The Northern Territory’s Top End
Borroloola, NT to Kununurra, WA
Stretching from the Queensland border to the edge of Western Australia, the Savannah Way route through the Northern Territory unveils some of Australia’s most distinctive outback landscapes and experiences.
This journey will immerse travellers into the world’s longest continued culture, take them to awe-inspiring national parks, and through ancient landscapes.
The Northern Territory’s Top End offers an authentic exploration of Australia’s vast, untamed heart.
NT National Parks
- Caranbirini Conservation Reserve
- Limmen National Park
- Elsey National Park
- Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park
- Judbarra/Gregory National Park
- Gregory National Park
- Keep River National Park
Borroloola
As travellers depart the lush tropical landscapes of North Tropical Queensland, venturing from the east, they enter the Northern Territory, where a sense of raw freedom pervades.
The first town they will arrive at is Borroloola, one of Australia’s most remote destinations, offering abundant fishing and camping opportunities. Borroloola, the capital of the Gulf region, is perched on the banks of the McArthur River and renowned by local fisherman and travellers alike for its prime access to prize barramundi.
King Ash Bay, just 50 kilometres from town and popular among visitors, is another fishing hotspot that welcomes travellers to disconnect and bask in the bay’s serenity.
Caranbirini Conservation Reserve
Just 46 kilometres south of Borroloola on the western extremity of the Bukalara Range, the Caranbirini Conservation Reserve awaits — a true natural treasure that invigorates the senses with its vibrant birdlife, walking trails, and unique geological formations.
Within its compact area, this reserve shelters a diverse array of habitats, from sandstone hills and ancient ridges to lush riverine vegetation. One of the most unique natural highlights is the mesmerising ‘Lost City’ sandstone spires that rise majestically from the earth, up to 25 metres.
To explore these towering formations, visitors can venture along the two-kilometre Barrawulla Loop Walk for an ideal vantage point.
Limmen National Park
Limmen National Park is a true testament to the wild beauty of the Gulf region, where rivers carve through the landscape, creating a haven for anglers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Travellers with 4WD vehicles can opt to travel this 4WD-only route, while those in 2WD vehicles might choose the route to Daly Waters.
As travellers journey through the park, they’ll cross four rivers while following the serene Roper River, watching the landscape shift from woodlands and floodplains to billabongs and rugged outback terrain.
Among the park’s natural highlights is Butterfly Springs, a refreshing spot to cool off, nestled along Nathan River Road. Here, a tranquil campground shaded by trees offers a peaceful retreat. For those seeking adventure, the Southern Lost City invites travellers to explore its awe-inspiring sandstone spires on a two-kilometre loop walk, while the Western Lost City beckons the more adventurous with a 28-kilometre 4WD track.
Daly Waters
The alternative route to Daly Waters offers a glimpse into Australia’s past. The Daly Waters Pub is an iconic visitor attraction, providing a unique outback experience, while the town also boasts Australia’s first international airfield, used during World War II.
Mataranka
Mataranka, a small, pastoral town, is rich with history and heritage experiences and is a fantastic base to explore the natural surrounds, offering ample accommodation options. While visiting, curious travellers will have the chance to learn about the country’s traditional custodians, the Mangarayi and Yangman people, at insightful and inspiring local museums and galleries.
Its most iconic attraction and a true Savannah Way highlight is the breathtaking Elsey National Park, famed for its thermal pools — the Mataranka Thermal Pool and Bitter Springs. These naturally heated, crystal-clear pools are surrounded by ancient rainforest, offering moments to slow down and connect to the unique surroundings.
Katherine
Katherine, the largest town on the Savannah Way route, is the lively heart of the Northern Territory. It offers a vibrant blend of natural splendour, adventure, culture, and relaxation.
While visiting Katherine, travellers can unwind in the soothing waters of the Katherine Hot Springs, explore the mesmerising underground wonders of Cutta Cutta Caves, and discover the rich local art scene at two captivating art centres.
With a variety of boutique cafes and accommodation options, Katherine is both a fantastic base and a destination worth exploring.
Nitmiluk National Park
From Katherine, travellers can discover the stunning Nitmiluk National Park, known for its 13 gorges carved by the Katherine River. Jointly managed by the Jawoyn Traditional Owners and the Northern Territory Government, this park is a celebration of Aboriginal land and culture — a testament to the deep connection to country that exists along the Savannah Way.
Nitmiluk is most famous for the breathtaking Katherine Gorge, where ancient sandstone cliffs rise majestically above the river, inviting exploration through gorge cruises, canoe tours, and even thrilling helicopter rides. The park also offers a diverse range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in natural pools and gushing waterfalls.
While exploring, visitors can marvel at ancient Aboriginal rock art, base themselves at high-end accommodations or camp under the stars, and recharge as needed at the Nitmiluk Cafe, connected to the Visitor Centre.
Gwining / Flora River Nature Park
Gwining / Flora River Nature Park is a natural highlight along the Savannah Way route. The tranquil Flora River flows through, spouting refreshing crystal-clear emerald springs. The park is known for its unique tufa dams, which create beautiful cascading waterfalls and deep, clear pools, perfect for fishing and birdwatching.
Rich with Aboriginal culture and history, the traditional owners, the Wardaman people, continue to practice ceremonies at sacred sites within the park, making it a place where nature and heritage intertwine.
Judbarra / Gregory National Park
Judbarra/Gregory National Park, a remarkable fusion of tropical and semi-arid landscapes, is home to red-rimmed escarpment ranges, plunging gorges and ancient boab trees. It is steeped in history and cultural significance.
The park invites exploration through its six rugged 4WD tracks, including the challenging 197 km Broadarrow Track, and scenic walking trails that reveal ancient Aboriginal heritage. Highlights include Limestone Gorge, with its striking craters and dolomite formations.
Timber Creek
Sitting upon the doorstep of Judbarra / Gregory National Park, Timber Creek is the final town located on the west end of the Northern Territory along the epic Savannah Way route. Traditionally the land of the Ngaliwurru Aboriginal people, it is abundant with birdlife and fishing opportunities along the stunning Victoria River.
Keep River National Park
Before departing Northern Territory for Kununurra in Western Australia, visitors will want to ensure they visit the small but captivating Keep River National Park close to the border. The park falls within Aboriginal lands of the Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people and visitors can admire the land’s Aboriginal heritage through rock art displays and cultural sites.
The park offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, from striking sandstone ridges to formations reminiscent of the Bungle Bungles. The two-kilometre Goorrandalng Walk meanders through these dramatic scenes, while the Jarnem Lookout Walk also provides stunning vistas, especially in the soft light of dawn and dusk.
Acknowledgement of Country
The Savannah Way Limited respectfully acknowledges the First Nations people of the Kimberley region, the Northern Territory and Tropical North Queensland, recognising their continuing connections to, and custodianship of, their respective lands and waters.
We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to their elders, past, present and emerging. Their rich cultures, deep heritage, and knowledge of the environment are of immense value to Australia and its communities.
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