Australia, with its vast landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and iconic landmarks, is a dream destination for road trippers. From coastal drives with stunning ocean views to rugged outback adventures, Australia offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re a local or an international traveler, a road trip is the perfect way to experience the country’s natural beauty, vibrant cities, and unique culture. This ultimate itinerary will guide you through some of Australia’s most iconic road trip routes, offering tips, highlights, and must-see stops along the way.
1. The Great Ocean Road (Victoria)
Overview
- Distance: 243 km (151 miles)
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Highlights: Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway National Park
Itinerary
- Day 1: Start in Torquay, the surfing capital of Australia, and drive to Lorne. Stop at Bells Beach and enjoy the coastal views.
- Day 2: Continue to Apollo Bay, passing through the Great Otway National Park. Visit the Cape Otway Lighthouse and spot koalas in the wild.
- Day 3: End your journey in Port Campbell, where you’ll see the iconic Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Don’t miss the London Arch and The Grotto.
Tips
- The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular drives, so start early to avoid crowds.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic lookouts along the way.
2. The East Coast (Sydney to Cairns)
Overview
- Distance: 2,500 km (1,553 miles)
- Duration: 3-4 weeks
- Highlights: Byron Bay, Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands, Great Barrier Reef
Itinerary
- Sydney to Byron Bay (Day 1-3): Drive north along the Pacific Highway, stopping at Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Relax in Byron Bay’s laid-back vibe and visit Cape Byron Lighthouse.
- Byron Bay to Noosa (Day 4-6): Explore the Gold Coast and Brisbane before heading to Noosa for its pristine beaches and national park.
- Noosa to Fraser Island (Day 7-9): Take a ferry to Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island. Explore its rainforests, freshwater lakes, and shipwrecks.
- Fraser Island to Airlie Beach (Day 10-14): Drive to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Sail around the islands and snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef.
- Airlie Beach to Cairns (Day 15-21): Continue north to Cairns, stopping at Townsville and Mission Beach. Explore the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation.
Tips
- This is a long road trip, so plan for rest days and breaks.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
3. The Red Centre Way (Northern Territory)
Overview
- Distance: 1,135 km (705 miles)
- Duration: 5-7 days
- Highlights: Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, West MacDonnell Ranges
Itinerary
- Day 1: Start in Alice Springs and explore the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm.
- Day 2-3: Drive to Kings Canyon and hike the Rim Walk for breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding desert.
- Day 4-5: Head to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Watch the sunrise and sunset over Uluru and explore the domes of Kata Tjuta.
- Day 6-7: Return to Alice Springs, stopping at the Alice Springs Desert Park and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Tips
- The Red Centre is remote, so ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry extra fuel and water.
- Respect Indigenous culture and follow guidelines when visiting sacred sites.
4. The Gibb River Road (Western Australia)
Overview
- Distance: 660 km (410 miles)
- Duration: 7-10 days
- Highlights: Windjana Gorge, Bell Gorge, El Questro Wilderness Park
Itinerary
- Day 1: Start in Derby and drive to Windjana Gorge, known for its towering limestone walls and freshwater crocodiles.
- Day 2-4: Continue to Bell Gorge, one of the most stunning waterfalls in the Kimberley. Explore nearby gorges and swimming holes.
- Day 5-7: Head to El Questro Wilderness Park, where you can hike, swim, and relax in thermal springs.
- Day 8-10: End your journey in Kununurra, visiting Lake Argyle and the Ord River.
Tips
- The Gibb River Road is a 4WD-only route, so ensure you have the right vehicle and experience.
- Travel during the dry season (May to October) for the best conditions.
5. Tasmania’s East Coast
Overview
- Distance: 300 km (186 miles)
- Duration: 5-7 days
- Highlights: Freycinet National Park, Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay
Itinerary
- Day 1: Start in Hobart and drive to Freycinet National Park. Hike to Wineglass Bay for stunning views.
- Day 2-3: Explore the park’s beaches, wildlife, and walking trails. Visit Cape Tourville Lighthouse.
- Day 4-5: Drive north to the Bay of Fires, known for its orange-hued rocks and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beaches and explore the nearby towns.
- Day 6-7: End your trip in Launceston, visiting Cataract Gorge and the Tamar Valley wine region.
Tips
- Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for rain.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during summer.
6. The Nullarbor Plain (South Australia to Western Australia)
Overview
- Distance: 1,200 km (746 miles)
- Duration: 5-7 days
- Highlights: Great Australian Bight, Nullarbor Links Golf Course, Eucla
Itinerary
- Day 1: Start in Adelaide and drive to Ceduna, the gateway to the Nullarbor.
- Day 2-3: Cross the Nullarbor Plain, stopping at the Great Australian Bight for whale watching (seasonal) and the Nullarbor Links Golf Course.
- Day 4-5: Visit Eucla and its historic telegraph station. Explore the nearby cliffs and beaches.
- Day 6-7: End your journey in Norseman or continue to Perth.
Tips
- This is one of Australia’s most remote drives, so plan carefully and carry extra supplies.
- Take your time to enjoy the vast, open landscapes and unique experiences.
7. The Savannah Way (Queensland to Western Australia)
Overview
- Distance: 3,700 km (2,300 miles)
- Duration: 2-3 weeks
- Highlights: Undara Lava Tubes, Katherine Gorge, Bungle Bungles
Itinerary
- Day 1-3: Start in Cairns and drive to Undara Volcanic National Park, home to the famous lava tubes.
- Day 4-7: Continue to Katherine, stopping at Cobbold Gorge and Lawn Hill National Park.
- Day 8-12: Explore Katherine Gorge and Nitmiluk National Park before heading to the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park.
- Day 13-17: End your journey in Broome, visiting Cable Beach and the Dampier Peninsula.
Tips
- The Savannah Way is a long and challenging route, so ensure your vehicle is equipped for off-road conditions.
- Travel during the dry season for the best experience.