If you want to experience the remote Western Deserts of Australia, this is the trip for you. From Darwin to Alice Springs, this journey will keep you on the edge of your seat. Make sure to bring plenty of memory cards for your camera as most people end up buying more along the way. The scenery is some of the best Australia has to offer and the off-road driving is second to none.
We cross the Great Sandy Desert, Little Sandy Desert and the Gibson Desert on this 58-day expedition. No other 4WD tag-along tour company offers a trip like this. If you love the Australian great outdoors and enjoy sand driving then this is the one.
PRICE
$11500
DURATION
58 Days
DISTANCE
8570 km
START LOCATION
Darwin, NT
PERCENTAGE OF BITUMEN / DIRT: 10/90
AVERAGE DISTANCE PER DAY: 260km
GROUP SIZE: 6-10 vehicles
GLAMPING OPTIONS: 26 out of 58 days
TOUR START LOCATION: Darwin, NT
TOUR FINISH LOCATION: Alice Springs, NT
ACCOMMODATION: Bush camp & Campground
TOUR GRADE: Medium. NO Trailers.
HIGHLIGHTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Bush Camps
- Fishing
- Gibb River Road
- El Questro Station
- Tunnel Creek
- Cable Beach
- Bush Cooking
- Canning Stock Route
- Gunbarrel Highway
- Ayers Rock (Uluru)
- Kings Canyon
- Welcome and farewell dinners
- Six additional evening meals
- Accredited guides with senior first aid certification
- Free Wi-Fi at each camp
- 4WD backup vehicle equipped with a winch
- All recovery equipment
- UHF radio and satellite phone
- Tyre repair gear
- Comprehensive first aid kit
- National Park permits and camping fees
- All Aboriginal land access permits
- BBQ plate provided at each camp
- Licensed and accredited tour operator
ITINERARY
Day 1: Darwin to Sandy Creek Falls
154km (C)
After a morning briefing in Darwin, we hit the dirt roads bound for Litchfield National Park. The gnarly track winds through stunning country to the picturesque Tjaynera Falls, also known as Sandy Creek Falls. We arrive just after lunch with plenty of time to set up camp and enjoy a swim.
Day 2: Sandy Creek Falls to Grove Hill
143km (B)
We follow the Reynolds River south, where the track becomes more adventurous with several creek crossings and technical sections that put your driving to the test. A swim at Surprise Creek Falls offers a refreshing break before lunch. In the afternoon, we exit the park and travel east through historic goldfields, reaching our overnight camp at Grove Hill.
Day 3: Grove Hill to Victoria River
345km (C D R)
We track alongside the legendary Ghan Railway before joining the Stuart Highway. This is our last major town for a while, so we stock up at the supermarket and top up the tanks.
Day 4: Victoria River to Fig Tree Yard
151km (B)
An early start rewards us with sunrise views on the escarpment walk. We visit Bullita Homestead in Judbarra / Gregory National Park then settle into our bush camp at Fig Tree Yard.
Day 5: Fig Tree Yard to Kalkarinji
189km (C)
It’s a full day of tight 4WD tracks with rocky, sandy and muddy terrain plus plenty of river crossings. We often catch barra at lunch, so expect fresh fish on the BBQ. After lunch, we continue south on some of the NT’s best tracks before camping at Kalkarinji.
Day 6: Kalkarinji to Nicholson River
370km (B)
We refuel and resupply at the Kalkarinji store before heading west on the Buntine Highway, one of the north’s iconic cattle roads. The drive takes us through vast grasslands and deep into cattle country. We cross into WA and camp by the Nicholson River.
Day 7: Nicholson River to Lake Argyle Village
188km (C M R)
It’s a short day so we leave early to allow time to explore Lake Argyle. There are a few sights en route and a sunset tour on the lake to finish.
Day 8: Lake Argyle Village to El Questro
173km (C D R)
We head into Kununurra to restock fresh produce and beer. After crossing the mighty Ord River, we travel west on the blacktop before hitting the Gibb River Road. A short stretch on corrugations brings us to the famous El Questro Station.
Day 9: El Questro – Free Day
0km (C M R)
Spend the day relaxing or exploring scenic tracks and walking trails. Tours range from helicopter flights to boat cruises.
Day 10: El Questro to Manning River
339km (C M R)
After a sleep-in and breakfast, we dive deeper into the Kimberley. The views are stunning and the river crossings are a blast. We travel the Gibb River Road all day before camping by the Barnett River.
Day 11: Manning River to Windjana Gorge
213km (C)
We continue west through the King Leopold Ranges, offering some of WA’s most dramatic scenery. The day ends at Windjana Gorge with bushwalks and tours available.
Day 12: Windjana Gorge to Camballin
283km (B)
We head south to Tunnel Creek, where water has carved a tunnel through the rock. If conditions allow, we walk or swim through. After lunch, we follow the Fitzroy River to our bush camp near the barrage.
Day 13: Camballin to Banana Well
317km (C)
We pass the ruins of the Camballin Irrigation Project, rejoin the highway and cruise past iconic landmarks. The afternoon brings sandy tracks and serious 4WD action before reaching camp.
Day 14: Banana Well to Broome
133km (C D R)
A cruisy final leg into Broome with time for sightseeing and a town tour. We gather for dinner at the historic Roebuck Bay Hotel.
Day 15: Broome – Free Day
0km (C M R)
Get your four-wheel drive serviced and prepped for the next leg—the demanding Canning Stock Route. While the vehicle’s in the workshop, take the opportunity to explore Broome with one of the many local tours on offer.
Day 16: Broome – Free Day
0km (C D R)
Time to provision for 21 days in the Outback. We meet for dinner in Chinatown.
Day 17: Broome to Cambalin
291km (B)
Mostly blacktop today, giving us a chance to relax and prepare for the desert crossings.
Day 18: Cambalin to Cherrabun
175km (B)
Today’s route is entirely off-road, with stretches of sandy terrain that give the vehicles a solid workout. It’s a good chance to check everything’s running smoothly before heading deeper into the bush. We wrap up the day at Cherrabun Station, where we generally have a meal around the fire with a chance to swap cooking tips under the stars.
Day 19: Cherrabun to Halls Creek
293km (C D R)
We arrive in Halls Creek around midday for last-minute supplies. We stock up on fresh produce and fuel enough for the CSR, then meet for dinner at the Tavern.
Day 20: Halls Creek to Wolfe Creek Crater
152km (B)
A planned short day in case of repairs. We leave around noon and reach Wolfe Creek mid-afternoon, with ample time to set up camp and explore the awe-inspiring crater before the sun begins to dip.
Day 21: Wolfe Creek Crater to Well 49
215km (B)
The first day on the Canning Stock Route is relatively unchallenging. We stop at Billiluna Aboriginal Community—your final opportunity for an ice cream for a while—before heading to Well 51. The track narrows and becomes increasingly sandy as we push on. A short detour takes us to Well 50, then we settle into a shaded, wooded spot just before Well 49 to set up camp.
Day 22: Well 49 to Well 44
162km (B)
We begin at restored Well 49 before heading south through rocky terrain near Breadon Hills. Along the way, we take short detours to visit nearby wells. At Well 46, there’s a chance to refill water tanks before reaching camp for the night.
Day 23: Well 44 to Well 39
158km (B)
The dunes grow as we cross Lake Guli and Lake Tobin. The track twists through the desert before we camp near Well 39.
Day 24: Well 39 to Well 33
161km (B)
We leave the Great Sandy Desert and enter the Gibson. It’s a winding day with sandy and rocky sections so your arms will get a workout! We camp at Kunawarritji Community campgrounds and restock fuel and water.
Day 25: Well 33 to Well 27
188km (B)
With full tanks and supplies, we head south. The track is rocky until Well 30, where the dunes return.
Day 26: Well 27 to Georgia Bore
113km (B)
We refill water at Well 26 then tackle more dunes. The Talawanna Track brings easier driving to Georgia Bore, where we camp for two nights.
Day 27: Georgia Bore Free Day
0km (B)
Catch up on repacking and washing with a great supply of fresh water today. It’s a good chance to check over your vehicle.
Day 28: Spare Day
0km (B)
Today serves as a contingency buffer—perfect for catching up or addressing any major vehicle issues. If needed, there’s also the option to head into Newman Township for mechanical repairs or supplies before continuing the journey.
Day 29: Georgia Bore to Durba Springs
182km (B)
Today’s journey is packed with highlights: we transition from the Gibson Desert into the Little Sandy Desert, reach the striking Lake Disappointment, and cross the Tropic of Capricorn. After tackling more tough sand tracks, we leave the CSR and settle in at Durba Springs for a well-earned two-night break.
Day 30: Durba Springs Free Day
0km (B)
Durba Springs offers a stunning free day for exploration. Photographers will be in heaven—towering red cliffs, ancient rock art, and lush greenery make this one of the most photogenic spots on the route.
Day 31: Durba Springs to Well 15
76km (B)
The final week of the CSR begins. No more free days until Perth. Today’s drive is cruisy, giving us time to soak up the last of the dune country. There’s fresh water at the well to top up our tanks.
Day 32: Well 15 to Well 12
71km (B)
Another easy day on the track with plenty of chances to stop and enjoy the quiet. Keep an eye out for camels, as we often spot them in this area.
Day 33: Well 12 to Well 6
135km (B)
Approaching Wiluna, signs of civilisation begin to appear. Today’s destination is the scenic Pierre Spring and the beautifully restored Well 6—an ideal campsite offering a peaceful setting to unwind.
Day 34: Well 6 to Well 3
126km (B)
We travel through station country with relaxing driving and stunning views. Make the most of this last full day on the Canning before returning to sealed roads and road signs. Tonight’s camp is at the restored Well 3.
Day 35: Well 3 to Wiluna
138km (C D R)
We reach the end of the CSR. You’ve completed the longest stock route on earth. As we approach Wiluna, phones start pinging with messages and emails. There’s time for an ice cream and a refuel before heading to camp. No cooking tonight – we gather for a home-style dinner.
Day 36: Wiluna to Lake Moore
572km (B)
A long day on good roads with no dunes. We ease back into civilisation as towns and road signs reappear. Our final bush camp is a big one, with stories and memories shared, taking time to appreciate the vast beauty and spirit of this remarkable land.
Day 37: Lake Moore to Perth
370km (C D R)
A smooth drive into Perth with a mix of off-road and highway. We stop at Noble Falls for lunch before descending into the suburbs. Tonight we gather for dinner.
Day 38: Perth – Free Day
0km (C M R)
It’s time to wind down, arrange for the vehicle to be serviced, and plan what to do over the next five days.
Time to unwind, get the vehicle serviced and plan the chapter ahead.
Day 39: Perth – Free Day
0km (C M R)
Explore the city. Perth is vibrant and full of things to see and do.
Day 40: Perth – Free Day
0km (C M R)
Take the ferry to Rottnest Island or head south to the Margaret River wine region.
Day 41: Perth – Free Day
0km (C M R)
It’s time to provision and get organised for the next leg of this epic adventure.
Day 42: Perth – Free Day
0km (C M R)
Final checks today to make sure everything’s ready for what’s ahead.
Day 43: Perth to Ellendale Pool
419km (C)
A simple highway drive to our overnight camp.
Day 44: Ellendale Pool to Hamlin Bay
395km (C M R)
We stop in Geraldton for final provisioning and fuel before continuing to camp.
Day 45: Hamelin Bay to Hamelin Bay
314km (C D R)
After breakfast and a safety briefing, we head to Steep Point, the westernmost location of Australia. We’ll need 4WD and lowered tyre pressure. After photos, we return to Hamelin Bay for dinner.
Day 46: Hamelin Bay to Murchison River
276km (B)
We leave the coast and head inland through historic sheep country. By mid-afternoon, we reach our camp on the banks of the Murchison River.
Day 47: Murchison River to Big Bell
256km (B)
Travelling east, we leave the goldfields behind and enter cattle country.
Day 48: Big Bell to Wiluna
220km (C M R)
We continue west through WA’s gold belt and finish the day in Wiluna with a hot shower and a hearty country dinner.
Day 49: Wiluna to Carnegie Station
342km (B)
A full day in cattle country with plenty of wildlife along the way.
Day 50: Rest Day at Carnegie Station
0km (C D R)
Catch up on laundry, join a station tour or just relax. We end the day with a great meal at the station.
Day 51: Carnegie Station to Geraldton Bore
204km (B)
We travel east along the Gunbarrel Highway, venturing deep into the Gibson Desert. Sand dunes begin to rise around us. We camp under the gums at Geraldton Bore.
Day 52: Geraldton Bore to Heather Highway
158km (B)
It’s tough going today with some challenging sections. Late in the day we turn onto the Heather Highway and camp nearby.
Day 53: Heather Highway to Lake Christopher
376km (B)
We join the Great Central Road and stop at the Aboriginal community of Warburton to refuel. Then it’s back on the GCR and a stretch of the Gunbarrel Highway.
Day 54: Lake Christopher to Yulara
421km (C D R)
We begin the day with a refuel at the Aboriginal community of Warakurna, then visit Giles Meteorological Station to see the historic grader that carved much of the track we’ve followed. After morning tea, we continue along the Great Central Road to Lasseter’s Cave, where explorer Ernest Giles once sheltered. We stop for lunch here before heading west. By mid-afternoon, the domes of Kata Tjuta rise on the horizon, followed soon after by the unmistakable silhouette of Uluru. We arrive at Yulara Resort in time to settle in and enjoy the evening.
Day 55: Yulara – Free Day
0km (C M R)
Plenty to do here. Drive to The Rock, walk around it or take a scenic helicopter flight.
Day 56: Yulara to Kings Canyon
306km (C M R)
We head east on the Lasseter Highway then north to Kings Canyon. The drive is easy and scenic. We arrive early with time to explore.
Day 57: Kings Canyon to Glen Helen Lodge
228km (C M R)
Start the day with a walk or sunrise photos. We travel through the Macdonnell Ranges and visit a few sights along the way.
Day 58: Glen Helen Lodge to Alice Springs
128km (C D R)
We visit Standley Chasm, Simpsons Gap and the Alice Springs Telegraph Station before heading into town to refuel and restock. Tonight we gather for a farewell dinner in Alice.
Legend
B – Bush Camp
C – Campground
D – Dinner Provided
M – Meals Available (own expense)
R – Rooms Available (own expense)
Glamping Options
Rooms and meals are available on select nights throughout the tour.





