A Darwin to Perth road trip offers a diverse and captivating journey through some of Australia's most scenic landscapes. Spanning thousands of kilometres, this adventure crosses state lines and covers spectacular countryside.
This trip showcases the rugged beauty of the Outback and the stunning coastline of Western Australia. From Broome to Eighty Mile Beach, from Carnarvon to Geraldton, there are so many incredible locations to explore. Along the way, you can also experience the rich cultural heritage of local Indigenous communities.
The excitement and anticipation of a Darwin to Perth drive should not be underestimated. With so much to see and do, it truly is the journey of a lifetime!
Planning your Darwin to Perth trip involves careful consideration. Among other things, it's important to review the distance, the road conditions, and the accommodation options.
To map the perfect route, it's important to create a realistic itinerary that includes everything you want to see. Recommended stops from north to south include Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, Broome, Eighty Mile Beach, Tom Price, Carnarvon, Kalbarri, Horrocks Beach, Geraldton, and Jurien Bay.
Summerstar Tourist Parks can be found at many of these locations, so you can have a comfortable place to stay while exploring everything these incredible destinations have to offer. Our caravan parks are modern and fully self-catered with large, shady ensuite, powered and unpowered caravan sites and campsites. We even have pet-friendly caravan and camping sites options at most locations!
Exploring the Top End of Australia offers an abundance of natural wonders. From lush national parks to spectacular waterfalls and unique wildlife habitats, there is so much to see.
Popular natural attractions close to Darwin include Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park. Kakadu is Australia's largest national park, and it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's full of ancient rock art sites, stunning wetlands, and cascading waterfalls such as Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls.
Litchfield National Park is known for its beautiful waterfalls and magnetic termite mounds. Swimming is also possible at Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Buley Rockhole. However, open swimming areas change each year and you still need to be croc wise!
For other great spots around Darwin, you can visit Darwin Harbour, the Tiwi Islands, and Arnhem Land.
Ready to kick off your Darwin to Perth adventure? Before you hit the road, let's make sure you're all geared up and ready to roll. Here's the lowdown on what you need to pack:
First things first, stock up on supplies before you bid Darwin farewell. Load up on all the essentials to keep you cruising smoothly across the Outback.
Grab those maps or fire up your GPS navigation—you don't want to end up lost in the middle of nowhere! Stay on track and find your way to Broome like a true road trip champ.
Make sure your ride is equipped with all the must-haves: spare tire, jumper cables, and all that jazz. You never know when you'll need 'em, so better safe than sorry!
Keep the H2O flowing and the snacks stacked. Load up on plenty of water and pack some non-perishable goodies to keep hunger at bay during those long stretches on the road. Keep your drinks cool and your snacks fresh with a trusty cooler or ice chest. Nothing beats cracking open a cold one after a day of epic driving!
Planning to rough it under the stars? Don't forget your camping gear! Pitch a tent, roll out your sleeping bag, and get ready for some unforgettable nights under the Outback sky.
Last but not least, stash some cash for those remote areas, jot down emergency contact info, and don't leave home without your driver's license and vehicle rego. You never know when you'll need it!
Broome and Around Tours. Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Get ready to venture into the wild and wondrous Kimberley region as you cross the border from the Northern Territory (NT) to Western Australia (WA). This epic journey is packed with rugged landscapes, ancient wonders, and cultural treasures, so buckle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime!
With a whopping 19-hour drive from Darwin to Broome, you'll want to pace yourself. Make Kununurra your halfway haven, where you can rest, refuel, and recharge before hitting the road again.
Take your pick from the main drag along the Victoria Highway to the Great Northern Highway or opt for the scenic route down Tanami Road for a taste of the outback's rugged beauty.
Near the border, Keep River National Park and Timber Creek on the NT side offer glimpses of ancient landscapes and indigenous culture. Once you've crossed into WA, don't miss the chance to explore the wonders near Kununurra. Dive into the depths of Lake Argyle, embark on an adventure in El Questro Wilderness Park, or discover the pristine beauty of Mitchell River National Park.
King George Falls. Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
As you track closer to Broome on your Darwin to Perth road trip, other popular locations to visit in the Kimberley region include Horizontal Falls, King George Falls, the Bungle Bungle Range, and Cape Leveque. If you have longer to explore, Gibb River Road, Windjana Gorge, and Tunnel Creek are worthy of consideration. Just south of Broome, you’ll also find Eighty Mile Beach, the longest stretch of uninterrupted beach in Western Australia.
These are just a few of the many unique sights and experiences that await in the Kimberley region. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, natural beauty, or cultural immersion, the Kimberley offers an unforgettable journey into Australia's rugged outback.
If you're looking for an affordable place to stay in the Kimberley Region, Broome Caravan Park and Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park are ideal places to set up camp and explore the region.
Fortescue Falls, Karijini National Park. Image Credit: Annabel Claire Photography
Along your Darwin to Perth drive, you’ll also need to pass through the Pilbara region. This large region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich mining history, and unique natural wonders.
One must-see attraction is the iconic Karijini National Park, home to Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, and Dales Gorge. Other great spots include Millstream-Chichester National Park, Burrup Peninsula, Tom Price, Hamersley Gorge, and Cape Preston Lookout.
If you seek Indigenous culture on your Darwin to Perth trip, you can explore Yaburara Heritage Trail and the ancient petroglyphs of Murujuga National Park.
Looking for affordable accommodation in the Pilbara? Don’t miss Tom Price Tourist Park!
As you travel further south down the coast towards Carnarvon, don't miss the chance to visit Turquoise Bay, and continue your journey through Cape Range National Park to points such as Yardie Creek and Charles Knife Canyon. You can even swim with the Whale Sharks at Ningaloo Marine Park and explore the sandy shores of Coral Bay!
As you head down the coast from Carnarvon, your first major stop is Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique marine life and stunning landscapes. Make sure to visit Monkey Mia, where you can interact with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. You can also explore the ancient stromatolites at Hamelin Pool or take a scenic flight over the breathtaking Shark Bay Marine Park.
Continuing your drive from Darwin to Perth, you'll reach Kalbarri, a coastal town famous for its rugged cliffs, river gorges, and stunning national parks. Spend some time exploring Kalbarri National Park, where you can walk the iconic Kalbarri Skywalk and admire the breathtaking views of the Murchison River Gorge. If you enjoy hiking, Nature’s Window and Z Bend are great trails for exploring the Kalbarri landscape. Don't miss the chance to witness the spectacular sunset over the coastal cliffs at Pot Alley or Red Bluff.
A short detour from the main route will take you to Horrocks Beach, a hidden gem known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beach, go fishing off the jetty, or take a leisurely stroll along the coastal boardwalk. Horrocks Beach is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the seaside.
As you continue south on your Darwin to Perth trip, you'll arrive in Geraldton, a vibrant coastal city with a rich maritime history. Visit the Museum of Geraldton to learn about the region's Aboriginal heritage and maritime past, or explore the HMAS Sydney II Memorial, which commemorates Australia's greatest naval tragedy. You can also enjoy water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, or kitesurfing at one of Geraldton's beautiful beaches.
Your final destination before Perth is Jurien Bay, a picturesque coastal town known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend your days snorkelling with Australian Sea Lions on tour, fishing for local seafood, or exploring the nearby Jurien Bay Marine Park. Don't miss the chance to take a scenic boat tour to see the resident sea lions and dolphins frolicking in the bay!
On a road trip from Darwin to Perth, the vibrant WA capital marks the final destination. If you're looking for cultural spots, you can visit Kings Park and the Botanic Garden, explore the Perth Cultural Centre, or take a trip to nearby Fremantle.
For natural attractions, Cottesloe Beach and Rottnest Island have lots of pristine secluded bays. Whether you're exploring Perth by bike, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or enjoying a scenic walk around the city, exploring here is a great way to reflect on your Darwin to Perth road trip.
Embarking on a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but good planning is key. From essential packing items to vehicle preparation and emergency planning, the following things should always be considered:
When on the road, it's important to stay alert, obey traffic laws, and fuel up on a regular basis. The drive from Darwin to Perth can be very long and secluded, and service stations are often separated by vast distances. Last but not least, it's important to organise and book your accommodation. If you seek quality caravan parks, there are lots of Summerstar Tourist Parks to choose from all over WA.
Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park
Embarking on a journey from Darwin to Perth is not just a road trip; it's an unforgettable adventure waiting to unfold. You will discover hidden gems along vast stretches of road, from remote natural wonders to charming outback towns. From the rugged gorges of Kakadu and the Kimberley to the pristine coastline of Shark Bay and Eighty Mile Beach, this truly is the trip of a lifetime.
If you want to enjoy quality accommodation that reflects this stunning environment, Summerstar Tourist Parks have great options up and down the WA coastline. Check out our parks and book online today!
What are the must-visit destinations on a Darwin to Perth road trip?
Cruising from Darwin to Perth unlocks a treasure trove of awesome destinations. Think Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, Broome, Eighty Mile Beach, Tom Price, Carnarvon, Kalbarri, Horrocks Beach, Geraldton, and Jurien Bay. Each spot has its own vibe, from ancient rocks to sandy shores, promising epic adventures.
What are some essential items to pack for a Darwin to Perth road trip?
Packing smart is key for a Darwin to Perth journey. Load up on H2O, snacks, and road trip fuel (the edible kind). Don't forget navigation gear like maps or GPS, emergency kit, spare tire, and all your important docs. And if you're camping out, throw in your gear too. Prep now, party later!
How can I make sure my Darwin to Perth drive goes smoothly?
Safety first! Check your wheels, map out your route, and keep an eye on the weather. Take regular breaks to avoid the dreaded road trip zonk-out. Oh, and don't forget to let someone know where you're headed. Stay calm, follow the road rules, and you'll be cruising from Darwin to Perth like a pro.
