Alice Springs to Darwin: A Guide On The Best Road Trip

Delve deep into one of Australia’s most fascinating and remote regions, the NT’s Top End, on an inspiring Alice Springs to Darwin road trip.

Alice Springs

Camel racing, bottomless boat competitions and a desert-load of activities make Alice Springs unlike anywhere else in Australia. You can quickly fill a handful of days in this outback town: our advice, mix independent exploring with a few guided tours.

Get your bearings at ANZAC Hill, where you can pay your respects to fallen soldiers while getting a 360-degree view of the town below. After, stop by the Alice Springs Telegraph Station to see where Europeans first settled in the town to relay messages between Darwin and Adelaide along Australia’s Overland Telegraph Line.

As for the colourful competitions, arrive in August and you can watch the Henley-on-Todd dry river ‘boat’ regatta. Get there in July and you can cheer on the cameleers kicking up dust at the annual Alice Springs Camel Cup. Photojournalist Jennifer Pinkerton describes the competition as “one crazy soup of a race".

Other top attractions include Alice Springs School of the Air, where you can tune into a lesson broadcast to a student in a remote outpost, and Alice Springs Desert Park, where you can learn about traditional Indigenous hunting and gathering techniques.

Cheer on the cameleers at the annual Alice Springs Camel Cup.

Must-see

The Royal Flying Doctor Service is an important part of Australia’s history and you can learn about it at the original Alice Springs working base. Now a museum, hear the stories of pilots and medical staff during a holographic show, inspect old medical supplies and step inside a replica aircraft used to visit ill and injured rural Australians.

The Larapinta Trail

A challenging, but rewarding, side trip from Alice is the Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges. You can do the entire 223-kilometre trek or sample a section, and tackle it solo or with a company.

If you’re heading to Darwin, sign up to a tour so you don’t have to lug extra camping and hiking gear with you for the rest of your trip. Australian Walking Holidays takes the stress out of the adventure with treks that come complete with semi-permanent campsites, hot showers and three-course meals. Peak season on the trail is May to August.

The Larapinta Trail Alice Springs — Larapinta: a challenging, but rewarding, side trip from Alice.

Hire a vehicle

You can fly to Alice from most major cities in Australia and hire a car or campervan at the airport or in town; Apollo, Britz, Thrifty and Hertz all have branches.

Wycliffe Well

For the quirk factor alone, road-trippers should call into Wycliffe Well, a holiday park, animal sanctuary, restaurant, lake and performance stage rolled into one. Its claim to fame is being Australia’s UFO capital.

Devils Marbles

The first major stop you should make after leaving Alice is Karlu Karlu, otherwise known as the Devils Marbles. More than a collection of large, balancing boulders, they’re believed by the Warumungu Aboriginal people to be the fossilised eggs of the mythological rainbow serpent.

The Marbles, some of which are six metres high, are considered so special that Australian photographer Melissa Findley had this to say: “If I could tell you one thing about the Devils Marbles, it’s that visiting there makes you want to quit your structured life, buy a caravan and live every night there under those stars."

Where to stay

Camp at the conservation reserve so you can experience the Marbles at sunrise and sunset.

Tennant Creek

The site of Australia’s last major gold rush (in the 1930s), Tennant Creek makes for an interesting stop on the Stuart Highway. Visit Tennant Creek Telegraph Station, which was built in 1872 and served as a refuge for travellers from the outback’s harsh conditions.

Other points of interest include Battery Hill Mining Centre for an underground tour; Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Cultural Centre to learn the stories of the Warumungu Aboriginal people; Kelly’s Ranch, where you can go horse riding; and Lake Mary Ann, a popular swimming spot.

Stay at the basic, but comfortable, Bluestone Motor Inn .

Daly Waters Historic Pub

You can’t pass through this part of the NT without calling into iconic Daly Waters Historic Pub . With copious bras, hats, t-shirts and foreign currency adorning the walls, this watering hole is as Aussie as pubs get. Time your visit for lunch and then aim to spend the night in Katherine, 275 kilometres north-west.

Katherine

It’s the surrounding attractions that put Katherine on the map, and the most notable is Nitmiluk National Park. Picture towering Jaffa-coloured cliffs, silky green water and pandanus trees lining the banks of Katherine River.

With 13 gorges throughout the park, including the world famous Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, the most popular way to explore is on a cruise and there are numerous companies to choose from. You can also get a bird’s-eye view from a helicopter or follow walking trails to waterfalls and rock art.

You’ll also want to visit Leliyn (aka Edith Falls) to swim in the natural pool that offers respite in the Top End heat.

A practical stop

The town of Katherine is an obvious base for exploring the region and a handy pit stop for road-trippers needing to stock up on supplies. You’ll find a big supermarket and a motel if you pull into town late.

For a more luxurious overnight stay, book a room at the nearby Cicada Lodge: a community-run, high-end retreat, 30 kilometres from Katherine’s town centre.

Mataranka and Bitter Springs

There are a few waterholes worth stopping at before and after Katherine. Mataranka Thermal Pool (116km south-east of Katherine) is a popular attraction during the busy winter season thanks to clear water and mild temps.

Left to its more natural setting is Bitter Springs, two kilometres from Mataranka. Also thermal pools, there’s a slight current that makes for fun floating down the creek.

For a dip closer to town, visit the Katherine Hot Springs.

Litchfield National Park

It’s one of the must-visit destinations in the Northern Territory and some travellers argue Litchfield beats Kakadu hands down. The park, about 120 kilometres from Darwin, certainly attracts a lot of visitors and it’s worth spending a few days here.

Stay at Florence Falls Campground, with a creekside path to the falls. The spring-fed plunge pool gets crowded, so arrive early. If you’re not staying overnight, there’s a car park and lookout at the top, with a staircase to the water.

The much larger Wangi Falls is also worth spending a couple of hours at. It’s more of an established tourist attraction, with viewing points, a walking trail and plenty of space to swim. There is a cafe and campground nearby.

Tick off the trifecta by enjoying a dip at Buley Rockhole. This is a fun spot, especially for children, as there are multiple pools and rocks to slide down.

Did you know?

The Litchfield area used to be a centre for tin and copper mining. Those operations ended in 1955 and the park was turned into pastoral land, and then designated a national park in 1986.

Berry Springs Nature Park

With three peaceful pools and a sprawling picnic area, Berry Springs is a wonderful morning excursion about 50 minutes from Darwin’s CBD.

Crocodiles can frequent the park, so swimming during the wet season (November–April) is off-limits and warnings should be heeded year-round.

Darwin

Crocs, markets, military history, swimming pools and a tropical climate that rivals Thailand’s – Darwin is a city with wow factor.

Let’s talk crocodiles first. There are a couple of places you can see them. Crocodylus Park is home to the famous jumping crocodile feeding tours, while at Crocosaurus Cove you can get an eye-full of the fearsome creature underwater in the ‘cage of death’.

Next up, visit at least one local market. The most famous is Mindil Beach Sunset Market , where every Thursday and Sunday (4–9pm April–October) travellers and locals mingle as they listen to music and chow down Asian-style street food; arrive early for a park. Don’t just stop at the legendary Mindil Beach Markets, Darwin has some magnificent local markets worth visiting.

Then there’s the military history. Wrap your head around it all at Darwin Military Museum, which houses a fantastic collection of memorabilia, and Darwin Aviation Museum, with its extensive display.

For something different, pop into the WWII Oil Storage Tunnels, or plan to visit during the Territory Tribute festival. It’s a month of film screenings, literary discussions, art exhibitions and commemorative services.

The weather can be humid, especially in summer, so when it’s time to take a dip head to the Wave Lagoon at Darwin Waterfront or the free Leanyer Recreation Park.

Must experience

The virtual reality Bombing of Darwin Harbour experience at the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility is world-class and puts you right in the middle of the 19 February 1942 catastrophe.

Go with a tour company

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to tours in the Top End. AAT Kings has everything covered with a huge range of mostly multi-day tours, while smaller companies tick off a tonne of half-day and day options in Alice, Katherine and Darwin primarily. Journey Beyond’s The Ghan Expedition also covers the Top End, starting in Darwin and calling into Katherine and Alice on its way to Adelaide.

For more information on things to do in the NT, see our NT guide page or visit the official Northern Territory website at northernterritory.com

Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park , just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory. — Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole , open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park — Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands , a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space. — Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Dine in Darwin

Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets , Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets .

Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

A bowl of Laksa. — Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Up close with Uluṟu

The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

6. Drive the Red Centre Way

From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT). — Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa . This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden. — Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap , Standley Chasm , Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen .

Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com

Alice to Darwin: A Guide On The Best Road Trip