Visit the Territory’s star attractions driving from Adelaide to Darwin (or reverse) – explore Uluru and Kata Tjuta in the Red Centre, stop overnight at Karlu Karlu and be sure to head out to Nitmiluk Gorge and Litchfield in the Top End.
Red Centre highlights
Kick back and enjoy the sunset over the mighty formation of Uluru and choose from one of the walks to get a closer look at the wonder of Kata Tjuta in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Head to Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park to take the early morning rim walk for spectacular views across the desert.
Outback towns
Stayin Alice Springs, the Territory’s second-largest city and the Aboriginal art capital of Australia. For stunning outback waterholes to take a dip in, visit the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Stop at Tennant Creek to brush up on gold rush history, see the Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles and learn about Aboriginal culture.
Visit the town of Katherine – the perfect base to explore the nearby gorge country of Nitmiluk National Park. Jump on a cruise down the river, hire a canoe or take a helicopter flight for more epic views of the ancient gorge system.
Top End highlights
Camp out under starry skies and sink into the popular waterholes of Litchfield National Park before pushing north one last time to the tropical capital of Darwin where you’ll have plenty left to explore – think markets, art galleries and waterfront dining experiences.
The Explorers Way extends from Adelaide to Darwin and is a drive that’s different in every sense.
Remember to plan your trip with these road safety tips before starting your Northern Territory drive adventure.
Download the Explorers Way itinerary
Suggested itinerary
Day | Destination | Distance |
Days 1–4 | Adelaide to Coober Pedy | 846km |
Day 5 | Coober Pedy to Uluru | 734km |
Day 6 | Uluru to Kings Canyon | 300km |
Day 7 | Kings Canyon to Alice Springs | 474km |
Day 8 | West MacDonnell Ranges | 130km |
Day 9 | Alice Springs to Tennant Creek | 510km |
Day 10 | Tennant Creek to Daly Waters | 400km |
Day 11 | Daly Waters to Mataranka | 167km |
Day 12 | Mataranka to Katherine | 106km |
Day 13 | Katherine to Litchfield National Park | 265km |
Day 14 | Litchfield to Darwin | 130km |
