Top End to The Red Centre by Campervan

Departing from Darwin, travel southward along the Stuart Highway and veer onto Cox Peninsula Road, directing towards Berry Springs. Explore the pristine landscapes of Berry Springs Nature Park, immersing yourself in the refreshing waters of its initial waterhole, just a glimpse of what lies ahead. Continue your journey along Cox Peninsula Road, making a left turn onto Litchfield Park Road, leading you to your inaugural waterfall adventure within Litchfield National Park.

Amidst an array of stunning waterfalls, Florence Falls and Wangi Falls stand out as beloved choices. Both offer idyllic settings for swimming and picnicking, complemented by picturesque walks that unveil breathtaking views of the cascading falls and the surrounding valley.

While most of the park's highlights are accessible via 2WD, thrill-seekers can test their skills on exhilarating 4WD trails like Reynolds River Track within Litchfield National Park. For those seeking greater adventure, embark on the three-day Tabletop Track bushwalk, a 39km circuit tailored for seasoned bushwalkers. Alternatively, indulge in world-class fishing opportunities at Dundee Beach or Crab Claw Island.

Suggest 1 night in Litchfield National Park.

Depart from Litchfield and drive towards the northern entrance of Kakadu, making a stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre in Jabiru. Keep in mind that a park pass is necessary for entry into Kakadu National Park, which can conveniently be purchased online prior to your departure.

Kakadu National Park stands as one of the Northern Territory's most precious gems. Spanning over 20,000 square kilometers and inhabited by the Bininj/Mungguy people, it offers a breathtaking display of natural beauty and wildlife within its unique landscape. Take in the awe-inspiring ancient rock art sites such as Ubirr or the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nourlangie Rock. Explore the tranquil rock pools and cascading waterfalls like the Gunlom Pools, Maguk, and Jim Jim Falls.

A fantastic way to acquaint yourself with Kakadu's renowned wetlands is through the Yellow Water Cruise, which traverses the Yellow Water Billabong in Cooinda. Here, you can observe an array of wildlife including crocodiles, wild horses, and jabiru birds in their natural habitat. Delve deeper into the Aboriginal culture of Kakadu with a visit to the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

Suggest 2 nights in Kakadu National Park.

Embark on a journey through time and tradition as you explore the Katherine region, renowned for its vibrant Indigenous art and craft scene, dramatic gorges, rejuvenating thermal springs, and misty waterfalls. No visit to Katherine is complete without delving into the breathtaking landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park. Carved by time into the ancient sandstone, the park boasts 13 mesmerizing gorges, each with its own story to tell. Begin your exploration at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, where you'll gain insights into the cultural significance of the land to its traditional owners.

The highlight of your holiday awaits as you embark on the Nit Nit Dreaming 2 Gorge cruise through the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge. Drift along the tranquil waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, while learning about the rich history and mythology of the area from knowledgeable guides.

Suggest 2 nights in Katherine.

Depart Katherine and journey south to Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park. Delve into the park's extensive karst limestone landscape, home to a variety of native wildlife found in only a few locations in northern Australia.

Continue your exploration towards Mataranka, a small township renowned for its connection to the 1908 novel "We Of The Never Never." Explore the Mataranka Thermal Pool, offering a tranquil dip in its naturally warm 34-degree waters surrounded by lush palm forest.

If time allows, venture to Bitter Springs in nearby Elsey National Park for another immersive thermal pool experience amidst palm and tropical woodlands. Take advantage of the park's walking tracks and the opportunity for barramundi fishing on the Roper River.

Arrive at Daly Waters and consider paying a visit to the iconic historic outback pub, known for its quirky charm and authentic Australian atmosphere.

Suggest 1 night in Daly Waters.

Back in your 4WD campervan, there are a few stops to break up your journey to Tennant Creek today.

A few hours on the road will take you to Newcastle Waters, a ghost town that was once a vibrant hub that provided a gathering place for drivers to rest and restock their provisions. Today, a walk through the town offers insight into the challenges of life in a remote outback cattle town.

As you continue, upon reaching the intersection of the Barkly Highway and the Stuart Highway, you'll arrive at Threeways. Here, you can take a break, stretch your legs, and explore the memorial dedicated to Reverend John Flynn, the visionary behind the Flying Doctor Service.

Continue your journey to Tennant Creek, the primary town in the area. Having played a significant role in Australia's final gold rush during the 1930s, Tennant Creek boasts a captivating past. Delve into its history by exploring various attractions around town, including the Battery Hill Mining Centre. Embark on an underground mine tour and marvel at the historic Stamp Battery. Afterwards, pay a visit to the Tennant Creek Visitor Information Centre conveniently located on-site.

Suggest 1 night in Tennant Creek.

Make your way from Tennant Creek to Alice Springs where you'll pass through quirky Wycliffe Well, claimed by the locals to be the �UFO capital of Australia'. You can indulge your inner Mulder and Scully as you browse the kitschy alien paraphernalia on display and add your own �UFO experience' to the guest book. Finally, you'll arrive in Alice Springs, where you can get up close and personal with the plants, birds, animals and people of Australia's arid regions at the Alice Springs Desert Park and see the famous red quartzite peaks and gorges of the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Suggest 1 night in Alice Springs.

Return your campervan at your leisure or consider extending your stay to include a visit to Uluru.