Roam the Northern Territory on an epic road trip

Rev up with an epic road trip and roam through the Northern Territory. From the lush tropics of the Top End to the iconic expanses of the Red Centre, the NT is your go-to for a drive adventure with a difference in 2025.

The Territory offers a wide range of unique drive experiences off the beaten path. Discover everything from World Heritage sites and native wildlife to sacred wonders and pristine landscapes.

Whether you are planning to fly and rent a vehicle or embark on a scenic road trip from home, the NT has an incredible range of drive holidays to suit every taste and schedule.

From quick getaways lasting two to five days to extended 4WD and campervan adventures of 10 days or more, you’ll find both sealed and off-road routes through iconic destinations like Uluru, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, Darwin, Katherine, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Tennant Creek, and more.

Short drives (2-4 days)

Greater Litchfield Loop (3-4 days): Buckle up for an unforgettable Top End adventure with the Greater Litchfield Loop. Start in Darwin, then visit the historic town of Batchelor, Litchfield National Park, and fishing hotspot Dundee Beach. Swim at Litchfield’s crystal-clear Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, and Wangi Falls; marvel at magnetic termite mounds; and try your luck catching a Million Dollar Fish! Along the way, check out quirky Aussie pubs like Adelaide River Inn, Berry Springs Tavern, and the iconic Humpy Doo Hotel.

Kakadu Explorer (4 days): Explore the dual World Heritage-listed Kakadu, brimming with native wildlife and ancient landscapes. From Darwin, drive to Jabiru and visit the Marrawuddi Arts & Culture Centre before croc-spotting at Cahill’s Crossing and catching sunset at ancient Aboriginal rock art site Ubirr. Start day two with a magical sunrise at Nawurlandja Lookout followed by a guided Aboriginal cultural tour and wildlife-rich Yellow Water Cruise. On day three, hit the trails to Maguk or Jim Jim Falls (seasonal), then relax at Cooinda’s luxe Yellow Water Villas or laid-back campground. Finish up with a scenic drive back to Darwin via Pine Creek, Adelaide River, and Berry Springs.

Katherine & Nitmiluk Explorer (4 days): Discover Katherine’s pristine swimming spots and spectacular landscapes. Drive from Darwin to Katherine, stopping by the Lazy Lizard Tavern before taking a soothing dip at Katherine Hot Springs. Camp under the stars at Gorge View Bush Retreat before spending the day at Nitmiluk National Park kayaking gorges, experiencing Aboriginal culture, and dining aboard a sunset cruise. Begin day three with sunrise at Baruwei Lookout then head to Elsey National Park to bathe in the turquoise waters of Bitter Springs and Mataranka thermal pools. Finish your adventure with a cozy stay at Mataranka Homestead and a refreshing swim at Leliyn (Edith Falls) en route back to Darwin.

Alice Springs Explorer (4 days): All roads lead to Alice Springs (Mparntwe) for outback adventure! Begin your trip with a short drive to Simpsons Gap where sunset transforms cliffs into glowing masterpieces. Afterwards, dine at the iconic Hanuman and unwind at Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters featured in The Adventures of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert. Start your next day with a sunrise hot air balloon ride then explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges cooling off at Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, and Glen Helen. After dark enjoy a nocturnal wildlife tour at Alice Springs Desert Park or stargaze at Earth Sanctuary. On days three and four discover Alice’s quirky cafés vibrant Aboriginal art centres and lesser-known treasures like East MacDonnell Ranges Rainbow Valley and Standley Chasm – Angkerle Atwatye.

Epic drives (5-14 days)

Red Centre Way (5-6 days): The legendary Red Centre Way offers majestic landscapes rich cultural experiences and iconic sacred sites. Starting in Alice Springs (Mparntwe), journey through stunning Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges to Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. Hike the Rim Walk or view the canyon’s grandeur by scenic helicopter. Continue to Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park Australia’s spiritual heart and watch Uluru’s incredible colours transform from dawn to dusk. Join an immersive Aboriginal cultural tour dine under starry skies or enjoy dazzling light shows like Winjiri Wiru and new Sunrise Journeys. On the way back to Alice visit Mount Connor and shimmering Lake Amadeus NT’s largest salt lake!

Nature’s Way (7-9 days): Follow Nature’s Way loop to explore national park trifecta: Litchfield Nitmiluk and Kakadu. Start in Darwin then drive to Kakadu’s untamed wilderness to see lush wetlands abundant birdlife and saltwater crocs in the wild. Connect with world’s oldest continuous living cultures discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) before heading to Katherine via Pine Creek a historic gold rush town. In Katherine experience breathtaking Nitmiluk National Park vibrant art galleries street murals along with award-winning Katherine Outback Experience.

Hidden 4WD gems

Finke Gorge 4WD Track (1 day): Finke Gorge National Park is just a handy day trip from Alice Springs for 4WD enthusiasts. This remote park is home to ancient Finke River believed to be world’s oldest carving through dramatic gorges and rocky landscapes. The Finke Gorge 4WD Track promises adventure with rugged trails secluded camping spots and unique Red Centre landscapes.

Reynolds River 4WD Track (Litchfield National Park) (1-2 days): A day trip from Darwin or easy addition to Greater Litchfield Loop Reynolds River 4WD Track is your ticket to some of Top End’s best secret spots. This 44-kilometre adventure accessible only during dry season winds through stunning sandstone landscapes lush tropical rainforests and secluded water holes that feel like paradise found.

For more information about NT road trips visit northernterritory.com/drive