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Tanami Track — Australia — Desert
Australia & Pacific

Tanami Track

Australia

In short: Tanami Track is a 1060 km desert road trip in Australia, typically driven over 3–5 days, best in May–Sep. Highlights: Alice Springs, Yuendumu, Rabbit Flat.

Distance
1060 km
Duration
3–5 days
Best Season
May–Sep
NotableHard4WD onlyDesertOff-road sections

One of Australia's great remote desert crossings, a corrugated dirt road through Warlpiri and Kukatja country from Alice Springs to Halls Creek. Red spinifex plains, a 900m meteorite crater, and near-complete solitude.

~1 refuel
~3 charges
Practical notes
Carry at least 10 days of food and water and a satellite communicator as fuel stops are hundreds of kilometres apart. The corrugated dirt surface punishes tyres badly; two full-size spares are strongly recommended. Travel only in the dry season (April to October) as sections become impassable after rain.
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Stops along the route

Alice Springs — Departure — Tanami Track — Australia
Departure
Alice Springs
Stock up on fuel and water before the dirt begins. The Tanami Track stretches over 1000 km of corrugated red desert ahead.
Hotels
Yuendumu — City — Tanami Track — Australia
City
Yuendumu
A significant Warlpiri community and last reliable fuel stop in the NT. Famous for the annual Yuendumu Sports Weekend.
Hotels
Halls Creek — Arrival — Tanami Track — Australia
Arrival
Halls Creek
The Tanami ends on the edge of the Kimberley. The crumbling 1884 gold rush settlement nearby is atmospheric and worth a walk.
Hotels

Things to Do

Rabbit Flat — Landmark — Tanami Track — Australia
Landmark
Rabbit Flat
One of Australia's most remote roadhouses, sitting near the WA border. Check fuel and tyres; the track ahead gets rougher.
Wolfe Creek Crater — Nature — Tanami Track — Australia
Nature
Wolfe Creek Crater
The second-largest meteorite crater on Earth, 875 m across and 60 m deep. Walk the rim for a perspective-shifting view.
Warlukurlangu Artists Aboriginal Corporation — Art Gallery — Tanami Track — Australia
Art Gallery
Warlukurlangu Artists Aboriginal Corporation
Showcases vibrant Aboriginal art, offering insights into Warlpiri culture and traditions.
Yuendumu School Bilingual Program — Cultural Experience — Tanami Track — Australia
Cultural Experience
Yuendumu School Bilingual Program
Experience the unique bilingual education system teaching in both Warlpiri and English.
Recreational Facility
Yuendumu Community Swimming Pool
A popular spot to cool off and interact with locals, especially during the hot desert days.
Halls Creek Visitor Centre — Visitor Centre — Tanami Track — Australia
Visitor Centre
Halls Creek Visitor Centre
Provides information on local attractions, history, and cultural sites in the Halls Creek area.
Tanami Desert Wildlife Sanctuary — Nature Reserve — Tanami Track — Australia
Nature Reserve
Tanami Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore the unique flora and fauna of the Tanami Desert in this protected area.

Where to Eat

Yuendumu Community Store — Local Diner — Tanami Track — Australia
Local Diner
Yuendumu Community Store
Offers a variety of groceries and takeaway meals, serving as a central hub for the community.
Yuendumu Women's Centre Café — Café — Tanami Track — Australia
Café
Yuendumu Women's Centre Café
A community-run café offering light meals and beverages, supporting local women's initiatives.
Halls Creek Roadhouse — Roadhouse — Tanami Track — Australia
Roadhouse
Halls Creek Roadhouse
Provides hearty meals and refreshments, a popular stop for travelers on the Tanami Track.
Yuendumu Bakery — Bakery — Tanami Track — Australia
Bakery
Yuendumu Bakery
Serves freshly baked bread and pastries, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Halls Creek Hotel Restaurant — Australian — Tanami Track — Australia
Australian
Halls Creek Hotel Restaurant
Offers a range of Australian dishes in a comfortable setting, ideal for a meal after a long drive.

Explore related routes

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Frequently asked questions

How long is the Tanami Track drive?

The Tanami Track covers 1060 km from start to finish.

How long does the Tanami Track take to drive?

Most travellers spend 3–5 days on the Tanami Track, depending on stops and pace.

When is the best time to drive the Tanami Track?

The recommended season for the Tanami Track is May–Sep.

Where does the Tanami Track start and end?

The Tanami Track runs from Alice Springs to Halls Creek.

What are the main stops on the Tanami Track?

The Tanami Track passes through Alice Springs, Yuendumu, Rabbit Flat.

How difficult is the Tanami Track to drive?

The Tanami Track is rated hard and is best handled with 4wd only.

Do I need a 4WD for the Tanami Track?

Yes — the Tanami Track includes off-road or rough sections that require 4wd only.

How many fuel stops are needed on the Tanami Track?

Plan around 1 refuels (or about 3 EV charges) along the Tanami Track, based on its 1060 km length.

Is the Tanami Track safe to drive?

Carry at least 10 days of food and water and a satellite communicator as fuel stops are hundreds of kilometres apart. The corrugated dirt surface punishes tyres badly; two full-size spares are strongly recommended. Travel only in the dry season (April to October) as sections become impassable after rain.

What scenic tier is the Tanami Track?

The Tanami Track is a notable drive — Notable scenic drives — strong character routes that locals know well and that reward travellers willing to step beyond the most-photographed roads.