Explore the Australian West Coast: A 28-day Campervan Road Trip

Dreaming of the ultimate Aussie road trip? A 28-day campervan journey from Perth to Darwin is the adventure of a lifetime! With diverse landscapes, stunning coastlines and outback wonders, this epic trip takes you through some of Australia’s most iconic destinations. Here’s your complete itinerary for an unforgettable month on the road.

Pinnacles Desert, WA. Photo: Campervan Village.

Days 1-4: Perth to Kalbarri

Kick off your adventure in Perth, where you’ll stock up on supplies and hit the road. Follow the scenic Indian Ocean Drive and make your first stop at the mystical Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. After soaking in the surreal limestone formations, continue to the coastal town of Kalbarri. Spend a few days exploring Kalbarri National Park with its stunning gorges and the famous Nature’s Window lookout. Make sure to visit Rainbow Jungle to see Australia’s largest free-flight aviary.

Highlight: Canoe or kayak along the Murchison River for an up-close view of the park’s natural beauty.

Kalbarri, WA. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 5-8: Shark Bay & Monkey Mia

Continue North to the stunning Shark Bay World Heritage Area. Visit Shell Beach, one of only a few beaches in the world made entirely of shells and then explore Hamelin Pool, home to ancient stromatolites. A trip to Shark Bay wouldn’t be complete without visiting Monkey Mia, where wild dolphins come right up to the shore for daily feedings. Relax by the calm waters, and enjoy this remote paradise.

Top tip: Visit the Shark Bay Interpretive Centre in Denham to learn more about the area's history and wildlife.

Shark Bay, WA. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 9-11: Coral Bay & Ningaloo Reef

Next, make your way to Coral Bay, where the Ningaloo Reef lies just a few steps from the beach. Spend your days snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or, if you’re feeling adventurous, book a tour to swim with the majestic whale sharks (April to July). The coral here is vibrant, and you’ll spot turtles, rays and countless fish species.

Must-do: Take a glass-bottom boat tour for a unique view of the underwater world.

Ningaloo Reef, WA. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 12-14: Exmouth & Cape Range National Park

Drive up to Exmouth, the gateway to Cape Range National Park. Here, red cliffs meet turquoise waters, offering some of the best snorkeling and hiking in the region. Visit Turquoise Bay for top-notch snorkeling and take the scenic drive to Yardie Creek Gorge for a hike with breathtaking views. Don’t forget to catch a sunset at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse.

Pro tip: For an unforgettable experience, book a wildlife cruise to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Cape Range National Park, WA. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 15-18: Karijini National Park

Leave the coast behind as you head inland to the majestic Karijini National Park. This rugged landscape is known for its deep gorges, hidden waterfalls and serene swimming holes. Spend your days hiking through dramatic gorges like Dales & Hancock and reward yourself with a swim at Fern Pool or Fortescue Falls. Karijini is perfect for travelers looking to experience Australia’s outback in all its glory.

Camp Tip: The Karijini Eco Retreat offers a great spot to camp in the heart of the park.

Karijini National Park, WA. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 19-22: Broome & Cable Beach

From Karijini, drive back to the coast and reach the laid-back town of Broome. Famous for its pearling history and stunning Cable Beach, Broome offers a chance to relax after your rugged outback adventures. Spend a few days exploring Broome’s unique attractions like Gantheaume Point, where you can see ancient dinosaur footprints, or visit the vibrant Chinatown district. Don’t forget to ride a camel along Cable Beach at sunset – an iconic Broome experience.

Bucket list: Visit Horizontal Falls for a thrilling boat ride through the natural tidal waterfalls.

Cable Beach, WA. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 23-26: Kakadu National Park & Katherine Gorge

As a World Heritage listed and Australia’s largest terrestrial national park, Kakadu offers a range of amazing rock pools, stunning gorges, waterfalls and lots of rare plants & wildlife. Most spots require some hiking, but it is definitely worth the effort.

South from Kakadu National Park you will find the Nitmiluk National Park with the majestic Katherine Gorge, a ravine with swimming holes, waterfalls and spectacular ancient sandstone cliffs changing colors during different times of day. Numerous Aboriginal rock art paintings cover the sandstone walls in the gorge system, with some dating back thousands of years. You can join a local tour to discover the traditions, stories and the cultural significance of the land.

Pro Tip: After a day of exploring, stop at the Katherine Hot Springs on the banks of the Katherine River for a relaxing soak.

Katherine Hot Springs, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Days 27-28: Litchfield National Park & Darwin

Your adventure draws to a close as you head to the tropical wonderland of Litchfield National Park, just south of Darwin. Spend your last few days swimming in natural pools at Wangi Falls, Buley Rockhole and Florence Falls. Litchfield is famous for its stunning waterfalls and termite mounds, providing a refreshing end to your epic road trip.

Finally, roll into Darwin, where you can soak up the tropical city’s relaxed vibe. Celebrate your journey with a sunset cruise on Darwin Harbour or by sampling some local flavors at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.

Mindil Night Markets, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Essential Road Trip Tips

• Stock up: Many stretches of this route are remote, so ensure your campervan is well-stocked with fuel, food and water.
• Stay connected: Invest in a satellite phone or check for reception in remote areas to stay safe.
• Wildlife safety: Be cautious of wildlife, particularly kangaroos, which are active at dawn and dusk. This is why we don’t allow driving between dusk and dawn with our vehicles.

One of Australia’s most iconic road trips!

A 28-day road trip from Perth to Darwin is the ultimate way to experience the untamed beauty of Australia’s west coast and outback. From the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef to the ancient gorges of Karijini and the remote wilderness of the Kimberley, this adventure will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.