The Savannah Way from Cairns to Broome

The Savannah Way is a promoted self-drive route across northern Australia, running about 3,500 kilometres from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia. It links Normanton, Borroloola, Katherine, Kununurra, Fitzroy Crossing and Derby, crossing three states and territories and some of the most remote country in Australia. Much of the route follows Highway 1, but some sections are unsealed.

When to go

The dry season, roughly May to October, is the only practical time for most travellers. The wet season brings floods, closed roads and cyclone risk. Even in the dry, check road reports for each state, as conditions change.

Route overview

Queensland: Cairns to the Gulf

From Cairns, the route climbs to the Atherton Tablelands and heads west through the savannah to Normanton and the Gulf of Carpentaria. Alternative routes lead via Chillagoe and Karumba, or to Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park with its emerald gorge.

Northern Territory: the Gulf to Katherine

The section from the Queensland border to Borroloola and on to the Stuart Highway is among the most remote and includes unsealed roads and river crossings. Katherine, with Nitmiluk National Park and its gorges, is a major stop.

Western Australia: Kununurra to Broome

From Katherine, the route continues to Timber Creek and Kununurra. From there travellers can follow the sealed Great Northern Highway through Halls Creek and Fitzroy Crossing, or take the Gibb River Road through the Kimberley to Derby, before finishing in Broome.

Vehicle needs

Sealed sections suit 2WD vehicles, but the unsealed sections, river crossings and side trips need a high-clearance 4WD. Check whether your hire agreement allows the route.

Highlights

• The Atherton Tablelands: waterfalls and crater lakes.
• Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park: a gorge with emerald waters and canoeing.
• The Gulf of Carpentaria: fishing towns and wetlands.
• Nitmiluk National Park: gorges near Katherine.
• Lake Argyle and Kununurra: water and ranges in the east Kimberley.
• The Kimberley: gorges, the Bungle Bungles nearby and Broome's beaches.

Fuel and supplies

Distances between fuel stops can be long, especially in the Gulf country. Fill up wherever possible and carry extra water and food. Remote roadhouses may have limited hours and supplies.

Crocodiles

Saltwater crocodiles live in rivers, estuaries and coastal waters across northern Australia, and freshwater crocodiles in many inland waterways. Never swim where crocodiles may be present, and camp well back from the water's edge.

Quarantine

There are quarantine checks entering Western Australia from the Northern Territory. Check the rules on fruit, vegetables and plant material before you reach the border.

Safety and communications

Mobile coverage is limited outside towns. Carry a PLB or satellite communicator, tell someone your plans and check in when you reach each town. Read remote travel safety.

Time needed

Allow at least three to four weeks for the full route with side trips. Many travellers do one section at a time across several trips.

The Gulf country

The section around the Gulf of Carpentaria is among the most remote in Australia, with small towns, wetlands, fishing and wide open savannah. Normanton, Karumba, Burketown and Borroloola each offer fuel and supplies, but distances between them are long. Karumba is known for its fishing and sunsets over the Gulf. Burketown is famous for the Morning Glory, a rare roll cloud that sometimes forms in spring.

Camping and accommodation

Accommodation along the way ranges from town motels and caravan parks to national park campgrounds and station stays. In the peak of the dry season, popular campgrounds can fill, so book where possible. Some remote campgrounds have only basic facilities, so be self-sufficient with water and supplies.

Fishing

Barramundi fishing is a highlight for many travellers. Fishing rules, including size and bag limits and closed seasons, differ by state. Check the rules for Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia, and never fish where crocodiles make it unsafe to stand at the water's edge.

Taking it slow

Many travellers say the best way to enjoy the Savannah Way is slowly, stopping for a few days at places that catch your eye. The route is long, and rushing increases the risk of fatigue and missed experiences.

Before you go

Check road reports for Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia, along with park alerts and fishing rules. Conditions change quickly early and late in the dry season, so check again at each major town.