, flights are only available domestically.
• Rail: The Ghan is a popular rail adventure which leaves from Darwin and Adelaide, with tours available in Alice Springs and Katherine. Named after the Afghan camel traders who travelled here in the 19th century. The full north-south journey takes 54 hours.

Getting around the Territory

• Daily flights operate between Uluru, Alice Springs and Darwin.
• Self-drive options with hire vehicles available in Darwin, Uluru and Alice Springs.
• Bus networks are another option.

Pin this for 10 Road Trips through the Northern Territory

There is so much to see in the Northern Territory, read more:

• Do the Top End – Darwin to Kakadu Road Trip
• The Red Centre Way is the ultimate Australian Outback Experience
• Devils Marbles – the eggs of the mythical Rainbow Serpent
• Driving Checklist – Things to take with you on a Road Trip
• Drive Safe in the Australian Outback

The Northern Territory is the Outback Travellers’ dream.  With so many amazing road trips to explore these wide open spaces … you are sure to be amazed with the outback and all it beholds.  Enjoy your road trip adventures in the Northern Territory.

Related articles more from author.

Drive Adelaide to Darwin – the Photo Essay

Driving from Brisbane to Cairns in 21 days

Pack a Picnic for Queen Mary Falls

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

A travel website sharing Australian travel adventures, jaw-dropping photos and no-nonsense travel tips and advice.

(c) 2021 Aussie Mob | Travel & Photography Blog

Popular Articles

Off the beaten track day trips from darwin, explore outback queensland, roadtrip to the best top end national parks, popular topics.

• Northern Territory 35
• Australia 21
• Photography 19
• Queensland 18
• Roadtrips 13
• Travel Smart 9

Stay in Touch

Enjoying my content .

Get the latest about our latest adventures, new travel ideas and inspiration, photography tips and other cool stuff. No spam ever, I promise.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

See reviews Enquire now

Email: [email protected]

• Northern Territory Self Drive Itineraries

• Australia Self Drive Holiday Itineraries

Want the best Northern Territory self drive itineraries that take in Uluru (Ayers Rock) and/or Alice Springs?

Then look no further, because our itineraries give you the time and flexibility to experience the red centre at your own pace.

Join our most exciting driving routes and experience a world of ancient art and culture, pioneering history, local wildlife, and mind-blowing sunsets.  

Browse our sample itineraries below, then contact our expert team who will customise any itinerary and take the stress out of planning your experience.

9 Day Alice Springs to Darwin Road Trip

First Light Travel

Unique attractions await you on our epic Northern Territory driving tour: Red Centre deserts, outback towns, Aboriginal rock art and natural wonders galore. Spot desert wildlife at Alice Springs , dine among Nitmiluk's towering gorges , sleep in an outback pub and cool off in Litchfield's shady swimming holes. Your journey ends in tropical Darwin.

Highlights of the Northern Territory

Experience the best of the Northern Territory including the iconic Red Centre - marvel at Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta - spiritual monuments to this ancient territory. Then head to the tropical Top End - and the contrasts to the lush water-clad National Parks at Kakadu ,   Litchfield , and Nitmiluk , and Darwin the most northern capital city of Australia.

13 Day Alice Springs to Darwin Road Trip

Take a leisurely tour north on a 13 day Alice Springs to Darwin road trip and marvel in this ancient landscape and the civilisation that has dwelt there across the ages. The drive between Darwin and Alice Springs is a straight 1500km stretch following the Stuart Highway - with plenty to see and do along the way. Highlights will be the days spent in Alice Springs, Nitmiluk National Park and Darwin. This is a land of contrasts - high canyons, lush rainforests, desert basins and spectacular sunsets setting across tranquil bodies of water and desert skies.

13 Day Uluru to Darwin Self Drive Tour

Experience the quintessential Northern Territory landscapes on a thrilling self-driving road-trip from Uluru to Darwin . The grandeur of Uluru, Kings Canyon , and the Macdonnell Ranges are unforgettable. The opportunity to learn about the traditions of the local Indigenous people adds depth to your encounter. Travelling the Stuart Highway, you’ll witness the transition from desert reds to the rocky escarpments and lush greens of the tropical north.

Down Under from Bottom to Top

Journey from Adelaide to Darwin via the deserts of the Red Centre on a Fly/Drive journey that will ignite your sense of adventure. Roam the wilds of Kangaroo Island, view Uluru from the back of a camel, and cruise among the crocodiles of Kakadu National Park. You're in "The Land Down Under," so why not explore it from bottom to top!

12 Day Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip

Follow the footsteps of the explorers on an unforgettable 12 day Outback safari. This epic adventure transports you from coastal Adelaide to tropical Darwin via the jaw-dropping landscapes of Australia's Red Centre . Visit curious Coober Pedy , meet desert wildlife in Alice Springs , sleep at an authentic Outback roadhouse and marvel at the gorges of Nitmiluk and Litchfield National Park .

Two Week Darwin to Uluru Road Trip

A truly magnificent Northern Territory adventure . Two weeks is a great length of time to spend in this vast wilderness. With tropical watering holes in the north, desert springs at Mataranka, historic relics from Australias Outback Telegraph past, and the awe inspiring monuments of the Red Centre seen in a Field of Light - there is so much to see and do on this adventure - so what are you waiting for? 

28 Day Darwin to Perth Road Trip

Waterfalls, national parks galore, red earth, white sanded beaches, wildlife like no other - this 28 day Darwin to Perth road trip is the stuff of dreams. Driving days are tempered by stunning scenery and comfortable hotels at days end. You will visit no less than six national parks and coastal regions of national significance at Ningaloo and Monkey Mia. Nature, wildlife and dramatic scenery served up 24/7. 

Darwin to Perth Self Drive

Discover pristine coastlines and rugged outback scenery on this extensive 25 Day Self Drive exploration of Australia’s Wild Top End and West Coast. You’ll venture into the aboriginal homelands of Kakadu and Nitmilu k  National Park Wilderness. Explore the rugged Kimberley region, where breathtaking waterfalls and mystical waterholes await you in landscapes abounding in native wildlife. Discover the dolphins of Monkey Mia and the Desert Oasis of the Karijini, Kalbarri and Francois Peron National Park – and much more…

14 Day Must Do Australia Luxury Package

Experience the diversity of place and scene on this 14-day trip that includes all the must-do highlights of Australia. From the spiritual Uluru , to the eclectic buzz of city life in Melbourne and Sydney , and the majesty of Lizard Island  in the Great Barrier Reef in the Tropical North of Queensland - this is one massive experiential extravaganza!

Coral Reef, Island & Outback Fly/Drive

Explore Queensland's perfect beaches and colourful coral reefs, then fly across the desert to Australia's Red Centre for a magical encounter with sacred Uluru (Ayers Rock). End your vacation in stylish Sydney, where you'll cruise the famous harbour with the incredible Opera House and Bridge as your backdrop.

Want Your Very Own Custom Itinerary?

Pricing terms.

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

• Advertise with us
• Work with us
• Caravan & Camping with Kids
• Ski & Snowboard with Kids
• The LUXE Edit
• Family Matters by HWK
• Newsletter Signup
• Magazine Subscriptions

The best Northern Territory road trip itineraries for families

What springs to your mind when you think of australia if it’s crocs, starry skies, crazy climates and staggeringly beautiful landscapes, then the top end is the place for you. get a taste of this vast region with one of these road trips  – perfect for those with kids in tow..

Discover the best of the top end with our family-friendly Northern Territory road trip itinerary. They’ll take you as close to the middle of nowhere as you can get in the Red Centre or totally immersed in abundant nature at Kakadu National Park.

The shortest of our road trips is the Litchfield Loop road trip . This 6-hour road trip takes you to cascading waterfalls, Magnetic Termite Mounds and fishing spots in the NT.

A Kakadu to Nitmiluk National Park road trip is known as the Natures Way road trip because of the extensive fauna and flora you’ll see.

Click through on the articles below to discover your next Northern Territory road trip itinerary.

The ultimate Kakadu to Nitmiluk National Park road trip with kids

A Nature’s Way road trip features remote wilderness, winding waterways and stark plains stretching as far as the eye can see. A bewilderingly bright starry sky – all teeming with wildlife – road...

Broome to Darwin road trip via the Gibb River Road

We uncover the treasures of Australia’s northwest and Top End, taking on the notorious Gibb River Road. (more…)

The ultimate Litchfield Loop road trip in the Northern Territory

Take a smaller scale road trip along the Litchfield Loop for spring-fed waterfalls, close-up encounters with wildlife and some back-to-nature downtime.

A self-drive guide to the Red Centre

Captivated by the wild beauty of our country’s heart, Natarsha Brown shares why your next family getaway should be on the road in Australia’s outback. (more…)

Red Centre Way  Northern Territory road trip

Travel time: 7 days

The Red Centre Way road trip puts you underneath endless starry skies and as close to the middle of nowhere as you can get. Adults and kids alike will get the perspective to look at the world in a whole new way. Discover sacred sites and the unique world view of the traditional custodians of this wild and desolate land

The route: This 1,135-kilometre loop beginning and ending in the outback town of Alice Springs meets NT landmarks at every turn. While Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon are the major drawcards, there are plenty of other reasons to linger. Among them are the tranquil swimming holes of the West MacDonnell Ranges and the red cabbage palms of Finke Gorge National Park, which exist nowhere else in the world.

Don’t miss : Bruce Munro’s extraordinary Field of Light installation – 50,000 poppy-like stems tipped with glowing frosted glass, lighting up the red sands in front of Uluru.

Driving tip: This is the outback, so come prepared. Although 2WDs are quite common in dry weather, bring all the essentials (water, food and fuel) just in case you get into a sticky situation.

Where to stay: As a halfway point between Alice Springs and Uluru, Kings Canyon Resort is perfect for an overnighter.

The Arnhem Way

Lesser travelled nt road trip.

Travel time: 7-10 days

Considered one of Australia’s last unspoiled wilderness areas, Arnhem Way will transport you to a far-flung land of blazingly red earth, open savannah, croc-filled creeks and azure seas. And then there’s the spiritual pull. This part of Australia is home to less than 20,000 people, the traditional owners of the Yolngu nation who have lived here for millennia.

The route: The Central Arnhem Road starts 50 kilometres south of Katherine and finishes in dramatic Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula.

Don’t miss : Browsing the local arts and crafts at Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre, rewarding yourself with a sunset drink at the Gove Boat Club, joining an Aboriginal cultural tour with Lirrwi Tourism or planning overnighters to some of the pristine Dhimurru Recreation Areas.

Driving tip: Preparing a self-guided venture? A permit from the Northern Land Council is required, as well as some careful planning – this is as remote as it gets.

Where to stay: Bask in isolation at Bremer Island’s Banubanu Beach Retreat. Sleep under the stars at the Mananggaymi (Scout Camp) Camping Area. It is home to several large freshwater swimming holes perfect for cooling off. You’ll find it 50 kilometres west of Nhulunbuy. Or check in to Ngumuy (Turtle Beach) Camping Site, one of the prettiest of its kind on the peninsula.

This article is a Holidays with Kids digital exclusive. Be the first to see more exclusive online content by subscribing to the enewsletter here .

Lead image: Boy at Florence Falls © Tourism NT/Sean Scott

Keep reading:

• Northern Territory family-friendly travel guide
• Why Kakadu with a toddler is worth the effort

Related posts

13 of the best Australian road trips for families

The ultimate guide to the best Australian road trips for families, across every state and...

DIG IT at Thunderbird Park has a mini excavator park for kids

Kids of any age can sit in the drivers seat of the 1.7-tonne excavator.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Family-friendly accommodation

Browse our selection of great family accommodation options around the world

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach

Intercontinental bali resort, big4 gold coast holiday park, plantation island resort, big4 sandstone point holiday resort, courtyard anaheim resort convention center, ivory palms resort, big4 port douglas glengarry holiday park.

Northern Territory Top end. 10 day road trip itinerary.

The ‘Top End’ of Northern Territory is frontier country, a tropical oasis that consists of Darwin, World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, remote Arnhem Land in the north-east corner, and the Katherine region where the tropics meet the outback. It is Australia’s most rewarding indigenous homeland, home to art centres, isolated communities and rock art. 1 in 4 Territorians identify as Indigenous, compared to only 3% of NSW and 1% of Victorians. NT is abundant in iconic Aussie wildlife, from salt and fresh water crocodiles to the flood plain birds of Kakadu. Darwin is an interesting place, Australia’s only tropical capital city and gate way to the Top End with an end of Australia feel. It is closer to Bali than Bondi and feels very removed from the rest of the country.

When to go?

There are only two seasons in the the Top End- the wet and th e dry. Shoulder season is a good time to go to get the best of The Wet with a bit of The Dry, lower crowds and better prices. A lot accommodation, tours and restaurants are not open or reduced opening times during the wet so I would avoid going in the height of the wet season. April -May and September is the best time to go to experience The Wet whilst having good weather and tours still operating.

End of Apr- Sep: Mindil markets ( only start last weekend in April ), fine weather and festivals. This is the dry season, dry season doesn’t fully kick in until June. Some of the watering holes are closed until then to unsure there are no salties ( what salt water crocodiles are known as by the locals). The waterfalls are still full and flowing in April and May following the wet season.

Oct-Nov: the ‘build up’ brings very hot and humid temperatures with high chance of rain. Avoid going at this time.

Dec- Mar: The Wet is in full swing which brings floods, monsoonal rains and fewer tourists. Many tours do not run at this time. Again, not a good time to visit the Top End. Temperatures get well into the 40s (degree Celsius).

Campervan or car?

There are plenty of campsites and free campsites in NT. There is plenty of accommodation in the bigger towns such as Katherine but less options near the national parks such as Litchfield and Kakadu. There are tourist parks, guests houses and cabins in Jabiru and Litchfield but options are not plentiful and they are expensive for how basic they are. They book up around holidays and during the dry season.

4WD or 2WD?

We made the mistake of not getting a 2WD campervan which would be best during The Wet. During the Wet the tracks are completely closed so you cannot access them anyway so we didn’t use our 4WD once. Even though we went mid-end April, these tracks are closed well into June so you will be staying on sealed roads the whole way if you go between Oct-Jun. We hired our 4WD trough Travel Playground and got $100 discount off our car hire.

To sum it up: 4WD camper van/ roof tent from Jun-Sep, otherwise a 2WD campervan would be the best option.

Arrive to Darwin, capital city of the NT. Start your day trying out one the cafes for brunch, hire a neuron, Darwin’s electric scooters, and head down towards the waterfront for a swim in the lagoon. The lagoon is the only place in Darwin to swim in the sea safely, filtered sea water and nets provide a natural seawater lagoon free from box jelly fish and crocodiles.

In the afternoon head to the George Brown Botanical Gardens for a wander around the Top End’s plants and exotic palms from around the world. The gardens are are an easy 2km bike ride or walk from Darwin.

Crocosaurus Cove is right in the centre of Darwin and as close as you can get to these incredible creatures . Six of the largest crocs in captivity can be seen in the state of the art aquariums and pools. You can opt to be lowered into the pool with the crocs in a transparent cage, the cage of death. We didn’t go in as I didn’t fancy seeing the crocs in captivity when we had seen them in the wild.

For sunset, head to Mindil Beach markets on between 29th Apr- Sep every Thursday and Sunday. The sunset is stunning there, NT do sunsets differently. If you are there on a Saturday or Sunday, Mindil Beach Casino and Resort hold a pool party over looking Mindil Beach from an infinity pool. We went to the beach club twice and the sunsets from here were magical with a cocktail in hand from the pool.

Chill out under the stars at night and catch a film at the  Deckchair Cinema  at the Darwin Waterfront. The open air cinema screens Australian, popular, family, foreign and classic films during the dry season (April–November). Make the most of the experience and relax under the stars while enjoying their onsite bar and food stalls.

Sample some of Darwin’s cafes for breakfast or The Vue if you are staying in the Mindil Beach Casino Resort, breakfast is great here overlooking Mindil Beach.

Check out some of the museums such as the Royal Flying Doctor Museum . This is how museums should be done, the hologram cinema and virtual- reality glasses that enable you to relive in vivid detail the 1943 Japanese bombing of Darwin Harbour.

For the evening, take a cruise on the Darwin Harbour for sunset and enjoy bottomless champagne and canapés. We went with Sunset Sail and Champagne cruise which leaves from the wharf at 5pm-8pm. This is one of the best things we did in Darwin and highly recommend watching the sunset over the harbour on a catamaran. $139 pp for bottomless champagne and canapes. It is a BYOB cruise also. I booked this through Travel Playground also for a discounted price.

Darwin: Where to stay and eat

Stay: We stayed in Mindil Beach Resort and Casino which is only fabulous but its not cheap ($330 per night) and its a bit out of the city. We also stayed in Darwin City Hotel which had a pool, a gym, great air con and right in the city centre. Rooms here start at $135 per night for a double room.

• Rays Patisserie and Cafe : Incredible for brunch, lunch and coffee. They do an unbelievable selection of baked goods and pastries.
• The Rabbithole: Such friendly staff, the manager here is a legend and invited us to the pool party and coffee the next day. Brunch is great here.
• Four Birds: Another great brunch spot with your breakfast classics.
• Cafe 21: Great deserts, all day breakfast and extensive selection.
• Postie: Amazing toasted sandwiches. h bar with good live music and surprising good food. They do an amazing Sunday roast.

Get up early and head to Litchfield National Park. If you’re smart about it and leave Darwin by before 7am, you could get everything done in Litchfield. Litchfield is only just over an hour drive from Darwin so also very do able in a day trip if you don’t plan on doing a road trip or are tight on time. I recommend spending two days if you have the time to enjoy some of the watering holes and cool down. There are plenty of one day tours leaving Darwin but I recommend having your own car or campervan and being able to go at your own pace. Here are the main stops in Litchfield National Park:

Berry Springs: The first stop from Darwin on the way to Litchfield National Park. It is home to one of NT’s best zoos, a café and a gorgeous watering hole. There is plenty of shaded spots and BBQ areas. It is closed for The Wet and usually reopens for The Dry in the end of May.

The Cascades: To get to these beautiful series of small falls and pools requires a bit of a steep uphill walk. There are two pools, the Upper Cascades and Lower Cascades. It is possible to do a 3.3km loop walk between them but when we visited the lower cascades were closed. It is a 2.6km return walk from the car park to the Upper Cascades. It a hot and uneven walk up but worth it. Spend an hour cooling off in the pools. Swimming in the Lower Cascades is during The Dry only, Upper Cascades is open all year round for swimming.

Wangi Falls: (pronounced wong-guy) is about 7km further on from The Cascades. It is the big ticket attraction of Litchfield National Park. The falls flow all year around but is closed for swimming due to croc risk in The Wet. The enormous swimming hole is surrounded by rainforest. Its very popular for swimming in The Dry. It is only about 300m walk from the car park so no hiking required for this stop.

Tjaetaba Falls . This was my favourite of all the spots in Litchfield. It requires a bit of a hike to it and I think that makes it even more rewarding. The Greenant Creek Walk is 2.7km return walk following the creek upstream through beautiful rain forest. The plunge pool is the perfect way to cool off after the hike.

Tolmer Falls (best at sunset) : A beautiful spot to watch sunset, a very easy 400m walk to the lookout point from the carpark. You can’t get any closer to the falls or swim here.

Florence Falls: Take the turn off for Bluey Rockhole and continue past to the Florence Falls car park. You can descend 135 steps down to the beautiful swimming pool or alternatively take the shady creek walk (950m) if you don’t fancy the stairs on the way back up. The walk starts by the water hole and climbs gently through the forest. There is also a track (1.7km one way) connecting Bluey Rockhole and Florence Falls.

Bluey Rockhole : Water cascades over large rocks forming a series of rock pools, deep and big enough to jump into. stop before Batchelor (17km away), it looks like giant tombs stone from a distance but they are mounds built by tiny termites. Not much to look at but pretty amazing that these tiny creatures.

Stay: Litchfield Tourist Park . This is the closest accommodation to the National Park but there is no service here and also no shops around. They have cabins, powered and unpowered campsites, a cafe and a swimming pool. The cabins were gorgeous and had everything you needed including a microwave, kettle, fridge, tv and really good AC.

Litchfield Outback Resort : If you’re looking for somewhere near the town, this is a nice hotel with a great bar and bottle shop attached to it. They are the only place to get a meal after 3 pm and the food is decent.

Hideaway Litchfield: If you have the budget to spurge on a unique experience in the national park, look no further. These are shipping containers turned luxury escapes in the heart of Litchfield National Park starting at $420 per night and there is a minimum stay of 2 nights.

30 minute drive from Kathrine and also has a café and a campsite here. It is beautiful and well worth stopping and hiking in if n30 minute drive from Kathrine and also has a café and a campsite here. It is beautiful and well worth stopping and hiking in if not also staying in. The campsite has toilets, showers and fresh water. There are a few hikes to do around Edith Falls (Leliyn), the moderate Leliyn Trail (2.6 km loop) which climbs into escarpment country and past scenic lookouts to the Upper Pool, where the Sweetwater Pool Trail (8.6km return, 3-4 hrs) branches off. You can swim in the Upper Pools all year round and only during The Dry in the Lower Pools.

After a morning hiking and cooling off in the pools head into Katherine to check out the town and grab some lunch in the best café in the NT, Madien’s Lane . It is out of town in an industrial estate but don’t let that but you off. They are open 6am-2pm so make sure you get there before they close. A constant issue we run into when we are travelling in Australia is we miss the cut off for lunch and can’t get anything to eat then until 5 pm. Most cafes in Australia close at 2 and finish serving food at 1 or 1.30 pm. These guys serve right until 2pm (internet says 3pm but it’s 2pm). This café is a brilliant, sophisticated cafe serving top notch burgers, as well as waffles, salads, cakes and brilliant vegan food.

There is not much happening in Katherine, its a bit of a dump to be honest but there are plenty of hotels, campsites, grocery stores and some restaurants and cafes. The restaurant scene isn’t up to much. The best bits of Katherine are the hot springs and the Nitmiluk National Park about 20 minute drive outside.

Katherine is an important meeting point in this part of the world, it stands where the traditional lands of the Jawoyn, Dagoman and Wardaman Indigenous peoples come together. Katherine is rich in Indigenous culture and offers some great tours.

Spend the afternoon at the Top Diji Cultural Experience and Art Gallery . It is run by the owners of the on site Katherine Art Gallery, a great place to see Indigenous artist at work. The cultural experiences are hands-on, with fire sticks, spear throwing, painting and basket weaving. The cultural experiences run twice daily (9.30am and 2.30 pm) from May-Oct. Prices: $85 adult, $55 child (3-15 yrs) .

Where to stay

Katherine Holiday Park is a good option for campers, they also have cabins on site and great facilities.

Knott’s Crossing Resort and another good options with powered , unpowered sites and rooms. It has a good restaurant on site.

Head for breakfast in Black Russian Caravan Bar , in the visitor centre. Serving Katherines best coffee and fabulous, thick-cut toasties as well as cakes and pastries. First stop of the day will be to Katherine Hot Springs, these natural thermal springs are located on the banks of the Katherine River. These series of clear pools are a warm 28-30 degrees year round and very inviting. Get here early to beat the crowds. They are free and quite small compared to Bitter Springs so 30 minutes is plenty of time here. 

About an hour drive from Katherine is Elsey National Park , comprising of Bitter Springs and Mataranka Gorge. This was one of the most beautiful places in the NT for us. Bitter Springs is a palm fringed thermal pool that is 34 degrees year round. The water is so impossibly clear and an almost unnatural green-blue colour. The thermal stream is like a lazy river, you can bring a floatie and let the water take you down stream.

10 minute drive from Bitter Springs is Mataranka Homestead and the thermal pools are at the back the homestead. The homestead serves good food and has accommodation options. Bring your goggles as there are little turtles in the thermal pools.

After lunch in Mataranka Homstead and a swim in the thermal pools, drive back towards Katherine to Nitmulik National Park and stay overnight near the gorge. There are a few accommodation options:

• Camping power and unpowered sites in the Nitmulik National Park. Good camp kitchens, fridges and a beautiful pool on site.
• Cabins and permanent tents in the National Park
• Cicada Lodge. A luxury hotel option with a pool and restaurant on site. Rooms start from $583 per night.

Sunrise is beautiful here and it gets extremely hot in the gorge during the day so the only time to do hiking is early in the morning. Set off 1 hour before sunrise to catch the best of the colours from the Baruwei Lookout. It takes about 20-30 minutes to walk to the lookout from the campground. There is plenty to do in Nitmulik National Park, from mountain biking, to kayaking, boat cruises and hiking.

Baruwei Lookout and Loop: You can choose just to go to the lookout (1.8km climb) or continue on the longer 4.8km loop. The look provides amazing views over the Katherine River. You can continue a little further on to take the steep rocky path down to the Southern Rockhole for a swim. It is safe year round to swim. It adds on about another 2 km to the loop but is well worth it.

Butterfly Gorge : A challenging 12 km return (4 hour) walk through a pocket of rainforest, the walk leads to midway along the second gorge and a deep water swimming hole. After a morning hiking, choose from one of the amazing tours run by Nitmulik They operate the accommodation and from the visitor centre. They run all of the parks activities including scenic flights, boat cruises and the Malappar Traveller caneoing tour. If you are visiting between Jun-Oct I would definitely recommend spending the afternoon on this canoeing tour. We ended up finishing our hike and the boat cruise by 2pm so we opted to get on the road and head onto Kakadu the afternoon of day 6 but it depends on how fast you want to move and time of year. If you visit in The Dry, you may have the option of doing the canoeing tour and hiking as it is cooler.

Get up early and head for Kakadu National Park, the highlight of the Top End road trip. Kakadu is a massive area encompassing about 20,000 sq km. It holds within its boundaries a spectacular ecosystem, periodically flooded and scorched and mind blowing ancient rock art. Kakadu is one place that is very season dependent on what activities and hikes are open. During The Dry is about the only time you really need to have a 4WD in the NT top end road trip. YOU DON’T, ONLY BETWEEN JUN-OCT. We had read various things and believed we needed a 4WD and spent a fortune on hiring one. I have done two options on how to spend 3 days in Kakadu, during The Dry and Wet. *The Dry really doesn’t start here until mid-late June, we thought it started in April and were very wrong. Although it didn’t rain once when we were there in mid to late April.*

In The Wet:

Day 7: Aim to leave Nitmulik Gorge before sunrise as it takes 2 and a half hours to reach the car park for Motor Car Falls. Motor Car Falls is a beautiful waterfall with huge swimming pool that is suitable for swimming during the Wet. It is one of the few places you can swim in Kakadu year round. The 6km return walk from the car park is an easy and flat trail that is well marked. Getting to Motor Car Falls car aprk is not as well sign posted. Take the Gimbat Road off the Kakadu Highway and it is 30 minutes down this road.

After a hike and swim, head towards Ubirr to see some salties and the locals fish at Cahills Crossing, Ubir Rock art and the best sunset in the NT. Stop in Cooinda Lodge , about an hour drive from the Motor Car Falls carpark, for some lunch. The food here is excellent. It is a good option to stay here if you are camping, the Yellow Water campground is right beside the lodge and the lodge has beautiful luxury glamping safari style cabins.

After lunch head towards Cahill’s Crossing, a dramatic frontier between Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park. It becomes unpassable during high tide. A high clearance 4WD with a snorkel is required to cross but you won’t be able to cross into Arnhem Land without a permit which takes several days to be processed. People usually visit Arnhem Land with a tour. The rangers have not been giving permits for over two years due to COVID. The population is almost solely indigenous here and would be vulnerable to any COVID outbreaks. The river is known for its very healthy population of salt water crocodiles. You can walk see the locals fish from the viewing platform and the crocodiles that line up to catch the fish at the mouth of the water. DO NOT be tempted to cross the river on foot, people have died doing this by salties.

Cahill’s crossing is only a few minute drive from Ubirr. Ubirr is one of the jewels in Kakadu’s well studded crown. Ubirr is best known for NT’s best sunset and magnificent aboriginal rock art that is some of the best preserved in Australia. The sunset point, Nardab Lookout is a 250 m scramble accessed from the main gallery. The sun sets over the exotic floodplains and it is so quiet and peaceful here. The gates to the car park close 30 minutes after sunset so make sure you don’t hang around too long admiring the colours after the sun goes down. Mosquitoes are rife here so make sure you carry some spray with you.

Day 9: The wildlife on the Yellow river cruise is best seen at sunrise or sunset but seeing as there are so many beautiful spots for sunset, I would advise getting up early before dawn and booking onto the Yellow Water Cruise. Sunrise is the most popular time so you must book ahead ($104 per person, 2 hours). This was one of the highlights for us in Kakadu, we saw salt water crocodiles so many difference species of birds and the sunrise over the Yellow Water Billabong.

After the sunrise cruise grab a buffet breakfast in Cooinda Lodge. The breakfast here is excellent and very reasonable for a buffet. Head to the Warradjan Aboringinal Cultural Centre which opens at 9 am and is only 1 km from the Cooinda Lodge. This was one of the best aboriginal museums I have visited and was so informative and interesting.It depicts creation stories and has an exhibition that includes tools, clothing and rock art samples. You will learn about the 6 seasons of Kakadu, how people get their name, who they can marry and life working the land.

Drive back towards Jabiru for a scenic scenic flight with Kakadu Air . They run every 2 hours from Jabiru airport and start at $220 per person for a 60 minute scenic flight taking in Arnhem land, Jim Jim and Twin Falls. It is the only way to see the falls during the \wet as the roads are closed to them until min June but it depends on the season. This was amazing to see Jim Jim and Twin falls in full flow and appreciate the amount of water and power of them. Flying over Arnhem Land showed just how vast an area it is. During the Dry the scenic flights don’t go over the waterfalls as they are dried up and not flowing then. During this time you can hike up to them and swim in the rock pools. To properly see the waterfalls you need to go by air and during the Wet.

After the scenic flight, drive up towards Nourlangie Rock art and climb the short but steep rock face to view sunset at Nawurlandja Lookout.

Day 10: Have a more chilled start to your last day and stop off at Mamukala wet lands on your way back to Darwin. Mamukala wetlands is a bird-lover’s dream. There is a short walk and a viewing platform which allows bird-watchers to see an astonishing variety of bird life.

In the Dry:

Day 8: Explore Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. For this you must have a 4WD . Camp overnight in the Garnamarr Campground. To reach the campoground turn east off the Kakadu Highway 43km south of the Bowali Centre.   Engage 4WD and travel 50 km along the Jim Jim Falls access road. Jim Jim Falls car park is an additional 15 km along the access road . It’s worth the 900 metre walk across the rocks to take a dip in the crystal clear water of the plunge pool.

From the Jim Jim Falls Car Park clear signage will direct you to the Plunge Pool Walk (approximately 2 kilometer return). The initial part of this walk is an easy to moderate marked track, approximately 400 m, where you can enjoy a stunning view of Jim Jim falls from afar. It is worth that tougher 500m to reach the majestic waterhole up close. The walk will take you through the monsoon forest along the Jim Jim Creek, to the deep waterfall plunge pool. Don’t underestimate this walking track, it involves scrambling over increasingly large boulders which can be sandy and slippery. Allow 3 hours (return) to complete. Depending on the time of year and how wet The Wet has been, Jim Jim Falls will gradually cease to flow.

The more energetic can take on the Barrk Marlam Walk. The rugged 3km ascent to the top of Jim Jim Falls will have you captivated by the spectacular view of the escarpment. The marked track is difficult and steep and to head off before 10 am to avoid the intense midday heat.

After tackling Jim Jim Falls, head for Twin Falls which lies a further 10 km from Jim Jim Falls in 4WD, allow 30 mins to reach it from Jim Jim Falls. The last section involves a deep water crossing at Jim Jim Creek which requires a high clearance 4WD with snorkel. Allow half an hour from Jim Jim Falls, one way. During the dry season the waterfall slows to a trickle.

Allow 2 hours to explore the Twin Falls Gorge. Access is by boat shuttle service, a walking track over boulders and sand and a boardwalk. Their is a gorge plateau walk which is 6km (4 hrs) where you can access the swimming pools.

Allow about 2 hours return for the boat trip and walk to the gorge. The boat shuttle service charges $12.50 per person return, children under 16 years travel free. The service departs at least every half hour (depending on demand) from 7.30am. The last boat service departs at 4.30pm and returns to the carpark end of the gorge at 6pm.

Day 9: Maguk and sunset in Ubirr .

Located an hour’s drive south from Cooinda, Maguk is accessed from a 14km four-wheel drive track off the Kakadu Highway (4WD is a must ) followed by a one kilometer walk through monsoon forests, crossing Barramundi Creek. Previously known as Barramundi Gorge, Maguk is a gorgeous swimming hole of crystal clear water that is fed by a waterfall. It is a 14 km drive from Cooinda, 12km of which is off road, and a 2km return hike. if you are up for exploring a bit more, there is an unmarked track which will lead you up to the top of the waterfall. You will be rewarded with a birds eye view of the gorge and a series of rockpools that you can swim in. Be careful though as there is one swim hole which once in, you can only get out of by swimming down a couple of meters and through an underwater tunnel. Not for the faint of heart. The hike to the top is very short but considered more moderate to hard as it is quite steep at times.

After hiking and swimming in the watering holes of Maguk, head on the 1.5 hour drive towards Ubirr to enjoy the best sunset in NT and take in the magnificent rock art.

Day 10: Yellow River Cruise and Mamukala Wetlands. Get up early for the Yellow River Cruise at dawn, the best time as sunrise over the river is magical and the wildlife are most active then. Enjoy a buffet breakfast in Cooinda Lodge after and then start making your way back towards Darwin. It will take just over 3 hours from here. Break the journey up with a stop off at Mamukala wet lands . Mamukala wetlands is a bird-lover’s dream. There is a short walk and a viewing platform which allows bird-watchers to see an astonishing variety of bird life. Grab lunch 40 min drive from Darwin on your way back in the Humpty Doo Hotel. Stopping off here for lunch and a drink is a must. First ’cause there is a township called Humpty Doo and secondly they serve decent pub grub and cheap drinks.

Share this:

About the author.

Related Posts

How to plan a trip to the Amalfi Coast: 7 of the best places to visit on your Amalfi adventure

Planning a trip to Italy’s colourful Amalfi Coast seaside towns? This guide will take…

The Ulmitate Guide to Capri: Where to eat, stay, drink and sunbath

A jewel of southern Italy, the island of Capri is famous for many reasons. It…

An Epic Alice Springs to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary

Are you planning a Northern Territory Road Trip? The drive from Alice Springs to Darwin is one of the best road trips in Australia.  It’s a long way – the distance from Alice to Darwin is almost 1500km. This is definitely not a drive you would do in one day.  

Perhaps you’re concerned that there’s not much to see and do on the Alice Springs to Darwin drive.  However, on this road trip you’ll see some of the best of the Northern Territory as you drive from the desert of Central Australia to the tropical Top End .  You’ll see natural wonders, historic landmarks, and just a couple of quirky stops too.  

We did the Alice Springs to Darwin road trip in July 2022.  Of course you can do this road trip in reverse too.  In this post you’ll learn about all the best places to stay, things to do and see on this epic road trip.  We’ll help you make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Disclaimer : This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Purchasing through these links supports our work and allows us to continue bringing you travel guides, like this, for free. Thank you for your support .

Planning a Darwin to Alice Springs Road Trip? Simply read this itinerary from bottom to top!

How to drive from Alice Springs to Darwin

You’ll be driving on the Stuart Highway, the main north-south highway in Central Australia.  You won’t need a 4×4 as the road from Alice Springs to Darwin is sealed all the way.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent a car or even a campervan.  We travelled in our campervan and there are so many wonderful places to stay on this epic road trip.

Best time to visit the Northern Territory

As you drive from Alice to Darwin, you will experience two quite different climates. Alice Springs has a desert climate, with hot dry summers, and cooler dry winters.  Winter nights in Central Australia can drop below zero, and summer days can top 40 degrees.

Darwin and the Top End has a tropical climate, with warm dry winters and hot humid summers.  The summer (green or wet) season is characterised by tropical storms. Darwin receives around 1700mm (68 inches) of rain each year, compared to only 283mm or 11 inches in Alice Springs.

We did this road trip in late July – early August, and it was surprising how the weather changed and got a lot warmer as we headed north.  For this reason, we think the best time to do the Alice Springs to Darwin road trip would be in late Autumn.  If you left Alice in May and arrived in Darwin in June you’d get the best weather in both places.

If you’re doing this road trip in reverse, and you’re planning to drive from Darwin to Alice Springs, you could definitely leave later in the winter.

Having said that, we think any time from April to October is great in the Northern Territory.

Alice Springs to Darwin Itinerary

Before you start this road trip, there are plenty of things to do in and around Alice Springs.  You might like to check out The Best Things to do in Alice Springs and our Central Australia Road Trip Itinerary for some ideas.

We recommend spending at least 5 days on the Alice Springs to Darwin drive but of course you could spend much longer.  You will probably want to spend some additional time around Katherine and the Nitmiluk National Park .  There are also a number of side trips you can do on this itinerary including Litchfield National Park and the world famous Kakadu National Park .  This itinerary assumes that you have already spent some time in Alice Springs and Central Australia before heading north.

Day 1 – Alice Springs to Karlu Karlu (Devil’s Marbles)

412km, 4 hours driving

Leaving Alice and heading north, the first place you may want to stop is the Tropic of Capricorn monument, 30km away.  There is a free camp here, with 2 x toilets and a picnic table.  The monument makes a good photo stop and coffee, if its that time already!

Next up is the giant sculptures at Alieron.  The Anmatjere Man and Anmatjere Woman with child.  These statues were created by artist Mark Egan.  The Anmatjere Man stands 17m high, on the top of the hill overlooking the town.  Also up on the hill is Alieron’s answer to Hollywood – a series of large letters spelling out the name of the town.  

You can park at the Aileron Roadhouse and take a walk up to the statue.  The views from here are incredible.  On your way up you will walk through the A for Aileron.

When you come back down, don’t miss the Anmatjere Woman and child statue.  This is located down the hill near the roadhouse.  You can walk around these statues and marvel at their size.

Wycliffe Well – UFO Capital of Australia

This is definitely one of those attractions that you need to take with a grain of salt.  Apparently there have been more UFOs sighted here than any other place in the country.  The enterprising Roadhouse owner seized on this statistic (or did he make it up in the first place?) and put alien statues and other paraphernalia around the roadhouse.  

When we visited it was looking pretty run down, and apparently the roadhouse itself is currently “temporarily closed”.  We believe the aliens are still hanging around though.

Karlu Karlu (Devil’s Marbles) Conservation Area

The Devil’s Marbles are a series of huge round granite rocks rising out from the desert.  You will wonder how they manage to balance so precariously, and why they just appear here, in the middle of the desert.

The rocks are called Marbles as they are so round.  To the traditional owners, the Kaytete, Warumungu, Warlpiri and Alyawarra people, they are known as Karlu Karlu, which means “Round Rocks”.

Cultural importance of Karlu Karlu

The rocks have great spiritual significance to the traditional owners. In 1953 one of the boulders was taken, without permission, to be placed over the grave of John Flynn, founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, in Alice Springs. This act upset the Kaytete and Warumungu people, and also the Arrente people around Alice who were concerned at it’s presence.

Over the following decades there were many discussions around the removal of this rock, and eventually in 1998 the rock was returned to it’s original place at Karlu Karlu. In 2008 ownership of the Karlu Karlu Conservation Reserve was handed back to the traditional owners.

There are signboards explaining how the rocks were created over millenia.  The wind and rain weathered away the surrounding sandstone exposing the granite boulders to what you see now.  The boulders continue to erode and crack, the landscape is continually changing.

There are walking trails around and through the rocks, and you can climb to a lookout.  Please be aware that the rocks are sacred to the indigenous people, and they do ask that you don’t climb on them.  While you are bound to see photos of people standing on rocks (or in the mouth of the one that looks like PacMan) – we found it more fun to take these creative photos.

The best time to see the Devil’s Marbles is at sunrise and sunset, as they change colour beautifully.  For this reason, we found the Parks campsite (which is right behind the rocks) to be perfectly situated.  This campsite can be booked online at the Parks NT website .

Where to stay at the Devil’s Marbles

Alternatively, you can stay at the Devils Marbles Hotel which is about 10 km to the south in the small town of Wauchope.  The pub has powered and unpowered sites camping sites, and a range of cabin accommodation.  There is a free camp (no facilities) out the front of the pub.  Either way, this is a great place to stop in for a beer after today’s drive.

Please note: a valid NT Parks Pass is required for this park

Day 2 – Devil’s Marbles to Daly Waters Pub

502km around 5 hr 15 min driving time

Tennant Creek

Tennant Creek is the only significant town between Alice Springs and Katherine, and a logical spot to stop and stock up on any groceries you might need.  There is a decent IGA supermarket in town.  Other than food and fuel, Tennant Creek is probably not somewhere you really want to stop.

Daly Waters Pub

The Daly Waters Hotel is one of those “iconic” Aussie Outback pubs, that everyone doing a lap of Australia likes to stop at.  The bar is decorated with memorabilia (including women’s underwear) that passing tourists have left, and just across the street is Tim’s junk yard, which is just that.  

At 7pm the publican comes out on his motorised mobility scooter, followed by his horse, to tell his story.  There is also live music to entertain the guests.

There is a large camping area surrounding the pub, with powered and unpowered sites.  

To be honest, we found the Daly Waters pub overcrowded and over-hyped.  The campsite was dusty and we felt squashed in.  We do think it’s one of those places you should visit, but maybe just stop in for a beer and a look around.  

Day 3 – Daly Waters to Mataranka/Bitter Springs

168km 1hr 45min driving

A short driving day today but be prepared to relax and enjoy the waters of Mataranka and Bitter Springs.  The first thing we noticed on the drive north from Daly Waters was the appearance of trees again.  We realised we had left the desert of Central Australia and were heading into the more verdant north.

The small town of Larrimah (popn 12) is famous for the Pink Panther Hotel, and the disappearance of local resident Paddy Moriaty.  The pub boasts outback hospitality, friendly locals and great pizza.

However, while those locals may be friendly to travellers, it seems that many of them hate each other.  In 2017, Paddy Moriaty left the pub and drove the 800m home, and he and his dog were never seen again.  

In 2022 the coroner ruled that his death was likely due to an on-going feud with his neighbour. His remains have never been found, and a $250,000 reward is still offered for information leading to a resolution in this case.

You can learn all about the case on the drive by listening to the Lost in Larrimah podcast or watching the doco on Netflix.

After days (or maybe weeks) in the dusty desert, the thermal springs at Mataranka are a welcome rest for travellers.  Mataranka also has a rich pastoral history, made famous in the book “We of the Never Never” which was turned into a movie in the 1980s.  

You can see the replica of the Elsey Homestead house set near the thermal springs carpark.  (The house was actually moved here after filming).

Mataranka Springs

Mataranka Springs is a beautiful place to stop and have a swim.  The springs are fed from the underground water table and stay at a constant 34 degrees.  A swimming pool of sorts has been constructed, with a sandy bottom.  There are handrails and steps to assist people getting in.  

The path from the carpark is accessible for prams and wheelchairs.

There are also several walking trails around Mataranka Springs, and the best thing, is its free to swim here.

Bitter Springs

You might be wondering which is better, Mataranka or Bitter Springs. We much preferred the hot springs at Bitter Springs as the waterhole has been left in its more natural state.  You can float down the river for around 100m with the current.  This is a great place to come with a pool noodle or other floatation device.  Don’t forget your snorkel gear, as there are turtles and fish to spot in the water.

Our top tip for visiting Bitter Springs is to come at sunrise.  You may get to see the mist (or is it steam?) rising from the water.  More importantly, the water will be still and not churned up, so visibility will be much better.  Bitter Springs gets quite crowded during the middle of the day.

Where to stay in Mataranka

There are caravan parks right at both Mataranka and Bitter Springs, which has cabins as well as caravan/camping sites.  The best things with these parks is you will be walking distance to the hot springs.  

There is also the Territory Manor Motel and Caravan Park closer to Mataranka.  We stayed here for one night, it was great and they even had a resident band for entertainment in the evenings.

Day 4 – Mataranka to Katherine

108km 1 hr 10min driving

Katherine is the first large town on the drive from Alice Springs to Darwin, with a population of 6,000.  It’s known as the place where “the outback meets the tropics”.  There are some great things to do around Katherine and we definitely recommend spending a couple of days here.

On our last visit we were surprised to find a great café in Katherine.  It’s called Peakabrew and is located just by the cinema.  Big thumbs up for their coffee!

Katherine Gorge and Nitmiluk National Park

Nitmiluk National Park is one of the most spectacular places in the Northern Territory. The highlight is Katherine Gorge, which is actually made up of 13 gorges.  The cliff walls of the gorge tower above you as you explore this ancient landscape.

You can visit the Katherine Gorge on foot, in a canoe, on a boat cruise or even a helicopter flight. Nitmiluk Tours operates boat tours into the gorge and also hires out canoes. There are a couple of places where you can swim in Katherine Gorge, one of the most popular is the Southern Rockhole (depending on the season).

Katherine Gorge Walks

Some of our favourite hikes in the Northern Territory are within the Nitmiluk National Park.  From short walks to the 5 day Jatbula hike, there is something for everyone here.  We really loved the hike to Butterfly Gorge and the loop up to Pat’s Lookout.  

Top Didj Cultural Experience

On the way out to Katherine Gorge you’ll pass the Top Didj Art Gallery.  Manuel Pamkal of the Top Didj Art Gallery and Cultural Experience is one of the best indigenous teachers we’ve ever met.  We really enjoyed the Top Didj Cultural Experience .  Manuel told us his story, taught us to paint in the northern style (using lines rather than the dots of central Australia), how to make a fire with sticks and how to throw a spear.

Oh and if Manuel looks familiar, you might have seen him on TikTok – he’s a bit of a celebrity!  Top Didj Cultural Experiences operate during the dry season from April to October.

Katherine Hot Springs

The Katherine Hot Springs are located right in the town, just a short walk down steps from the car park.  This is a great place to soak your tired muscles after hiking in Katherine Gorge.

Edith Falls (Leilyn)

Edith Falls is also in the Nitmiluk National Park, but around half an hour’s drive north of Katherine.  This section of the park is known for its waterfalls and beautiful swimming holes.  

There is a kiosk and a Parks campsite at the main swimming hole, but we really enjoyed the walk up to the upper falls and swimming there.  There’s a few rocks you can jump off, if you’re brave!

Where to stay in Katherine

Within Katherine there are many places to stay , from Caravan Parks to motel rooms.  If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Katherine Gorge, and some of the best food we’ve ever eaten, we highly recommend the Cicada Lodge . This boutique property offers only 18 rooms and is located just near the visitor centre at Katherine Gorge.

In addition to the NT Parks campsite at Edith Falls, there is a free camp just where you turn off the main road.  This free camp is very popular and fills up quickly!  We also liked it here as the phone and internet reception was much better here than at the Parks campsite.

Day 5 – Katherine to Darwin

317km 3hr 20min driving

The drive from Katherine to Darwin is only around 3 hours (gotta love those 130km speed limits in the NT!).  The landscape changes again, as you drive through bushland.  There are a couple of places to stop on the way.

This historic town is around an hour’s drive north of Katherine.  The town was established in the late 1800s when there was a gold rush here, and there are still many historic buildings from that time in the town.

Just near Pine Creek you will pass the turn-off to Kakadu National Park .  You may choose to head into Kakadu and loop around to Darwin that way. This will add an additional three hours of driving time, plus whatever time you spend in Kakadu.  

Adelaide River

Another hour up the road and you’ll come to Adelaide River.  This small township has a rich military history, which you’ll see more evidence of as you drive further north.  There’s a good military cemetery here where some of the victims of the bombing of Darwin in WW2 are buried.

Fun fact: Adelaide River has some of the cheapest fuel in the NT – apparently the two roadhouses have a bit of a feud and keep trying to undercut each other.  Keep an eye on your Petrol Spy App and if you’re lucky you might save 10-20c per litre.

You will pass the turnoff to Litchfield National Park near the town of Batchelor.  You can loop around to Darwin via Litchfield, which will add an additional 1hr 45min to your driving time, plus the time you spend in Litchfield.

When we visited the Northern Territory, we drove straight to Darwin to restock (and get a few repairs on our van done, before doing a Top End Road Trip loop from Darwin to Kakadu, then Katherine, then Litchfield and then back to Darwin.  We spent several days in each of the parks.

After 1500km you’ll find yourself in Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory.  We love the vibe of Darwin – there are so many things to do in Darwin , there are great bars and cafes here.  It seems like there’s always something on, and it’s one of those cities we keep feeling drawn back to.

Essential Information

Driving from alice springs to darwin.

The distance is 1500km and there are a couple of things to be aware of before you set out on your Alice to Darwin Drive.  Firstly, although this is the main north-south road through the middle of Australia, it is very remote.  

You will find roadhouses with fuel and takeaway food every couple of hundred of kilometres, but other than that, there is not much out here.  Make sure you top up your fuel before you leave, and carry water with you.

In the event of a breakdown, stay with your vehicle.  You may not have phone reception, but it won’t be long before someone comes along.

You will encounter plenty of Road Trains along this drive, large trucks with 3 or 4 trailers on the back – these can be up to 50m long.

It is not recommended you drive between dusk and until after dawn – night-time is when most accidents with wild life occur.  There are some BIG kangaroos out there, and you are likely to do considerable damage to your vehicle if you hit one. (Not to mention killing the kangaroo).

For much of the Northern Territory the speed limit is 130km/h.  Always drive to the conditions of the road and your vehicle.

Food and Water

You will find takeaway and roadhouse style food at all the roadhouses as you road trip alice springs to darwin but you’ll only find supermarkets in Tenant Creek (IGA) and Katherine (Woolworths).

We filled our water tank before we left Alice, and then again at the self-service Shell just north of Katherine. You’ll find a Dump Point at the Devil’s Marbles, Daly Waters, Katherine and Pine Creek.

Phone and Internet

Phone reception is very sparse along this road, but you may find Booster Towers along the road.  This is a place where you can stop and if you get really close to the dish you may get enough reception to make a phone call or answer a text message.  Probably not enough to check your Instagram though!

National Parks Pass

From April 2023, all visitors to National Parks in the Northern Territory require a parks pass (NT residents excepted). You can buy your pass online or at a Parks office or visitor centre.

How long does it take to drive from Alice Springs to Darwin?

The drive from Alice Springs to Darwin is around 1500km and would take you at least 15 hours if you drove straight from A to B.  Most people do this drive over 3-5 days.

Is it worth driving from Alice Springs to Darwin?

Absolutely!  There are so many great things to see on the way, natural beauty, historic landmarks and a good share of outback quirkiness too. We were fascinated to see the landscape change from Desert to the tropics. And, we think the Devil’s Marbles is one of the coolest places to visit in all of the NT!

Is the road from Darwin to Alice Springs sealed?

Yes, unless there are any roadworks (where speed limits will be reduced) the road is sealed all the way.

Do you need a 4×4 to drive from Alice Springs to Darwin?

If you’re sticking to the main road you won’t need any off-road capabilities.  A regular 2wd car will be fine for this drive.

Is it safe to drive at night in the Northern Territory?

It is generally recommended to avoid driving at night (including dusk and dawn) due to the likelihood of wild-life on the road.  You may also encounter wandering stock from cattle stations, as many times the stations are not fenced.

Where to next?

Take a Top End Road Trip or check out the beautiful Litchfield National Park .

Need help planning your Alice Springs to Darwin Itinerary? We offer a personalised Itinerary planning service, drop a comment below or get in touch for more info.

2 thoughts on “An Epic Alice Springs to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary”

Your article was a real eye-opener for me. The clarity and precision in your writing are commendable.

Thanks for the compliment! Glad you enjoyed it.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

The Ultimate Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary

An Adelaide to Darwin road trip is undoubtedly one of the best in Australia. Travelling from the southern coast all the way to the northern coast through the middle of the country offers an extraordinary way of exploring the vast landscapes that Australia has to offer.

The Stuart Highway is the main road that links Port Augusta in South Australia with Darwin in the Northern Territory. As one of the longest and loneliest highways in Australia, it’s an incredible adventure. Taking in the variety of desert landscapes from the Flinders Ranges and Coober Pedy to Uluru and Alice Springs , it’s one of the most memorable road trips I’ve ever done.

If you drive direct from Adelaide to Darwin, it’s just over 3,000km. So, it’s not a short little roadie. But if you take your time, you’ll be able to stop along the way at all the incredible things to do and see (which will also mean you’ll cover much more than 3,000km!).

I feel fortunate enough to have taken my first van on an Adelaide to Darwin road trip. A trip that took me about four months to complete at a slow pace. In this post, I’m going to detail all the best things to do on the Stuart Highway that you should add to your road trip itinerary. How long you decide to take is up to you, but never rush through the Aussie outback because there’s so much to appreciate about it!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Best Time of Year to Drive the Stuart Highway

While you can drive the Stuart Highway at any time of the year, I’d recommend planning this road trip for the dry season (winter months) from April to October . This is because the Flinders Ranges, Coober Pedy, Central Australia and the Top End all see extreme heat during the warmer summer months, plus the Northern Territory also experiences a monsoon season during summer.

Sometimes the highway can be flooded during the monsoon, so you should always check ahead if you’re driving at this time. Most of the swimming spots in the Northern Territory are also closed due to flooding and crocodile risk in the summer months, so it also limits what you can see and do.

Whereas in the winter , temperatures are moderate during the day with clear skies for the most part. However, it does get quite cold overnight, especially out in the desert at Uluru, Alice Springs and Flinders Ranges. You’ll have be prepared for all temperatures when travelling in winter.

Essential Road Trip Tips for the Stuart Highway

• Distances are vast on long straight highways like the Stuart Highway, with very little to look at, don’t forget to take frequent stops to rest and stretch your legs
• Avoid driving at night , as this only increases the chance of accidents, especially with wildlife
• Watch out for animals on the road, especially in the early morning and late evening
• Be careful of road trains and other large trucks which can be travelling at high speeds and are much larger than the trucks you’ll be used to on the east coast or elsewhere
• Much of the Stuart Highway is remote with little facilities along the way, so plan each day ahead to be aware of stops, toilets, and fuel
• Check fuel frequently, as sometimes the distances between fuel stations is long. However, there are roadhouses nicely spaced along the highway that you shouldn’t need to carry extra fuel at any time
• Make sure you have roadside assistance so that you can get help anywhere along the Stuart Highway at any time
• Don’t forget about obtaining national park passes for both South Australia and Northern Territory before departing so you can explore all the best parts on this road trip
• Download a GPS map offline such as Google Maps or Maps.Me, as phone signal can be pretty scarce especially on the remote highways and in national parks

Note: This post is really aimed at those travelling with a 2WD vehicle and for sticking to the main roads. If you have a 4×4, there’s many other variations you can add, such as the Oodnadatta Track (SA), Mereenie Loop (NT), and Arnhem Land (NT).

Road Trip Essentials

• Reusable coffee cup
• Reef safe sunscreen
• First aid kit
• Refillable water bottle
• Walking shoes
• Healthy snacks

Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary: Stops on the Stuart Highway

If you’re planning an Adelaide to Darwin road trip, there’s so much to see and do along the way. You can use these suggestions to help plan out your trip, depending on how much time you have. Here’s everywhere I think you should stop as you travel north from Adelaide to Darwin on the Stuart Highway:

Adelaide 

Adelaide is the obvious place to start this road trip to Darwin. As the laidback capital of South Australia, it’s an easy city to explore with plenty of things to do in and around the CBD if you have some time. Located on the St Vincent Gulf, Adelaide is known for its access to beautiful parks, beaches, markets and festivals.

Whether you simply pass through Adelaide on your way from the east coast or plan to spend a couple of days checking out the city, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the friendly and vibrant vibe.

Some of my favourite things to do in Adelaide include:

• Adelaide Botanic Garden
• Adelaide Central Market and Chinatown
• Rundle Mall
• Glenelg Beach
• Morialta Conservation Park
• Mount Lofty Summit
• Belair National Park
• Onkaparinga River National Park
• McLaren Vale Wine Region

Read next: 10 Best Places to Visit on Fleurieu Peninsula

Side trip: Flinders Ranges

Distance from Adelaide: 440km or 5.5 hour drive

Lying north of Adelaide on the edge of the outback, the Flinders Ranges is one of my favourite places in Australia. With rocky, rugged ranges soaring out of the arid landscape for as far as the eye can see, it’s an imposing and spectacular sight.

While people short on time may prefer to skip the Flinders Ranges and head from Adelaide to Port Augusta to jump onto the Stuart Highway to Darwin, I HIGHLY recommend you allow at least a couple of days for the Flinders Ranges.

There’s actually a few different parts of the Flinders that you can explore. The obvious and most beautiful part is the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Centered around Wilpena Pound Resort , this stunning national park will blow you away with its beauty. From hikes to 4×4 drives and Aboriginal cultural tours, there’s plenty to do in the national park.

If you have even more time, then while you’re travelling down from Wilpena Pound to Port Augusta, stop in Quorn and explore parts of the Southern Flinders Ranges , including Mount Remarkable and Alligator Gorge. My individual posts have plenty more information about exploring the Flinders Ranges, including the 12 best hikes to do .

Read next: Ultimate Guide to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Port Augusta

Distance from Wilpena Pound: 160km or 2 hour drive

The port city of Port Augusta has become one of Australia’s major road and rail intersections. Situated at the top of the Spencer Gulf and just over 320km from Adelaide, it’s a major thoroughfare as road trains, trucks, caravans, vans and cars pass through on their way north, west or east.

Port Augusta is the official southern end of the Stuart Highway, which continues north all the way to Darwin. At the same intersection, you’ll also find the Eyre Highway which continues west over to Western Australia, and the Augusta Highway which leads down to Adelaide. It’s also where the Flinders Ranges Way begins, heading up to Quorn, Hawker and Wilpena Pound.

There’s not a whole lot to do in Port Augusta. However, after coming from the Flinders Ranges, it can be a convenient place to stop for the night before heading up the more remote Stuart Highway to Coober Pedy.

If you have time to kill, check out some of these things in Port Augusta:

• Wadlata Outback Centre
• Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden
• Matthew Flinders Red Cliff Lookout

Coober Pedy

Distance from Port Augusta: 540km or 6 hour drive

What can I say, Coober Pedy is an absolute must visit on an Adelaide to Darwin road trip. As one of the most unique towns in all of Australia, the mining outpost is all things quirky, bizarre and beautiful. It’s well known as the Opal Capital of the World, with more than half of the world’s opals coming from the mines around the town. You’ll start to see mounds of soil and holes in the ground as you approach Coober Pedy from the south.

It’s also the only major town between Port Augusta and  Alice Springs  on the Stuart Highway, making it an important stop for travellers. It becomes a pretty lonely outback highway quite quickly as you leave Port Augusta and head for Coober Pedy. In fact, the only stops between the two towns are  Spud’s Roadhouse  at Pimba and  Glendambo Roadhouse . Both offer fuel, food and accommodation.

If you want to stop en route for the night, Spud’s Roadhouse request a $5 donation to camp overnight with toilets and showers. I also had good Optus phone reception there. Glendambo have a caravan park next to the pub with powered and unpowered sites, for around $30 per night.

Once you arrive in Coober Pedy, you should plan to spend at least a couple of nights in town. Some of my favourite things to do in Coober Pedy, include:

• Old Timer’s Mine
• Sunset from The Big Winch
• Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park
• Stay in an underground hotel

Read next: 10 Unique Things to Do in Coober Pedy

Erldunda/Ghan

Distance from Coober Pedy: 486km or 5 hour drive

From Coober Pedy, it’s just under 400km to the Northern Territory border. There’s only a couple of places to stop in between: Cadney Park Homestead  and  Marla . Cadney Park has a caravan park with sites between $30-40. They also offer fuel and food. Marla Roadhouse has fuel and a pub, plus a caravan park starting from $10 per person per night.

Once you cross into the Northern Territory, the first roadhouse is at  Kulgera , with fuel, food and accommodation. Then you have  Erldunda Roadhouse . This popular roadhouse is an ideal place to stop for the night on the Stuart Highway, as it’s at the turnoff for the Lasseter Highway which leads to Uluru and Kata Tjuta. They also offer food and fuel.

Side trip: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Distance from Erldunda: 250km or 3 hour drive

From Erldunda, you’ll want to take your first diversion off the Stuart Highway and onto what is referred to as the Red Centre Way . Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a once in a lifetime destination and one of the most breathtaking places in Australia. An Adelaide to Darwin road trip would not be complete without a trip to Uluru and Kings Canyon.

Once you turn onto the Lasseter Highway, it’s only about 3 hours to Yulara, the main town and base for exploring Uluru.

A couple of spots worth stopping at along the way are:  Mt Conner Lookout Rest Area , which offers a nice view across to Mt Connor or  Atila , and  Curtin Springs Wayside Inn , which is a fuel station, bar and restaurant. 

Once you get to Yulara , there are plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and a few shops, including a fuel station. In high season it’s worth booking in advance, otherwise you’ll be out in the overflow campground like me (although it is cheaper).

I would recommend allowing three days to really appreciate the park. There’s plenty to see and do, including:

• Free ranger guided Mala walk
• 10km Uluru base walk/cycle
• 7.5 km Valley of the Winds walk at Kata Tjuta
• Uluru car sunset viewing spot
• Uluru Sunrise Viewing Platform/Talinguru Nyakunytjaku
• Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing Sunrise spot

Continue reading: The Ultimate Guide to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Side trip: Watarrka-Kings Canyon National Park

Distance from Yulara:  304km or 3.5 hour drive

As you continue on the Red Centre Way , you should allow another couple of days to explore Watarrka-Kings Canyon National Park. You have to head back along Lasseter Highway and then take the turnoff towards Watarrka National Park on Luritja Road.

The main place to stay and base for exploring the national park is Kings Canyon Resort. They have a large caravan park, a swimming pool and toilet and shower blocks. If you’re not a camper, then they also have resort accommodation with private rooms and glamping available. There’s a restaurant, petrol station and basic shop on site too.

A couple of days is generally enough to take in the canyon area. Here are the best things to do:

• 6km Kings Canyon Rim walk
• 2.6km Kings Creek walk
• 2.6km Kathleen Springs walk
• Sunset from Kings Canyon Resort viewing platform

Continue reading: How to Visit Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park

Alice Springs

Distance from Watarrka National Park: 474 km or 5.5 hour drive

Alice Springs is the main town in Central Australia and an absolute must stop on the Stuart Highway. From Kings Canyon, you’ll have to head back to Erldunda Roadhouse and then continue on the Stuart Highway north to Alice Springs.

There’s everything that you’ll need in town, from caravan parks to hotels and plenty of shops, cafes and supermarkets. If you have the time, it’s worth staying a couple of days in Alice Springs to explore the town and relax after some long driving days.

Then, allow at least another couple of days to explore the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges, and if you have time, the East MacDonnell Ranges as well.

Read next: 10 Best Things to Do in Alice Springs

Side trip: West MacDonnell Ranges / Tjoritja

An absolute highlight of any Adelaide to Darwin road trip is the West Macs. This incredible national park draws some similarities to the Flinders Ranges, with expansive, rugged mountain ranges soaring out of the desert.

The ranges also hide gorges, gaps and water holes that can easily be explored from Alice Springs. Most of the sights and attractions are all located on Larapinta and Namatjira Drive, making it easy to get around for all vehicles. 

While you can technically head out there on a day trip, it’s worth staying at least a night or longer to really appreciate the true beauty of the area. There are national park campgrounds at Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek, Ormiston Gorge and Redbank Gorge or you can also stay at the Glen Helen Resort.

Some of the highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges include:

• Simpsons Gap
• Standley Chasm
• Ellery Creek Big Hole
• Ormiston Gorge and Ormiston Pound Walk
• Redbank Gorge

Read more: Complete Guide to the West MacDonnell Ranges / Tjoritja

Side trip: East MacDonnell Ranges

While the West MacDonnell Ranges get all the fame, the East Macs are just as spectacular. Home to sacred Arrernte sites, deep gorges, water holes and some varied walks, you can easily extend your visit for longer than a day.

Most of the main attractions are off the Ross Highway, and can be done in one long day trip from Alice Springs. However, I would recommend camping at least a night, preferably at Trephina Gorge. This would give you more time to complete some of the walks as well, which I highly recommend.

Some of the best things to see in the East Macs are:

• Emily and Jessie Gaps/Yeperenye
• Corroboree Rock
• Trephina Gorge
• 10km Ridgetop Walk

Read more: A Guide to Exploring the East MacDonnell Ranges

Karlu Karlu-Devils Marbles

Distance from Alice Springs: 403 km or 4 hour drive

Another must see on the Stuart Highway is Devils Marbles. A sacred site known as Karlu Karlu in the language of the Traditional Owners the Warumungu people, this boulder strewn field is one of the most unique sights in the Aussie outback.

Especially spectacular at sunset and sunrise, this incredible landscape makes for the perfect rest stop as you travel from Alice Springs north to Katherine. There is a basic campground right at the site, making it one of the most popular places to stop. Book in advance if you want to secure a site. If you don’t get a spot, then try down the road at Devils Marbles Hotel and Roadhouse.

I camped here on my way north and south again. It’s worth exploring at sunset and again at sunrise to really soak in the incredible outback colours.

Daly Waters

Distance from Karlu Karlu: 511 km or 6 hour drive

This famous little spot on the Stuart Highway is well-known for its pub. Built in 1930, the pub is a quirky place decorated in corrugated iron and crammed with decades of memorabilia, which road trippers love to stop and peruse.

The pub offers accommodation ranging from safari tents to cabins and camping. It can get crazy busy in high season, so arrive early if you want a spot. The meals and drinks are served all day at the pub, which is always bustling with people despite the tiny population surrounding it.

Distance from Daly Waters: 170 km or 2 hour drive

Mataranka has become one of the most popular stops on the Stuart Highway in Northern Territory all thanks to its famous hot springs. With natural thermal pools and swimming spots amongst a dense monsoon forest and campgrounds not far away, it’s definitely a highlight of any road trip.

Mataranka is the main town near Elsey National Park which covers the Mataranka Thermal Pools and Bitter Springs. It’s a small town with not too much to offer, but there are two main places that people stay.

Mataranka Homestead is right next to the Mataranka Thermal Pool and Rainbow Springs and is the more well-known spot. I stayed at Bitter Springs Cabins and Camping which is right near Bitter Springs Thermal Pool and a more rustic place. Either way, you should allow a night here to visit both springs and pools.

Distance from Mataranka: 115 km or 1.5 hour drive

Katherine is one of the largest towns in the Northern Territory. Located on the Stuart Highway south of Darwin, there are several incredible sights to see nearby which make it a must stop. Sitting on the banks of the Katherine River and on the outskirts of the expansive Nitmiluk National Park, it’s perfectly described as where the outback meets the Top End tropics.

While the town itself doesn’t offer a whole lot itself other than the Katherine Hot Springs, it does make a great base for exploring Nitmiluk National Park.

Side trip: Nitmiluk National Park – Katherine Gorge

Distance from Katherine: 30km or 30 minute drive

Nitmiluk National Park is home to the iconic Katherine Gorge, one of the main attractions in the Northern Territory. As the traditional land of the Jawoyn people, this national park is characterised by 13 connected gorges, Aboriginal rock art, and natural swimming holes and waterfalls that can be explored either on foot or by boat.

The Nitmiluk Visitor Centre is the gateway to the park and just half an hour drive from Katherine. You can either choose to stay in Katherine or there are also accommodation options right at the visitor centre if you want to stay closer and explore earlier in the morning (not a bad option to beat the intense heat).

While many people simply visit for a day, there’s actually plenty of things to do that you could explore for at least two days or longer. If you like hiking, there’s also a couple of multi-day hikes that I’ve done inside the park that are worth planning for too.

My favourite things to do in Nitmiluk National Park include:

• Katherine Gorge Boat Cruise (2 hours long)
• Butterfly Gorge Loop Walk
• 5-6 day Jatbula Trail Hike
• 3 day Southern Walks Hike

Read more: A Complete Guide to Nitmiluk National Park – Katherine Gorge

Edith Falls

Distance from Katherine: 60km or 40 minute drive

As you leave Katherine and continue north on the Stuart Highway, there’s another stop which is technically still inside Nitmiluk National Park that is worth making. Edith Falls or Leliyn is a set of cascading falls and natural swimming holes in the western part of the national park.

Accessed off the Stuart Highway just north of Katherine, you can either do this as a day trip from Katherine or spend the night at Edith Falls in the campground. Seasonal swimming is allowed in the main pool at the base of the falls, as well as many smaller pools further up the river which are accessible on foot. In the wet season, it’s generally closed due to risk of crocodiles creeping in from the floods.

Not only is it a great swimming spot in the dry season, but there are also a couple of walks to do. Leliyn Trail Loop Walk is about 2.6km and provides access to smaller pools higher up the gorge. You can also head even further to Sweetwater Pool, which is 9km return. It’s worth spending a night in the campground, which is a basic bush camp right near the kiosk.

Read more: An Essential Guide to Edith Falls / Leliyn

Side trip: Litchfield National Park

Distance from Katherine: 280 km or 3 hour drive

If you enjoyed swimming in Edith Falls, then you’ll have an absolute blast in Litchfield National Park. As many people’s favourite national park in the Northern Territory, it’s a must visit. The ancient sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range is carved out by tumbling waterfalls, natural swimming holes and magnetic termite mounds. 

There are also a couple of great campgrounds inside the park, so you can stay the night and enjoy the swimming spots even when all the day trippers have gone. As you come up from Katherine, you’ll have to turn off the Stuart Highway to your left onto Batchelor Road which then becomes Litchfield Park Road.

You can then make a loop through the national park, stopping off at some of the popular spots like Florence Falls, Tjaetaba Falls, Wangi Falls, Buley Rockhole and The Cascades. You can then continue driving around through Berry Springs (an incredible natural swimming spot outside the national park), and back onto the Stuart Highway just south of Darwin. It’s a very worthwhile detour.

Staying a night at either Florence Falls campground or Wangi Falls campground is highly recommended, so you can really enjoy the national park and visit all the best spots. I stayed a week in the park, which was a nice and relaxing time after days of driving.

Read more: Best Swimming Spots and Waterfalls in Litchfield National Park

Now you’ve made it to Darwin! The capital of the Northern Territory and the northernmost end of the Stuart Highway. Darwin may be small compared to other cities in Australia, but it definitely makes up for it with character, atmosphere and culture.

I loved my month in Darwin and really came to appreciate the uniqueness of the NT. I definitely recommend at least a couple of days in Darwin itself. There’s actually come great things to do, especially in the dry season when the city comes to life with festivals and markets on almost daily.

But you’ll also want to leave enough time for one last side trip to Kakadu National Park. This is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Northern Territory and a must visit for at least a couple of days.

My favourite things to do in Darwin include:

• Mindil Beach Sunset Market
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• Darwin Military Museum
• George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
• Darwin Waterfront Lagoon

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Darwin and the Top End

Side trip: Kakadu National Park

Distance fro Darwin: 150 km or 2 hour drive

Kakadu National Park is one of 20 UNESCO World Heritage Listed places in Australia, in recognition of both its natural and cultural values. As the traditional home of the Bininj/Mungguy people, who have lived in the region for tens of thousands of years, it’s one of the most spiritual places in Australia.

It’s characterised by rocky escarpments, thundering waterfalls and floodplains of Arnhem Land. It’s also one of the most biodiverse places in the country, with millions of migratory birds and the intimidating saltwater crocodiles.

I highly recommend at least a couple of days to explore Kakadu properly. With a 2WD, you’ll be able to see most of the main attractions with a night spent at Jabiru, the main town in the park. Otherwise, with a 4WD, you’ll be able to explore much deeper into Arnhem Land and should allow more than a few days.

Some of the most favourite places to visit in Kakadu include:

• Ubirr Rock Art at sunset
• Mamukala Wetlands
• Cahills Crossing for croc spotting
• Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site
• Nawurlandja Lookout at sunset
• Yellow Water Wetlands boat cruise

Read more: A Travel Guide to Kakadu National Park

How Long to Spend Driving Adelaide to Darwin

At a minimum you need two weeks to drive from Adelaide to Darwin, but even two weeks would not be enough time to actually see many of the sights and spend time enjoying all there is to do. I’d recommend allowing at least three weeks , but longer would be even better.

Allow at least a week to get from Adelaide to the Northern Territory border. Then, allow at least two weeks to travel from the border to Darwin, taking in the sights.

If you’re short on time, you could cut out Flinders Ranges, East MacDonnell Ranges, Mataranka and shorten your time in Nitmiluk National Park. But I’d recommend visiting all of these places if you can.

More Epic Road Trips in Australia

• Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip: Ultimate 2 Week Coastal Itinerary
• Ultimate Road Trip Guide to the Great Ocean Road
• Red Centre Way Road Trip Itinerary

Pin this post

Share this:

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Larapinta Trail (2024 Update)

The Ultimate 1-Week Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

Three Day Hike on the Southern Walks in Nitmiluk National Park

7 Best Markets in Darwin

[…] Read next: The Ultimate Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary […]

[…] it’s a long drive from virtually anywhere else in Australia, it’s a major stop on the Stuart Highway, which connects Adelaide and Darwin. From Alice Springs, you can journey out to some of the best […]

[…] way from virtually anywhere. Located on the Stuart Highway it’s an important stop for travellers driving from Adelaide to Darwin, but it’s certainly not a short drive away. You can reach Coober Pedy from Port Augusta in the […]

[…] between towns are not as vast as the Adelaide to Darwin road trip, but you should still schedule regular breaks or opt for this two week itinerary below which […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from beyond wild places.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading