Road Trips & Maps
CENTRAL AUSTRALIA
Road Trips & Maps
Central Australia is one of the most unique and spectacular travel destinations in the world. And we reckon he best way to see it all is on an epic road trip. Discover the awe-inspiring majesty of Uluru, explore the iconic outback town of Alice Springs, and journey north to Tennant Creek and the Barkly – Australia’s “Golden Heart.” But these highlights are only the beginning. Take your time, immerse yourself in ancient landscapes and culture, and create memories to treasure long after you return. Before setting out, pick up a free Drive the NT Map at Visitor Centres and Caravanning & Camping shows nationwide.
Road Trips & Itineraries
ALICE SPRINGS TO ULURU
Red Centre Way
The Red Centre Way, one of Australia's great drive journeys, features some of the country's most famous landmarks, but also beautiful hidden gems, sweeping desert landscapes, a rich pioneering history, and the oldest living culture in the world.
Before setting off from Alice Springs, arm yourself with all the information you need from the Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre and ask for a permit to drive the Mereenie Loop. You'll need an all-wheel-drive vehicle for this spectacular scenic drive, or if you choose to visit Palm Valley in the Finke Gorge National Park, a high-clearance 4WD is essential.
Highlights include the astonishing Toritja/West MacDonnell Ranges National Park and her iconic walks and waterhole oases; the ancient wonder of Palm Valley and the fascinating history of nearby Hermannsburg; the famous Kings Canyon Rim Walk in Watarrka National Park; and of course the iconic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, twice World Heritage listed for her natural beauty and cultural significance.
Alice Springs
Standley Chasm
Palm Valley
Alice Springs to Ormiston Gorge or Finke Gorge National Park (Palm Valley) (130kms)
On your way to Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park, stop at Alice Springs Desert Park, hailed by Sir David Attenborough as one of the world’s best wildlife parks. The “West Macs” boast dramatic cliffs, chasms, gorges, tranquil waterholes, and world-class walks. Spot rock wallabies at Simpsons Gap, stroll to the sheer walls of Standley Chasm, swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, or hike Serpentine and Ormiston Gorge, perfect for birdwatching and swimming. Redbank Gorge offers a challenging yet rewarding climb to Mt Sonder, or a cool swim in the gorge. For 4WD adventures, head into Palm Valley and marvel at the ancient Red Cabbage Palms, explore Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, enjoy its tea rooms, and visit the former home of artist Albert Namatjira. End the day with a sunset over the ranges.
Glen Helen, or Palm Valley, to Kings Canyon (260kms)
Heading west to Kings Canyon, the dramatic Tnorala/Gosse Bluff rises from the plains. Formed over 140 million years ago when a 600m-wide comet struck Earth, this site is both a geological marvel and a place of deep cultural significance. Amazingly, the Western Arrernte creation story recalls an object falling from the sky and hitting the ground here. From Tnorala, journey along the remote Mereenie Loop towards Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. Human presence is scarce, but you may spot brumbies, donkeys, or camels roaming the outback. At Kings Canyon, choose from camping, eco retreats, glamping, or luxury stays at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon or Kings Creek Station.
Kings Canyon to Uluru (300kms)
One of Australia's greatest walks, the Kings Canyon Rim Walk is best enjoyed in the morning. Every part of the walk reveals something spectacularly different. Begin by hiking to the rim of the canyon, climb through Priscilla's crack and into the auditorium, peer over the edge of the sheer sandstone walls, descend into the Garden of Eden and relax by her tranquil waterhole, and wander through weathered rock domes of the Lost City. This walk has it all. If you have time, or for those unable to hike up to the scenic rim of the canyon, the Kings Creek Walk is beautiful and easy, and can be enjoyed any time of day, all year round. On your way to Uluru, the nearby Kathleen Springs has an easy walk to a pretty waterhole or, for the more adventurous, an overnight trek on the Giles Track. And little further south, stop into Kings Creek Station, a working cattle station and camel farm, to enjoy some outback hospitality and learn about station life in the remote Red Centre.
After settling into your accommodation at Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort) you should have time to drive into the nearby Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and celebrate the legendary Uluru sunset. Make sure you take several photographs because your camera can pick up the amazing colour changes better than your eyes.
Ellery Creek Big Hole
Ormiston Gorge
Glen Helen Gorge
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Watch the rising sun light up Uluru on a dawn camel trek, then head into the park. Take the full Uluru Base walk, or park and enjoy the fascinating and picturesque Kuniya walk into Mutitjulu waterhole. On the other side of Uluru, take advantage of the free Ranger-guided Mala Walk. Learn the ancient creation stories of this giant monolith and how Aboriginal people thrived and survived here for thousands of years. Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) will be looming in the distance and begin to dominate the horizon as you approach. This startling collection of gigantic, rounded domes are 200m higher than Uluru and for many people, the spectacular Valley of the Winds Walk is the most memorable part of their visit to the park. In the evening, dine under the stars, enjoying some great Australia food and wine, take in an Astronomy show, or join the countless others that have visited the smash hit Field of Light exhibition.
Uluru to Alice Springs (445kms)
Stop and revive at the roadhouses lining the highway. Call in at Curtin Springs Wayside Inn and join a one-hour tour to learn about life in the remote outback and see how they make handmade paper from the grasses on their million-acre cattle station. Eighty kilometres south of Alice, take a short detour to Rainbow Valley. This beautifully scenic spot is named for the myriad of coloured bands in her sandstone bluff and is famous for some of the most spectacular sunsets in Australia.
Uluru
Kata Tjuta
Kings Canyon
ADELAIDE TO DARWIN
Explorers Way
Hit the open road on one of Australia’s greatest adventures – the Explorers Way, stretching from Adelaide all the way to Darwin. This epic journey follows in the footsteps of explorer John McDouall Stuart, crossing 3,000 kilometres of ever-changing landscapes. Discover South Australia’s rugged Flinders Ranges and quirky Coober Pedy, before heading into the heart of the Red Centre with its iconic Uluru, Kings Canyon and Alice Springs. Continue north through the vast outback and the golden heart of Tennant Creek, enjoying remote pubs and wayside inns on your way to the tropical north. Mataranka and Katherine Gorge are must-sees before reaching the Top End, where world-famous Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks await.
Coober Pedy
Uluru
Kings Canyon
Adelaide to Coober Pedy (846kms)
Along the journey from South Australia to Coober Pedy, why not stop into Port Augusta, a great base to explore the Southern and Central Flinders Ranges? Spend the night in an underground hotel in Coober Pedy, visit an underground church, fossick for your own opals and visit the breathtaking Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park.
Coober Pedy to Uluru (734kms)
Once you have arrived at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park discover the spiritual heart of the Australian Outback. Home to the great icons of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, this desert region is blessed with natural wonders, world-class dining experiences and rugged beauty.
Uluru to Kings Canyon (300kms)
Leave the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and drive 300km back along the Lasseter and Luritja highways to Watarrka/Kings Canyon. This majestic destination features 100m high sandstone walls, walking trails and views that will leave you speechless.
Ellery Creek Big Hole
Ormiston Gorge
Glen Helen Gorge
Kings Canyon to Alice Springs (474kms)
For an unforgettable view of the canyon, rise before dawn and follow the 6km trail around its rim. Once you get back on the road, head to the NTís second largest city, Alice Springs. If travelling by four-wheel drive, head via Mereenie Loop, or travel along the sealed Luritja and Lasseter highways, before turning north onto the Stuart Highway.
West Macs, Alice & Glen Helen (130kms)
The West MacDonnell Ranges are an easy day trip from Alice Springs along a sealed road. There are many stops along the way to enjoy Walk along the trail at Simpsons Gap or stand between the sheer walls of Standley Chasm. To cool off why not enjoy a swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen Gorge or Redbank Gorge?
Alice Springs to Tennant Creek (510kms)
On your journey from Alice to Tennant, stop in at the Devils Marbles, a sacred site known as Karlu Karlu to the local Warumungu people. These massive ancient granite boulders are strewn across a wide, shallow valley and continue to crack and change.
Heading further to Darwin...
The drive from Tennant Creek to Darwin along the Stuart Highway is packed with unforgettable highlights. Stop at the legendary Daly Waters Pub, Australia’s quirkiest outback watering hole, brimming with character and history. Further north, unwind with a soak in the crystal-clear Mataranka Thermal Pools, a tropical oasis fringed by palm trees. Near Katherine, explore the majestic Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), where towering sandstone cliffs and serene waters invite cruising, canoeing, and hiking. Before reaching Darwin, you must visit Litchfield National Park, famous for its spectacular waterfalls, natural plunge pools, and giant termite mounds.
Devils Marbles
Wangi Falls
Mindil Beach Markets
ALICE SPRINGS TO TENNANT CREEK
Binns Track
The Binns Track is the quintessential off-road adventure, spanning 2,230 kilometres from the rugged South Australia–Northern Territory border to the lush, tropical rivers near Katherine. Named after NT Parks and Wildlife Ranger Bill Binns, who dreamed of creating a journey that showcased his beloved Territory’s diverse landscapes, this track takes you through some of Australia’s most spectacular and remote country. Experience vast deserts, ancient mountain ranges, rich pastoral lands, and thriving wetlands as you tackle this epic route. For 4WD enthusiasts, the Binns Track offers an unforgettable way to explore the wild heart of the Northern Territory.
John Hayes Rockhole
Jessie Gap
Arltunga Historical Reserve
Mt Dare to Alice Springs (420kms)
Mt Dare Hotel and Roadhouse lies at a remote crossroads in South Australia. Heading north, the Old Andado Track leads to Alice Springs, skirting the Simpson Desert’s red dunes and the floodplains of the Finke River. Along the way, stop at Molly Clark’s Old Andado Homestead, a remarkable piece of pioneering history. Just 240km further, Alice Springs surprises with rich arts, culture, wildlife, and access to breathtaking landscapes. From there explore the MacDonnell Ranges, Palm Valley, Rainbow Valley, and Chambers Pillar—unforgettable outback day trips in every direction.
Alice Springs to Plenty Highway - via East MacDonnell Ranges (290kms)
The East MacDonnell Ranges, 150 km east of Alice Springs, showcase Central Australia’s stunning outback landscapes, gorges, waterholes, bushwalks, Aboriginal rock art, and pioneering history. Take Ross Highway from Alice Springs to Emily Gap and Jessie Gap, sacred sites on the Caterpillar Dreaming trail. The Binns Track then heads off-road through N’Dhala Gorge, home to thousands of ancient petroglyphs, then to Trephina Gorge with scenic hikes and the refreshing John Hayes Rockhole. Further east, Ruby Gap Nature Park offers remote bush camping, and secluded swimming in Glen Annie Gorge. Then head to the ghost town of Arltunga and stay at the Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat. The track then leads north, through the rugged Harts and Fergusson Ranges, famous for gem fossicking.
Plenty Highway to Tennant Creek (690kms)
Iytwelepenty/Davenport Ranges National Park lies where arid Central Australia meets the southern tropical north, offering surprising landscapes and abundant wildlife. Its waterholes provide a haven for birds, fish, and visitors seeking a refreshing stop. Before reaching Tennant Creek, take a short detour to Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, giant granite boulders that appear precariously balanced—perfect for sunrise or sunset photos. Tennant Creek is rich in history and culture. Learn about Australia’s last great gold rush on an underground gold mine tour at the Battery Hill Gold Mining and Heritage Centre and discover the pioneering story of the Overland Telegraph Line, at the wonderfully restored Telegraph Station.
Tennant Creek to Timber Creek (1030kms)
The track from Tennant Creek to Timber Creek is through the remote heart of the Northern Territory. This unsealed route takes you through rugged landscapes and fascinating history. Stop at Bullita Homestead, a perfect campsite, and explore its historic houses and original timber stockyards, remnants of the region’s pioneering past. Along the way, admire striking rock formations at Limestone Creek, showcasing the area’s natural beauty. Your journey ends at Timber Creek, where the Police Station Precinct offers a glimpse into early life in the NT.
The Pebbles, Tennant Creek
Davenport Ranges National Park
Battery Hill Gold Mining & Heritage Centre, Tennant Creek
ALICE SPRINGS TO HALLS CREEK
Tanami Track
The Tanami Track is one of Australia’s last great outback frontiers, linking Central Australia with Western Australia’s Kimberley. Stretching through vast desert plains, it’s a journey of wide horizons, endless skies and striking contrasts. Along the way, visit the renowned Warlukurlangu Artists in Yuendumu and marvel at the wild beauty of Wolfe Creek Crater, one of the world’s largest meteorite sites. Take a detour and discover the amazing birdlife, desert wildflowers and vivid sunsets of Lake Gregory and Stretch Lagoon before cruising into Halls Creek, a little over 1000 kilometres from Alice Springs.
Tanami Road
Tilmouth Well Roadhouse
Warlukurlangu Artists
Tilmouth Well Roadhouse (200 kms from Alice Springs)
Tilmouth Well, on the edge of Napperby Station, provides a refreshing break for weary travellers, 200 kilometres north west of Alice Springs. Enjoy a haven of outback hospitality with a range of motel rooms, contractor style accommodation and an expansive campground with powered and unpowered sites. The property offers a licensed restaurant, takeaway food, swimming pool and general store with groceries, cold drinks and souvenirs.
Warlukurlangu Artists of Yuendumu (300kms from Alice Springs)
Warlukurlangu Artists of Yuendumu has been producing gloriously coloured Aboriginal art that celebrates and preserves Indigenous culture since 1985. As one of Australia’s longest-running and most successful Aboriginal-owned art centres, it not only shares powerful stories through painting but also supports the remote community of Yuendumu, fostering cultural pride, economic strength, and creative expression for future generations.
Warlayirti Artists of Balgo (850kms from Alice Springs)
In the Balgo community, just 40km off the Tanami, is Warlayirti Artists, one of the most remote and remarkable art centres in Australia. Around 300 artists from Wirrimanu, Mulan and Kururrungku showcase vibrant paintings, etchings, photography, film and music, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience that powerfully connects art, story and Country.
Warlayirti Artists
Lake Gregory
Wolfe Creek Crater
Lake Gregory and Stretch Lagoon (turn-off 885kms from Alice Springs)
Nature lovers and birdwatchers will be thrilled by a detour off the Tanami at Billiluna to Stretch Lagoon (16km) and Lake Gregory (103km). These permanent inland wetlands are internationally renowned, with over 73 waterbird species recorded. Camp at one of three sites (no facilities) for magical sunrise and sunset views. Permits are essential and available online or from the Halls Creek Visitor Information Centre.
Wolfe Creek Crater (850kms from Alice Springs)
Wolfe Creek Craters is accessed via a 23 kilometres unsealed road through Carranya Station. Standing on the rim of this 880-metre-wide meteorite crater is quite an incredible sight, especially at sunrise and sunset. Known as Karntimarlarl to the local people, the crater is believed to be over 300 thousand years old. Spend the night at the basic campsite maintained by the Department of Parks and Wildlife and watch the desert light play on this unique landscape. (Call the Halls Creek Visitor Centre for up to date road reports).
LAVERTON - ALICE SPRINGS - WINTON
Outback Way
Dubbed "Australia's Longest Shortcut" the Outback Way from Laverton Western Australia, through the Northern Territory's Red Centre to Winton in Queensland, is a 2800 Kilometres odyssey across the heart of the continent. Almost half of the track is dirt roads, so you will need a four-wheel-drive, but if you want to take the road less travelled, that's all part of the adventure.
Laverton
Outback Way
Uluru
Laverton to Uluru (1125kms)
Note: Permits are required. Contact your nearest Visitor Information Centre for details.
Scenery steals the show on this stretch of the Way, a wild and remote part of Australia, with open spaces stretching to the horizon, vast salt lakes, and pockets of natural springs and waterholes that come to life after infrequent rain. The area is sparsely populated, dotted occasionally with roadhouses and isolated Aboriginal communities. Three renowned art centres, Tjulyuru, Tjarlirli and Kaltukatjara lie on route.
Uluru to Alice Springs (445kms)
Approaching Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park from the west, your first breathtaking sight is the massive domes of Kata Tjuta before Uluru comes into view. Stay at Yulara and experience sunrise and sunset, the Uluru Base Walk, and Kata Tjuta’s Valley of the Winds. Explore by camel, helicopter, segway or with a local guide, and hear ancient Aboriginal creation stories. After dark, enjoy starlit dining or the magical Field of Light exhibition. On the drive to Alice Springs, stop at Curtin Springs Wayside Inn for outback hospitality, admire Mt Conner from its lookout on the Lasseter Highway and finish at the striking sandstone cliffs of Rainbow Valley (70 kilometres south of Alice Springs), a perfect finale to an unforgettable Red Centre adventure.
Alice Springs
Winton
Winton dinosaurs
Alice Springs to Winton (1190kms)
Spend several days in Alice Springs, a town rich in history, culture and outback experiences. Allow time to visit the Telegraph Station, Royal Flying Doctor Service, School of the Air, National Road Transport Museum, Women’s Museum of Australia, Araluen Cultural Precinct and the world-class Desert Park. Venture to the ancient East and West MacDonnell Ranges, swim in pristine waterholes, hike the Larapinta Trail, or take a 4WD trip to Palm Valley or Chambers Pillar.
Heading east, the Plenty Highway winds through the Harts Range into Queensland. Stop at Gemtree Caravan Park, renowned for its warm hospitality, cabins, bush setting and famous camp oven dinners. Families love the activities here—try your luck fossicking for gems or browse treasures in the gem room.
Your journey ends in Winton, birthplace of Waltzing Matilda and home to the spectacular Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, a perfect finale to your outback odyssey.
Northern Territory Map
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