Welcome to the Savannah Way

The Savannah Way is more than just a road — it’s an epic adventure through the heart of Australia’s cultural and natural heritage.


The Savannah Way, Australia’s longest and most awe-inspiring drive, invites travellers from across the globe to visit a world of breathtaking natural beauty, rich with Aboriginal culture, unique outback experiences, diverse landscapes, and moments of luxury along the way.

Stretching over 3,700 kilometres, the route forges a scenic link between the lively, tropical city of Cairns in Tropical North Queensland and the historic pearling town of Broome in Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Along the way, this legendary route traverses the vast and vibrant scenes of Australia’s tropical savannahs and the Northern Territory’s Top End, where holidaymakers will discover dramatic gorges and waterfalls, big river systems, and iconic wildlife that defines the Australian outback.

Route Highlights

Connecting over 20 towns across Northern Australia and encompassing 15 national parks and four World Heritage areas, the Savannah Way offers endless possibilities for customisation to suit any individual or group’s schedule and holiday goals.

Cultural Heritage

Northern Australia is home to the largest number of Aboriginal communities in the country and here, countless opportunities to learn of their stories and engage with the world’s longest continued culture await.

Visitors will begin their journey in the ancient rainforests of the Wet Tropics, traditionally home to many Aboriginal communities including the Miriwoong, Bunuba, and Yawuru people. Further on, the Jawoyn, Garrwa and Wardaman peoples are just some of the communities that make up the Traditional Custodians of the vast savannahs and wetlands of the Northern Territory, where Aboriginal culture has remained especially strong. Meanwhile, Aboriginal communities including the Jaru, Bardi Jawi, and Yawuru peoples have lived for generations among the dramatic gorges and pindan earth of the Kimberley region.

Each have their own unique set of customs and hold deep connections to the land they call Country, which they may share through tours and cultural experiences.

Adventure & Relaxation

For those seeking adventure, the Savannah Way delivers in spades. Whether it’s navigating the remote 4WD tracks of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, connecting with ancient, living Aboriginal culture which has been passed down through generations in the Northern Territory’s Top End or exploring the geological marvels of Tropical North Queensland’s Gulf Savannah, this road trip offers a unique and immersive experience that showcases the true character of Australia.

And, when the day is done, options for complete relaxation await. From soaking in natural hot springs to embracing all-inclusive secluded stays amid the rainforest or carefully considered outback destinations, the route offers peaceful, luxury escapes that perfectly balance the unforgettable adventure.

The Savannah Way route map — Cairns to Broome


Rich Cultural Experiences

Northern Australia is home to the largest number of Aboriginal communities in the country. Along the Savannah Way, countless opportunities await to learn their stories and engage with the world’s longest continued culture through tours, art, and cultural experiences.


Getting Started — Quick Facts

Length & Route
Approximately 3,700 kilometres, connecting Cairns, QLD to Broome, WA
Direction
East to west or west to east (fully customisable)
Regions Visited
Cairns, Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands, Gulf Savannah, Top End NT, and Kimberley WA
Major Attractions
Great Barrier Reef, Wet Tropics Rainforest, Undara Lava Tubes, Litchfield National Park, Riversleigh World Heritage Area, Nitmiluk National Park, Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles)
Cultural Highlights
Aboriginal cultural tours and experiences, ancient rock art sites, historic mining towns
Recommended Duration
Four weeks to eight weeks for the full journey, with options for shorter segments
Best Time to Travel
1 April to 30 September (the dry season)
Accommodation
A mix of outback camping, caravan parks, regional hotels, boutique stays and luxury all-inclusive retreats
Vehicle Requirements
A 4WD vehicle is recommended for the full route. An SUV or AWD vehicle can tackle many sealed road sections, particularly in Queensland and parts of the Northern Territory


Adventure Awaits

From kayaking through ancient gorges and soaking in natural hot springs to exploring underground lava tubes and camping under endless outback skies, the Savannah Way delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.


Look Out for Savannah Guides!

Located along the Savannah Way route, Savannah Guides are certified tour guides and operators committed to ongoing training and environmental stewardship. Savannah Guide certification is a stamp of additional assurance that guides and enterprises will deliver an exceptional travel experience, being experts in the rich natural, cultural and historic significance of northern Australia’s ancient land. Look out for the Savannah Guides logo when planning a trip.


Ready to Start Your Adventure?

Plan the road trip of a lifetime along Australia’s most iconic outback route.

Plan Your Trip