Great Northern Highway

Stretching from Western Australia into the Northern Territory, the Great Northern Highway is a legendary outback route that cuts through some of Australia’s most remote and dramatic landscapes. This is a drive for the adventurous: expect endless horizons, red dirt, quirky roadhouses, and a profound sense of isolation. The highway passes through historic gold-mining towns, ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, and vast national parks, making it a self-drive journey that rewards those who take their time.

Highlights & What to See

• Halls Creek – A small town with a big history: explore the China Wall, a natural quartz formation, and nearby Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater, one of the world’s best-preserved impact craters.
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles) – A short detour off the highway leads to the iconic beehive-shaped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range. Fly over or hike through this ancient landscape.
• Kununurra & Lake Argyle – The gateway to the Kimberley, with lush Ord River irrigation, boat cruises on Australia’s largest artificial lake, and outback sunset views.
• Turkey Creek (Warmun) – A vibrant Aboriginal community known for its art centre, where you can buy authentic Indigenous artworks and learn about local Gija culture.
• Fitzroy Crossing & Geikie Gorge – Cruise through the dramatic ochre cliffs of Geikie Gorge (part of the Fitzroy River) and learn about the region’s Indigenous heritage.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the Great Northern Highway, allow at least 5–7 days for the stretch from Broome to Kununurra (about 1000 km). This gives you time for detours to national parks, overnight stays at roadhouses or caravan parks, and a day or two exploring highlights like the Bungle Bungles. If you’re continuing into the Northern Territory, add another 2–3 days to reach Katherine. The key is to drive slowly, carry plenty of water, and embrace the rhythm of the outback.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Broome – The pearling town at the western end of the highway, famous for Cable Beach and its multicultural history.
• Katherine & Nitmiluk National Park – Combine with the highway’s eastern section for gorges, hot springs, and canoeing.
• Litchfield National Park – A detour south of the highway offers waterfalls and swimming holes, a great alternative to crowded Kakadu.
• El Questro Wilderness Park – A private station on the Gibb River Road, offering luxury camping, helicopter tours, and thermal springs.
• Derby – A historic port town with massive boab trees and the starting point of the Gibb River Road.

Please check official sources for current details.