The ultimate Darwin to Broome road trip

by Ally Rugers

posted on June 27, 2023

If you’re seeking the ultimate outback experience where the coast meets rural Australia, then the Darwin to Broome road trip will be one you won’t want to miss.

From tropical rainforests to arid deserts, trust me – the whole trip is an epic adventure through the most stunning landscapes Northern Australia has to offer.

Rent a car in Darwin (or Broome) on Turo and tackle this bucket-list drive. In this ultimate 2023 Darwin to Broome road trip guide, we cover:

• Darwin to Broome drive: overview and top tips
• Itinerary 1: The Great Northern Highway (2WDs)
• Itinerary 2: Gibbs River Road (4WDs)
• Top stops between Darwin and Broome
• Tips when heading back from Broome to Darwin

Darwin to Broome road trip: An overview

The adventure-packed road trip along Australia’s northwest coast offers a unique blend of outback scenery, cultural experiences, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re re-discovering your own backyard or a first-time adventurer, the journey from Darwin to Broome is undoubtedly a memorable one.

• Road distance: 1,871 kilometres
• Driving time: 19 hrs and 42 mins
• When to go: Dry season (May to October)
• Driving conditions: A mix of sealed roads and some rural terrain.

Distance from Darwin to Broome:

The whole trip from Darwin to Broome covers approximately 1,871 kilometres of road distance.

Being a longer road trip, the expansive distance offers ample opportunity to explore diverse terrains across the two states, from lush national parks to rugged coastal regions and even ancient geological formations.

Darwin to Broome driving time:

Whether you’re starting in the Northern Territory or travelling the other way from Broome to Darwin, the entire trip takes approximately 19 and a half hours in driving time.

You’ll need at least four days to drive the distance comfortably (or even longer if you plan to tackle the 4WD route).

With this trip, overnight stays are a must. Whether you’re camping under the stars or resting at a homestead, browse the optional extras offered by Turo’s local hosts to complete your booking (like camping gear, cooking stoves or roof racks for extra storage and comfort).

Or, if you’re seeking a true backyard Australia experience, consider van hire options to go completely off-grid.

When to go from Darwin to Broome

Throughout northwest Australia, the climate and weather conditions vary throughout the year. To make the most of your journey, it’s best to plan ahead and consider how the weather may affect your itinerary.

If you’re used to a more comfortable climate and less rain, I recommend visiting during Darwin’s dry season (May to October). During the dry season, you can expect clear blue skies and temperatures ranging 20°C to 33°C.

Driving conditions: What is the road from Darwin to Broome like?

The main road that connects Darwin to Broome is the Great Northern Highway (National Route 1), stretching over 3,204 kilometres between the two states. Alternatively, if you’re seeking an off-road option, the Gibb River Road covers 660 kilometres of the Kimberley’s vast untouched wilderness.

While most of the highway is well-maintained and sealed, be prepared for some remote and rugged terrain stretches. It’s important to have a reliable vehicle, plenty of water, and essential supplies for this journey, especially when passing through the remote areas of the Kimberley region.

Make sure to look out for native animals that can be present on the roads (especially in the early mornings, late afternoons and nights), and drive cautiously to avoid collisions.

Towing a caravan on the Savannah Way

The iconic Savannah Way will ease you from A to B, stretching over 3,700 kilometres of road distance linking Cairns to Broome.

The exciting two-state, one-territory journey is alive with adventure. You can expect to find plenty of fishing spots and iconic attractions like Katherine Gorge and Cable Beach that are worth stopping by.

The route is also well populated with fuel stops in Jabiru, Mataranka, Borroloola, Cape Crawford, Burketown, Dumadgee, Normanton, Katherine, Cairns, Mareeba, Chillagoe, and Darwin.

You’ll need almost two weeks to drive the entire distance comfortably, more if you’re hoping to make the most out of your pit stops. Some of the most popular and visitor-friendly camping sites and caravan parks include:

• Talaroo Hot Springs
• Wolfe Creek Crater National Park
• Purnululu National Park
• Riversleigh World Heritage Site
• Boodjamulla National Park

Petrol stations and EV chargers from Darwin to Broome

Compared to other Australian road trips, fuel is a little harder to come by when travelling between Darwin and Broome.

While towns and roadhouses along the route allow you to refuel and get basic supplies, distances between these services can be quite long. It’s best to carry a map with you and even consider bringing additional fuel canisters to stay prepared (if you’re travelling via the Gibb River Road, you’ll definitely want to do so).

For drivers in electric vehicles, there are several EV chargers mainly situated in the city centres of Darwin and Broome, with limited EV charging stations between the two states.

Expert tip: Consider choosing a ride with prepaid fuel extras to make the refuelling process a little easier.

What kind of vehicle is best?

Choosing the right vehicle for your Darwin to Broome road trip is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

With the road trip made up of both sealed and unsealed roads that frequently venture through remote terrain, it is important to consider which vehicle may compliment your trip best and allow you to maximise your time away.

If you plan to follow the Great Northern Highway 1, a 2WD or campervan will be fine. Alternatively, if you plan on conquering the more challenging terrain of the Gibb River Road, make sure to book a 4WD.

When travelling through Australia’s outback, you’ll likely come across more extreme weather events. You may want to consider choosing a vehicle with an inbuilt AC system or extra supplies for wet weather or heat waves.

Tailor your trip with a range of 2WD, 4WD, and campervan options on Turo.

What to bring

Being one of the most unique road trips there is in Australia, you will want to be prepared.

Given the vast stretches of road and remote locations, having an ample supply of water and a mix of perishable and non-perishable pantry items is crucial. It’s also a good idea to bring a satellite phone and a map to get you through areas with limited phone signals.

If you plan to sleep beneath the stars, you’ll want clothing suitable for diverse climates, sturdy footwear for exploration, and camping gear. To camp easily, pack a comprehensive first-aid kit, emergency tools, quality camping gear and navigation equipment for peace of mind.

Croc Country – Are there crocodiles in Northern Australia?

The Northern Territory is home to the world’s largest wild crocodile population, with more than 100,000 predators in the wild. As for Western Australia, crocs tend to stick to inland waterways and most of the main Kimberley river systems.

During your road trips from Darwin to Broome, make sure to practice croc-wise behaviour while visiting or relaxing near waterways, including:

• Obey all warning signs
• Assume crocodiles are present in all waterways even if there are no warning signs
• Be cautious around water at night
• Camp at least 50 metres away from the edge of the water
• Never leave food scraps, rubbish or bait near water, campsites or boat ramps
• Don’t let pets off-leash around waterways
• Avoid using small watercrafts such as kayaks or paddle boards in known crocodile habitat

A Darwin to Broome itinerary

Whether you choose the 2WD or 4WD route, keep reading to discover the perfect Darwin to Broome road trip itinerary, complete with key destinations, attractions and must-see activities to tackle along the way.

The Great Northern Highway 1: The 2WD Route (4 days)

Exploring the Kimberley for the first time? Across four days, the Great Northern Highway route offers an accessible adventure, with plenty of sealed roads perfect to tackle in a 2WD car.

Day 1: Darwin to Katherine

Your Darwin to Broome road trip starts with a picturesque drive from Darwin to the heart of the Red Centre. Following the Stuart Highway for 310km southeast, you’ll pass through the townships of Humpty Doo, Adelaide River, and Pine Creek.

Whilst in the region, the Katherine Gorge and nearby Nitmiluk National Park are some great pit stops to explore Aboriginal rock art sites, nature walk trails and spot native wildlife.

Distance: 310 km

Driving time: 3.5 hrs

Day 2: Katherine to Victoria River

The second day of your Darwin to Broome journey promises a blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. As you head west along the Victoria Highway, be prepared for a scenic drive through the rugged outback, with opportunities to cool off at Edith Falls and Katherine Hot Springs.

Explore the ancient Indigenous art at Jarrangbarnmi and Koolpin Gorge and take a break amongst grassy plains, sprawling baobab trees and impressive sandstone formations.

Distance: 456 km

Driving time: 9 hrs

Day 3: Victoria River to Halls Creek

On your third day, you’ll head from Victoria River to Halls Creek, arriving at a 19th-century gold rush site. Upon your arrival, don’t miss the Wolfe Creek meteorite crater (formed a whopping 300,000 years ago).

Distance: 809 km

Driving time: 12 hrs 52 minutes

Day 4: Halls Creek to Broome

The last stretch of the trip is the journey from Halls Creek to Broome. As you head west on the Great Northern Highway, the landscape transforms from desert to coastal beauty.

Broome offers pristine beaches, including Cable Beach, where you can unwind, soak up the sun and even experience mesmerising sunset camel rides.

Distance: 686 km

Driving time: 7 hrs 13 mins

Gibb River Road: The 4WD Route (10 days)

If you’re an adventure seeker at heart and not afraid to get muddy on dirt roads, buckle up for a thrilling 10-day 4WD expedition along the famed Gibb River Road.

On the Gibb River Road (“The Gibb”), you can expect to encounter river crossings, rocky trails, and deep gorges. Just make sure to avoid tackling this 4WD routine during the wet season (November to April) due to poor driving conditions. Don’t forget – off-roading is a prohibited use for cars rented on Turo.

Day 1: Darwin to Nitmiluk National Park via Edith Falls

The first day of your Gibb River Road adventure begins with a journey from Darwin to Nitmiluk National Park, with a must-see stop and dip at Edith Falls.

Heading along the Stuart Highway, you’ll then take a detour to the serene oasis of Edith Falls within Nitmiluk National Park. Expect well-maintained roads until you reach the park entrance.

Distance: 292 km

Driving time: 3 hrs and 4 mins

Day 2: Nitmiluk National Park

Stay local and spend the day exploring the 13 gorges rising up from Katherine River in the Nitmiluk National Park. With no driving on the cards, you can choose your own adventure, from swimming in rock pools or canoeing at Nitmiluk Gorge to taking a helicopter ride to see the spectacular scenery from the air.

Day 3: Katherine to Lake Argyle

Fuel up and get ready for a big day on the Victoria Highway, taking you into Western Australia. Timber Creek (two hours before the border) is a great lunch spot, with Heritage Trail offering a great opportunity to get the blood pumping.

Head 75 km south, and you’ll arrive at Lake Argyle, one of the Kimberley’s most photographed spots.

Distance: 503 km

Driving time: 5 hours 21 minutes

Expert tip: quarantine laws prohibit fresh food being brought over the border. Make sure to stop in at Kununurra once you enter WA to stock up.

Day 4: Purnululu National Park

Ready to encounter the stunning rock formations at Bungle Bungle Range? That’s exactly what you’ll find on day four at the Purnululu National Park. Get on the National Highway 1 and head south to your destination.

Distance: 350 km

Driving Time: 4 hours 21 minutes

Day 5 & 6: El Questro Station

Hit the road and head north to the incredible 283,000-hectare property of El Questro Station. Situated on the iconic Gibb River Road, this former cattle station is a bucket-list destination with thermal pools, sweeping gorges and remote waterholes.

Distance: 303 km

Driving Time: 4 hours 2 minutes

Day 7: Ellenbrae Station

It’s time to head west along the Gibb River Road towards Ellenbrae Station (brimming with refreshing swimming holes). Be sure to stock up on plenty of food and fuel for the journey. Along your way, make a pit stop at the Cockburn Ranges Lookout for panoramic views of the sandstone escarpment.

Distance: 158 km

Driving Time: 2 hours 29 minutes

Day 8: Manning Gorge

Keep heading west and make your way to Manning Gorge, located at Mt Barnett Station. Manning Gorge Campsite is the perfect spot to settle for the night, surrounded by waterfalls, swim spots and sweeping views of the ranges.

Distance: 179 km

Driving Time: 3 hours 4 minutes

Day 9: Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park

Ready to tackle Windjana Gorge? One day nine, you’ll be heading to the large campground located in the Bandilngan National Park.

Distance: 213 km

Driving Time: 3 hours 6 minutes

Expert tip: While the 3.5km gorge is an inspiring site, be sure to steer clear of the waters that freshwater crocodiles call home.

Day 10: Broome via Derby

As your epic 10-day road trip winds up, take the final stretch of the Gibb River Road to Derby. Extend your trip for a night stay in Derby and check out the natural wonder of Horizontal Falls. Then, head along the Great Northern Highway and make a bee-line for Broome – your final destination.

Distance: 357 km

Driving Time: 4 hours 28 minutes

Top stops on the way from Darwin to Broome

No matter which route you choose from Darwin to Broome, there’s no shortage of picturesque landscapes and unforgettable experiences to stop at along the way.

Nitmiluk National Park

Situated in the Katherine region, just a 22-minute drive from the town centre, Nitmiluk National Park is renowned for its striking sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River.

The park consists of 13 natural gorges, including Katherine Gorge and Edith Falls, offering a breathtaking backdrop for activities. Visitors explore the park with a range of activities, including walks along the Jatbula Trail, cave tours, canoe tours, sunset dinner tours and gorge tours.

It’s important to note that swimming and certain activities only run during the dry season (May to October) due to crocodile sightings. Keep an eye out for signage, and information from park rangers.

Katherine Outback Experience

The Katherine Outback experience is a popular tourist attraction in Uralla, just a 9-minute drive from the centre of Katherine.

The outback experience features a two-hour Outback show full of horse training, dog training, live music performances and more.

El Questro Wilderness Park – Kununurra Office

El Questro Wilderness Park is a renowned wilderness destination in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, near Kununurra.

The vast and remote property is well known for its stunning natural beauty and offers visitors a wide range of scenic adventures and outdoor activities. From fishing to horseback riding and even 4WD expeditions, there is much to experience.

There’s also the option to stay overnight, whether that’s camping, glamping or staying at the homestead.

Territory Wildlife Park

Set in a natural bushland environment just 50 kilometres outside of Darwin, the Territory Wildlife Park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Northern Territory’s various ecosystems, including wetlands, monsoon forests, and woodlands.

Window on the Wetlands

Window on the Wetlands is a visitor centre and lookout located in the Mary River region near the town of Humpty Doo.

It serves as an informative and scenic point just outside of Darwin where visitors can learn about the unique wetland ecosystems of the Northern Territory from a 270-degree viewing platform.

Kakadu National Park and Gunlum Falls (Waterfall Creek Falls)

Kakadu National Park, located 150 kilometres from Darwin, is a World Heritage-listed natural wonder.

Encompassing nearly 20,000 square kilometres, it’s Australia’s largest national park and boasts a mosaic of ecosystems, including wetlands, savannah woodlands, and rugged escarpments.

Expert tip: Don’t miss Gunlom Falls, also known as Waterfall Creek Falls. Situated in the southern part of the park, the falls offer a stunning blend of waterfalls, plunge pools, and panoramic views from the top of the falls.

Keep River National Park

One of the Northern Territory’s best-kept secrets, the Keep River National Park is a captivating natural reserve situated 3 km east of the NT and WA border.

Be sure to experience Ginger’s Hill Walk, a scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking panoramic views of the park’s distinctive landscapes.

Halls Creek

Halls Creek is a remote town situated in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. It’s a small and isolated community known for its rugged outback surroundings and historic charm.

Halls Creek is a gateway to some of the Kimberley’s most iconic natural attractions, including the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park and the stunning Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater.

Litchfield National Park

Litchfield National Park, located 1 hour and 15 minutes from Darwin, is a captivating natural wonder renowned for its pristine landscapes and stunning waterfalls.

Among its many attractions, Wangi Falls and Florence Falls are iconic highlights for those looking to cool down. Wangi Falls is a breathtaking, multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation and featuring a serene swimming lagoon that is a popular spot for a refreshing dip.

Florence Falls, on the other hand, plunges into a deep, clear pool and is known for its crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to swim below its cascading waters.

Expert tip: If you’re a visitor in the Northern Territory, you must obtain a park pass before exploring the area.

Purnululu National Park and Cathedral Gorge

Purnululu National Park is located in Western Australia between Kununurra and Halls Creek. The World Heritage-listed site is renowned for its unique landscapes and iconic sandstone formations.

At the heart of the park lies Cathedral Gorge, which has towering red rock walls that encircle a vast open space, producing exceptional acoustics that give the area its name. Another unmissable attraction is the Bungle Bungle range, known for its beehive-striped domes and striking natural formations.

Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle, located in the East Kimberley region, approximately 75 kilometres from Kununurra, is one of Australia’s largest artificial reservoirs.

Formed by the damming of the Ord River, Lake Argyle stretches over 900 square kilometres at full capacity, creating a vast inland oasis amid the rugged Outback.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, including boat cruises that offer the chance to spot freshwater crocodiles, dining in at a restaurant surrounded by picturesque landscapes or winding down at the discovery resort.

Timber Creek

Timber Creek is a small town located in the Victoria River region of the Northern Territory. Nestled along the Victoria Highway, it serves as a convenient stopover for travellers exploring the rugged landscapes of the top end.

The stunning Victoria River, which winds its way through the area, provides opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and crocodile spotting, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nearby, the Gregory National Park offers beautiful hiking trails and access to the remarkable Judbarra/Gregory National Park.

Lily Creek Lagoon

Lily Creek Lagoon is a serene water body located near the town of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. This oasis in the arid Red Centre is a haven for both wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

Broome to Darwin: Tips for driving back to Darwin

As you return from Broome and embark on your return journey to Darwin, it’s essential to be just as well-prepared for the road ahead. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your drive:

1. Mind the Distance: The drive from Broome to Darwin is considerable, so plan your stops wisely. Consider breaking up the journey with overnight stays in towns like Kununurra and Katherine to rest and refuel.
2. Fuel and Provisions: Ensure your vehicle is fully fuelled before setting out, as remote stretches with limited fuel stations await. Stock up on essential provisions, including water and non-perishable food items, if you encounter extended distances between towns.
3. Check Road Conditions: The roads between Broome and Darwin can vary in quality, so stay informed about current road conditions. Rainy seasons can lead to closures or rough patches, so check with local authorities or online resources for updates.
4. Wildlife Awareness: Be vigilant for wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are more active. Kangaroos, emus, and other creatures can unexpectedly cross the road, so reduce your speed and exercise caution.
5. Camping and Accommodation: If you plan to camp along the way, make sure you have the necessary camping gear and permits for designated areas. Alternatively, pre-book accommodations in advance, as some towns may have limited options.

Ready to embark on this epic outback road trip? Find your perfect ride with Turo.

*Off-road driving is a prohibited use for cars rented through Turo

Ally Rugers

Ally is a content writer and road tripper based in Sydney, Australia. Having lived in a few states across Australia, she's always looking for the next adventure in her own backyard. Between spending winters up at the slopes and summers by the coast, she's always making the most of her time off. She's looking forward to ticking off some bucket list adventures like hiking through Machu Picchu, sipping an Aperol Spritz in Positano or experiencing the Alaskan wilderness.

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