Grab a Wicked Campervan in Darwin and set off on an epic Aussie outback route down the Stuart Highway to Alice Springs, the heart of the Red Centre. This iconic drive takes you from tropical Top End landscapes through wide open plains, historic outback towns and unforgettable desert scenery. Along the way you’ll find natural springs, gorges, quirky roadhouses and more.
Start in Darwin & Top End Highlights
Begin in Darwin, with its tropical vibe and markets like the Mindil Sunset Market if you’re there during the dry season. From here, head south to Litchfield National Park (optional short detour) for waterfalls, magnetic termite mounds and clear plunge pools, a refreshing break before the long Stuart Highway stretch.
Katherine & Natural Springs
A few hours out of Darwin, Katherine is a must-visit stop. At Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge you can walk, paddle or cruise through towering sandstone walls, then relax in the Katherine Hot Springs nearby, nature’s own warm swimming pool.
Daly Waters — Classic Outback Pub Stop
Further south, Daly Waters is one of those classic Aussie outback towns you’ll remember. Pop into the historic pub, stretch your legs, and soak up quirky local history before the long drive ahead.
Tennant Creek & Devils Marbles
Your next major stop is Tennant Creek, a handy rest town with roadhouses, fuel and quirky local sights. Just north of town, the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) are huge granite boulders resting in desert plains, a great photo stop and short walk.
Alice Springs — Red Centre Culture
Roll into Alice Springs, a hub of outback culture, galleries, and desert heritage. Explore local art, taste regional cuisine or chill under desert skies before heading out to explore more of the Red Centre.
Optional Add-Ons — Uluru & West MacDonnell Gems
From Alice Springs you can continue south and make the most of your trip:
- Uluru / Kata Tjuṯa National Park — experience the iconic monolith that changes colour at sunrise and sunset.
- West MacDonnell Ranges — amazing gorges and waterholes like Ormiston Gorge and Simpsons Gap are great for hikes and scenic stops.
Road Trip Tips
- Time it right: At least 3–5 days is ideal — you’ll want to enjoy stops without rushing.
- Fuel & supplies: Fill up whenever you can — services are sparse between major towns.
- Drive smart: Avoid long stretches at dawn or dusk when wildlife is most active on roads.
- Safety: Mobile coverage can be limited — download maps offline and carry extra water, snacks and a basic first-aid kit.
- Respect Country: The outback is rich in Indigenous culture — always follow signs and access guidelines on Aboriginal land.
This Darwin to Alice Springs journey is classic Aussie outback with big skies, wide horizons and unforgettable memories. Load up your Wicked Campervan and make it yours!