5–7 Day Top End Campervan Road Trip Itinerary in the Northern Territory

Thinking about exploring Australia’s untamed North? A campervan road trip through the Northern Territory’s Top End is the ultimate mix of adventure, culture and nature. With lush waterfalls, ancient rock art and amazing hikes, this 5–7 day route departing from Darwin and looping back to Darwin, is the perfect outback road trip.

Why Travel the Top End by Campervan?

Travelling by campervan gives you freedom, flexibility and the chance to wake up right in the heart of nature. Forget overpriced hotels and strict check-in times. Your campervan is your bed, your kitchen and your way of transportation. Plus, there are plenty of free and low-cost campgrounds throughout the region.

Day 1: Explore Darwin - Garramilla

Start your adventure in Darwin, or Garramilla for the locals, the NT's tropical capital. Pick up your campervan and stock up on supplies before checking out:

• Mindil Beach Sunset Market (dry season only)
• Darwin Waterfront Lagoon
• Museum and Art Gallery of the NT
• Litchfield National Park info centre (to prepare for later)

Overnight: Stay at one of Darwin’s local campgrounds or caravan parks to get your bearings.

Mindil Night Markets, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 2: Darwin to Litchfield-Kungarakan National Park (Approx. 120km / 1.5 hrs)

Hit the road early and head to Litchfield National Park, home to some of the Top End’s best swimming spots and waterfalls. This park is an amazing place to cool off, but watch the crocodile signs!

Top stops include:

• Florence Falls: twin waterfalls with a plunge pool
• Buley Rockhole: cascading pools perfect for a dip
• Wangi Falls: picture-perfect and great for a swim (seasonal)
• Magnetic termite mounds: an iconic Top End photo spot
• The Lost City (4WD only): an incredible collection of weathered sandstone formations that resemble the ruins of an ancient city. Only accessible via a rough track, but well worth it if you're in a 4WD camper.

Overnight: Camp at Wangi Falls or Florence Falls campground.

Day 3: Litchfield to Kakadu-Gagudju National Park (Approx. 250km / 3 hrs)

Next up is Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in Aboriginal culture and epic landscapes. The locals know it as Gagudju or Gaagudju, referring to the people of the land. Take the Stuart Highway and Arnhem Highway east.

Stop in at:

• Bowali Visitor Centre: get your park pass and plan your day
• Ubirr: climb to the lookout for panoramic views over Nadab floodplains and explore ancient Aboriginal rock art
• Nourlangie: another stunning site filled with stories

Overnight: Camp at Jabiru or nearby Cooinda campground.

Day 4: Kakadu – Waterfalls & Wetlands

Spend a full day soaking in Kakadu’s natural wonders. Choose your adventure:

• Yellow Water Billabong Cruise: spot crocs, jabirus, and buffalo
• Jim Jim Falls (dry season access only, 4WD required): dramatic cliffs and deep plunge pools
• Maguk (Barramundi Gorge): a short hike to a swimming hole
• Twin Falls Plateau walk: amazing waterfall views, only open during dry season and accessible via Maguk.

Overnight: Stay another night in the park at Cooinda or Gunlom campgrounds (check seasonal access).

Kakadu National Park, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 5: Kakadu to Katherine - Nitmiluk (Approx. 300km / 3.5 hrs)

Hit the road south to Katherine, the gateway to the incredible Nitmiluk National Park. The highlight here is Nitmiluk Gorge, a series of 13 sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River.

Top things to do:

• Take a scenic cruise or paddle a canoe through Nitmiluk Gorge
• Hike to Baruwei Lookout for sweeping views over the gorge and escarpment
• Relax at Katherine Hot Springs, a series of clear, warm pools right in town, perfect for an end-of-day soak

Overnight: Camp at Nitmiluk Campground, just minutes from the gorge.

You can make your way back to Darwin the next day, it’s about a 3-4h drive, or you can keep exploring if you have more time.

Katherine Hot Springs, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Day 6–7: Deeper into Nitmiluk & Return to Darwin

If you’ve got more time, spend another day exploring Nitmiluk National Park. There are a range of walking trails from short hikes to full-day treks, as well as boat tours run by local Jawoyn guides that share the deep cultural significance of the area.

Other optional detours:

• Southern Rockhole: seasonal waterfall that’s great for a swim (if flowing)
• Butterfly Gorge or Edith Falls (Leliyn): ideal for a peaceful swim and picnic, depending on your route back

Wrap up your trip by making your way back to Darwin (approx. 3.5–4.5 hours). For a slower return, stop in at Pine Creek or Adelaide River along the way.

Campervan Travel Tips for the Top End

• Best time to go: Dry season (May–October) offers the best access to waterfalls, 4WD tracks and swimming spots.
• Park passes: Required for Kakadu; buy them online or at visitor centres.
• National Park Websites: always double check the park sites for potential track closures.
• Fuel up often, petrol stations can be few and far between.
• Check road conditions, especially in Kakadu and Litchfield during shoulder season.
• 4WD access: Not all spots are accessible with a 2WD camper. If you're hiring a 4WD camper, you’ll see even more remote gems like Jim Jim Falls, Lost City or Koolpin Gorge.

Darwin, NT. Photo: Tourism Australia.

Ready to Hit the Road?

This 5–7 day Top End road trip gives you a taste of everything, from tropical city life to untouched wilderness. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or sunsets, the freedom of a campervan lets you go at your own pace and wake up somewhere incredible every day.