Alice Springs to Darwin
Australia
The Stuart Highway runs dead-straight through the Red Centre, Uluru and Kata Tjuta at the start, Kings Canyon, Devil's Marbles, Tennant Creek, Katherine Gorge, and finally Darwin where the Outback meets the Timor Sea.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Alice Springs
The Red Centre's only city, cradled in a gap of the MacDonnell Ranges. Start with the Desert Park and ochre-walled gorges nearby.
- Uluru
Australia's most sacred site. The 348m sandstone monolith shifts through deep reds and purples at sunrise and sunset.
- Kata Tjuta
Thirty-six domed rocks spread across 20km of desert. The Valley of the Winds walk passes through sacred Anangu ceremonial country.
- Kings Canyon
A 270m sandstone canyon hiding the Garden of Eden, a lush natural amphitheatre of cycad palms around a hidden waterhole.
- Devils Marbles
Massive granite boulders balanced impossibly in the desert scrub. The Warumungu people call them eggs of the Rainbow Serpent.
- Tennant Creek
A rugged outback town born from a 1930s gold rush. The Pebbles sacred site and Battery Hill Mining Centre reward a short stop.
- Katherine Gorge
Thirteen interconnected gorges carved by the Katherine River through ancient sandstone. Freshwater crocs patrol every pool.
- Litchfield National Park
Magnetic termite mounds, cascading waterfall swimming holes, and sandstone pillar formations just 100km from Darwin.
- Darwin
The top of Australia where the Outback meets the Timor Sea. Mindil Beach sunset market and Southeast Asian flavours on the breeze.
Where to Eat
- The Overlanders SteakhouseSteakhouse
A rustic eatery in Alice Springs offering hearty Australian steaks and local specialties in a historic setting.
- Red Ochre GrillAustralian
Located in Alice Springs, this restaurant serves contemporary Australian cuisine with native ingredients.
- Epilogue LoungeCafé
A vibrant café in Alice Springs known for its eclectic menu, live music, and rooftop bar.
- Devils Marbles HotelPub
A classic Australian pub near Devils Marbles, offering hearty meals and cold drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Katherine Country ClubBistro
A popular spot in Katherine serving a variety of dishes, from seafood to steaks, in a casual setting.
Things to Do
- Alice Springs Desert ParkWildlife Park
Explore the diverse desert ecosystems and native wildlife of Central Australia through interactive exhibits and presentations.
- Standley ChasmScenic Viewpoint
A stunning natural chasm in the West MacDonnell Ranges, best visited at midday when the sun illuminates the rock walls.
- Mataranka Thermal PoolsHot Springs
Relax in the warm, crystal-clear waters of these natural thermal pools surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
- Nitmiluk National ParkNational Park
Home to the stunning Katherine Gorge, offering boat tours, canoeing, and hiking amidst breathtaking scenery.
- Mindil Beach Sunset MarketMarket
Experience Darwin's vibrant market scene with diverse food stalls, local crafts, and live entertainment against a sunset backdrop.