Darwin to Perth Self Drive Itinerary

Darwin to Perth Self Drive Itinerary
1

Welcome to Darwin

Darwin is nearer to Singapore than it is to Sydney, which gives you an idea of the sheer size of Australia. This multicultural, fast-developing city has a chilled-out feel and a beautiful climate.

Between cyclones and bombing by the Japanese in World War Two, Darwin has been rebuilt several times in its history. While the architecture is modern and stylish, it's still very much a "frontier town" with a small-town feel.

This evening you can relax and see a movie at the outdoor Deckchair Cinema, catch the sunset over the Timor Sea, or try street food at the Mindil Beach Markets. You'll feel like a laid-back local in no time.

Accommodation: Darwin - 2 Nights

Darwin
Located in the heart of the vibrant Darwin Waterfront, Vibe Hotel features contemporary rooms with free WiFi and a lovely wave pool, just steps from shops and nightlife. With fresh and exciting décor in each room, Vibe Hotel provides a unique setting for your stay at Darwin Waterfront. Each of the rooms is well-furnished and offers a spacious bathroom, while some feature views of the beautiful harbor.
Vibe Hotel

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Litchfield National Park Indigenous Tour

Learn the real story on this small-group day tour from Darwin to Litchfield National Park. Explore the area with a personable Indigenous guide with countless generations of history in the region. Get hands-on as our guide demonstrates bush resources in season. See and refresh yourself at iconic waterfalls. Experience dramatic stone country as it comes alive in our tropical summer. Enjoy a flame-grilled lunch of ocean-caught barramundi, marinated kangaroo, and crocodile eye fillet, in beautiful shaded surrounds. Be treated to expert natural and cultural interpretation from guides with unrivaled knowledge of the area. Take home memories you’ll never forget.

Included Meals: Lunch

litchfield

3

Drive to Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is renowned for the richness of its Aboriginal cultural sites. It covers an area of 19,804 square kilometres which is the size of Israel or nearly half the size of Switzerland! Aboriginal people have occupied the Kakadu area continuously for at least 40 000 years.

There are more than 5000 cave paintings and rock carvings illustrating Aboriginal culture over thousands of years. Kakadu is a magnificent area with many different landforms and habitats. There are over 60 species of mammals and a great many reptiles including goannas, frill-necked lizards and the frightening saltwater crocodile. The Park also supports more than 280 species of birds what is about one-third of Australia's bird species.

Approximate Distance: 255 km | 158 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hour 45 mins

Accommodation: Kakadu - 2 Nights 

Billabong
The indigenous owned luxury accommodation is uniquely shaped to represent Kakadu's most famous inhabitant, the saltwater crocodile. Relax in the recently refurbished rooms, unwind in your private courtyard, by the shaded outdoor pool or take in the landscaped interior garden view from the balcony.
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

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Yellow Water Billabong Cruise

Yellow Water Billabong is Kakadu's most famous wetland and is located at the end of Jim Jim Creek, a tributary of the South Alligator River. The river system is the largest in Kakadu and contains extensive wetlands that include river channels, floodplains and backwater swamps. About one third of Australia's bird species are represented in Kakadu National Park, with at least 60 species found in the wetlands. Whistling Ducks and Magpie Geese are the most abundant. There are plenty of crocodiles in their natural habitat, and buffalo on the floodplains, as well as a huge Jabiru's nest nearby.

Outstanding Rock Art at Ubirr
In the afternoon, make your way to Ubirr Rock, the site of some of the world’s oldest rock art. Your guide will walk you through the ancient rock galleries, where you will hear about the history and culture of the traditional custodians.

Ubirr

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Drive To Katherine

Katherine is the third-largest town in the Northern Territory, located three hours' drive south of Darwin on the banks of the Katherine River. A Katherine holiday combines some of the Territory's best nature and culture experiences with pioneering history and heritage. Explorer John McDouall Stuart visited the region in 1862 and named Katherine after the daughter of one of his expedition sponsors.

Once established, the town became a popular base for pioneers whose legacy continues to live on at the many historic sites. Katherine is the perfect base for exploring the Gulf region, the southern part of Kakadu National Park and the Victoria River region - places where you can immerse yourself in nature.

Approximate Distance: 305 km | 189 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Katherine - 2 Nights 

Katherine
Cicada Lodge delivers the highest standards of non-intrusive, world-class service in a modern architect-designed lodge. The Lodge is elegantly furnished in a contemporary, sophisticated style fusing international, modern Australian and Indigenous design elements.
Cicada Lodge Katherine

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Nitnit Dreaming Two Gorge Tour

The first two gorges are the longest ones in the 13 gorge system. The tours operate all year round, resulting in a dynamic experience depending on what season you visit. You will never get tired of the changing landscapes, from higher water levels and abundant vegetation in the wet season to exposed rock and clear blue skies in the dry season. Learn about why the entrance to the first gorge is referred to as Nitmiluk and the second gorge is called the Blue Winged Kookaburra.

 

Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise

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Western Australia & Lake Argyle

Continue South from Katherine until you get to drive through the vast Kimberley landscape to the east Kimberley hub of Kununurra, right on Lake Argyle.

The wildlife-rich waters of Lake Argyle, near Kununurra, is the biggest man-made lake in the southern hemisphere. Created by the Ord River Dam, it's classified as an inland sea and at its peak in the green season Lake Argyle holds a staggering 32 million cubic metres of water. That's more than 20 times the size of Sydney Harbour

Approximate Distance: 515 km | 320 miles   Total Driving Time: 5 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Lake Argyle - 3 Nights 

Lake Argyle

Renowned for its stunning infinity pool with breathtaking views, Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle offers a range of accommodation options tailored to every type of traveler. Guests can enjoy access to the resort's amenities, including the iconic swimming pool, a family-friendly restaurant with a beer garden, and a convenient general store.

Discovery Resorts Lake Argyle

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Lake Argyle Cruise

The only way to truly experience Lake Argyle is on a cruise, spanning its 120km length from rugged northern reaches to serene southern wetlands teeming with birdlife. Spot diverse species, wallabies, and crocodiles through binoculars. Stop at a remote island to discover the unique Zebra Rock, known for its striking patterns. Pass the submerged site of the historic Durack Homestead and hear stories of pioneering families. As the day ends, enjoy sunset views near Monsmont Island, a refreshing swim, and locally sourced treats with complimentary drinks—a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable adventure on Lake Argyle.

Included Meals: Lunch, Afternoon Tea

Lake Argyle

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Bungle Bungle Scenic Flight

Take off in our fixed wing aircraft for an amazing two-hour air adventure to see the famous Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle and the Ord River Irrigation Area. The beehive like orange and black striped sandstone domes of the Bungle Bungle Range are one of the Kimberley’s favourite attractions

This is an unforgettable adventure over the Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle, the Argyle Diamond Mine and Ord River Irrigation Area. Your aircraft is an air-conditioned, high wing, beautifully presented airplane offering comfort, safety and spectacular viewing opportunities.

This award winning scenic flight from Kununurra to the Purnululu National Park is an exhilarating adventure taking in the Kimberley's best scenic views.

flight

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Halls Creek

Halls Creek is a busy service town for surrounding pastoralists, Aboriginal communities and travellers exploring northern Western Australia. Situated in the heart of the Kimberley, Halls Creek is the gateway to a range of world-renowned natural attractions, including the World Heritage-listed Bungle Bungle ranges of Purnululu National Park. Halls Creek offers a genuine insight into the spectacular Australian outback. Covering some 142,908 square kilometres of predominantly desert and pastoral country, Halls Creek has something for everyone, from wide-open spaces and magnificent natural attractions.

Approximate Distance: 430 km | 267 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 Hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Halls Creek - 1 Night 

Chamberlain Gorge
Accommodation:
The Kimberley Hotel is conveniently located adjacent to the local airport and approximately 500 metres from the town centre. It offers stylish Kimberley accommodation and boasts the largest motel units in the region so if you like a little breathing space within your accommodation you won’t be disappointed.
Kimberley Hotel

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Fitzroy Crossing

Fitzroy Crossing is one of only two "towns" along the over 1000 km stretch of highway between Broome and Kununurra. Today Fitzroy Crossing is a welcoming, pleasant little township with a mostly Aboriginal population.

Whilst it is not a big town don’t let size fool you, Fitzroy Crossing has all the main services and special one of a kind touristy treasures just for you; it is truly the perfect base to access the spectacular sights of Geike Gorge, Mimbi Caves , St George Ranges, Tunnel Creek, and Windjana Gorge.

Approximate Distance: 290 km | 180 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 Hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Fitzroy Crossing  - 1 Night

Halls Creek
Accommodation:
Fitzroy River Lodge is located in the heart of the Kimberley, on the banks of the mighty Fitzroy River. The lodge offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all travellers. You can relax on fifty acres of natural bush with shady trees and landscaped gardens.
Fitzroy River Lodge

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Broome & Sunset Beach Camel Tour

Enjoy an evening sunset camel ride along beautiful Cable Beach. This iconic experience will leave you feeling relaxed, captivated and the team in red will ensure you leave with the most remarkable lifelong memories.

The friendly and professional staff will provide you with a wealth of information about the camels and their history. The comfortable leather saddles aboard the well-trained and friendly camels will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Approximate Distance: 400 km | 248 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 Hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Broome  - 2 Nights

Camel Tour Broom
Take one idyllic, seaside location – complete with spectacular sunsets, gently swaying palm trees and Kimberley charm – add the finest food, unique experiences and luxury indulgences; and you have the ideal setting for a memorable holiday. Cable Beach Club offers a place to unwind, with two glistening pools, delicious cuisine at a choice of three restaurants, leisure facilities, the first Australian L'Occitane spa and a personal touch to every experience.
Cable Beach Club Resort - Broome

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Horizontal Falls Scenic Flight

The Broome to Horizontal Falls half-day tour lets you experience the incredible Horizontal Falls and the pristine beauty of the Kimberley. The main event – an entirely unique phenomena hailed by David Attenborough as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders (and he’s seen a few). Fly over the falls and witness the world-renowned spectacle in all its glory.

Marvel at the majestic King Sound and Buccaneer Archipelago Glowing rock formations, striking cliff faces and a thousand islands. Sound like something from another time? Well, it is. Fly over one of the most remote, rugged and untouched regions in the world, and watch time stop still.

Fly Horizontal Falls

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Port Hedland: Staircase To The Moon

Get set to head to Western Australia’s famous Pilbara region, known for its rich cultural landscape, red earth, and vast mineral deposits. Port Hedland is a hub for major resource activity and is a powerhouse of the Australian economy.

If the dates are right you may witness the Staircase to the Moon.

This natural phenomenon is caused by the rising of a full moon reflecting on the exposed mudflats at extremely low tide - creating a beautiful optical illusion of a staircase reaching up to the moon (check for dates).

Accommodation: Port Hedland - 1 Night

Approximate Distance: 610 km | 379 miles   Total Driving Time: 6 hours 30 mins

staircase to the moon
Discovery Parks – Port Hedland is a great base for outdoor adventures, from off-road driving to coastal walks and endless fishing hot spots. The world's largest bulk tonnage export port is perfect for fishing, crabbing and whale watching. Take a BHP Billiton Iron Ore Tour or a Reef Walk to discover Port Hedland’s rich ecosystem.
Discovery Park Port Hedland

15

Karijini National Park

Stock up on snacks: it's a full day's drive from the clear waters of Exmouth to the deep red sands of remote Karijini National Park. But your prize will be some of the most spectacular landscapes in Australia, from dramatic creeks & gorges to towering chasms up to 100 metres deep.

Situated in the dynamic Pilbara region, the Karijini National Park is the second largest National Park in Western Australia, and has been carved out over the course of two billion years.

This isolated wonderland is home to red kangaroos, rock-wallabies, echidnas, geckos, goannas, dragons and snakes. Not to mention the termites, whose giant mounds are a feature of the landscape.

Accommodation: Karijini National Park - 2 Nights

Approximate Distance: 370 km | 230 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Karijini National Park
Accommodation:
An environmentally friendly Retreat and Campground, nestled in the pristine bushland at Joffre Gorge - in the heart of the world class Karijini National Park. Alongside the outback bush camping experience, the multi award winning Karijini Eco Retreat is the first and only facility to offer comfortable glamping accommodation in the park!
Karijini Eco Retreat

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Explore Karijini

Another day to enjoy the ancient cavernous gorges and cascading waterfalls of Karijini National Park. Here are some suggestions on how to spend it:

  •   Explore the network of walking trails, winding your way through some of Australia’s most iconic outback landscapes.
  •   Climb to the summit of Mt Bruce, 1234 metres above sea level. (Guide recommended)
  •   Hike to the ice-blue, waterfall-fed "spa pool" via the Hamersley Gorge Walk.
  •   Wander among the colourful wildflowers such as wattles, lemongrass, and bluebells which bloom across the landscape.
  •   Take a guided “journey to the centre of the earth” to the multi-hued, layered rock of Hancock Gorge (Guide recommended)

There are many amazing options available, and the First Light Travel team is happy to offer suggestions to help you plan your Karijini National Park stay.

Fern Pool

17

Drive to to Exmouth

Continue back to the coast to Exmouth, a small resort town on Western Australia’s North West Cape.

Exmouth is the perfect base to explore the grandiose landscapes of the Cape Range National Park and the northern reaches of the Ningaloo Marine Park. Visitors flock here from around the world to swim with whale sharks and humpback whales.

Exmouth is also the gateway to the rugged Cape Range National Park, which features breathtaking canyons, limestone ranges, and 50 kilometres of unspoiled coastline.

Accommodation: Exmouth - 2 Nights

Approximate Distance: 650 km | 404 miles   Total Driving Time: 8 hours 

Exmouth
The resort's prime location offers a chic yet relaxed base for guests to explore Australia's captivating Coral Coast region. Situated just meters from the shoreline, this award-winning resort is designed to complement and enhance the natural surroundings. Amenities include Mantaray's Restaurant, a bar, lounge, a resort-style swimming pool, and a gym, all boasting stunning beach views.
Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort

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Marine Adventures in Exmouth

Embark on an exciting ocean adventure today with Exmouth Dive Centre. Depending on the time of year you travel, you will be able to experience the following:

Whale Shark Swim (March to August)
Swim and snorkel with gentle Whale Sharks, getting up close and personal with the world’s largest fish as they cruise the waters of Western Australia’s Northwest Cape.

Humpback Whale Swim (August to November)
Thousands of humpback whales grace the waters off Exmouth between June through to the end of October. You will have the opportunity to swim with them, or observe them from the comfort of the boat if you prefer.

Snorkel the Reef by Boat (rest of the year)
Snorkel the Muiron Islands and Ningaloo Reef for a holiday experience you’ll never forget. Enjoy a genuine coral reef adventure in a location unlike anywhere else in the world.

Exmouth

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Carnarvon

Welcome to the food bowl of Western Australia. Famous for its banana plantations, Carnarvon on Australia's Coral Coast is the southern gateway to the world-famous Ningaloo Reef and provides the ideal base for exploring Mount Augustus and the Kennedy Ranges to the east and coastal stations to the north.

This is a friendly community nestled at the mouth of the Gascoyne River.

Approximate Distance: 365 km | 227 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 

Accommodation: Carnarvon - 1 Night

Carnarvon
Set on the banks of the Gascoyne River, the Best Western Hospitality Inn offers accommodations with free Wi-Fi, and is just a 5-minute drive from Carnarvon Airport. It features a restaurant, a bar and a swimming pool. All air-conditioned rooms at the Carnarvon Hospitality Inn feature a TV with free cable channels, tea/coffee making supplies and ironing facilities. Each has a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Best Western Hospitality Inn Carnarvon

20

Shark Bay World Heritage Area - Monkey Mia

Continue south to the Shark Bay World Heritage Area – famous for its friendly dolphins.

Keep an eye out for the world’s oldest living fossils - the Hamelin Pool Stromatolites, believed to be about 3.5 billion years old. This is one of only two places in the world that they can be seen. Head to the Discovery and Visitor Centre to learn about Shark Bay’s hidden treasures or relax at Shell Beach and enjoy the sunshine.

Just north of Denham, the Monkey Mia Reserve is surrounded by red sand dunes, white sandy beaches and waters brimming with marine wildlife. Scientists from all over the world come to Monkey Mia to unravel the mysteries of the marine world including wild dolphins, green turtles, and dugongs. During warmer months, you can also find sea snakes, sharks, sting-rays, and even manta rays and whales.

Approximate Distance: 355 km | 221 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Monkey Mia - 2 Nights 

shell beach
Situated on the Western Australian coastline within the beautiful shores of Shark Bay, Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort offers beachfront accommodation. Shark Bay is home to one of the world’s best-known dolphin encounters. The property features a swimming pool, hot tub, bar, restaurant and tennis and volleyball courts. Facilities nearby the property include a general store and gift shop, and two food and beverage outlets located just a short walk from the Resort.
Monkey Mia

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Monkey Mia: Francois Peron National Park 4WD Tour

Join an unforgettable 4WD Adventure with a local Aboriginal guide and explore the amazing Francois Peron National Park.

Francois Peron National Park

Immerse yourself in nature and culture of this world-class park, where the red desert sands meet the Indian Ocean's beautiful turquoise waters. Visit fantastic lookouts like Skipjack Point, Point Peron, and many other scenic locations that provide breathtaking views across the beautiful bays.

Look for turtles, rays, sharks, dugongs, manta rays, birds, and much more. We also look for the amazing Thorny Devil Lizard, the elusive Echidna, Kangaroos, Snakes, and other rare and endangered wildlife.

Guests can even enjoy a refreshing snorkel and swim in one the many sheltered bays, if weather permits. Your tour finishes with a relaxing dip in the natural Hot Tub at the Peron Homestead.

Francois Peron National Park

22

Kalbarri National Park - Geraldton

Heading south to Geraldton, stop off to see the beautiful Kalbarri National Park...

Kalbarri National Park surrounds the lower reaches of the Murchison River, which has cut a magnificent 80 kilometre gorge through the red and white banded sandstone to create formations such as Nature’s Window and The Loop, Z-Bend and Hawks Head, with scenic gorge views at the Ross Graham Lookout and views of the town and river mouth at Meanarra Hill.

Skywalk - Perched right on the cliff-top, two 100-metre-high lookouts project 25 and 17 metres beyond the rim of the Murchison Gorge. Visitors can venture out onto the new Kalbarri Skywalk and enjoy incredible views of the spectacular gorge and surrounding environment..

The best outdoor activities in Kalbarri National Park:

  • Kalbarri National Park Coastal Cliffs
  • Nature's Window (spectacular rock formation)
  • Island Rock & Natural Bridge
  • Murchison River
  • Pink Lake

Approximate Distance: 435 km | 270 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Geraldton - 1 Night

kalbarri
Ideally situated within the Geraldton Mariner Resort, on the site of the former landmark Mariner Hotel on Chapman Road, only metres from the picturesque Champion Bay and the magnificent Indian Ocean.
Nesuto Geraldton

23

Pinnacles Desert / Yanchep National Park

Pinnacles Desert

Head South this morning and prepare for a weird and wonderful sight. The sandy yellow Pinnacles Desert is filled with rocky spires as far as the eye can see. There are thousands of these strange limestone formations, like giant stony desert mushrooms.

Yanchep National Park

This afternoon heading further South along the West Australian coastline, stopping in Yanchep National Park to enjoy a fascinating Aboriginal cultural experience. 

Approximate Distance: 420 km | 261 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 45 mins 

Accommodation: Perth - 2 Nights

Pinacles
This serviced apartment-style hotel offers spacious 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments or studio rooms, which all feature balconies. Each apartment includes a fully-equipped kitchen and full laundry facilities making it suitable for both short term and long term stays. Rooms also features cable TV, air conditioning and luxury bathrooms.
Adina Apartment Hotel Perth Barrack Plaza

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Explore Australia's Sunniest City

With soft sandy beaches, epic skyscrapers, huge green parks, and a thriving street art scene, Perth is a fascinating town to explore. It's home to one of the biggest city parks in the world – Kings Park & Botanic Garden – right in the heart of town. It's even bigger than Central Park in New York! This is a great place to get your bearings with sweeping views of the Swan and Canning rivers.

Perth's urban villages and small bistros offer plenty of dining options.

Perth

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Bon-voyage

Depart Perth

Say farewell to Perth today as you board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional Australian experience. We know you will enjoy your 24 Day Darwin to Perth Self Drive vacation and we hope you will return soon to discover even more highlights of this incredible continent.

Perth

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