Explorer's Way: Adelaide to Darwin
Australia
Australia's great north-south crossing on the Stuart Highway, from Adelaide across the Flinders Ranges to the opal-mining moonscape of Coober Pedy, past the dingo fence into the Red Centre, around Uluru and Kata Tjuta to Alice Springs, north through the Devils Marbles to Katherine Gorge and Darwin. The full traversal of the continent from temperate south to tropical north.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Adelaide
The Stuart Highway begins here. Adelaide's Central Market and Clare Valley Riesling country are the last comforts before the outback swallows the road.
- Port Augusta
The crossroads of Australia, where sealed highway meets the beginning of serious outback. The Flinders Ranges rise dramatically to the east.
- Coober Pedy
The world's opal capital, where extreme heat drove residents underground. Homes, churches, and hotels are carved from soft sandstone in a treeless moonscape.
- Uluru
The sacred Anangu monolith, 348m above the plain and 9.4km around. Closed to climbing since 2019. Kata Tjuta's 36 domed rocks lie 48km west.
- Alice Springs
The Red Centre capital. The Desert Park, Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, and West MacDonnell Ranges gorges explain and surround this remote outback hub.
- Devils Marbles
Enormous granite boulders balanced improbably on the plain, sacred to the Warumungu people. Sunset turns them deep red against a vast sky.
- Katherine Gorge
Thirteen sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River through the Arnhem Land plateau. Canoe through in the dry season; waterfalls fill every ledge in the Wet.
- Darwin
Australia's tropical northern capital, shaped by Asia and rebuilt after Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Kakadu's rock art and Mindil Beach markets reward those who arrive.
Where to Eat
- John's Pizza Bar & RestaurantItalian
A local favorite offering a variety of pizzas and Italian dishes in a relaxed setting.
- The Ghan RestaurantAustralian
Serves hearty Australian meals with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.
- The Overlanders SteakhouseSteakhouse
Renowned for its succulent steaks and outback ambiance, a must-visit for meat lovers.
- The Purple Mango Café and BreweryCafé
Offers homemade mango products and craft beers in a charming rural setting.
- Pee Wee's at the PointSeafood
Fine dining with panoramic ocean views, specializing in fresh local seafood.
- Hanuman RestaurantAsian Fusion
Blends Thai, Indian, and Nonya flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Mindil Beach Sunset MarketStreet Food
A bustling market offering diverse international cuisines alongside local crafts.
Things to Do
- Umoona Opal Mine & MuseumMuseum
Explore underground opal mines and learn about Coober Pedy's mining history.
- The BreakawaysScenic Viewpoint
Stunning desert landscapes with unique rock formations and vibrant colors.
- Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)Nature
Majestic domed rock formations offering scenic hikes and cultural significance.
- Kings CanyonNature
Spectacular canyon with towering walls and lush gardens, ideal for hiking.
- Mataranka Thermal PoolsNature
Natural thermal pools surrounded by tropical forest, perfect for relaxation.
- Litchfield National ParkNational Park
Features waterfalls, swimming holes, and magnetic termite mounds.
- Mindil Beach Sunset MarketMarket
Vibrant market with diverse food stalls, arts, and crafts, set against stunning sunsets.
Travel advisory
The Stuart Highway is fully sealed and passable in a standard car, but extreme outback heat, long distances between fuel stops, and remote sections demand careful planning. Carry extra water and fuel north of Coober Pedy, and check road conditions during summer when temperatures regularly exceed 45 degrees Celsius.