Road trip holidays

in the Northern Territory

3  Our Visitors

The Northern Contents

Territory is the
ultimate road Short Road Trips (2 - 5 days)
trip holiday
destination
A Waterfall hopping around Litchfield National Park  8
B Kakadu National Park explorer  10
C Katherine and Nitmiluk Gorge explorer  12

A driving holiday is one of the best D Alice Springs explorer  14

ways to see the Northern Territory. E Uluru and Kings Canyon highlights  16
Whether you are a keen adventurer
F Alice Springs, Uluru and Kings Canyon – Red Centre Way  18
longing for the open road or you just
want to take your time and tick off
some of those bucket list items – the
NT has something for everyone.
Long Road Trips (6+ days)
G The Gulf and Victoria River region – Savannah Way  24
Legend H Kakadu and Katherine – Nature’s Way  28
I Katherine and Arnhem Land – Arnhem Way  30
2 Wheel-drive (2WD) NT Arts Trail J Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Katherine regions – Binns Track  32
K Alice Springs to Darwin – Explorers Way  34
4 Wheel-drive (4WD) Military history
Map of the Northern Territory  22

Destination highlights Parks and reserves facilities and activities  38

Festivals and events
Festivals and Events  42

Swimming in designated Permit to visit and travel

areas* on Aboriginal land

PARK
Book your National
Aboriginal culture PASS Park Pass

Some attractions and routes are accessible by 4WD

only and may require extensive recovery gear. Please
consult local guides, roadreport.nt.gov.au/home or
nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves for specific advice Cover Images.
on accessibility

* If a waterway does not have a swimming area 1. Ellery Creek Big Hole, West MacDonnell National Park.
sign, do not swim in this area. There may still be
danger if there is no sign. Do not swim in adverse 2. Finke River night sky, Finke Gorge National Park.
conditions such as thunderstorms or severe
flooding. Remember to be Crocwise. 3. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
All maps and attractions in this guide represent journeys and are
not to scale. Drive times are approximate and some permits may 4. Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park.
apply. Information correct at time of publishing. Please check
local conditions before starting your journey.
West MacDonnell Ranges.

2 3
 Our Visitors  3
Driving safety tips
The standard Australian Road Rules Visitor Information Centres
apply in the Northern Territory. Please There are tourism information centres
ensure you stick to the speed limit at located in major centres throughout the
all times, always wear a seatbelt and be Northern Territory. We recommend
respectful of other road users. Most of stopping by for the best on-ground and
the main roads in the Northern Territory up-to-date advice on things to see and do
are in good condition and suitable for in the area.
all vehicle types. Large road trains are
Darwin
common on main Territory roads. When
Top End Travel and Information Centre
driving remotely, please ensure you
have the required permits, enough fuel Telephone: 08 8980 6000
and appropriate recovery equipment Free call in Australia: 1300 138 886
specific for the area you are travelling Email: info@tourismtopend.com.au
to. For more information on how to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Home Billabong, Mary River. Website: tourismtopend.com.au
keep safe on NT roads please visit:
Katherine
nt.gov.au/driving/safety
Katherine Visitor Information Centre
Mobile network coverage Telephone: 08 8972 2650
Most built up areas throughout the Bitter Springs Boardwalk, Elsey
Free call in Australia: 1800 653 142
Northern Territory have mobile network National Park.
Email: visitor@ktc.nt.gov.au
coverage, however if you are travelling Website: visitkatherine.com.au
remotely (i.e. Kakadu National Park
or Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Tennant Creek
Park), you may not have full service at Tennant Creek Visitor Information Centre
all times. Telephone: 08 8962 1281
There are Wi-Fi hotspots located at Free call in Australia: 1800 500 879
some of the more remote tourist sites Email: info@discoverca.com.au
in the Northern Territory. Make sure Website: discovercentralaustralia.com
to upload your favourite road trip Alice S prings
moments to Facebook or Instagram at Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre
these locations and tag #NTaustralia.
Telephone: 08 89525 800
Personal safety Free call in Australia: 1800 645 199
It’s important to remember that no Email: info@discoverca.com.au
matter what time of year it is, to always Website: discovercentralaustralia.com
Jim Jim falls, Kakadu National Park. Baruwei Lookout, Nitmiluk National Park.
keep hydrated, wear a hat, be sun smart
and dress to the conditions.
Where to book your National
Always tell someone where you're going. Park Pass
For further detailed information Kakadu National Park
visit: northernterritory.com/plan/ Website: www.parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu
useful-information/safety-information
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Accessible travel tips Website: www.parksaustralia.gov.au/uluru
For planning information covering
All other NT Parks (where passes apply)
accessible accommodation and
Website: nt.gov.au/parks
attractions visit: northernterritory.
com/plan/useful-information/
accessibility Share your road trip
Instagram @NTaustralia
Tag us #NTaustralia
Upload photos northernterritory.com/
share-your-photos

Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve. Maruku Arts Dot Painting Workshop.

4 5
 Florence Falls, Litchfield Nawurlandja Lookout, Kakadu Nitmiluk Gorge, Nitmiluk
Aiming for a quick getaway National Park. National Park. National Park.

to recharge the batteries

or perhaps you want to fill A 2 DAYS B 4 DAYS C 4 DAYS
your long weekend with
jam-packed adventure? Waterfall hopping Kakadu National Katherine
One of the Northern around Litchfield Park explorer and Nitmiluk Gorge
Territory short break road National Park explorer
trips will tick every box,

Short
START END START END START END
suitable for all budgets Darwin Darwin Darwin Darwin Darwin Darwin
and travel parties. Check
out these 2 - 5 day road trip

Road Trips itineraries covering natural

icons, cultural experiences
and hidden gems to visit on

(2-5 days) your journey.

Buley Rockhole,
Litchfield National Park.

Darwin Street Art. Mindil Beach Casino Resort, Darwin.

Uluru, Uluru-Kata Tjuta Kings Canyon, Watarrka
Hot Air Balloon Tour, Alice Springs. National Park. National Park.

D 4 DAYS E 4 DAYS F 5 DAYS

Alice Springs Uluru and Kings Alice Springs, Uluru

explorer Canyon highlights and Kings Canyon
Red Centre Way

START END START END START END

Alice Alice Uluru Uluru Alice Springs Alice Springs
Springs Springs or Uluru or Uluru

6 7
 Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park.

Crab Claw Island Resort.

Waterfall hopping Optional

around Litchfield add-on

National Park
Dundee Beach or
Crab Claw Island
Instead of heading straight into
Litchfield on day one, why not
check out Dundee Beach or Crab
Claw Island Resort – both are
fast becoming known for the best
Florence Falls, Litchfield National Park. fishing spots in the Top End. It’s
Florence Creek boardwalk, one of the most relaxed places to
Litchfield National Park. set up camp and enjoy ocean
views! Allow two days to get the
most out of this area. If you’re
a keen angler then book your
Head back to Darwin along the fishing charter in advance. (Also,
DAY ONE DAY TWO Stuart Highway. This is roughly a don’t forget to register to catch a
2 DAYS
A two hour drive. Million Dollar Fish).
345 km Darwin Darwin to Litchfield (Wangi Falls) Litchfield to Adelaide River
Food and Drink
From Darwin, head south along the Spend another day in Litchfield and Berry Springs Tavern, Wangi Falls Café Top End Safari Camp
Wangi Falls Crab Claw
Island
Stuart Highway turning onto Cox uncover more waterfalls. Top swimming (closes 3pm daily), Litchfield Café, Bar Combining unique Top End
Dundee
Buley Rockhole Beach Peninsula Road towards Berry Springs. spots include Florence Falls and Buley and Bistro, Batchelor Butterfly Farm, activities with an amazing outback
Adelaide River Here, you can check out the Berry Rockhole, and it’s worth your while and Adelaide River 303 Bar glamping experience – adding on
Springs Nature Park where you can travelling to the smaller spots such as the Top End Safari Camp to
Accommodation
try out the first waterhole of many Walker Creek, Greenant Creek/Tjaetaba your Litchfield itinerary is an
* Book your camping spot within
more to come. Falls and the Cascades. They all have adventure you won’t forget.
Litchfield or head to the nearby town of
moderate walks no more than 4km Situated in an exclusive location
Litchfield Batchelor for a range of accommodation
Continue along the Cox Peninsula Road, return, however please ensure you are off the Finnis River system, the
National options.
Park turn left onto Litchfield Park Road and well prepared (sun protection and water). camp showcases some of the
PARK head towards your first waterfall in Don’t leave Litchfield without getting the Tours and activities
PASS Adelaide River best activities and experiences
Litchfield National Park. Wangi Falls ultimate photo in the looming silhouette Territory Wildlife Park, Barramundi the Top End has to offer. You will
boasts not one but two waterfalls that of a termite mound (you'll find both Adventures Darwin, Pell Airstrip, stay overnight in deluxe lotus
* Refer to page 2 for details
cascade into a large swimming hole. The cathedral and magnetic termite mounds NT Adventure Park and belle tents which have an open
popular swimming spot is located next to in the Top End). Batchelor Museum air shower and shared toilet
a green lawn area with barbecue facilities facilities. The camp provides you
Head back to the Stuart Highway and
Litchfield National Park is the perfect getaway to spend for a perfect picnic spot. If you forget to
continue for 30 minutes to the township
Book your Litchfield with everything you need to
with family and friends. You can make it as active or as bring your own food, you can purchase PARK Park Pass: immerse yourself in nature and
lunch from the Wangi Falls Café.
of Adelaide River – an important location PASS nt.gov.au/parks experience a once-in-a-lifetime
relaxed as you want with plenty of short walks, waterholes in the Top End’s military history. Wander
Top End adventure.
through the Adelaide River War Cemetery
and waterfalls to see. Grab some classic road trip snacks for a deeper understanding of the impact
and stock up on plenty of water and sunscreen and make WWII had on this part of Australia.
sure your road trip music playlist is sorted.
8 9
 4 days  X

Maguk, Kakadu National Park.

Kakadu
National Park
explorer
Nawurlandja Lookout,
Kakadu National Park.
Yellow Water, Kakadu National Park.

spot and cultural experiences on offer Kakadu Highway towards Darwin via
DAY ONE within the Park. Stop in at the Bowali the Stuart Highway. If travelling along
B 4 DAYS
Visitor Centre, located in Jabiru, to get the Stuart Highway, you have the
699 km
Kakadu
Darwin to Kakadu National Park up-to-date information on road access
and daily activities. You can choose to
opportunity to check out Pine Creek,
Adelaide River, Douglas Daly region
Optional
Jabiru and Ubirr Darwin National
Park Jabiru
Begin your Kakadu adventure from
Darwin. An easy three-hour drive along
head to Cooinda (an hour’s drive from and Berry Springs. add-on
Burrungkuy Jabiru) where you can stay overnight
sealed roads. There is plenty to do Food and drink Aboriginal rock art
Yellow Water Billabong and book a Yellow Water Cruise, visit
and see on the way to Kakadu, so take Purple Mango Cafe, Anbinik
Cooinda the Warradjan Cultural Centre and take To explore more Aboriginal rock
your time to enjoy the journey. Upon Restaurant, Aurora Kakadu Lodge or
a walk at Burrungkuy to explore the art exclusively, choose to extend
arrival into Jabiru, check into your Mercure Crocodile Hotel all have a
* accommodation, then make your way
impressive Aboriginal rock art sites.
great menu selection your stay at Hawk Dreaming
Keep your eyes peeled for the amazing Wilderness Lodge. Comfortable
to Ubirr. Take the walk to the top of the
bird and wildlife that call Kakadu home Accommodation tented cabins with ensuite and
lookout in time to watch the sun set
and explore some of the best swimming Anbinik Kakadu Resort, Aurora Kakadu private decks are situated on
over the floodplains. Keep your eyes
To Katherine holes such as Maguk and Jim Jim Falls. Lodge, Cooinda Lodge Kakadu and exclusive land, only accessible
PARK peeled for local wildlife roaming in the
PASS A 4WD is recommended to access Mercure Crocodile Hotel through Kakadu Cultural Tours.
floodplains and learn about the rich
some of these areas. Check the Kakadu Leave your car at the border
Aboriginal culture and history of this area. Tours and activities
Access Report online or visit the Bowali store, just 40 minutes from
* Refer to page 2 for details Fogg Dam Conservation Area,
information centre for the latest road Jabiru, and be transferred by
DAY TWO AND THREE Corroboree Billabong and ranger-
access information. 4WD vehicle on a small group
guided talks and walks and much more
Make the most out of a trip to the Top End and visit the Kakadu National Park
tour. Explore remote rock art
DAY FOUR Book your Kakadu sites and enjoy sunset on the
world-renowned Kakadu National Park. Recognised for both escarpment.
its cultural and natural importance, Kakadu National Park is
Make the most of the mornings and PARK National Park Pass:
afternoons in Kakadu, and rest during Kakadu to Darwin PASS parksaustralia.gov.au/ Consider adding on the
a must do when travelling to the Northern Territory. Learn the middle of the day (by rest we mean
Take your time returning to Darwin.
kakadu/plan/passes Katherine and Nitmiluk
float around in some magical waterhole
about the Aboriginal cultures of the Bininj and Mungguy Head back on the Arnhem Highway, or National Park itinerary on
or jump in a pool at one of the hotels).
people of Kakadu. choose to keep travelling south on the page 12.
There are plenty of walks, wildlife to

10 11
 4 days  X

Cutta Cutta Caves, Katherine.

Katherine and
Top Didj Cultural
Experience, Katherine.

Nitmiluk Gorge
explorer
Boat cruise at Nitmiluk National Park.

on offer. Head to Nitmiluk National Park

DAY ONE for the day. DAY FOUR
C 4 DAYS Darwin
635 km We recommend doing the Baruwei
Darwin to Katherine
Loop Walk, which takes you to the
Katherine to Darwin Optional
Leilyn Falls
Katherine is an easy three-hour drive
from Darwin – straight down the Stuart
top of Nitmiluk Gorge and gives you
magnificent views over the Katherine
Just because it’s the last day, doesn’t
mean this is the end of your Katherine
add-on
Katherine Hot Springs Highway. Make the most of the journey River and 17 Mile Valley. For a thrilling road trip. Depart Katherine and head Mataranka Thermal Pools
Nitmiluk Gorge by stopping off to explore Adelaide way to see the gorge, take a helicopter north back to Darwin making a stop
River War Cemetery, and the remains of scenic flight, float down the river on a at Leliyn (Edith Falls) for a dip and to and Bitter Springs
Pine Creek
military airstrips from WWII along the cruise or hire a canoe. There are many explore. For a moderately challenging For more rejuvenating plunge
* way. There is great food and coffee at optional experiences to choose from at walk, take the 2.6km Leliyn Trail which pool experiences, head south to
Nitmiluk
Gorge the Lazy Lizard, and drop into visit Pine the Nitmiluk Visitor Information Centre, will take you to the upper pool of the Mataranka Thermal Pools,
Creek to see if you can spot a Hooded so be sure to pop in to plan your day. Leliyn Falls – well worth the effort! At just a quick hour's drive south.
Katherine Parrot or to just explore the history of the base of the falls there are great This is an awesome little stopover
For the avid bushwalker or the hiker
PARK the town and area. picnic facilities, plus a café for your that’s perfect for everyone. Float
PASS Mataranka
at heart, there are loads of tracks on
convenience. Spend a couple of hours in the clear sandy bottomed
Upon arrival into Katherine, make your offer that range from easy to difficult.
here before heading back to Darwin. thermal pools and enjoy the
* Refer to page 2 for details way to your accommodation, and then For those who prefer to cast a line, this
head straight to Katherine Hot Springs. is your chance to catch an infamous Food and drink serenity of the area.
A perfect introduction to Katherine, Barramundi! If birdwatching is more your Black Russian Caravan Bar, Finch Café, Consider adding on the Kakadu
the hot springs are surrounded by thing, make sure you keep your eyes Maidens Lane, Lazy Lizard, Peakabrew,
Take a short trip out of Darwin to explore the spectacular a beautiful picnic area and some peeled for the rare Gouldian Finch, fairly Pop Rocket Café
National Park itinerary on
page 10.
Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge and surrounding region. short walks. common to spot in this area.
Accommodation
With lots to do, you’ll want to stay longer, as Katherine You can also experience a taste of local
Nitmiluk Caravan Park, Knotts Crossing
DAY TWO AND THREE life at Katherine Outback Experience,
will surely steal your heart. Swim, hike, ride, see, fly home to a live show fitted out with
Resort, Katherine Holiday Park
Book your Nitmiluk
and float all through the Katherine region on this short guitars, dogs, horses, buffalo and more! Tours and activities PARK National Park Pass:
Katherine region and Nitmiluk PASS
drive itinerary. National Park
Katherine scenic flights, Cutta Cutta nt.gov.au/parks
Caves, Top Didj Cultural Experience,
For the next two days you’ll be able to Pine Creek Railway district, Adelaide
explore all that this beautiful region has River War Cemetery
12 13
 Kings Creek Station.

Simpsons Gap, Tjoritja/West

MacDonnell National Park.

Alice Springs
explorer
Ellery Creek Big Hole, Tjoritja/West
MacDonnell National Park.

Ormiston Gorge, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park.

Alice Springs is just as far quirky festivals like the
4 DAYS away from any beach, as it Beanie Festival or the Henley
D 243 km is close… or so they say. on Todd Regatta - you
Here we do ‘beaches’ Red definitely won’t regret it! waterholes in between. Our favourites desert for days, and amazing views, the
West MacDonnell Centre style. Alice Springs include, Ormiston Gorge and Ellery best way to see Alice and surrounds is
Ranges Creek Big Hole. Venture further and from the peaceful floating sensation of
will surprise and delight DAY ONE
you’ll be rewarded with cool waters a hot air balloon.
Hermannsburg
you with lots of activities
Alice Springs
at Redbank Gorge.
Food and drink Optional
right at your doorstep. Think
*
swimming holes, awesome Once you arrive in Alice, hire a car and
Alice Springs has attractions suitable
for everyone. Check out the Royal
Casa Nostra, The Goods Coffee
Shop, The Locals, Hanuman, Monty’s,
add-on
head straight out to Simpsons Gap. Catch Flying Doctors Service, the Desert Epilogue, Page 27, The Bakery Larapinta Trail
rocky landscapes, amazing the sun going down and be in awe of the Park, School of the Air and the Araluen
wildlife and great foodie changing colours of the rocks. The easy Cultural Precinct.
Accommodation Test your walking fitness by
PARK Alice Springs has a large range of experiencing the Larapinta Trail
PASS hang outs. Consider timing walk to Simpsons Gap is a pleasant one.
You could also choose to drive out to accommodation to suit all types on a tour. Led by professionals,
Keep your eyes out for the local wildlife
* Refer to page 2 for details
your visit with one of the hanging out on the rock ledges. the Hermannsburg Precinct, just 150km of travellers. you will explore some of the
on, and travel back via the loop to Alice ‘back tracks’ of Alice Springs and
Tours and Activities
Springs. Discover the history behind this some secret waterholes. Enjoy
DAY TWO AND THREE Anzac Hill lookout, Earth Sanctuary
settlement and the importance that it staying in permanent camp sites,
Astronomy Tours, Nocturnal Tour at the
still holds today. hot showers, and hearty meals
Alice Springs and Desert Park, Olive Pink Botanic Gardens,
Ormiston Gorge every night on this journey in
West MacDonnell Ranges Reptile Centre, Telegraph Station
Tjoritja / Simpsons Gap Alice DAY FOUR the outback.
West MacDonnell Springs
National Park The next couple of days are yours to Book your Tjoritja/ Try adding on the Uluru and
explore in and around Alice Springs. Alice Springs West MacDonnell Kings Canyon highlights
There are plenty of places that are PARK
You can’t visit Alice without an early PASS National Park Pass: itinerary on page 16.
Hermannsburg within an easy drive distance. We nt.gov.au/parks
To Uluru morning hot air balloon experience.
highly recommend you explore the
West MacDonnell Ranges and all the With the beautiful clear blue skies, red

14 15
 Kings Canyon,
Watarrka National Park.

Uluru and Kings Canyon

highlights
Uluru, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Field of Light Star Pass,
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Walpa Walk, Kata Tjuta,

Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park.

DAY ONE DAY THREE DAY FOUR

E 4 DAYS
649 km Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Kings Canyon Rim Walk and return Kata Tjuta
Watarrka
National Park
Kings Canyon
Upon arriving into Uluru, check into
to Uluru
Rise early to view the magnificent Optional
Uluru your accommodation and drive to the This morning, rise early and head to sunrise from the Kata Tjuta viewing add-on
Kata Tjuta Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to witness Kings Canyon to do the complete platform. This spectacle gives you the
Kings Canyon Uluru up close. Take the short Mala Walk, Rim Walk. This should take you best view of the domes which light up Kings Canyon Resort
and visit the Cultural Centre, before approximately three to four hours, as the sun rises. You will have time to do
You can choose to do a pre-
making your way to the Uluru Car Sunset depending on how long you wish to the Walpa Gorge Walk (2.6km), where
packaged tour on the ‘Uluru
Viewing Area for the best sunset views spend walking around the rim. It really is you can walk between the domes and
Kata Yulara to Kings Canyon overnight
Tjuta in Australia! spectacular, however, it does give your see them up close.
To Alice delight’ which includes return
Uluru Springs legs a work out. Make sure you have an
Food and drink flights from Uluru to Kings
Uluru-Kata Tjuta DAY TWO early start and aim to finish before 10am
Ayers Rock Resort has a range of Canyon, land transfers, Karrke
PARK National Park to avoid the heat of the day. Take lots of
PASS restaurants and bars. Kings Creek Aboriginal Cultural Tour &
water and sun protection.
Kings Canyon and Watarrka Station, Kings Canyon resort, Curtin Experience, guided Rim Walk and
National Park Drive back to Uluru today, stopping Springs. some meals.
off at Curtin Springs for a break. This
Today take the drive to Kings Canyon in Accommodation Or add on the Alice Springs
evening, take a tour of the Field of Light,
Watarrka National Park. Upon arrival, Ayers Rock Resort, Kings Creek Station, explorer itinerary on page 14.
a remarkable solar light installation
Strapped for time, but still want to see Australia's icons? stop by Karrke Aboriginal Cultural
designed by the internationally
Kings Canyon Resort
Experience & Tours to partake in a great
Fly directly into Uluru and spend two nights here and acclaimed artist Bruce Munro. The Tours and activities
introductory tour to the rich culture
one night at Kings Canyon. The drive is easily done, all of the region. Take a scenic helicopter
Sounds of Silence dinner is also well Field of Light, Uluru Cultural Centre,
worth it, and you can even combine the Maruku Arts Uluru, Outback Cycling Book your Uluru Kata
on sealed roads. It’s a jam-packed adventure, and one flight over Kings Canyon to get the best
two experiences. You can even enjoy the bike hire, Under a Desert Moon, Karrke Tjuta National Park Pass:
you’ll never forget. view of the landscape. Enjoy sunset from PARK
your resort. There’s something about
Sounds of Silence dinner this evening Aboriginal Cultural Experience & Tour PASS parksaustralia.gov.au/
as a combined tour, which is definitely uluru/plan/passes
an outback desert sunset that just takes
worth it!
your breath away.

16 17
Alice Springs, Uluru
Uluru, Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park.

and Kings Canyon

Red Centre Way
Ormiston Gorge, Tjoritja/West
MacDonnell National Park.

Kings Canyon,
Watarrka National Park.

658 km via
DAY ONE
5 DAYS
F 797 km
Mereenie
Loop
Alice Springs to If commencing from Alice Springs with a Stop off at Curtin Springs for a refreshing Accommodation:
(4WD only)
2WD, drive straight out to Kings Canyon drink and a bite to eat. Once you arrive Curtin Springs, Kings Creek Station,
Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges
West MacDonnell via the Stuart and Lasseter Highways. at Uluru, settle into your accommodation Kings Canyon Resort, Ayers Rock Resort,
Ormiston Gorge National Park Start the Red Centre Way by driving west and then head out to one of the viewing Longitude 131˚
Ormiston Gorge
Kings Canyon eenie Loop through the West MacDonnell National DAY THREE platforms to witness the rock change
Tours and activities:
r

colour at sunset.
Me

Uluru Park to witness a spectacular stretch of

West MacDonnell Ranges, detour
Kings Canyon natural formations including chasms, Explore Kings Canyon to Hermannsburg, Finke River
Watarrka Alice gorges and desert waterholes. Explore DAY FIVE
* National Wake up early to explore the grand
Adventures, free ranger guided
Park Springs Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery activities, helicopter flights over Kings
Creek and Ormiston Gorge just to name beauty of Watarrka National Park. The
Kata Uluru and Kata Tjuta Canyon and Uluru, quad bike tours at
Tjuta
a few. Splash, hike or sit back in awe of Kings Canyon Rim Walk is a three hour
Kings Creek Station.
Uluru hike across 100m-high sandstone walls See the icons at sunrise, sunset, on a
the landscape – it’s truly spectacular!
Uluru-Kata Tjuta and ancient palm-filled crevices with camel or by bicycle. Listen to the local
National Park Book your Tjoritja/West
stunning views of the arid surrounds. For Anangu people as they tell their stories
DAY TWO MacDonnell National and
those looking for a more relaxed option, of the Dreamtime. Explore Kata Tjuta PARK
PARK * Refer to page 2 the Kings Creek Walk provides equally on the Valley of the Winds Walk and PASS Watarrka National Park
PASS Passes: nt.gov.au/parks
for details Alice Springs to Kings Canyon breathtaking views from the canyon floor. take in Uluru up-close on the Base Walk.
Take your time exploring these icons of Book your Uluru
If you are travelling by 4WD on the
DAY FOUR Australia’s Outback. Kata Tjuta National Park
Mereenie Loop, continue on from the
This is one of the best and most jam-packed iconic Aussie West Macdonnell Ranges until you come You can chose to end your journey in
Pass: parksaustralia.gov.
au/uluru/plan/passes
drives! Follow the Red Centre Way throughout Central across the ancient impact crater Kings Canyon to Uluru Uluru, or return back to Alice Springs.
Australia and visit the highlights while uncovering much called Gosse Bluff. Hike to the top where A direct drive back to Alice Springs will
Leave the canyon and follow Luritja Road *
You will need a permit to
you can get spectacular views of the take approximately five hours.
more than the icons. You can do this trip as a loop, or simply and Lasseter Highway to Uluru-Kata Tjuta travel the Mereenie Loop.
ridges made from the meteorite. Continue National Park. Along the way you will pass Food and drink: discovercentralaustralia.
take a one way journey to Uluru from Alice Springs or vice- driving along the Meerenie Loop until Mt Conner, commonly known as ‘Fooluru’, Erldunda Roadhouse (via sealed road), com/visitor-information/
versa. As a loop, the Mereenie adds a sense of adventure, you reach Kings Canyon (4WD only). as it’s often mistaken for Uluru. Do the Curtin Springs, Ayers Rock Resort, driving-permits
but only if you have a 4WD. unexpected and view the Lake Amadeus Kings Creek Station,
salt plains near the Mt Conner look out. Kings Canyon Resort
18 19
 Keep River National Park. Kakadu Cultural Tours. Barinura Beach, Nhulunbuy,
If time is a blessing, and Arnhem Land.

you ache to see the real

outback of Australia, G 14 DAYS* H 8 DAYS I 7 - 10 DAYS*
the Northern Territory
has some great places The Gulf and Kakadu and Katherine and
for the perfect road trip Victoria River region Katherine Arnhem Land
Savannah Way Nature’s Way Arnhem Way
getaway. Some road
journeys require a 4WD

Long
START END START END START END
and some can be driven in NT/QLD WA/NT Darwin Darwin Katherine Katherine
a regular vehicle making Border Border
If starting from Darwin add in 1-2 days.
*

it more accessible to Full route on the Savannah Way is from

*

Road Trips
Optional route: Fly into Nhulunbuy and
Cairns to Broome or vice-versa.
everyone. Check out drive to Darwin.

these extended road

journeys throughout the

(6+ days) Top End and Red Centre.

Arnhem Way, East Arnhem Land.

Kings Canyon Rim Walk. Edith Falls, Nitmiluk National Park.

Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Tennant Creek.

J 10 DAYS K 14 - 16 DAYS*

Alice Springs, Tennant Alice Springs

Creek and Katherine to Darwin
regions Binns Track (4WD) Explorers Way Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve.

START END START END

Mt Dare Timber Alice Springs/ Darwin/ *Optional to do the full route from
(SA border) Creek Darwin Alice Springs Adelaide to Darwin or vice-versa.
20 21
 National Park Finke Gorge National Park.
(Permit required)
Sealed road
Melville Island VAN Unsealed road
Bathurst
Island 4WD road
GULF Maningrida
BEAGLE GULF Djukbinj National Park Milingimbi Nhulunbuy
Darwin Mary River National Park Yirrkala
Mandorah Palmerston
Berry Springs WY
MH
Dundee Beach A R NHE
Jabiru
Land
Batchelor (Permit

Rd
Y
Adelaide Kakadu required)

m
W
GULF OF

he
National Park

DU H
River National

rn
lA
A Park ra
Daly River KAK ent
C
Pine Creek Alyangula
Peppimenarti Nitmiluk Mainoru
Angurugu
Leliyn (Edith Falls)
National Park
Wadeye
Nitmiluk Gorge
d

Daly
rR

(Permit required)
R i ve Roper Bar Numbulwar
WA
Barunga Ngukurr
Beswick
/ Flora
Bitter HWY Na
Mataranka R
Oombulgurri Springs RO P E th
a n
Kununurra

Riv
National

STU
National Timber
Park

er R
Wyndham Park Creek National Pellew
A
Lorella QLD
RT
Y

d
W Larrimah Park Springs Islands
AH Victoria
HWY
BU

OR
V CT River Borroloola
NT

Roadhouse
WY

NE HWY

CARPE
Durack Lake Judbarra Daly Waters NT
AR
H

W
Argyle A HWY
T N O RTHERN

oll
Top Springs

o o
National Wellesley
UN N RD

Cape Crawford Islands

Park BUCHAN N HWY Dunmarra

ra
n
Rd
CA

A
Warmun
EA

D
Ord River Wave Hill Newcastle Nicholson
GR

Waters Elliott
Purnululu NE H W
Y Kalkarindji
NT Burketown
National BU Ba Ro
Park r k ly Stock ute

Halls Creek
Lajamanu Renner
Springs Gregory
Brunette Downs
l el a n d s H w y
ST

Lawn Hill
UA

Tanami
RT H
Y W

Sturt Creek
Threeways
b
Ta

Tennant
Creek Barkly
BARKLY
Homestead H WY
Rabbit Flat
Karlu Karlu
Conservation Wutunugurra
Reserve Canteen Creek
Ta

Wauchope Mount Isa

na

Wycliffe Well
mi
Rd

Ali
Curung National Park
Barrow Creek Piturie
Y
HW

Chilla Well
Ampilatwatja
VE
R

DO
SA N
Carrandotta
Ti Tree Tobermorey
Yuendumu

Aileron

Gemtree PLENTY HW
Y
Standley Toko
Kintore Papunya Chasm Harts Range
Ormiston Simpsons
Gorge Ellery Gap
Creek Y
Big Hole HW
National Park
Ro

Nama
tjira D Ri
ss

r
ereeni e ver
L oo
Watarrka
M

Ntaria/Hermannsburg Standley
National Wallace e/
Chasm Bedourie
Park Rockhole
Kings
Canyon National Rainbow
Kaltakatjara
Curtin Park Valley
Ngaanyatiara-Giles
Springs
Yulara
STUART HW Y

ER HWY
SET Thirri
AS Erldunda
National
L

Finke
Uluru-Kata Tjuta
Park
22 National Park Kulgera Birdsville
23

Witjira
 Nitmiluk Gorge,
Nitmiluk National Park.

The Gulf and

Victoria River region
Savannah Way (4WD)
Judbarra/Gregory National Park.

The Savannah Way travels all the way east to west from A yearly competition, where anglers are
given the opportunity to claim cash prizes
14 DAYS Cairns in Queensland* to Broome in Western Australia or
G 1407 km vice-versa.
when catching tagged Barra throughout
the Top End. The season runs from 1 Keep River National Park.
October – 31 March.
Judbarra / Gregory The Savannah Way offers something for everyone, from Optional add on experiences:
National Park
picturesque escarpments, huge river systems, waterfalls If fishing isn’t for you, there are two
Keep River National Park Limmen National Park is one of Australia’s
and some real life ‘Aussie outback’ experiences. Depending family-owned stations to check out –
best hidden gems for camping, 4WDing,
DAY FIVE AND SIX
Manangoora or Seven Emu Station. Seven
on your vehicle (off-road vs standard), you can choose your Emu Station is owned by the Shadforth
fishing and sightseeing. The national park
* own route, but the best part of the Savannah Way is of is also known for its hiking experiences, Limmen National Park to the
family who are Garawa Aboriginal people,
particularly in the Southern Lost City Stuart Highway
course in the NT. and run tours sharing their cultural and
area where you can access the seasonal
environmental knowledge from working Option one: Travel through some amazing
swimming spot of Butterfly Falls.
*Make sure to check road conditions and living on the land. Manangoora is country and head towards the Roper
before travelling from QLD. The DAY ONE AND TWO located 60km from Seven Emu and offers There are bush camps available at Highway. Please drive carefully. All roads
National Highway 1 to Borroloola is bush camps close to the river. Butterfly Springs, Limmen Crossing, within the national park are unsealed and
PARK
unsealed. A sealed road is available NT/QLD border to Borroloola Towns River and others depending on the can be closed due to seasonal flooding
* Refer to page 2 Both offer self-sufficient 4WDers exclusive
PASS from Mount Isa to Three Ways into season and road conditions. The Western from November to May.
for details Welcome to the Northern Territory! camping spots. We recommend you phone
the NT. Lost City is accessible via a 4WD track. You
Get ready for some of the best outback ahead to ensure access and availability.
will need a key from the Ranger Station Option two: If you choose to take the
experiences you’ve ever had on a road to unlock the gate at the start of the 28 sealed drive route, continue along the
trip. The Savannah Way takes you off the DAY THREE AND FOUR km track. Carpentaria Hwy. Travelling through
Katherine beaten track so it’s important to plan your this region, make sure to explore the
journey before setting off. Always remember to Be Crocwise as spectacular formations Caranbirini
Borroloola to Limmen National Park
y
Hw

wy estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles are

Keep River R oper H Limmen Head to Borroloola to stock up on Conservation Reserve. Next stop, head to
ia

It’s not every day that you drive through present in these areas. It’s important to
or

National the iconic Daly Waters Pub located along

Stu

National supplies and then head out to King Ash

ct

magnificent country along the Savannah be well prepared when visiting the
Vi

Park Park the Stuart Highway. It has both private

art

Bay. A fishing hub nestled alongside the Way and as part of this journey, we highly national park by checking road access
Timber Victoria River McArthur River – the perfect base for rooms and campsites for travellers to book.
Hw

Roadhouse Borroloola recommend (if you have a 4WD) before arriving and travelling with plenty
Wander inside the pub to grab a meal and
Creek some great Barramundi and blue water of water and supplies.
Carpen to explore Limmen National Park.
y

taria H fishing. Before you wet a line, make sure check out the remarkable collection of
Daly Waters wy
you are registered for Million Dollar Fish. mementos left by visitors over the years.

24 25
 Lost City, Limmen National Park. Leliyn (Edith Falls).

Canoeing, Nitmiluk Gorge,

Nitmiluk National Park.

Bitter Springs, Elsey National Park. Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Art and Culture Centre, Katherine.

Gorge, take a scenic helicopter flight sheet found on the NT Parks and While you’re in the area make sure Park is accessible by all vehicle types.
DAY SEVEN AND EIGHT and much more. Wildlife website. you visit Gregory’s Tree, an important Choose to camp at either Goorrandalng
Aboriginal sacred site and registered or Jarnem. The camping facilities are
To Katherine region Food and drink The Bullita Stock Route is high on the heritage site. Drive to Nackeroo Lookout comparable at both locations, so make
Whether you are coming into Mataranka
Finch Café, Nitmiluk Café, Pop
Rocket Café
recommendations – the track is tough
but well worth it.
for breathtaking views of the area. If sure you are well equipped and enjoy Optional
from Daly Waters along the Stuart
Highway or Limmen National Park along Accommodation Giwining/Flora River Nature Park is a
fishing is your thing – this is the perfect
place to throw in a line. Remember to
the solitude and bliss of the area for a
few days. The landforms in this national add-on
the Roper Highway, the area around Elsey Nitmiluk Caravan Park, Katherine little more 2WD friendly with some great Be Crocwise. park are comparable to other landmarks
Bullo River Station
National Park is an idyllic place to stop Holiday Park fishing opportunities, generous camping around Australia, and you will even be
Food and drink able to discover some Aboriginal rock Consider a stopover at Bullo
off at. Check out both the Mataranka Tours and activities facilities and bush walks. Timber Creek, Victoria River Roadhouse art up close. Make sure you check out River Station. A working cattle
and Bitter Springs thermal pools. Top Didj Cultural Experience, Katherine
Accommodation the Keep River National Park fact sheet station that invites people to see
Welcome to Katherine – known as the Outback Experience, Nabilil Dreaming DAY ELEVEN what life is really like working off
NT Parks campgrounds, Timber Creek, for more information or pop in and chat
central hub of the Savannah Way. It may Sunset Dinner Cruise. the land. Bullo River will exceed
Giwining/Flora River Nature Park to the local ranger – they’ll be sure to
be a welcome break from some hard Timber Creek and Judbarra/ provide the best advice. all expectations and you will be
4WDing for a few days. Set up camp at DAY NINE AND TEN Tours and activities spoilt with unique and authentic
Gregory National Park
one of the local caravan parks around Fishing, birdwatching, bushwalking, experiences. There are remote
the town, or at Nitmiluk National Park Katherine to Timber Creek As you head further west in this great Aboriginal Rock Art, Gregory’s Tree, DAY FOURTEEN waterholes, helicopter scenic
– just 30 minutes from town. Katherine part of the country, you will begin to see Old Victoria River Crossing flights, private picnic spots and
gives you a welcome opportunity If hiking is your thing, then a visit to the landscape clearly change. This region Keep River National Park to much more.
to stock up on supplies, with all the Judbarra National Park is a must – the is full of surprises, and the small town of DAY TWELVE AND THIRTEEN WA/NT border
essential services available. With so much second largest National Park in the NT Timber Creek is no exception. There are
(outside of Kakadu). From Katherine it’s some great spots to launch a boat, cruise Before you leave the beautiful Territory,
to see and do in the area, you may wish Keep River National Park
an easy drive along the Victoria Highway. around, take a few walks or just sit back remember WA have some strict
to extend your time here.
There are plenty of options for camping and enjoy your natural surroundings. One of the most underrated National quarantine guidelines.
In Katherine must-see destinations throughout this region and lots of places Swing in to spots like Big Horse Creek Parks within the NT borders, Keep River
include the Katherine Hot Springs, to try out your 4WDing skills. Ensure you Campground, with a boat ramp, toilet National Park is definitely a place you
Nitmiluk National Park, and Leliyn/Edith are adequately prepared and equipped facilities and plenty of space to set up will want to spend some time in. There
Book your NT
Falls. Activities to include are Top Didj before attempting any of these 4WD are plenty of opportunities for bush
for the night. Or head in to Timber PARK Parks Passes:
Cultural Experience and Art Gallery, tracks. Please refer to the 4WD track Creek and stay at one of the local walking, exploring Aboriginal rock art PASS nt.gov.au/parks
Katherine Outback Experience, Cutta Judbarra/Gregory National Park fact caravan parks. sites and the best part is some of the
Cutta Caves, cruise down Nitmiluk

26 27
 choose a slight detour and visit
Litchfield National Park (2.5 hour's
drive).
Litchfield National Park is renowned
for its accessible, unspoiled wilderness
of monsoon rainforests and waterfalls
that flow year-round. Check out the
Litchfield Drive itinerary on page 8 for
more information.
Food and drink
Finch Café, Nitmiluk Café, Pop Rocket
Café, Maidens Lane, Adelaide River
303 Bar, Berry Springs Tavern

Accommodation

Kakadu and Knotts Crossing Resort, Nitmiluk

Caravan Park, Katherine Holiday Park

Katherine
Tours and activities
Top Didj Cultural Experience, Katherine
Outback Experience, Nabilil Dreaming

Nature’s Way
Sunset Dinner Cruise, Pine Creek
Water Gardens, Leliyn (Edith Falls),
Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park
Ubirr, Kakadu National Park.
Book your Kakadu
National Park Pass:
Kakadu Cultural Tours. PARK
PASS parksaustralia.gov.au/
kakadu/plan/passes

art and learn about the history of the

DAY ONE ancient gallery. Visit the Bowali Visitor DAY FIVE TO SEVEN

H 8 DAYS Darwin Kakadu Centre and the Warradjan Cultural

874 km National Darwin to Kakadu Centre for a great introduction to the Kakadu to Katherine via the
Park Jabiru
on the Arnhem Highway Park to learn about the traditional
owners of the area. Cruise the famous
Kakadu Highway
Optional
add-on
Litchfield National Park Cooinda
The rare and unspoilt beauty of Kakadu Head south along the Kakadu Highway
National Park is only a three-hour drive Yellow Water Billabong. Explore some
Kakadu National Park towards Katherine. There are plenty
from Darwin. On your way to the Park of the best swimming holes in the
of caravan parks, national parks, or
Katherine Litchfield Territory including Maguk, Gunlom and Umbrawarra Gorge
National along the Arnhem Highway, there are accommodation options to choose from
Park several opportunities to see wildlife. Jim Jim Falls. A 4WD is recommended to
in the region, making it the perfect The turn off to Umbrawarra
access some of these areas – check road
* Stop at Corroboree Billabong for a boat spot to base yourself while you explore is between Pine Creek and
Tjuywaliyn/ cruise or try an airboat safari experience conditions at the Bowali Visitor Centre
Douglas Hot
the area. Take a refreshing dip in the Katherine off the Stuart Highway.
through the Mary River system for the for up-to-date road access information.
Springs Park Katherine Hot Springs – a series of clear Please ensure you check the road
ultimate way to spot everything from Food and drink pools fed by a natural thermal spring conditions prior as it may not be
native birds to saltwater crocodiles Corroboree Park Tavern, Aurora located on the banks of the Katherine recommended for some vehicles
Katherine sunbaking along the banks, known as Kakadu Lodge, Escarpment Restaurant River. Don’t miss out on Nitmiluk Gorge, during certain times of the year.
‘salties’ in the Top End. (Crocodile Hotel), Anbinik Thai where you can either cruise or canoe, There is a small campsite with a
PARK Restaurant, Cooinda Lodge Bar and or just enjoy some of the bush walking composting toilet, and you may
PASS
* Refer to page 2
for details DAY TWO TO FOUR Bistro tracks in the Park. Travel further south have small cooking fires here.
for just over an hour to check out the The campground is not far from
Accommodation
Kakadu National Park clear warm pools of Mataranka and the gorge entrance, and there is
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel,
Bitter Springs in Elsey National Park. a 1km walk along a creek which
For a drive that highlights the best of the Top End, look no Kakadu is a World Heritage-listed site Kakadu Lodge, Anbinik Kakadu Resort,
leads to the gorge. You can do
Aurora Kakadu, Cooinda Lodge Kakadu
further than this road trip. In just over a week you can have and Australia’s largest national park. DAY EIGHT some extra swimming and rock
Walk through ancient Aboriginal rock Tours and activities hopping through the gorge to
an amazing adventure that links Darwin, Australia’s vibrant art galleries or join a guided tour to go Fogg Dam, Spectacular Jumping access some more beautiful and
tropical capital city, with the ancient cultural and natural Katherine to Darwin
further afield. Take in the stunning views Crocodile Cruise, Helicopter or scenic private swimming spots, well
wonders of Kakadu and Nitmiluk National Parks and the of the wetlands from above at Ubirr flight over Jim Jim and Twin Falls, Ranger- Head back to Darwin along the Stuart worth the extra effort if you are
lookout – visiting at sunset is sure to be guided talks and walks, Guluyambi Highway – roughly a three-hour drive. If up for it.
Daly River region. This easy drive is completely on sealed a showstopper. you leave early enough, stop in at Leliyn
Cruise, Arnhem Land day tour
roads, with the option for some off-road exploring for Take a walk at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie)
(Edith Falls) for a quick swim in the cool
those with a 4WD. to explore impressive Aboriginal rock
waters (one hour from Katherine) or

28 29
 DAY SEVEN

Nhulunbuy
Take a day to recoup from your island
escape. Get the car fuelled and packed
up ready for the road trip back to
Katherine.
Once you reach the Stuart Highway,
you may choose to either head north
towards Katherine and Darwin or south
towards Daly Waters and the Red Centre.
If you are really loving this untouched

Katherine and
landscape, why not head along the
Savannah Way? Travel east to explore
Limmen National Park, or west towards

Arnhem Land
the spectacular Victoria River region.
Whichever direction you go, the NT
won't disappoint.

Arnhem Way (4WD)

Food and drink
Mainoru Outstation store (make sure you
get extra supplies – fuel, food and water),
Gove Boat Club, Walkabout Lodge
Banubanu Beach Retreat, Sunset drinks at Gove Boat Club. Accommodation
Bremer Island, Arnhem Land. Mainoru Outstation, Walkabout
Lodge, Gove Boat Club, Gove Peninsula
Motel, deluxe (glamping) beach front
accommodation on Bremer Island

With Nhulunbuy as your base camp, set Tours and activities

7 - 10 DAYS
I 729 km (one way)
DAY ONE DAY TWO out and uncover iconic landscapes at Djilpin Arts Centre, nature walks around
the Mainoru Outstation, Giddy River,
one of the Dhimurru Recreation Areas.
Katherine to Mainoru Outstation Mainoru Outstation to Nhulunbuy Choose from a wide range of settings; Buffalo Creek, Little Bondi (apply for
Mainoru Outstation from sandy white beaches and rugged permits through Dhimurru Aboriginal
Bremer Island Start in Katherine (3 hours’ drive south The Arnhem Highway continues for Corporation). Beach combing, relaxing,
Nhulunbuy Nhulunbuy coastlines to open forests and shaded
Arnhem from Darwin). another 480km (unsealed) where turtle spotting, fishing, and Aboriginal
inland waterways, all located just one to
Bremer Island Land you will reach the main town of East cultural tours on Bremer Island.
Begin your journey in the township of two hours from Nhulunbuy. Pack a picnic
Arnhem Land, Nhulunbuy (also known as
Katherine, where the outback meets the and head out for the perfect day trip
Gove). The road may be unpredictable,
* tropics. For inspiration on what to do exploring Arnhem Land. Visit Dhimurru *
You will need a permit to
Katherine so ensure you take your time, be
Mainoru in the Katherine region, check out the Aboriginal Corporation website for more travel into Arnhem Land.
Outstation prepared and most of all, appreciate
Kakadu and Katherine itinerary on page information and to apply for permits. eastarnhemland.com.au/
the remoteness of the land you are
Limmen 28. Make sure you are well equipped plan/access-permits
National Park discovering.
with enough food, water and fuel. DAY FIVE AND SIX
When you arrive in Nhulunbuy, reward
The first leg of your drive will take you
yourself with a sunset drink at the Gove
* Refer to page 2 for details south of Katherine towards Mataranka, Bremer Island
Boat Club and take in a famous Top End
before turning off onto the Central
Optional
sunset. Leave the car for a couple of days in
Arnhem Highway. Travelling just over
Nhulunbuy and escape to an island. Make
250km today on mostly unsealed road,
Considered one of Australia’s last unspoilt areas, Arnhem this route is off-the-beaten-path. Take DAY THREE AND FOUR your way to Bremer Island via a leisurely
one-hour boat ride, or a 10-minute
add-on
the driving easy and consider breaking
Land is just waiting for you to discover. The Central your journey with stop offs at either the Nhulunbuy and surrounds
charter flight. Arrive at Banubanu Bremer Island to Nhulunbuy
Wilderness Retreat on Bremer Island,
Arnhem Road starts 50km south of Katherine and finishes friendly community of Barunga (home of
For the next two days, enjoy the an eco-escape paradise in the Northern
With so much to see and do why
in Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula. This route will take the Barunga Festival) or Beswick where not stay for an extra day and have
remarkable natural surroundings of East Territory. Take this opportunity to relax,
you can browse local arts and crafts at a blue water fishing experience
you on an adventure through open savannah woodlands as Djilpin Arts. We suggest you contact well
Arnhem Land. Stop off at Yirrkala to visit recharge your batteries and live the
with one of the charters available.
the Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre island lifestyle for a few days. Take part
you cross creeks and spot a variety of wildlife. Please note ahead to check opening hours. Take an
(15-minute drive off the Central Arnhem in guided walks, spearfishing, turtle
If fishing isn’t your thing then
that when travelling to Arnhem Land you will require entry overnight break at Mainoru Outstation. charter a scenic flight to witness
Road). This art centre is worth the short watching or just chill out on the pristine
this amazing part of the world
permits in advance. Contact: Tourism East Arnhem via detour; here you can view authentic white beach.
from the sky.
pieces of art and craft created by local
www.eastarnhemland.com.au or call 1800 512 460. Aboriginal artists.
30 31
 Hot Air Balloon Tour, Alice Springs.

Alice Springs,
Tennant Creek and
Katherine regions
Binns Track (4WD) Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, Tennant Creek. Barrow Creek Telegraph Station
Historical Reserve.

powered or unpowered caravan and Food and drink

Timber Creek DAY ONE AND TWO camping site, or in a cabin. Try your luck DAY SEVEN AND EIGHT Dunmarra Wayside Inn, Memorial Club,
Dunmarra fossicking for semi-precious stones such Timber Creek hotel

J 10 DAYS Mt Dare to Alice Springs as zircons and red garnets. Tennant Creek to Dunmarra
Accommodation
2230 km Starting from the SA/NT border up Food and drink Stopover in Tennant Creek to explore its Tennant Creek Caravan Park,
to Timber Creek, the Binns Track was There is a large selection of restaurants many fascinating historical attractions Dunmarra Wayside Inn, Timber Creek
East MacDonnell Ranges created to allow tourists to explore and cafes to choose from in Alice Springs. such as the Battery Hill Mining Centre,
Tours and activities
Tennant Creek region regions of the NT that were bursting the Telegraph Station and Lake Mary
Tennant Accommodation Walk to view the 52 original Oppenhiemer
Katherine region with colours, native wildlife and mighty Ann. Continue north driving past
Creek There is a variety of accommodation poles from the telegraph line, Nyinkka
rock formations. expansive cattle stations and limestone
options in and around Alice Springs to Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre
Set off on the Old Andado Track to Alice landscapes. Soak up the history of
* suit all types of travellers.
the Frews Ponds Overland Telegraph Book your NT
Springs. Flanking the western fringe of
the Simpson Desert, the track passes
Tours and activities Line Memorial Reserve. Created as a PARK Parks Passes:
sand ridges 5-8m high and meanders
Hot air ballooning, camel ride, Alice tribute to Sir Charles Todd, this heritage PASS nt.gov.au/parks
Gemtree Springs Desert Park, Gemtree Tours attraction pays homage to the building
through the Finke River flood-out.
Tjoritja /
Enjoy a picnic lunch at Molly Clark’s Old of the Overland Telegraph Station.
West MacDonnell
National Park Alice Springs Andado Homestead and unwind in its DAY FIVE AND SIX
old-world charm. Take a night or two to DAY NINE AND TEN
PARK * Refer to page 2
PASS enjoy Alice Springs. Gemtree to Tennant Creek
for details
Continue on to Iytwelepenty/
Dunmarra to Timber Creek
Mount DAY THREE AND FOUR Davenport Ranges National Park. You’ll drive along an unsealed road
Optional
Dare
Embrace the serenity or jump in and cool passing through Bullita Homestead
Alice Springs to Gemtree down in the water. Travelling from the
Ranges to Tennant Creek, take a short
(also a great place to set up camp).
Explore the houses and original timber
add-on
The Binns Track is an epic four-wheel drive adventure that Continue on to Ruby Gap Nature Park
detour to Karlu Karlu which is home stockyards of the region’s pioneers.
(4WD access only) and keep a lookout West MacDonnell Ranges
takes you through spectacular scenery allowing you to for native birds and wildlife along the
to the massive granite boulders and a Continuing along the track, you’ll pass
Spend a few extra days and check
explore some of the lesser-known sights of Central Australia river bed. If you wish to stay the night,
must do on your Binns Track itinerary. interesting rock formations along
out the gorges, waterholes and
Walk amongst these ancient boulders Limestone Creek and then arrive at your
and the grandeur of big rivers in the northern parts of the set up your campsite along the river bed.
that stand up to 6m high. Best to visit final destination, Timber Creek. Here world-class hiking trails in the
Follow the Pinnacles Track to Gemtree
NT. Remember to take your own camping gear. on the Plenty Highway, through the
at sunrise or sunset when they glow red you can catch a glimpse of the early life West MacDonnell Ranges west
and change colour. Be sure to bring your in the NT at the Police Station Precinct. of Alice Springs.
breathtaking scenery of the rugged
camera for this truly beautiful sight.
Harts Ranges. Camp overnight at a
32 33
 Karrke Aboriginal Cultural
Experience & Tours.

Alice Springs to
Darwin
Explorers Way
Uluru Camel Tour,
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Darwin
One of the great Australian Travelling from South Australia Sunrise and sunset are the best times
DAY FOUR
to admire the incredible scenes of the
12 DAYS road trips is without a doubt Spend the first five days travelling
K approx 2230 km
Litchfield
National
from Adelaide to Darwin, through outback South Australia,
outback. Remember to take some chairs
and ‘sunset refreshments’ so you can Kings Canyon/Watarrka National Park
Park Katherine stopping in at some of the small coastal
along the Explorers Way. towns. Take in the southern and central
really make the most of this special
For an unforgettable view of Kings
Uluru-Kata Tjuta NP moment on your Explorers Way journey.
Passing some of Australia’s Flinders Ranges and make sure you stay Canyon, rise before dawn and follow
Tennant Creek region overnight at Coober Pedy. Take a walk or ride around Uluru, follow the 6km trail along the Kings Canyon
Daly Waters favourite natural icons, Rim Walk. There are other smaller walks
Katherine region the Walpa Gorge Walk (2.6km return) to
including Uluru and Kata admire the shapes of the domes of Kata on offer so make the most of your time
* Elliott Tjuta, Watarrka National DAY ONE AND TWO Tjuta, and keep your eyes peeled for here and explore as much as possible.
wildlife in the desert.
Park/Kings Canyon, Food and drink
MacDonnell Ranges, Karlu Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Accommodation Aninti Café at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta
Tennant Ayers Rock Resort offers a range of Cultural Centre, Yulara town square
Karlu Karlu
Creek Karlu/Devils Marbles, Once you drive across the Northern
accommodation options from camping offers a café, Asian restaurant and a
/Devils Marbles Territory border, make a beeline for
Nitmiluk National Park and Australia’s ultimate icons. Discover the
to four-star apartments or stay in luxury supermarket to stock up on all your
Litchfield National Park. The at Longitude 131˚ needs, Curtin Springs Station, Kings
beauty of Uluru and Kata Tjuta – this
Canyon Resort and Kings Creek Station,
PARK * Refer to page 2 journey follows the famous desert region is blessed with natural
Under a Desert Moon
PASS Aileron
wonders, world-class dining experiences DAY THREE
for details Ormiston explorer, John McDouall and ancient Aboriginal culture. Accommodation
Gorge
Alice Stuart, who was the first Uluru to Kings Canyon Ayers Rock Resort, Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon Springs There’s an abundance of things to
European to successfully see and do within the Park. Stop in Leave Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Resort, Kings Creek Station
Kata
Tjuta cross Australia south to at the Cultural Centre to learn about and drive 300km back along the Lasseter Tours and activities
Uluru the significance of the area to the Highway and Luritja Highway to reach Free ranger-guided activities, Uluru
Uluru-Kata Tjuta north and establish a route
local Anangu people – the traditional Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon. Camel Tours, Maruku Arts, Curtin
National Park to the coastal region of the custodians of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. This majestic destination features 100 Springs walks, Kings Canyon scenic
Northern Territory. metre-high sandstone walls, walking trails helicopter tours, Karrke Aboriginal
and views that will leave you speechless. Cultural Experience & Tours

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 Darwin Street Art.

Kings Canyon, Standley Chasm, Tjoritja/West

Watarrka National Park. MacDonnell National Park.

Florence Falls,
Ellery Creek Big Hole, Litchfield National Park.
Tjoritja/West MacDonnell
National Park.

Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Cruise,

Tennant Creek. Nitmiluk Gorge, Nitmiluk National Park.

Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, a sacred Tours and activities Food and drink
DAY FIVE site to the Warumungu people. These Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre, DAY TEN Finch Café, Nitmiluk Café, Pop Rocket
massive ancient granite boulders are Daly Waters Historic Pub, Tennant Café, Lazy Lizard
Kings Canyon to Alice Springs strewn across a wide shallow valley, and Creek Telegraph Station, Tingkkarli/ Katherine and surrounds
Lake Mary Ann, Godinymayin Yijard Accommodation
Once you get back on the road, head
to the NT’s second largest town, Alice
continue to crack and change.
Rivers Arts and Culture Centre, Spend the day in Katherine and take in Nitmiluk Caravan Park, Knotts Crossing Optional
Resort, Katherine Holiday Park,
Springs. If travelling by four-wheel drive, DAY EIGHT
canoeing in Nitmiluk Gorge, Nitmiluk
Gorge scenic flight
the beautiful surroundings of Nitmiluk
(Katherine) Gorge with plenty of Litchfield Safari Camp add-on
take the Mereenie Loop, or travel along activities on offer; visit the hot springs
Tours and activities Extra nights
the sealed Luritja and Lasseter Highways, Tennant Creek to Daly Waters DAY NINE within the township of Katherine and Katherine scenic flights, Cutta Cutta
before turning north onto the Stuart take the option of squeezing in a visit to To really make the most of this
As you travel further north, you will Caves, Top Didj Cultural Experience,
Highway towards Alice Springs. Leliyn (Edith Falls). drive, we highly recommend
notice how the environment around Daly Waters to Katherine Litchfield National Park, Helicopter
adding on extra nights in
you is changing. The Daly Waters Flights
As you make your way towards Katherine, locations such as Alice Springs,
DAY SIX Historic Pub is a popular place to stay DAY ELEVEN
take a break from driving and enjoy a Kings Canyon, Uluru, Tennant
overnight that offers backpacker, hotel rejuvenating swim in the Mataranka DAY TWELVE Creek and Katherine.
West MacDonnell Ranges or cabin rooms. The pub and grounds are Thermal Pool. Fed by spring water Katherine to Litchfield
crammed with memorabilia revealing the in the Daly and Georgina basins, it is
The West MacDonnell Ranges are an Litchfield National Park is only a Litchfield to Darwin
pub’s colourful history and those who surrounded by a palm forest and its
easy day trip from Alice Springs along 90-minute drive from Darwin. Its You have made it! You are officially an
have passed through its doors. Set up waters are a constant 34 degrees celsius.
a sealed road. There are many stops unspoilt beauty makes the natural water ‘explorer’. Take your first glimpse of Book your NT
camp for the night and make the most
along the way to enjoy. Walk along the Katherine is the NT’s fourth largest town,
of this notoriously characteristic pub. playground a popular spot with day the Timor Sea as you come into Darwin, PARK Parks Passes:
trail at Simpsons Gap or stand between and a perfect base to check out the trippers who come from the city for a Australia’s northern-most capital city. PASS nt.gov.au/parks
the sheer walls of Standley Chasm. To Food and drink nearby gorge country. Why not explore
dip at Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole and You will find yourself in a contemporary
cool off why not enjoy a swim at Ellery Sporties Steak and Grill, Mataranka the vast Nitmiluk National Park’s thirteen
Wangi Falls. Walking tracks, camping multicultural metropolis of open-air
Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge or Homestead, Daly Waters Historic Pub gorges via a helicopter joy flight, canoe
facilities and 2WD and 4WD accessible markets, festivals, Asian influenced
Redbank Gorge. or join a guided boat cruise. For more
Accommodation: information about what to do around tracks means there is an adventure to cuisine, and an outdoor lifestyle.
Tennant Creek Caravan Park, Eldorado this area see the Kakadu and Katherine suit everyone. For more information
DAY SEVEN Motor Inn, Katherine Holiday Park, Nature's Way itinerary on page 28. check out the Litchfield itinerary on
Manbullo Homestead Caravan Park, page 8.
Shady Lane Tourist Park
Alice Springs to Tennant Creek
On your journey from Alice Springs to
Tennant Creek, take the time to stop at
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3  Our Visitors

Darwin Region
Parks and reserves facilities and activities Sandy Creek Falls, Litchfield National Park.

CYCLING/MOUNTAIN BIKING
WATER SPORTS/CRAFTS

ABORIGINAL ART SITES

CAFE/KIOSK/DRINKS

ACCOMMODATION

HISTORICAL RUINS
DISABLED ACCESS
DRINKING WATER
RANGER STATION

WALKING TRACK

BIRDWATCHING
CARAVAN SITES
BBQ FACILITIES
INFORMATION

PLAYGROUND
PICNIC AREA

SWIMMING

ART SALES
SHOWERS

LOOKOUT
CAMPING

FISHING
TOILET
4WD
Berry Springs Nature Park

Butterfly Gorge Nature Park

Casuarina Coastal Reserve

Channel Point Coastal Reserve

(permit required)

Charles Darwin National Park

Djukbinj National Park

Douglas River/Daly River

Esplanade Conservation Area

Parks and reserves

Fogg Dam
Conservation Reserve
Garig Gunak Barlu

facilities and activities

National Park
George Brown Darwin
Botanic Gardens

Holmes Jungle Nature Park

Howard Springs
Hunting Reserve

Howard Springs Nature Park

Kakadu National Park*

Litchfield National Park

Manton Dam Recreation Area

Mary River National Park

Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve

Territory Wildlife Park

Tjuwaliyn (Douglas)
Hot Springs Park

Tree Point Conservation Area

Umbrawarra Gorge
Nature Park
Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), Window on the Wetlands
Kakadu National Park. Visitor Centre

38 39
*Parks managed by the Australian Government
 Canoeing, Nitmiluk Gorge, Helicopter Tour, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Nitmiluk National Park.

Katherine and Barkly Alice Springs and Uluru

Parks and reserves facilities and activities Parks and reserves facilities and activities

CYCLING/MOUNTAIN BIKING

CYCLING/MOUNTAIN BIKING
WATER SPORTS/CRAFTS

WATER SPORTS/CRAFTS
ABORIGINAL ART SITES

ABORIGINAL ART SITES

CAFE/KIOSK/DRINKS

CAFE/KIOSK/DRINKS
ACCOMMODATION

ACCOMMODATION
HISTORICAL RUINS

HISTORICAL RUINS
DISABLED ACCESS

DISABLED ACCESS
DRINKING WATER

DRINKING WATER
RANGER STATION

RANGER STATION
WALKING TRACK

WALKING TRACK
BIRDWATCHING

BIRDWATCHING
CARAVAN SITES

CARAVAN SITES
BBQ FACILITIES

BBQ FACILITIES
INFORMATION

INFORMATION
PLAYGROUND

PLAYGROUND
PICNIC AREA

PICNIC AREA
SWIMMING

SWIMMING
ART SALES

ART SALES
SHOWERS

SHOWERS
LOOKOUT

LOOKOUT
CAMPING

CAMPING
FISHING

FISHING
TOILET

TOILET
4WD

4WD
Barranyi (North Island) Alice Springs Desert Park
National Park
Alice Springs Telegraph Station
Caranbirini Conservation Historical Reserve
Reserve
Anna’s Reservoir
Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park Historical Reserve
Elsey National Park Arltunga Historical Reserve
Giwining/Flora River Nature Chambers Pillar
Park Historical Reserve
Judbarra/Gregory Corroboree Rock
National Park Conservation Reserve
Keep River National Park Napwerte/Ewaninga Rock
Carvings Conservation Reserve
Limmen Bight Marine Park
Yeperenye/Emily and Jessie Gaps
Nature Park
Limmen National Park
Finke Gorge National Park
Nitmiluk National Park
Henbury Meteorities
Attack Creek Historical Reserve Conservation Reserve
Barrow Creek Illamurta Springs
Telegraph Station Conservation Reserve
Connells Lagoon Mac Clark (Acacia peuce)
Conservation Reserve Conservation Reserve
Iytwelepenty/Davenport Ranges N’Dhala Gorge Nature Park
National Park
Owen Springs Reserve
Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles
Conservation Reserve Rainbow Valley
Tennant Creek Conservation Reserve
Telegraph Station
Historical Reserve Ruby Gap Nature Park
Tnorala (Gosse Bluff)
*Parks managed by the Australian Government Conservation Reserve
Trephina Gorge Nature Park

Ulur–u-Kata Tjut–a National Park*

Watarrka National Park

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell
National Park

*Parks managed by the Australian Government

40 41
 Tiwi Island Grand Final
and Art Sale. Darwin Festival. Henley-on-Todd Regatta, Alice Springs. Mindil Beach Sunset Market.

Wide Open Space Festival, NT Travelling Film Festival, Nitmiluk Gorge, Parrtjima - A Festival in Light,
Alice Springs region. Nitmiluk National Park. Alice Springs. Million Dollar Fish, Top End region. Darwin Street Art Festival.

Festivals and Darwin Street Art Festival

(April – September)
NT Writers Festival Daminmin Festival Chariots of Thunder NOVEMBER

events
Gold Coast Suns v Adelaide Crows Darwin Fringe Festival Million Dollar Fish
Wide Open Space (AFL) SEPTEMBER
Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival Darwin International Laksa Festival
Thailand Grand Festival
Junk Festival Red CentreNATS
Darwin Lions Beercan Regatta
JANUARY Barunga Festival DECEMBER
MAY Garma Festival Desert Mob
Million Dollar Fish Greek Glenti Royal Darwin Show Desert Song Festival Million Dollar Fish
West Macs Monster Trail
Running Festival BetR Darwin Triple Crown Hala Bira Desert Festival Carols by Candlelight
FEBRUARY Kindness Festival
Gold Coast Suns v Western Bulldogs Bush Bands Bash New Year's Eve at Darwin
Million Dollar Fish (AFL) AUGUST Waterfront
Malandarri Festival Katherine Bird Festival
Anniversary of the Bombing of Karrimanjbekkan An-me Kakadu Nitro Up North Great Northern Darwin Cup Numburindi Festival
Darwin Taste of Kakadu
Darwin Pride Festival Desert Harmony Festival Darwin International Film Festival
BASSINTHEGRASS Music Festival 
Rhythm of the 90s The Rotary Henley on Todd Regatta Darwin Street Art Festival
MARCH Kamfari
Daminmin Festival Redback MTB Stage Race Nitmiluk Festival Darwin region
Million Dollar Fish Junk Festival
Run Larapinta Kakadu Bird Week Kakadu
FabAlice Festival Freds Pass Rural Show JULY
Telstra National Aboriginal and Arnhem Land
Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival Torres Strait Islander Art Awards
Territory Day OCTOBER Katherine region
APRIL Garrmalang Festival
Melbourne Demons v GWS Giants Garma Festival Kakadu Bird Week Barkly region
Parrtjima a Festival in Light Wintjiri Wiru (AFL) Darwin Festival Alice Springs Desert Festival Alice Springs region
Ladbrokes Alice Springs Alice Springs Show Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Uluru
Mindil Beach Sunset Market:
Cup Carnival JUNE
Desert Harmony Festival National Indigenous Music Awards Closing night Whole of Territory
Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Tatts Finke Desert Race Desert Nationals National Indigenous Fashion Awards Million Dollar Fish For up-to-date information visit
Opening night Competition opens
Brunette Races Australian Outback Marathon Country to Couture northernterritory.com/events
Parramatta Eels v Brisbane Broncos
East Arnhem Live
(NRL) Alice Springs Beanie Festival Barkly Artists Music Festival (BAMFest)
Disclaimer: Tourism NT provides event, festival and product listings to facilitate tourism operators and consumers connecting and booking products or services directly with each other. Tourism NT does not endorse,
certify or warrant the quality of the product and services offered by third parties or their agents. You must make your own decision about the reliability of the information and the suitability, condition and legality of
the service or product on offer. Tourism NT accepts no legal liability whatsoever in regard to any listings, any linked site or booking made.
42 43
3  Our Visitors

northernterritory.com Gunn Point Peninsula, Darwin.

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