Looking for a Darwin to Broome road trip guide? Here’s how to travel the top of Australia in just two weeks – no 4WD necessary!
The Top End of Australia is a truly magical place, with lush rainforests giving way to red desert sands, chilled-out coastal towns, diverse wildlife and ancient cultural sites.
And one of the best ways to experience this remote region is by taking a road trip from Darwin to Broome.
While the famous Gibb River Road is a rite of passage for many Australians, not everyone has a 4WD, so this 2-week itinerary guide focuses on the alternative, equally magical route – one that’s completely sealed.
Travelling around 1,870 km over the course of 10 to 14 days, this itinerary will take you through some of the most stunning destinations in the top of the Northern Territory and Western Australia – and you won’t need a 4WD.
This itinerary is adapted from our own road trip through this jaw-dropping region, and I’ve got plenty of tips for making the most out of your time here.
So, buckle up and let’s hit the road!
This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
Darwin to Broome road trip itinerary
- Days 1-2: Arrive in and explore Darwin
- Day 3: Darwin to Katherine
- Day 4: Katherine
- Day 5: Katherine to Lake Argyle
- Day 6: Lake Argyle
- Day 7: Lake Argyle to Kununurra
- Day 8: Kununurra
- Day 9: Kununurra to Mimbi Caves
- Day 10: Mimbi Caves to Fitzroy Crossing
- Day 11: Fitzroy Crossing to Derby
- Days 12-14: Derby to Broome
Of course, you can also do this road trip in reverse.
MORE DRIVES: Why not add on an Adelaide to Darwin road trip or a Top End Northern Territory road trip? Or continue the journey with a Broome to Perth road trip? Or even turn it into a half lap of Australia?
How many days?
To do this part of Australia justice, you’ll need 10-14 days (trust me, this region is huge and there’s a lot to see and do!).
But if you don’t have that amount of time available, I do suggest a shorter, 1-week itinerary later in this article.
How to do this trip
It’s a road trip – so you’ll need some wheels of course!
You’ve got a few options: hire a car (I like booking through DiscoverCars) and stay in hotels/motels along the way; pack a tent and drive yourself; or hire a campervan or motorhome. Read my full guide to renting a campervan in Australia.
We did this trip with our own Landcruiser and camper trailer.
Best time to do this road trip
The best time to do this Darwin to Broome road trip is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During these months, the weather is more predictable. The dry season means the roads will be safer and more accessible, without the threat of heavy rains or flooding that can make certain areas impassable in the wet season. (Although that’s never guaranteed!)
If you don’t mind taking a few extra precautions, travelling in the shoulder months of April or November can mean fewer tourists around. Just be sure to check weather conditions and road accessibility ahead of time.
Travel tips
Carry some jerry cans. We carried a jerry can of diesel with us on our trip, as petrol stations are few and far between – which means they’re also pricey. The Petrol Spy app is a must – you can check up-to-date petrol prices and make a decision about where you’ll stop for the cheapest fuel.
Food. Similarly, carry enough food for your trip. You can stock up on the way in bigger towns like Kununurra, but the price of food rises the further you get away from the main towns.
Don’t drive at night. Driving at night can be hazardous anywhere in Australia but particularly so in this part of the country. Roads aren’t well-lit and wildlife is more active. It’s best to stick to driving during daylight hours.
Look out for road trains. Road trains are long trucks that carry goods and livestock across the vast Australian outback. They can be intimidating to pass – some can be up to 50 metres long!! – so keep an eye out for them on the road and give them plenty of space.
Be prepared for long stretches without phone reception. There are many areas where there is little to no phone reception. A CB radio is handy to have.
Take breaks. This area is remote and the roads are long – and the scenery can be monotonous at times. Luckily, there are plenty of rest stops so you can take a break. Just don’t stop in truck stops – they’re for truck drivers only!
Check road conditions. Road conditions can change quickly up here. A huge storm knocked out the Fitzroy Crossing bridge on our trip, and it was only just getting fixed when we travelled through. Check the Northern Territory or Western Australia road conditions websites for the latest info.
Days 1-2: Darwin
Spending a couple of days in Darwin is a fantastic way to kick off your adventure. Australia’s smallest state capital city is actually it’s coolest, I think, with a multicultural food scene, outdoor adventures and great museums.
The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is a must-see, with fascinating exhibits about the NT’s art, culture and natural history. You won’t believe your eyes when you see Sweetheart, the stuffed 5-metre saltwater crocodile that terrorised fishermen until he was caught and tragically drowned.
Take a trip to the Darwin Military Museum to explore the city’s wartime past. Darwin was bombed by Japanese forces in 1942, and the city was a key supply post. The city has maintained many key war sites.
One of the best things to do in Darwin is hit the markets. The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are held every Thursday and Sunday evening during the dry season (April to October). They’re the most popular markets, and you can grab some delicious food, pick up a souvenir or two and listen to live music as the sun sets over the beach.
Other great markets to visit while you’re in town are the Saturday Parap Markets (a dazzling array of food) and the weekend Rapid Creek Market (more of a local’s market and my personal favourite).
Out of town, Litchfield National Park is an easy 90-minute drive from Darwin. It’s an amazing place to cool off, with plenty of waterfalls and watering holes.
Where to stay in Darwin
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade has harbour views and an enormous pool. It’s only a short drive to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Check rates and availability on Expedia and Booking.com
Also in the Waterfront precinct, the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront has modern rooms, many with water views. Check rates and availability on Expedia and Booking.com
For caravanners and campers, the Discovery Parks Darwin is the closest caravan park to the city centre. It has two pools and caravan sites and cabins. This is where we stayed and it was a great spot.
The Darwin FreeSpirit Resort is a bit further out from the city but gets a big thumbs-up for its resort-style pool and more modern cabins.
Day 3: Darwin to Katherine (320km)
The road trip begins! Head south toward the lovely town of Katherine. I love this town and could spend weeks here – but unfortunately there’s not that much time on this Darwin to Broome road trip.
If you’ve got the time and inclination, take a brief detour for a jumping crocodile tour on the Adelaide River. These powerful creatures literally jump out of the water – lured by huge chunks of meat – and you’ll want to keep all your limbs inside the boat!
Before you hit Katherine, stop in at Leliyn (Edith Falls) for a refreshing swim. Located in the stunning Nitmiluk National Park, this series of cascading waterfalls is surrounded by lush greenery and red rocks and perfect for a dip.
Where to stay in Katherine
We stayed at the Riverview Tourist Village. It’s right by the Katherine Hot Springs, so you can be first in when the gates open in the morning. There are cabins and caravan sites. Check rates online
Other great accommodation options in Katherine are:
- The Contour Hotel, set on four acres of tropical gardens. There are tennis courts, a swimming pool, restaurants, barbecue facilities and a bar. Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Expedia
- Knotts Crossing Resort – Close to the Katherine River, this resort has a range of accommodation options, from cabins to motel-style rooms. It also has a restaurant and swimming pool. Check rates and availability
Got more time? Take a side trip to Kakadu National Park.
Day 4: Katherine
Spend another day in Katherine – I adore this small town. There are plenty of things to do in Katherine, so you can easily fill a whole day.
One option is to hit up all the hot springs. The Katherine Hot Springs are right in town and are a delicious 25 to 30 degrees. An hour outside of Katherine you’ll find two equally soothing hot springs in the town of Mataranka: Bitter Springs and Mataranka Springs. Both are naturally-fed springs, but Bitter Springs has a more “natural” feel about it. I recommend checking out both, as they’re quite different experiences.
Alternatively, head out to the other section of Nitmiluk National Park to be blown away by Nitmiluk (formerly Katherine) Gorge. Here you can go hiking, take a scenic cruise or hire a canoe to explore the gorge system. A must is a stop at the Nitmiluk Gorge lookout, where you can get a sense of the size of the gorges.
Day 5: Katherine to Lake Argyle (513km)
Today is a big day of driving, so get on the road early. In a few hours, you’ll come to the Victoria River Roadhouse, which is a good place to fuel up (check the prices on the Petrol Spy app first, though!) and grab some snacks.
Not long after, you’ll drive through Judbarra / Gregory National Park. It’s a beautiful drive through the red cut rocks along the highway – the green of the trees contrasts with the rich red rocks of the national park. Stretch your legs by taking a stroll along the Escarpment Walk, a 3-kilometre loop with views over the Victoria River.
Crossing into Western Australia, you’ll need to surrender any fruits and veggies – and honey! So make sure you’ve eaten up all your food before you hit the border.
Home for the night is Lake Argyle, a massive freshwater reservoir and Australia’s second biggest lake. The lake is also filled with an estimated 20,000 freshwater crocs – so, while you can go swimming, it may be a little nerve-wracking to do so! (I didn’t!!)
Make sure to book ahead if you plan on staying overnight at Lake Argyle, as it can get quite busy during peak season.
This is the start of the Kimberley region, and there are so many amazing things to do in the Kimberley – as you’ll see over the next few days!
Where to stay in Lake Argyle
Discovery Resorts Lake Argyle is the place to stay. It has the famous infinity pool overlooking the lake, along with live music and a restaurant. There are campsite and cabins. Book ahead as it fills up quickly. Check availability and pricing on Expedia or Booking.com
Day 6: Lake Argyle
Spend a day around the Lake Argyle region. You can hire a kayak and head out on the lake or take one of the walking trails from the caravan park.
Taking a drive by the dam is incredible – the amount of water being pumped out is mind-boggling. There’s also a nice picnic area opposite the power station and fantastic views over the lake as you drive back down.
You can also book a BBQ pontoon boat or a sunset cruise on the lake, which is a beautiful way to end your day.
Day 7: Lake Argyle to Kununurra (70km)
It’s a short drive today, to the town of Kununurra. This is a good place to stock up on food and water.
But there are also some great things to do in Kununurra. Head out to Ivanhoe Crossing to see the cars braving the crossing of the Ord River – you may even spot some crocs! Given you don’t have a 4WD, you won’t be able to tackle this yourself, but you can watch everyone else giving it a go.
Grab a rum tasting paddle at the Hoochery Distillery, the oldest legal distillery in WA.
At sunset, head to Mirima (Hidden Valley) National Park for some short hikes with epic sunset views. This national park is nicknamed the mini Bungle Bungles, and since you won’t be able to get there, this is a taster of the stunning scenery of that park, with smaller versions of the beehive-shaped domes that Purnululu National Park is famed for.
Where to stay in Kununurra
For accommodation options in Kununurra, there are plenty of caravan parks and campgrounds available. We loved our stay at Discovery Parks Lake Kununurra, which was right on the lakeshore. There are caravan and campsites, as well as cabins with water views.
When it comes to hotels in Kununurra, The Kimberley Grande Resort has spacious rooms and a lovely pool area (book on Booking.com or Expedia), while the Kimberley Croc Motel is a great budget-friendly choice that gets good reviews (book on Booking.com or Expedia).
For a self-contained option, Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments has a choice of one, two and three-bedroom apartments. Book online with Booking.com or Expedia
Day 8: Kununurra
If Mirima National Park wasn’t enough for you yesterday, then you can take a flight over Purnululu National Park from Kununurra. I’ve only ever seen the Bungle Bungles – one of Australia’s most iconic rock formations – from the ground, so I imagine it would be incredible to see from the air!
Alternatively, spend the day exploring some of the swimming holes around Kununurra – such as Black Rock Springs and Middle Springs – or taking a tour with a guide from Waringarri Aboriginal Arts through Mirima National Park.
Want to head further out? Take a day trip to El Questro, where you can explore waterfalls, gorges and thermal pools.
End the day by or on Lake Kununurra. You can take a sunset cruise, rent a kayak or SUP and explore on your own, or simply relax with a picnic and enjoy the peaceful views.
Insider tip: Don’t miss out on trying some local produce while in Kununurra. The Ord River Irrigation Area produces delicious mangoes, melons, pumpkins and much more. Head to the Kununurra Visitor Centre for a list of local farmgate produce available for purchase.
Day 9: Kununurra to Mimbi Caves (560km)
Another big day of driving! Hit the Great Northern Highway, heading for Mimbi Caves. But you can take an easy drive, as you won’t tour the caves until tomorrow morning.
Along the way, there are a few things to see and do. Gold was discovered in Halls Creek in 1885, which was the start of a gold rush across the East Kimberley. There are remnants of this important history throughout the town.
A short drive out of Halls Creek is the China Wall, a natural quartz formation that resembles the Great Wall of China. It’s a unique and interesting sight to see.
If you didn’t get to take a flight over Purnululu National Park when you were in Kununurra, now is your chance. Flights take off from Halls Creek, and some include a turn over Wolfe Creek Crater, the second-largest meteorite crater in the world. Don’t worry – this is NOT the crater from the horror movie Wolf Creek!
After Halls Creek, continue on to Mimbi Caves. As well as running cultural tours of the caves, the Gooniyandi people operate a campground – one of the Camping with Custodians campgrounds. There’s a great BBQ area and it is so tranquil here – no light pollution and no noise other than your fellow campers. The only downside is that there’s only one toilet and shower for each gender, so prepare for a queue during peak times.
Where to stay
Spend the night at Mimbi Caves Campground.
If you’re not camping or caravanning, you’ll need to stay the night in Halls Creek or Fitzroy Crossing, as there’s no self-contained accommodation at the Mimbi Caves campground.
If you do have a 4WD for this trip, head next into Purnululu National Park – the turnoff is about half an hour from the township of Warmun, a 2-hour drive from Kununurra.
Day 10: Mimbi Caves to Fitzroy Crossing (95km)
Make sure you’ve booked well in advance to secure a spot on the morning tour of Mimbi Caves. This tour is led by a Gooniyandi guide and you’ll go deep into the cave system – part of the 350 million-year-old Devonian Reef system – to hear some Dreaming stories.
Our guide Ronnie was incredibly entertaining – he told us stories, sang songs and also was frank in his discussion of issues facing First Nations people. The tour was a really interesting mix of cultural learning and natural discovery. It also included warm damper and hot drinks around the fire to finish off the tour.
Continue on to Fitzroy Crossing. It’s here that you’ll experience Dan͟ggu Geikie Gorge National Park. Carved by the Fitzroy River, Geikie Gorge is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs and deep, clear waters. Take a cruise down the river to learn about the traditional owners of the land and spot freshwater crocodiles, turtles and birdlife.
Update! Geikie Gorge is currently closed. It was badly damaged in storms in December 2022 and rehabilitation works are still underway. It’s slated for re-opening in late 2024, but keep an eye on the website for the latest.
Where to stay in Fitzroy Crossing
The two best accommodation options in Fitzroy Crossing are the The Crossing Inn or the Fitzroy River Lodge.
Day 11: Fitzroy Crossing to Derby (257km)
On your way to Derby there are a few interesting side trips to Tunnel Creek National Park and Windjana Gorge National Park – however, you’ll need a 4WD to access these sites, so unfortunately we’ll have to skip these on this trip.
Derby is famous for the Boab Prison Tree, a large hollow tree that was used as a temporary prison for Indigenous prisoners being transported to Derby in the early 1900s. It’s a sombre reminder of Australia’s colonial history.
It’s also here that you can take a ride on the famous Horizontal Falls. These natural phenomena are created by the huge tidal movements in the area and are a must-do for any adventure-seeker. You can take a scenic flight over the falls or hop on a jet boat tour to experience them up close.
In town, take a stroll along the Derby Jetty and visit Mowanjum Arts, a local art centre that showcases the vibrant Indigenous culture of the area.
Where to stay in Derby
Derby has a range of accommodation options. Try the Spinifex Hotel, Kimberley Entrance Caravan Park or, for something a little more unique, Birdwood Downs Station, which has campsites and huts.
Days 12-14: Derby to Broome (222km)
On to the final destination of this road trip: Broome.
One of Broome’s most renowned spots is Cable Beach, famous for its 22 kilometres of pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Sunsets here epic – and crowded. Grab a beach blanket or chair and watch the sun sink into the ocean, or take a ride on one of the iconic camels along the beach.
If the crowds are too much, head to Gantheaume Point for sunset, where the crowd is usually a little more local. Low tide here also reveal 130-million-year-old dinosaur footprints embedded in the rocks.
Or, get out on the water for a sunset boat cruise on a 42-foot catamaran, with canapes and drinks to enjoy.
Beyond the beaches, Broome is steeped in history, particularly its pearling industry, which you can discover at the Pearl Luggers Museum. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into the lives of the pearl divers and learn how pearls played a central role in shaping the town’s development. Tours even include a sample of pearl meat.
The Chinatown district is another historic spot, where you can learn about Broome’s multicultural past.
If it’s the season – June to October – go whale watching. During these months, the Kimberley coastline becomes a playground for humpback whales migrating through the area.
Don’t forget to stop for a beer at Matso’s Brewery – the food here is good, too.
Fly home from Broome, with connections to most major capital cities in Australia.
Where to stay in Broome
If you’re after a hotel, The Bali Hai Resort & Spa is highly rated. Rooms have kitchenettes and the resort is within walking distance of Cable Beach. Check availability on Expedia or Booking.com
We stayed at the Broome Vacation Village, which was fine, but we would have preferred to stay at the Cable Beach Caravan Park, which gets better reviews.
Wherever you stay, make sure you book well in advance – Broome is a busy tourist destination and accommodation books up quickly!
Don’t have 2 weeks?
If you don’t have a full two weeks to take this Darwin to Broome road trip, here’s an alternative 1-week itinerary:
- Days 1-2: Darwin
- Days 3-4: Katherine
- Days 4-5: Kununurra
- Day 5: Mimbi Caves
- Day 6: Mimbi Caves to Broome (via Derby)
- Day 7: Broome
If you’ve only got 10 days for a Darwin to Broome road trip, then I’d suggest:
- Days 1-2: Darwin
- Days 3-4: Katherine
- Day 5: Lake Argyle
- Days 6-7: Kununurra
- Day 8: Mimbi Caves
- Days 9-10: Broome
What to pack
Here are a few things you need for this epic Australian road trip:
- Plenty of food, water and snacks – big supermarkets bookend this road trip, so stock up in Kununurra (or Broome/Derby if you’re going the other way)
- A first-aid kit
- Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes
- All your usual camping/caravanning gear
- A detailed map or GPS
- Jerry can/s for fuel
- Flat tyre kit
- Rechargeable jump-start kit for your car
Not sure what to pack for the Outback? Check out my Outback Australia packing list, which covers everything you need to take to this iconic part of Australia.
Final thoughts: Darwin to Broome road trip
Whether you have two weeks or just one, a road trip from Darwin to Broome is an adventure not to be missed. The rugged landscapes, unique wildlife and cultural experiences along the way make for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Australia’s Kimberley region.
And the great thing is that it can be done without a 4WD. With sealed roads and several accommodation options, you can do this road trip your own way.
Darwin to Broome drive: FAQs
What’s the best time of year to take a Darwin to Broome road trip?
The best time to take a Darwin to Broome road trip is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally more predictable and road conditions are better, making your journey safer and more enjoyable. The temperatures are also more comfortable, with warm days and cooler nights.
How long does it take to drive from Darwin to Broome?
The drive from Darwin to Broome covers approximately 1,870 kilometres (1,162 miles) and it’d take around 20 hours of driving if you didn’t stop. But you need to stop – this is a road trip! I recommend taking at least 10 days to 2 weeks to take this trip, but it is possible to see the highlights in one week.
Do I need a 4WD to drive between Darwin and Broome?
No, you don’t need a 4WD – this route covers paved roads that are perfectly fine for a 2WD. If you do have a 4WD, however, it means you can get off the main roads to some pretty spectacular sights.
How frequent are petrol stations and should I carry extra fuel?
This road trip itinerary is on a main highway, so there are petrol stations in most major towns. BUT you should always carry extra fuel when travelling in the Outback or remote parts of Australia – fuel stations in this part of the country can and do run out of fuel and it can be days until they’re restocked. Download the Petrol Spy app to check fuel prices along your route.
What’s the mobile phone network like throughout the journey?
Network coverage out here can be pretty spotty. You’ll have mobile service in the main towns, but between them it’s hit and miss. A CB radio is a useful addition to your car.
Is this road trip suitable for families with children?
We saw several families with kids of all ages taking this trip. There’s a lot to see – and if your kids like nature and the outdoors then there’s so much for them to enjoy. The Mimbi Caves tour, in particular, was a highlight for some kids we met along the way.
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Is a Darwin to Broome road trip in your future travel plans?
Related posts
Before you go… you might like these Australia travel guides:
- The ultimate Australia bucket list
- The best things to do in Kununurra
- Unforgettable things to do in the Kimberley
- Everything you need to know before visiting Purnululu National Park
- How to plan a half lap of Australia
- An epic Adelaide to Darwin road trip itinerary
- 10-day Northern Territory road trip
AUSTRALIA TRIP ESSENTIALS
- Book your flight to Australia online with Skyscanner. I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
- Find a great hotel in Australia. Check prices on Booking.com and Expedia online.
- Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Australia on GetYourGuide or Viator. There’s something for everyone.
- A copy of the Lonely Planet guide to Australia will be handy.
- One thing I always purchase is travel insurance! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
- Pack sunscreen (look for SPF50 or higher), a hat and sunglasses because the sun is hot!
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