Cairns to Darwin

Planning your next motorhome road trip from Cairns to Darwin? Use our comprehensive travel guide to inspire and plan your dream holiday. 

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Reef, outback and the tropics!

This iconic route offers everything from the Great Barrier Reef to the vast Northern Territory outback, making it a true overland route adventure.
DISTANCE: 3,000 kms
SUGGESTED TIME FRAME: 14 days minimum
BEST TIME OF YEAR: May to September
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Watch this video for a quick taste of the Cairns to Darwin route:

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Highlights of the Scenic Drive from Cairns to Darwin

Travelling East to West

  • Starting Point: Cairns Cairns is the perfect launch point for many Queensland travel adventures. From here, you can head north to Port Douglas, the Daintree, and Cape Tribulation, or travel west into the Atherton Tablelands and explore the Undara Lava Tubes. Don’t miss popular tourist attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and the Kuranda Sky Rail.

Travel Itinerary Options
There are two main routes for this road trip:

  • South to Townsville: Head south from Cairns to Townsville, then west on the Flinders Highway towards Mt Isa.
  • Through the Atherton Tablelands: Travel through the Atherton Tablelands, visit the Undara Lava Tubes, and head to Normanton. A detour to Karumba is a must to see the Gulf before heading back towards Mt Isa.
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Mount Isa and Beyond

Mount Isa is a great place to restock and explore. Visit the Underground Hard Times Mine Tour, the underground hospital, and the Outback at Isa Visitor Centre. Continue west to the Threeways, where the highway intersects the Stuart Highway, the main north/south route between Adelaide and Darwin.

Notable Stops Along the Route

  • Tennant Creek: Known for its gold mining history and Indigenous culture, Tennant Creek is a worthwhile detour south from the Threeways.
  • Daly Waters: Famous for its historic pub, a must-visit for a drink and an overnight stay.
  • Mataranka: Relax in the 34°C thermal springs at Rainbow Springs and Bitter Springs.
  • Katherine: Explore Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park via cruises, canoeing, and walking tracks. Also visit Edith Falls for more swimming and camping opportunities.
  • National Parks and Final Stretch to Darwin Spend time in Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park before exploring Darwin. These parks offer wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and rich Indigenous culture.
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Learn more details and useful planning tips about this route.

Grab yourself a drink, sit back and relax while you watch this 8-minute video providing more insight to help your road trip planning from Cairns to Darwin.

Cairns to Darwin route planning tips

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  • Seasons and Timing: The best time to travel this route is during the dry season (May to September).
  • Camping Spots and Accommodation: No need to book campsites in advance except around Cairns, Darwin, and Mt Isa. Freedom camping is available, with many rest areas allowing overnight parking.
  • Road Conditions: Most of the route is sealed, so no need for extra fuel inside your vehicle. Roadhouses provide fuel and basic supplies. Wildlife: Expect to see crocodiles, kangaroos, wallabies, cassowaries, kookaburras, parrots, and possibly dingoes.

We’d recommend a minimum of 14 days for this trip, but most of our retired clients take around 21 days to experience this route. Some also include this iconic route as part of a bigger trip down, heading back down the Stuart Highway to Alice Springs or Adelaide, or others may start the trip in Brisbane first.

Tools for Your Journey

Refer to the Camps Australia Wide Guide for freedom camp locations or use the Wiki Camps app for up-to-date information. Local information centres en route are invaluable resources.

Embark on your Cairns to Darwin road trip for an unforgettable outback adventure, traversing tropical to arid landscapes and experiencing the true spirit of Australia.

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