Adelaide to Darwin: A 14-Day campervan trip through the Red Centre

Embarking on the journey from Adelaide to Darwin is among Australia's most celebrated road trip experiences. This expansive adventure through the Red Centre traverses dramatic landscapes, remote outback towns, iconic natural landmarks and tropical Top End scenery. Whether you are drawn to cultural sites, rugged wilderness or simply the sense of freedom on the open road, this itinerary offers a remarkable balance of adventure, discovery and relaxation.

Trip Overview

• Route: Adelaide (South Australia) → Darwin (Northern Territory)
• Suggested Duration: 14 days (allow more if time permits)
• Approximate Distance: ~3,000-3,600 km, depending on detours
• Recommended Vehicle: Campervan or 4WD (depending on routes selected)

Itinerary Day 1: Adelaide to the Flinders Ranges

Depart Adelaide and head north into the Flinders Ranges, a region of dramatic gorges, towering cliffs and rich geological history. Explore scenic viewpoints and trails as you settle into your first campsite among this ancient landscape. Don't miss out on highlights like the Clare Valley and Alligator Gorge.

Camping Tip: Stay at the Wilpena Pound Campground, there is heaps of space and it has perfect amenities.

Flinders Ranges, SA. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 2: Exploring the Flinders

Spend a full day traversing scenic tracks and walking trails. The region's network of gorges and lookout points offer superb opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting. Our personal favourites are Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorge.

Day 3: Flinders Ranges to Coober Pedy

Today's drive takes you deep into South Australia's remote interior toward Coober Pedy, the world's opal capital. Unique underground structures and landscapes shaped by a century of mining await your discovery.

Fun Tip: Park up the campervan and spend the night in the underground accommodation. It is worth the experience!

Day 4: Coober Pedy to Erldunda

Continue north, crossing into the Northern Territory en route to Erldunda Roadhouse. This is a classic outback stretch with long open roads and quintessential desert vistas.

Camping Tip: The Erldunda Roadhouse offers cheap camping spots and pub food if you don't feel like cooking.

Day 5: Erldunda to Uluru

Drive into Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where this iconic monolith and its sister formation, Kata Tjuta, dominate the horizon. Cultural interpretation and sunset viewing options make this a memorable experience. Do the Uluru Base Walk at sunrise or sunset for the best colors.

Camping Tip: Stay the night at the Ayers Rock resort.

Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 6: Exploring Kata Tjuta

Visit the towering domes of Kata Tjuta and choose from walking trails, like the Valley of the Winds, that reveal expansive desert panoramas. This area holds deep significance for the local Anangu people.

Day 7: Uluru to Kings Canyon

The journey continues to Watarrka National Park, home to Kings Canyon. The dramatic rim walk offers spectacular views and a rewarding challenge for keen hikers.

Camping Tip: Stay overnight at the Kings Canyon Campground, the night sky alone is worth staying.

Day 8: Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

Drive to Alice Springs, the central hub of the Red Centre. Replenish supplies, explore local galleries, or simply relax after several days on the road.

Day 9: West MacDonnell Ranges

Today, venture into the West MacDonnell Ranges. This day trip provides access to waterholes, majestic gaps and gorge scenery just outside Alice Springs. Some highlights are the Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm and Ellery Creek Big Hole.

Day 10: Alice Springs to Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

Continue northward to the fascinating Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles, a remarkable collection of massive rounded boulders scattered across the plain. The best time to visit is sunrise or sunset for dramatic light effects on the boulders.

Camping Tip: Stay at the Devils Marbles campground for the night.

Day 11: Devils Marbles to Daly Waters

Head to the historic Daly Waters Pub, a lively outback icon. Enjoy classic pub food and a cold drink at this beloved stopping point. They offer a campground as well for about $30 per night.

Day 12: Daly Waters to Katherine

Arrive in Katherine, where you can unwind in the natural hot springs or explore Nitmiluk National Park, a spectacular system of gorges carved by the Katherine River.

Katherine Hot Springs, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 13: Katherine to Litchfield National Park

Skip the busier Kakadu region today and visit Litchfield National Park, home to beautiful waterfalls, plunge pools and striking natural features. Some highlights are the Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockholes.

Day 14: Litchfield to Darwin

Complete your journey in Darwin, the tropical capital of the Northern Territory. With its relaxed atmosphere, vibrant markets and seafood dining, Darwin is a fitting conclusion to your overland adventure. The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are a great end to your trip and offer foods from all over the world right on the waterfront.

Optional Extension — Kakadu National Park

With additional days, consider an eastern detour to Kakadu National Park, renowned for its Aboriginal rock art sites, wetland cruises and cascading waterfalls. Entry fees and park passes apply.

Kakadu National Park, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia

Essential Road-Trip Advice

• Plan fuel stops carefully; distances between roadhouses can be significant.
• Respect the cultural significance of Indigenous lands and follow all signage.
• Maintain sufficient supplies of water, food and emergency equipment.
• Ensure offline navigation for areas with limited mobile coverage.
• Make sure to buy your passes for all the national parks like Uluru or Kakadu in advance.