road trip melbourne to broome

All prices in $AUD

 1300 661 206

Melbourne to Broome Tours

Melbourne to Broome

This journey will take you to the most popular and untouched destinations between Melbourne and Broome. Starting with the Great Ocean Road, passing by the Nullarbor then on to the West Coast including the stunning Karijini National Park. This adventure will show you all different landscapes of Australia including cities, scenic coasts and the unique Outback.

Adventures from Melbourne

1 tour from melbourne to broome.

22 Day Melbourne to Broome Adventure Tour

The driving time from Melbourne, Victoria to Broome, Western Australia is:

54 hours, 31 minutes.

Average driving speed: 56.9 mph Kilometers per hour: 91.6 km/h This is based on typical traffic conditions for this route.

Change your driving speed:

mph     km/h    

Map of driving directions from Melbourne, Australia to Broome, Australia

View a map with driving directions using your preferred map provider: Google Maps , Bing Maps , or MapQuest . You can use DriveDistance.com to find out how far is it to drive from Melbourne to Broome with full directions.

More trip calculations

• Driving Distance
• Cost To Drive
• Reverse Driving Time
• Places To Stop
• Hotels near Broome, Australia
• Flight Duration
• Distance To Fly
• airports near Broome, Australia
• airlines flying to Broome, Australia
• Direct Flight
• Time Zone Change

Driving time from Melbourne, Australia to Broome, Australia

How long is the drive from Melbourne, Australia to Broome, Australia? The total driving time is 54 hours, 31 minutes .

Your trip begins in Melbourne, Australia. It ends in Broome, Australia.

If you're planning a road trip, you might be interested in seeing the total driving distance from Melbourne, Australia to Broome, Australia .

You can also calculate the cost to drive from Melbourne, Australia to Broome, Australia based on current local gas prices and an estimate of your car's best gas mileage.

If you're meeting a friend, you might be interested in finding the city that is halfway between Melbourne, Australia and Broome, Australia .

Planning to fly a plane instead? You might be more interested in calculating the flight time from Melbourne, Australia to Broome, Australia.

Melbourne, Victoria

Related links.

• airlines serving Melbourne, Australia
• hotels near Melbourne, Australia
• airports near Melbourne, Australia
• cities near Melbourne, Australia

Broome, Western Australia

• hotels near Broome, Australia
• cities near Broome, Australia

Driving time calculator

Travelmath helps you find the driving time based on actual directions for your road trip. You can find out how long it will take to drive between any two cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes. This can also help you plan the best route to travel to your destination. Compare the results with the flight time calculator to see how much longer it might take to drive the distance instead of flying. You can also print out pages with a travel map.

Home  ·  About  ·  Terms  ·  Privacy

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

• Australia Tourism
• Australia Accommodation
• Australia Bed and Breakfast
• Australia Holiday Rentals
• Australia Flights
• Australia Restaurants
• Australia Attractions
• Australia Travel Forum
• Australia Photos
• All Australia Hotels
• Australia Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Australia
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Driving from Melbourne to Broome via Uluru - Australia Forum

• South Pacific    
• Australia    

Driving from Melbourne to Broome via Uluru

• Australia Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• South Pacific forums
• Australia forum

Me and my friends are planning a road trip and part of the journey we want to do we have been informed it may be unsafe.

http://www.australian-4x4.com.au/tanami-track-nt-australia.html

http://www.exploroz.com/TrekNotes/RedCtr/The_Tanami_Track.aspx

Ummmm - nooooooooooooooo the GRR is in a totally different direction and has totally nothing to do with the trip proposed by the OP. .

It took us 1.5 days so you will need to camp overnight. We camped quite near to the gold mine which was probably safe but a bit noisy since they were working 24 hours.

I would recommend this trip though - the country is beautiful and its a chance to get really remote . I think we saw about 5 other vehicles on the whole trip. I don't think it would be unsafe as long as you take the precaution of being self sufficient..

There is the sealed highway from Alice Katherine Broome, longer but easier. OR

From Uluru along the Gunbarrel highway, more remote, road very rarely graded or used, but you must have the necessary permits and it is strongly recommended that you travel with several vehicles not by yourself.

The road from Uluru via Warburton then Kalgoorlie is a lot longer, scenic in parts, permits are required and the track is a better one than the Gunbarrel but badly corrugated and again suitable only for 4WDs. You need to carry your own fuel.

The Tanami is as safe a dirt road as any. It carries a fair amount of traffic between May and October and there are plenty of lovely spots to camp along the way. I've driven across a few times and usually leave Alice late afternoon and spend the first night at Tilmouth Well Roadhouse. There are some simple but nice hotel rooms and a nice campground. Refuel here and fill jerry cans as well. You can then top up at Yuendumu as well. I camp the next night about 50km across the border and am into Halls Creek by lunchtime (mid afternoon if you stop at Wolf Creek Crater). I always carry 2 spares and heaps of water.

Get a copy of Ron & Viv Moon's Kimberley Guide for a really good trip guide. Happy planning!

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Car hire near Mantra on Russell 01:05
• Daintree/ River Cruise/CT 00:39
• my itinerary from Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory 00:20
• Australia/SNZ/Fiji itinerary 23:25
• Looking for a suitable BM Itinerary 23:09
• Great Barrier Reef day tripa etc from Hamilton island 23:05
• My Australian business visitor visa is taking too long 22:52
• Restaurants 21:15
• Can aerosol cans be in checked baggage on domestic flights? 21:15
• CBD Day Parking 20:46
• Sydney Layover 18:14
• Daintree tour from PD minus river cruise 17:48
• Exchanging currency in the CBD 14:50
• NSW road trip West of Blue Mountains yesterday
• Accor advantage plus bad experience 76 replies
• 28 Degrees Mastercard 364 replies
• Virgin Australia Mystery Breaks? 132 replies
• Best places to stop on road trip between Adelaide and Perth? 16 replies
• Travel Insurance 33 replies
• 28 Degrees credit card - cash advance ATM fees for Europe 101 replies
• Travelex CashPassport - BEWARE Exchange Rates When Loading 81 replies
• Duty free cigarettes Melbourne airport 6 replies
• OzForex Travel Card Review - BEWARE Rip Off Rates 124 replies
• Best Place to Visit the Great Barrier Reef 11 replies

Australia Hotels and Places to Stay

• Big Things of Australia - by 1TraveltheWorld
• Iconic Pubs and Roadhouses of Australia - by 1TraveltheWorld
• Across the Nullarbor - Ceduna to Norseman By 1TraveltheWorld
• How Big is Australia?
• FAQ - Top Ten Must Sees
• FAQ - BUDGET Travel Tips
• FAQ - DRIVING in Australia
• FAQ - Vehicle RENTAL Tips
• FAQ - Booking hotel ACCOMMODATION
• FAQ - TIPPING in Australia
• Trip Reports - NT
• Trip Reports - QLD

The ultimate Darwin to Broome road trip: a 10-day itinerary

Leah McLennan

Travel Journalist

30 October 2023

This is the western half of the Savannah Way, if you are considering doing it all, then you will also need our itinerary and guide to the eastern half,  Cairns to Darwin .

Starting in the country’s tropical Top End, this epic 2,000-kilometre Darwin to Broome road trip cuts through the vast wilderness of The Kimberley  along the legendary Gibb River Road and ends in a pearling town where the desert meets the sea.

Here is your 10-day Darwin to Broome road trip itinerary covering the where, what and how.

Day one: Darwin to Nitmiluk National Park

After leaving the tropical city of Darwin , head south for three hours along the Stuart Highway towards  Katherine , through the historic townships of Adelaide River and Pine Creek. Before hitting “K-Town”, as it’s affectionally known, stop in for a dip at the pandanus-fringed Leliyn (Edith Falls) on Nitmiluk National Park’s west side.

Refreshed, drive another hour down the track to Katherine and onto Nitmiluk National Park, which has powered sites, cabins, and permanent tents.

1. Litchfield National Park

The key attraction between Darwin and Pine Creek is Litchfield National Park , where you can swim in waterfalls such as Florence Falls, Tolmer Falls and Wangi Falls.

2. Pine Creek

Stop in this awesome little town for a dose of history, unusual buildings and memories of the old railway and telegraph line.

3. Edith Falls (Leliyn)

Dust yourself off from the drive before you reach Katherine with a swim at gorgeous Leliyn in Nitmiluk National Park , 60 kilometres north of K-Town.

Accommodation tip:  Cicada Lodge

Day two: Nitmiluk National Park

Spend the day exploring  Nitmiluk National Park , home to 13 dramatic gorges that rise up from Katherine River. Join a scenic cruise, swim at rock pools and waterfalls, hire a canoe to paddle the gorges, take a helicopter flight to see the landscape from above, or join a local Indigenous guide for a presentation on Jawoyn culture.

Make the drive one hour south of Katherine before the day’s out to the tiny town of Mataranka. Renowned for its sandy-bottom thermal pool, Mataranka was made famous by the novel We of the Never Never , which is about the nearby Elsey Station.

1. Top Didj

Learn about fire-starting with sticks, spear throwing and painting with Aboriginal artist Manuel Pamkal, who shares his cultural insight on his tours at Top Didj.

2. Canoe at Nitmiluk Gorge

Hire a canoe from the visitors’ centre in Nitmiluk National Park  and cruise at your own pace – you should reach the third gorge in a day.

Accommodation tip: Mataranka Homestead

Day three: Katherine to Lake Argyle

The drive into Western Australia will take most of the day via the Victoria Highway so get an early start and make sure you’re  well-prepared for the drive  with plenty of petrol and water. Stop at  Timber Creek  (two hours before the NT-WA border) for lunch and stretch your legs on the town’s two-kilometre Heritage Trail.

Take a scenic drive via the Victoria Highway to Lake Argyle. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Strict quarantine laws mean you can’t carry any fresh food with you over the border, so stop at Kununurra, the first major town in Western Australia , to stock up on any supplies.

Lake Argyle is the largest man-made lake in the southern hemisphere. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@saltywings)

Farewell the Northern Territory and head across the border, making a beeline for Lake Argyle , 75 kilometres south of Kununurra.

It’s not often you get the phrases ‘caravan park’ and ‘world-class pool’ in one sentence, but Discovery Parks – Lake Argyle hits the mark with its infinity pool. With views across Lake Argyle, this paradise is one of the Kimberley’s most Instagrammed.

No wonder Lake Argyle is Kimberley’s most photographed spot. (Image: Tourism Australia)

1. Keep River National Park

Just before the NT – WA border, you’ll find Keep River National Park , home to ancient Aboriginal rock art and Bungle Bungle-like sandstone structures.

2. Argyle Homestead Museum

Step back in time at the fascinating Argyle Homestead Museum , where you can walk through the 1890s home of the famous Durack family.

Accommodation tip:  Discovery Parks – Lake Argyle

Day four: Purnululu National Park

Continue on to Purnululu National Park , home to the fascinating Bungle Bungle Range, a maze of orange and black-striped sandstone domes.

See enormous striped rock formations at The Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Hike through the Bungle Bungles, marvel at the acoustics of Cathedral Gorge and wander through the narrow red walls of Echidna Chasm.

Enter the narrow passageway through the red walls of Echidna Chasm. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

1. Fly over Purnululu National Park

Take to the skies on a scenic flight  and pass over the domes and Piccaninny Gorge, where the ochre escarpment abruptly ends, plunging hundreds of metres down to a lush green floor.

The Bungle Bungle Range is dotted with giant rocky domes. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Accommodation tip:   Bungle Bungle Caravan Park

Day five and six: El Questro Station

Head north to El Questro Station this morning, a 283,000-hectare property that was a former cattle station in the heart of the Kimberley, located on the legendary  Gibb River Rd .

Admire scenic sights atop El Questro Wilderness Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

El Questro Station, 11 kilometres from Kununurra, is synonymous with just about every Aussie adventurer’s bucket list.

Camp on the grounds of El Questro Wilderness Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

This vast cattle station turned tourism venture, is peppered with boabs, spinifex plains, river as wild as the crocodiles that inhabit them, and gorges so perfectly shaded with palms you’d think a landscaper has been at work.

Soak in serenity at Zebedee Springs. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Join a cruise to Chamberlain Gorge, relax in the thermal pools of Zebedee Springs, take a trek to Emma Gorge or even take a dip in remote waterholes only accessible by helicopter.

Journey through the Emma Gorge hike trail. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

1. Horse trek at El Questro

Take a two-hour ride from El Questro Station  to get even more off the beaten track and experience otherwise inaccessible areas on horseback.

2. Swim at Emma Gorge

Take the challenging walk to Emma Gorge – one of the best known and spectacular gorges of the Kimberley.

Dip in the swimming hole of Emma Gorge. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Accommodation tip:   El Questro Homestead

Day seven: Ellenbrae Station

Top up on petrol and supplies before leaving El Questro and head west along the Gibb River Road, stopping at the Cockburn Ranges Lookout for a spectacular view of the 600-metre-high sandstone escarpment.

A scenic waterfall runs into the King River at Cockburn Ranges Lookout. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Stop in at  Ellenbrae Station , a 400-hectare station for a dip in the swimming holes or to try one of their famous scones. Continue west along the rugged Gibb River Road towards Mount Barnett Roadhouse, the entrance point for Manning Gorge and a great spot for supplies and petrol.

Meander across the vast rugged landscape at Cockburn Ranges along Gibb River Road. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

1. Cockburn Ranges Lookout

Walk the 1.8-kilometre loop from the front gate at Home Valley Station  on Balanggarra country to catch the great views of the Cockburn Ranges  and the meteorite crater.

Hover above the Cockburn Ranges Lookout on a helicopter ride. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

2. Ellenbrae baths

Wash away the Gibb River Road dust and soak in a tub at Ellenbrae Station , which you can hire for one-hour sessions. You can also add a grazing platter to the experience.

Take a rejuvenating dip in one of the tubs.

Accommodation tip:   Ellenbrae Station

Day eight: Manning Gorge

On the grounds of Mt Barnett Station, take the three-kilometre trail from the campsite to the top of Manning Gorge . The trail includes a swim across the Manning River (or you can take the rope-guide with floats to ferry your belongings) and has views out to the ranges and savannah woodland. The gorge has several waterfall-fed pools, which are perfect for swimming and rock hopping.

1. Adcock Gorge

From Mt Barnett Roadhouse it’s 34 kilometres to Adcock Gorge, a picturesque swimming spot on Mt House station.

Accommodation tip:   Manning Gorge

Day nine: Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park

Rise early and fuel up for the drive to Windjana Gorge, where you’ll stay the night at the large campground. Spend the afternoon exploring the 3.5-kilometre gorge, which was once the bottom of a tropical sea. Fossilised remnants are visible in its limestone walls. At its centre, the Lennard River is home to a huge concentration of freshwater crocodiles, so stay safe and don’t go in the water.

Spot freshwater crocodiles at Windjana Gorge National Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

1. Gorge Walk Trail

Take plenty of water and set off on the Gorge Walk Trail, which winds through Windjana Gorge  for 3.5 kilometres each way.

2. Time Walk Trail

Discover the marine life forms fossilized within the limestone of the walls of Windjana Gorge.

Go on a winding walk trail across Windjana Gorge National Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Accommodation tip:   Windjana Gorge Campground

Day 10: Broome via Derby

You’re on the final stretch! The Gibb River Road ends in the small town of Derby today, located on the edge of King Sound, its streets lined with boab trees.

Boab trees glow differently at night on the streets of Derby. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@aeroture_au)

For those wanting to see the famous Horizontal Falls , stay overnight in Derby and join a day tour to this natural wonder. If you want to stay longer at the Horizontal Falls, book a night on the vessel Jetwave Pearl , which offers luxury rooms for a maximum of 20 guests.

After a break in Derby, continue along the Great Northern Highway to  Broome . This small multicultural pearling town is where the desert meets the sea and your final destination on this epic outback road trip.

1. Mowanjum Arts

In the  Mowanjum community art centre near Derby , visitors can view and purchase artworks by custodians of Wandjina law and iconography from the Worrorra, Ngarinyin and Wunumbal tribes.

See artworks by custodians of Wandjina law at Mowanjum Art and Cultural Centre. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

2. Boab Prison Tree

One of the finest examples of a Kimberley boab tree is the Boab Prison Tree  found just 6km south of Derby.   

Accommodation tip:   Birdwood Downs Station

Important information

Distances on this Darwin to Broome road trip are approximate. The best time to travel is in the dry season, from May to September. Check seasonal information before travelling.

Many sections of this Darwin to Broome road trip are suitable for 4WDs only – don’t attempt it in a 2WD.

Be sure to fuel up your car regularly as petrol stations are few and far between, particularly on the Gibb River Road. Carry a couple of jerry cans with you just in case.

Always carry ample water; around five litres per traveller is recommended.

While you should have phone reception in most major towns, other areas of this road trip will have sketchy connections. A satellite phone is recommended.

Consider hiring a campervan if you’d prefer to be more flexible with your itinerary.

For more information read our survival guide  on driving in the outback and this story on  driving in the NT .

Original article written by Megan Arkinstall, updates by Leah McLennan.

Leah McLennan is a freelance writer based in Darwin. She was a journalist in Sydney for over a decade and counts her time as travel editor for Australian Associated Press as one of the highlights of her career. From exploring remote campsites in the Top End with her family, to seeking out new art galleries in faraway cities, she’ll grab an adventurous or arty travel experience within her reach.

LEAVE YOUR COMMENT

Cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Comments (5)

the ultimate 10 day road trip Darwin to Broome sounds perfect. Peter & Sue Thynne. preference depart Darwin 13th August 2021 arrive Broome 23rd August as we already have accommodation booked there from that date. peter & sue thynne

Interested in this trip

I subscribe to Australian Traveller already but can’t find the Cairns to Darwin itinerary. I want to do the entire route with my brother who is living in Europe. The 10 day Darwin to Broom itinerary is a great start. Many thanks

Awesome, You’ve inspired me to jump on board! Thank you

I loved your itinerary!!! Thank you.

You might also like

How to keep the family happy on a holiday in the Top End

Take the kids wild swimming, croc-spotting and waterfall chasing with our guide to the best of the Top End for families. There are a tonne of activit...

The only Alice to Uluru itinerary you’ll ever need

From the heart of the Red Centre to an Australian icon, Alice Springs to Uluru makes an epic road trip. Here’s everything you’ll ever need to know...

8 tips for travelling (& surviving) the outback as a family

With its unparalleled beauty and endless reaches, the Aussie outback holds its own. And, while the bush certainly brings its own charm – it also bri...

How to have the ultimate couple’s adventure in the Top End

The Northern Territory’s Top End is famous for crocs, but you can blend adventure with romance on a couple’s vacation. Simply follow our seven- to...

How families can spend a fun 7 or 14 days in the Red Centre

From exploring the base of Uluru to marvelling at the Devils Marbles, here’s a Red Centre itinerary the whole family can get excited about. The Nor...

Alice to Darwin: A Guide On The Best Road Trip

Delve deep into one of Australia’s most fascinating and remote regions, the NT’s Top End, on an inspiring Alice Springs to Darwin road trip. Alic...

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

• Membership & Benefits
• Discounts and special offers
• Competitions
• Become a member
• Have your say
• About your membership
• Change my details
• Pay or renew
• Member News blog
• Online shop
• Log into myRAC
• myRAC Frequently Asked Questions
• 5%* off purchases in-store and online
• Savings on gas for your home
• Save 4 cents per litre off fuel
• Car & Motoring
• Roadside Assistance
• Car insurance
• Caravan loans
• Motoring for businesses
• Motorcycle insurance
• Caravan & trailer insurance
• Car servicing & repairs
• Car Buying Service
• Electric vehicle products and services
• Electric SUVs available in Australia 2023
• WA's cheapest cars to own and run
• Some of the best cars for towing
• Home & Life
• Home insurance
• Boat insurance
• Life insurance
• Health insurance
• Home security
• Investments
• Personal loans
• Pet insurance
• Small business insurance
• Home services
• Pre-purchase building inspection benefits
• Learn to save a life in 30 minutes
• How secure is your home?
• Travel & Touring
• Our holiday parks & resorts
• Find a travel centre
• Travel & cruise deals

Travel insurance

• Car hire & driving holidays
• WA holidays
• International driver’s permits

Cruise packages

• WA’s best road trips and long distance drives
• Endless things to see and do in Perth and WA
• WA’s top destinations and places worth visiting

Kununurra to Broome via Gibb River Road

Travel & Touring  |  WA Road Trips

By: Chris Morton

The Kimberley region of Western Australia is considered one of the world’s last great wildernesses areas.

Its ancient landscapes are bejewelled with spectacular gorges, waterfalls and vistas not found anywhere else on earth.

For many people, an adventure through the Kimberley is high on their bucket list.

Central to any visit into the region, the Gibb River Road  winds its way between natural wonder after natural wonder, delighting the senses at every turn. The best way to experience “the Gibb” is by road and although not as arduous as it used to be, it’s not a road trip to be undertaken lightly.

RELATED: Kimberley travel guide: By land or water? »

What you'll need to know

Due to the Kimberley’s remoteness, ensure you plan and take precautions. Saltwater crocodiles inhabit many waterways (salt and freshwater). Road surfaces can be unpredictable. Drivers should keep their speeds down and take extra care if overtaking. If emergency services need to get to you by road, keep in mind that it is going to take them about the same amount of time it took you to drive to where you are. This is a four-wheel drive only track and a harsh one at that, so make sure your vehicle is well serviced and up to the task.

Corrugated roads and water crossings will slow any vehicle response down considerably and helicopter access can also be limited. Ensure you take adequate precautions, have a well-equipped and fully stocked first aid kit (and know how to use it) and carry adequate food and water for any unforeseen emergency. Consider hiring a satellite phone or getting yourself a satellite communicator for your trip as there is no mobile coverage.

The Kimberley is also home to venomous snakes and crocodiles. You will see crocodiles in the wild, both fresh and saltwater. Never assume any water hole or river is safe to swim in unless advised that it is safe to do so by local authorities. Do not loiter near the water’s edge in areas where there are saltwater crocodiles present and ensure that you know your children’s whereabouts at all times.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NatureByNathan - Australia (@naturebynathan)

Day one: Kununurra to Wyndham (106km)

For many a trip to the Kimberley includes tackling the iconic Gibb River Road, usually starting in Broome before heading to Derby, along the Gibb and finishing in Kununurra. Tackling it from east to west however gives you the added benefit of finishing your adventure on the ocean.

This guide will make the assumption that you have allowed enough time to explore Kununurra and everything it has to offer and are setting out west. Before commencing along the Gibb, it is highly recommended to drive the one hour north to the historic town of Wyndham.

Book in at Parry Creek Farm before heading into town. Established in 1886 on the Cambridge Gulf, you can soak up the view of five rivers converging or wander through the historic town. Back out of town explore “The Grotto” and then end the day at Telegraph Hill, overlooking the beautiful Marglu Billabong.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝐒𝐎𝐁 (@sliceofblisss)

Day two: Wyndham to El Questro Station (100km)

Head south and then make your way to the Gibb River Road. El Questro  offers a range of accommodation options and is a great place to base yourself. Explore Emma Gorge or soak in the thermal waters at Zebedee Springs.

Day three: El Questro to Home Valley Station (60km)

This 700,000 acre property is a working cattle station and offers a range of activities. With several rivers cutting through it, there are plenty of opportunities to explore gorges and water holes, fish for barramundi or just experience the ancient Cockburn Range.

RELATED: 8 unforgettable station stays in WA »

View this post on Instagram A post shared by —> Troopn’OZ <— (@gone_troopn)

Day four: Home Valley to Mount Elizabeth Station (250km)

A longer day in the car, Mount Elizabeth is another working cattle station with some stunning attractions. If you have the time, take a day trip out to Wunnamurra Gorge with its spectacular waterfall, white sandy beaches and refreshing water hole. If time permits, check out the station’s own ’beach‘ at Warla Gorge. If you have extra time it might be worth planning to tackle the challenging 440km round trip that is the Munja Track.

Day five: Mount Elizabeth Station to Manning Gorge (45km)

Base yourself at the campgrounds at Manning Gorge located on the Manning River, which offers scenic walks, rock art and a refreshing swim. Galvans and Adcock Gorges are only a short drive away, both offering seasonal waterfalls and a rewarding swim.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alex (@alex.vp.photography)

Day six: Manning Gorge to Bell Gorge (86km)

Another short day behind the wheel will bring you to yet another spectacular gorge. Stay the night at the Silent Grove campgrounds then drive to Bell Gorge. A short drive will bring you to the top of the waterfalls. As long as there isn’t too much water coming down the gorge you can experience a natural infinity pool.

Day seven: Bell Gorge to Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge (96km)

The spectacular Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges greet visitors as they wind their way into the property. The lodge offers a range of accommodation as well as camping on the banks of the Barker River. Visit Barker Pool, Dolerite and Yellowman Gorges.

Day eight: Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge to Windjana Gorge National Park (130km)

Stay at the Windjana Gorge Campgrounds (bookings essential). This is an unpowered site.

Soak up the ancient ambience of Windjana Gorge as flocks of Major Mitchell’s cockatoos squawk a raucous melody.

An afternoon trip out to Tunnel Creek should be high on your agenda where you can make your way along the 750m long subterranean water way. Wear shoes you can get wet and take a torch because you will be walking through water and it gets dark.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Evan Miller (@evdmiller)

Day nine: Windjana Gorge to Derby (145km)

Well maintained roads will bring you off the Gibb and into the town of Derby. At 11m high, Derby boasts some of the largest tide changes in the Southern Hemisphere. Take some time to look through the Mowanjum Aboriginal Art and Cultural Centre, the Boab Prison Tree and one of the world’s longest stock troughs.

Day ten: Derby to Broome (222km)

Back on the black-top and it’s an easy drive from Derby to Broome. You’re spoilt for choice on this leg with a range of accommodation options. If you haven’t been to Cable Beach at sunset, make sure you do. You can also view Broome’s famous dinosaur footprints at various beaches around the town.

You can also view Broome’s famous dinosaur footprints at various beaches around the town. Broome is a great place to grab a scenic flight or if the budget allows, a trip out to Horizontal Falls. If this is not on your bucket list then you need to add it.

Need spare parts or accessories for your 4WD adventure?

RAC members get 5% off at Repco.*

Find out more

*5% discount applies to full retail price and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or catalogue lines. Excludes automotive, marine and deep cycle batteries, transmissions, engines & cylinder heads, trade workshop equipment, satellite navigation devices, Milwaukee, gift cards, combo deals and trade purchases. Discount does not apply to purchases from the Repco Authorised Service network.

Image credit: Tourism Western Australia Last updated: April 2021

Related articles

Canning stock route road trip.

This 14 day drive is one of the world's most remote and challenging four-wheel drive journeys.

5 epic WA road trips you can only take in a four-wheel drive

Epic WA road trips that are guaranteed to get some West Aussie dirt on your tyres.

15 of WA's best national parks for camping

Experience the natural beauty of WA's national parks by spending a night in one of their campgrounds.

Related products

Plan your next adventure.

Members save up to 25% on maps and guides

Choose from our range of travel insurance options to find the one that suits you

Campervan Hire

Australia and NZ

Taking a road trip? RAC members save 10% on maui, Apollo, Britz, Cheapa, Mighty and Hippie vehicles. Find out more.

• Advocating change
• In the community
• Help centre
• Frequently asked questions
• Find a branch

RAC Products & Services

• Pay or Renew
• Holiday Parks and Resorts
• Home Security
• Car servicing & repair
• Home Services

Information & advice

832 Wellington Street, West Perth, Western Australia, 6005

This website is created by The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc.). © 2024 The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc.).

RAC acknowledges and pays respects to the Traditional Custodians throughout Australia. We recognise the continuing connection to land, waters and community.

• Accessibility
• RAC on Instagram
• RAC on Facebook
• RAC on Twitter
• RAC on LinkedIn

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Distance between Melbourne and Broome

Driving non-stop from melbourne to broome.

How far is Broome from Melbourne? Here's the quick answer if you have friends taking shifts as driver so that you can make the entire trip by car without stopping.

Nonstop drive: 3,103 miles or 4994 km

Driving time: 54 hours, 31 minutes

This is a really long drive, so it's not very realistic to drive nonstop. To get a better idea of how long this road trip would actually take, scroll down to calculate how many hours it would be if you drive with stops .

Flying non-stop from Melbourne to Broome

Now let's assume you have a private jet and you can fly in the fastest possible straight line between Melbourne, Victoria and Broome, Western Australia. Because of the curvature of the Earth, the shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or "as the crow flies" which is calculated using an iterative Vincenty formula. For a long distance, this appears as a curve on the map, and this is often the route that commercial airlines will take so it's a good estimate of the frequent flyer miles you'll accumulate as well.

Flight distance: 1,939 miles or 3121 km

Flight time: 4 hours, 23 minutes

The straight line flight distance is 1,164 miles less than driving on roads, which means the driving distance is roughly 1.6x of the flight distance.

Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/12th of the time it would take to drive.

This is a medium length flight, so unless you have a nice private jet, you might be booking a commercial flight. In that case, your travel time would really need to include how many minutes to get to your local airport, wait for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other airport, and get to your destination. Scroll down to see a more realistic calculation that takes into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate of your actual flight time .

Melbourne to Broome road trip

Realistically, you're not going to want to drive without stopping all the way from Melbourne to Broome, especially if you're the main driver. So let's say you're actually planning a road trip to Broome, and you need to stop along the way to rest. Plus if it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and find a hotel to stay overnight. That's what Trippy is perfect for, helping you figure out travel plans in detail.

Based on the length of this trip, we think you could spread out this fun road trip over a number of days.

Road trip: 5 days of driving

With the full itinerary planned out, we can estimate your total travel time for this trip.

Travel time: 54.5 hours on the road with 4 overnights

Start in Melbourne .

Drive for about 4 hours , then stop at Grampians National Park and stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 7 hours , then stop in Adelaide and stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 8.5 hours , then stop in Andamooka and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 4.5 hours then stop at Coober Pedy . Stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 7.5 hours , then stop in Erldunda and stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 15.5 hours , then stop in Halls Creek and stay overnight. Finally, drive for about 8 hours and arrive in Broome .

Melbourne to Broome airports and flights

In the quick calculation above, we assumed you had a private plane and just wanted to know the time in the air from city to city. But for most of us, we're going to be flying on a commercial airline (whether it's first class or coach). So that means we really need to account for all the extra travel time getting to the airport, waiting for our flight, and making it to the destination.

To give you a better estimate of real-life travel, we've put together a flight itinerary with actual airports. Eventually you'll be able to customize this plan, choosing your own airports and flights. But for now, here's an example we've selected to give you an idea of how traveling might work between airports.

Departure airport: Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Arrival airport: Broome International Airport (BME)

With the airports selected, we can estimate the travel time to and from the airport, based on how far the airport is from downtown.

Getting to the airport: 35 minutes

Getting to your destination: 2 minutes

Now finally, let's look at an actual flight from MEL connecting through PER and arriving at BME flying on Qantas Airways. We can figure out how long it would take to fly including take-off and landing, time to taxi on the runways, and an average layover time of about 2 hours.

Initial flight time: 3 hours, 52 minutes

Connecting airport: Perth Airport (PER)

Connection flight time: 2 hours, 35 minutes

So now we can finally get an idea of the total travel time from Melbourne to Broome including time spent getting to and from the airports, roughly 2 hours at the departure airport for TSA security lines and waiting at the gate, plus the connecting flight with a 2-hour layover.

Total travel time: 11 hours

Plan a trip to Broome

Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to Broome, Western Australia. Start by reading the Trippy page on where to stay in Broome . Click the button below to explore Broome in detail.

How far is it the other way?

The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line (or driving the same roads back and forth). But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences so go ahead and check the reverse directions to get the distance from Broome to Melbourne , or go to the main page to calculate the distance between cities .

If you happen to know Melbourne, don't forget to help other travelers and answer some questions about Melbourne!

More info on this route: drive from Melbourne to Broome road conditions alternate routes Google driving directions

It's better to fly from Melbourne to Broome

The fly or drive score is:, 781   /   2764, what is the fly or drive score.

The fly or drive score is an estimate of the true cost of travel. A lower score is better . Our score includes factors like airline prices and fuel costs, but it also takes into account the value of your time spent traveling. If you're taking time off work because you have to drive an extra day, it might be better to fly even if driving is technically cheaper. Tap on a blue or green value to customize it.

Enter the total number of travelers. This will be used to calculate the sum of plane tickets for everyone, as well as the number of cars you need if you're planning a road trip. We assume a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can change the number of cars if your situation is different. Number of travelers:  

We estimated the cheapest price for a round trip plane ticket from MEL to BME at $726. To change the price for your flight, enter it here: Airfare price: $

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for local transportation at your destination. This might include a car rental to drive around the area, or the cost of a cab or airport shuttle to get to your hotel. You could also include an extra cost for food at the airport, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the total number of cars you'll be taking on the road trip. This will be used to calculate the total cost of driving for everyone. The default is a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can adjust the number of cars to fit your situation. Number of cars:

Enter the fuel efficiency of your vehicle in miles per gallon (mpg). If you're unsure of the exact number, you can look it up on the fueleconomy.gov site. Vehicle fuel efficiency: mpg

Enter the average fuel price for your trip in U.S. dollars. If you're taking a long road trip, the gas price in each state may vary. Remember to adjust for premium or diesel fuel prices. Average gas price: $

We chose Melbourne Airport (MEL) as your departure airport. You can change it to another nearby airport by selecting one below. If the airport you want isn't listed, change your locations. Departure airport: Melbourne Airport (MEL) Essendon Airport (MEB) Avalon Airport (AVV)

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to the departure airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive your own car. Make sure you include extra time for parking if you are driving yourself. Time to get to the airport: minutes

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for check-in at the airport. Some airlines require you to check-in by a certain time if you haven't done it online beforehand. Remember to leave enough time to get through security lines. Check-in and wait time: minutes

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to your destination after you've landed at the arrival airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive a rental car. Make sure you include extra time to get to the rental agency and pick up the rental car if you are choosing that option. Time to get to your destination: minutes

We chose Broome International Airport (BME) as your arrival airport. For your destination, this is the only nearby major airport. If you are looking for another airport, try changing your destination.

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on hotel nights. We estimate you'll need to stay at a hotel for every 12 hours of driving, and the average cost of a hotel will be around $75. It doesn't really matter how many times you stay overnight, the important thing is the total sum of all of your hotel costs. Enter that number below. Total hotel costs: $

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for pit stops, rest stops, gas, naps, or detours along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra time: minutes

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for the road trip. Think about the cost of tolls, food or snacks if you're bringing groceries or stopping at restaurants, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. You can also include the cost of a car rental here. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the amount per mile you want to use to estimate the wear and tear on your car. This can vary depending on your preference. Some companies might pay 50 cents per mile for business travel, and the IRS has various rules for standard mileage rates. On the other hand, you may want to focus more on typical maintenance costs and depreciation, which might be closer to 10 cents per mile. Set this to zero if you're renting a car. Enter your wear and tear cost per mile below. Wear and tear: cents per mile

Driving is usually cheaper, but it takes a lot longer. So in order to get a better comparison, we include a special "value of time factor" that estimates how much your time is worth. If you take a day off work for a long road trip instead of a quick flight, you might add up your lost earnings. The default we use is $10/hr but you can enter any value you want below. If there are multiple travelers, you can enter the sum of everyone's value. Value of time factor: $ per hour

Cost to fly or drive

You can adjust any of the settings above to customize the calculation for your exact trip. We assume some simple default values to get a quick answer to start.

The Fly Score is an estimate of how much it would cost you to take a flight, including factors to account for the value of your time getting to the airport, checking in, and waiting for the plane to take off and land. The default fly score is 781 from Melbourne to Broome.

The Drive Score is a comparable calculation that estimates the total cost of doing a road trip. You might spend less on gas than the price of airfare, but it could take you longer to get there if you're driving. So we include the value of your time spent in the car, as well as additional costs for things like hotel, tolls, food, and whatever else you want to include. The default drive score from Melbourne to Broome is 2764 .

So in this case, it's better to fly from Melbourne to Broome. It's significantly cheaper to fly on this trip, unless you made adjustments to the numbers above to alter the calculation.

These results are based on the actual driving distance from Melbourne to Broome , which is 3,103 miles or 4 994 kilometers . You can also check the cost of driving from Melbourne to Broome .

 Melbourne, Victoria

Is it better to fly or drive to Melbourne, Australia from where I am now?

 Broome, Western Australia

Should I fly or drive to Broome, Australia?

• Best Road Trips in Australia for Campervans

Australia Road Trip Planner

18 of the best road trips in australia.

Australia Road Trip Map : Click on the route for a link to the itinerary, or browse below.

East Coast Australia Road Trips

These east coast Australia road trips combine two or more of the above road trips. Itineraries range from 1 to 7 weeks.

Cairns to Airlie Beach Drive 348 km | 7 hrs drive  | 1 - 2 weeks 4 days for the road trip plus 10 days to explore the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree, Port Douglas, Undara Lava Tubes and the Atherton Tablelands. 

Brisbane to Cairns Drive 2, 177 km | 26 hrs drive | 3 - 4 weeks Explore the tropical northern stretch of the East Coast. 11 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree and Port Douglas. 

Melbourne to Brisbane Drive 2,930 km | 54 hrs drive | 5 weeks 28 days for the road trip, plus 6 days to explore Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. 

Sydney to Cairns Drive 3,487 km | 55 hrs drive  | 5 weeks Nearly all of the east coast. 26 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns. 

Melbourne to Cairns Drive 4,787 km | 55 hrs drive | 6 - 7 weeks Explore the entire East Coast of Australia from end to end. 30 - 40 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns.

Road Trip Around Australia

We have three key routes for a road trip around Australia. 

• The first route is a simple circumnavigation of the continent, but this misses the important central desert region with Uluru, the Olgas and Coober Pedy. 
• The second route includes central Australia and can either start in Cairns and end in Adelaide, or start in Adelaide and end in Cairns. 
• The third route builds upon the second route by looping in Broken Hill, Mungo National Park and rural New South Wales. Its start and end points are Cairns and Sydney.

Road Trips by State

• NEW SOUTH WALES
• SOUTH AUSTRALIA
• WESTERN AUSTRALIA
• NORTHERN TERRITORY

Driving in Australia

Australia is larger than you might think - as large as the USA without Alaska and three quarters the size of Europe. It is also extremely diverse with everything from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical forests, the outback desert and rolling green pastures. If you jet set from city to city, you'll miss all this.

The best (and cheapest) way to experience Australia is to hire a campervan and take a road trip. That way you have the freedom to can set your own itinerary, be spontaneous, take the road less travelled, and stop where you want for as long as you want.

With a kitchen in the back seat, you can pull into a stunning location, make lunch and soak in the views. It's the most convenient, affordable and memorable way to dine. And at the end of an adventure-filled day, your home is where ever you park it. 

You will soon discover the camaraderie of the campervan community - kindred spirits who like to get off the beaten path, who appreciate the beauty of Australia, and are eager to share a few tips and their favorite camping locations with you. As Edith Wharton once said  "One of the great things about travel is you discover how many good, kind people there are."

In this Road Trip Planner we detail some of the best road trips in Australia to help you plan your campervan self-drive itinerary.

• Cairns day trips
• Atherton Tablelands & Wooroonooran National Park
• Kuranda and Barron Falls
• Cairns to Hinchinbrook Is.
• Cairns to Cooktown
• Cairns to Townsville  
• Townsville day trips
• Townsville to Cairns
• Townsville to Airlie Beach
• Queensland Outback  (Townsville - Cunnamulla - Brisbane)
• Airlie Beach to Townsville  (and Cairns)
• Airlie Beach to Brisbane  (and Gold Coast)
• Brisbane to Gold Coast
• Brisbane to Airlie Beach
• Gold Coast to Sydney
• Gold Coast day trips
• Brisbane day trips

New South Wales

• Sydney's National Parks
• Sydney's Top Walks
• Hunter Valley wine region
• Central Coast
• Port Stephens
• Blue Mountains
• South Coast
• Southern Highlands
• The Snowy Mountains
• Sydney - Melbourne Coast
• Sydney - Canberra - Melbourne
• Sydney - Gold Coast
• Broken Hill
• Canberra 
• Grampians | Murray River
• Great Ocean Road
• Mornington Pensinsula
• Phillip Island
• Wilsons Promontory
• Victorian Alps | High Plains
• Yarra Valley | Dandenongs
• Melbourne - Sydney coast
• Melbourne - Canberra - Sydney
• Melbourne - Adelaide

South Australia

• Barossa Valley wines
• Murray River
• Kangaroo Island
• Mt. Gambier
• Coonawarra wine & Naracoorte Caves
• Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf
• Adelaide Hills Activities 
• Fleurieu Peninsula & Coorong
• Adelaide to Melbourne
• Outback: Adelaide to Sydney
• Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip
• Adelaide to Perth Road Trip
• Coober Pedy
• Eyre Peninsula

Western Australia

• 3 days in Perth - things to do
• The Perfect WA Roadtrip (South of Perth)
• Yanchep National Park
• Pinnacles Desert
• Bunbury and Busselton
• Margaret River
• Pemberton Forests
• The Kimberley - Broome to Darwin in 6 days
• Broome to Perth in 19 days
• Perth to Adelaide in 16 days

Northern Territory

• Litchfield National Park
• The Pilbara
• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)
• Mataranka Hot Springs
• Alice Springs
• Uluru and the Olgas
• Macdonnell Ranges

Other Blogs & Relevant Information

• Driving Distances and Petrol Prices
• Oz Parks Australia's Newest National Caravan & Tourist Park Chain
• Top Islands to visit in Australia
• Top Australian cultural experiences
• Top Australian animal experiences
• 7 reasons why Cairns is the adventure capital of Australia
• 10 movie locations to visit in Australia

Itineraries

Sign up for amazing offers exclusive access for offers and promotions

Campervan hire depots, airlie beach.

Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013 Phone: 1800 216 223

440 Sheridan Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223

273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223

23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah, Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223

Do you have any questions or need additional information?

The Most EPIC Perth to Broome Road Trip Itinerary [2024]

• Last Updated: January 13, 2024

Our guide to the perfect Perth to Broome road trip itinerary.

This Perth to Broome drive is easily one of the most epic road trips in Western Australia.

Follow along Western Australia’s seemingly endless coast enjoying all the stops along the way before you reach the magical location that is Broome.

From seeing wild dolphins in Monkey Mia to swimming with whale sharks in Coral Bay, exploring the gorges of Karijini National Park to simply taking in the surreal views of some of Australia’s most beautiful deserts and coastal roads, you will have an incredible time on this road trip.

This is a can’t-be-missed road trip and if there’s one that you’ll ever do in Western Australia, we think this should be it!

READ MORE: Whether you live in Australia or are taking a trip there, start all of your planning with our comprehensive Australia travel guide !

Table of Contents

Stop 1: Yanchep National Park

Stop 2: explore the moon in the pinnacles desert of nambung national park, stop 3: lake thetis, stop 4: jurien bay, stop 5: leaning tree, stop 6: geraldton, stop 1: spend the morning in geraldton, stop 2: pink lake, stop 3: kalbarri, day 3: kalbarri national park, stop 1: hamelin pool, stop 2: shell beach, stop 3: denham, day 5: francois peron national park, stop 1: monkey mia, stop 2: carnarvon, stop 3: coral bay, stop 1: coral bay, stop 2: ningaloo visitor centre, stop 3: swim at town beach, stop 4: vlamingh head lighthouse, stop 1: swim with whale sharks, stop 2: turquoise bay, oyster stacks and sandy bay, alternative dry day: hiking, stop 1: tom price, stop 2: karijini national park, stop 1: hamersley gorge, stop 2: joffre and knox gorges, stop 3: karijini eco retreat, stop 1: oxer and junction pool lookouts, stop 2: weano and hancock gorges, stop 3: karijini visitor centre, stop 4: dales camping area, stop 1: dales gorge, stop 2: fortescue falls, stop 3: circular pool, stop 4: auski tourist village or dales camping area, stop 1: port hedland, stop 2: eighty mile beach, stop 1: port smith lagoon, stop 2: broome, stop 3: visitor centre, stop 4: cable beach, wrapping up your perth to broome drive, perth to broome road trip itinerary, western australia.

Though this Western Australia road trip can be done in as little as a week, this would involve big driving days and missing out on a lot of WA’s awesome sights.

To really get the most of driving from Perth to Broome, you should allow at least 2 weeks and anything up to 3 or even 4 weeks.

If you have your own car, you’re just about ready for the trip. But if you need to hire one, then the best and most affordable option is to get one through Rental Cars .

If you’re more of a campervan kind of person though, check out Spaceships Rentals , who have great vans for good prices.

You will also want to consider purchasing a park pass for the National parks in Western Australia as you will pass in or near the following:

• Nambung National Park
• Drover’s Cave National Park
• Francois Peron National Park
• Cape Range National Park
• Karijini National Park

More information on purchasing a park pass can be found here .

Pro Tip: For access to the different national parks in Western Australia, you should buy the Holiday Pass (5 days for $25, 14 days for $40 or 4 weeks for $60) or the Annual All Parks Pass which is valid for 12 months and only costs $120.

If you’ve ever done a road trip in Australia, you would have noticed that drives tend to be quite long. This is particularly true in Western Australia.

If you have more time, I recommend following my Perth to Exmouth road trip itinerary first and then join in here from day 9 onwards.

You could also spread out some of the Perth to Exmouth drive. If you take it slow through Exmouth, Karijini and Eighty Mile Beach, your road trip could easily extend to over a month.

Let’s begin our epic road trip from Perth to Broome in Western Australia.  

Day 1: Perth to Geraldton

• Distance: 415 km
• Time: 4.5 – 5 hours

While the distance may be relatively short compared to the others on this road trip, there is plenty to see between Perth and Jurien Bay that could easily take you a few days.

Expect heavy traffic during winter public holidays or schools holidays and try to leave as early as possible to get the most out of your day.

The sealed roads are fast though and consist of mainly flat landscapes.

After exploring all the best Perth attractions and activities, it’s time to hit the road!

With nine walk trails, over 400 caves and home to western grey kangaroos, Yanchep is an easy first stop on your first day of driving.

Only 40 minutes north of Perth, you can go for a stroll or even spend the day here taking in the coastal woodlands, wildlife and limestone caves.

Yanchep National Park is also home to western grey kangaroos which can be seen early and late in the day. The park has nine walk trails suitable for any ages, interests and fitness abilities as well as over 400 caves to enjoy.

For those wanting to extend their Perth to Broome drive, this is also a great spot to spend a night.

The Pinnacles in Nambung National Park is often said to resemble walking on the moon or another planet. It’s s truly unique landscape for Western Australia.

The Pinnacles have incredible natural limestone structures that were formed approximately 25,000 to 30,000 years ago after the sea receded and left deposits of seashells.

Over time, the pillars have been exposed to the elements as coastal winds removed the surrounding sand.

Nambung National Park is a super cool place to see in Western Australia!

Walk along an easy 1.5-kilometre trail around the shores to see an abundance of thrombolites in the lake.

These rock-like structures are built by micro-organisms too small for the human eye to see. The thrombolite-building micro-organisms of Lake Thetis resemble the earliest forms of life on Earth!

Spend the late afternoon and evening enjoying the tranquillity of Jurien Bay along the coast at any of the beaches. If you’ve got your snorkelling gear, head towards the old wooden jetty and check out some of the coral around there.

You can also rent stand up paddleboards and enjoy some paddling if time permits.

Enjoy some delicious seafood for dinner before continuing your journey to Geraldton.

You’ll start noticing some leaning trees as you make your way closer to Geraldton.

The most photographed leaning tree is this River Gum that leans due to constant strong southerly winds.

For your first overnight stay, we recommend booking your accommodation ahead of time so you don’t have to spend hours driving around finding a place to stay.

Check out the options on Booking.com .

If you end up wrapping up quite late and don’t want to drive too much further, consider staying in Jurien Bay overnight and continue to Geraldton early in the morning.

READ MORE: As you are exploring Australia, try to check off as many of these incredible things to do as you can!

Day 2: Geraldton to Kalbarri

• Distance:  155 km
• Time:  2 hours

Follow along the flat and fast sealed road from Geraldton to Kalbarri.

Enjoy some breakfast in town and go for a swim at the beach before continuing north towards your next stop.

If you have an extra day or two to spare, you can make a trip to the Abrolhos Islands which are filled with wonderful marine life, go on a fishing charter or take a scenic flight out to the islands.

Continue north to Hutt Lagoon, one of WA’s iconic pink lakes.

Drive along Port Gregory Road and park your car to walk to the edge of the water.

Explore the World Heritage listed Coral Coast and check out the dramatic coastal cliffs at Red Bluff which overs incredible views over the ocean and is a good spot for whale watching.

Don’t miss Island Rock and Natural Bridge for some epic sunset views and photos. Go for a swim at Pot Alley or bring your snorkelling gear for some fun at Blue Holes.

Kalbarri National Park offers many different hiking options of varying classes that are suitable for any level.

You can enjoy gorge views from the picnic area and follow a short path to Hawks Head which overlooks the Murchison River. Or take the Z Bend Lookout trail which overlooks the river.

The Loop trail to Nature’s Window is only 800m and has views of the Murchison Riber’s switchback course from a natural rock arch that frames the upstream view. This is one of the more popular hikes in Kalbarri National Park.

You can also continue the trail along an 8km loop for those who want to get moving.

Day 4: Kalbarri to Shark Bay

• Distance : 374km
• Time:  4 hours

The road from Kalbarri National Park to Shark Bay doesn’t have too many great views but the road is sealed, accessible and easy to drive.

The most diverse and abundant examples of living marine stromatolites (or ‘living fossils’) in the world are found right here in Western Australia and can be seen on this portion of your Perth to Broome drive.

The  stromatolites  can be viewed from the boardwalk which extends out in the ocean for everyone to enjoy.

Note that boating, swimming, diving and snorkelling are not permitted over stromatolites or within 300m of the shore.

Stretching over 70km and up to 10 metres deep are billions of tiny shells along aptly named Shell Beach.

This is one of the only places on earth where shells replace beach sand and is a must-visit on your way into Shark Bay.

The ocean here is hypersaline so it is very salty, making it easy to float – just don’t get any in your eyes!

READ MORE: Lap the whole state with this epic Western Australia road trip !

Denham is your first stop in exploring the Shark Bay World Heritage Area and is a friendly coastal town of approximately 1,000 residents.

The town provides many accommodation options, has safe swimming beaches, restaurants and a golf course.

Be sure to stock up on supplies and fuel before moving on tomorrow!

Francois Peron National Park is one of Western Australia’s best-hidden gems but requires a high-clearance 4WD and experience driving.

There aren’t any sealed roads and you should be prepared to get bogged and know how to get out.

Known for its contrasting red cliffs, white beaches and blue waters, the park offers great opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, swimming, snorkelling, fishing and bushwalking.

There is a small campground with gas BBQs and toilets located at Big Lagoon. Be sure to read all signs carefully as some beaches aren’t safe to swim in due to strong currents.

No bookings are taken for camping and sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

For those without a 4WD, you can access Little Lagoon – a natural swimming pool full of fish – and Peron Homestead which has a self-guided station walk trail, picnic facilities and a hot tub.

Day 6: Shark Bay to Coral Bay

• Distance : 560 km
• Time:  5.5 hours

One of the more famous places to visit on any Perth to Broome drive, just 30 minutes from Denham, is Monkey Mia which is famous for its wild dolphin experience.

Monkey Mia, part of the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay, is surrounded by rusty red sand dunes, white sandy beaches and its waters are full of marine life.

Here, you might see dugongs, sharks, rays, turtles and loads of other fish outside of the dolphins.

A day permit of $15 per adult applies for Monkey Mia.

Get out of the car and give your legs are break when you get to Carnarvon.

This Western Australian town is known for its fruit farms, making it a delicious stop for local produce.

Walk along the One Mile Jetty which is perfect for visiting in the late afternoon for sunset.

You can also head to the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum that was built in 1964 to support NASA’s Gemini, Apollo and Skylab programs.

Stay overnight in Coral Bay before continuing on tomorrow towards Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef.

If you arrive in time for sunset, spend this on the beach. Otherwise, you can head to your accommodation in the evening which should be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

The  Ningaloo Coral Bay – Bayview  is a fantastic spot to sleep.

Budget-conscious? You can stay at a free rest stop just outside of Coral Bay along the road. There are no facilities here so you’ll need to be fully equipped.

Day 7: Coral Bay to Exmouth

• Distance:  155 km
• Time:  2 hours

Spend the morning in Coral Bay before continuing along the main sealed road all the way to Exmouth.

There isn’t much to see along the way and the road is mostly flat with dry desert views.

The beach at Coral Bay is calm, crystal clear and is perfect for snorkelling and diving.

Walk to the right of Coral Bay’s beach to Skeleton Bay, a reef shark nursery where you can see some shark pups!

You can also go quad biking on the sand dunes, go out on diving, fishing or boat routes in Coral Bay.

We’d recommend you book a Coral Bay reef tour on a glass-bottom boat to allow you to see the beauty of the reef without taking too much time out of your Western Australia drive itinerary.

Your first stop is the  Ningaloo Visitor Centre  where you can pick up all the information and maps you need for Cape Range National Park and for insight on weather and local’s tips on where to swim at that current time.

Here, you can also learn about whale sharks and other marine life in the area and how conservation works in Ningaloo Reef.

If you’ve got a 4WD, you can step up the excitement of the road trip and drive along the Town Beach and find your own private spot to swim.

Otherwise, just head down for a quick dip and enjoy the ocean views.

Drive to the lighthouse for sweeping views over Exmouth and the ocean. If you have binoculars, be sure to bring it along to spot whales breaching in the distance.

Head up in the late afternoon to take in the serenity and enjoy watching the sunset. This is also one of the best stargazing spots you’ll ever find!

Day 8: Cape Range National Park

• Distance:  60 km
• Time:  1 hour

As you are halfway through your drive from Perth to Broome, you’re in for some real treats! Drive from Exmouth into Cape Range National Park along the sealed access road.

Boasting 50 km of pristine beaches, breathtaking deep canyons and rugged limestone ranges, Cape Range National Park is absolutely spectacular and warrants as many days as you have available to fully enjoy it.

One of the highlights of your Perth to Broome road trip is the opportunity to swim with whale sharks. Be sure to  book a tour   early  to reserve your place.

Swimming with whale sharks in the Ningaloo Reef is very controlled and there are loads of rules around it to ensure that it doesn’t negatively impact whale sharks.

Head to Turquoise Bay, Oyster Stacks and Sandy Bay for epic snorkelling alongside turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and plenty of other fish and coral.

You can also book this tour to swim with massive manta rays !

If you’re not keen on getting in the water, you can enjoy the 3 km return trail through Mandu Mandu Gorge, the 1.5 km Yardie Gorge Trail, the 3.5 km Charles Knife Edge Walk or some longer trails such Shothole Canyon’s 24.5 km trail.

As summer gets as hot as 50 degrees Celcius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), the walks and hikes through the park should only be done between April and September when temperatures are cooler.

This is generally the best time to make this road trip anyway.

Day 9: Exmouth to Karijini

• Distance: 658 km
• Time: 8 hours

After a few days on the coast, your Perth to Broome road trip is going to head inland towards Karijini National Park, one of Australia’s more underrated national parks.

Unfortunately, there’s not much to see between Exmouth and Karijini so today is mostly a big day of driving. Be prepared with snacks, water and make all the fuel stops you need.

Welcome to the Pilbara!

Before heading into Karijini, stop by Tom Price, the highest town in Western Australia at 747 metres above sea level.

Pop into the visitor centre to get maps of Karijini National Park and into the supermarket for anything you’ll need to cover you for Karijini.

This is your last major pit stop before you head into the park.

Since you won’t really have any time to explore the national park on your first day, why not score free accommodation by camping near Hamersley Gorge.

Just past the turnoff to the gorge is an open area outside of the national park where you are allowed to camp.

Enjoy your night under the stars and get plenty of rest for tomorrow.

Day 10: Karijini National Park

Welcome to Karijini National Park, Western Australia’s second-largest national park, encompassing some 627,441 ha.

You are about to embark on some incredible hikes through spectacular, rugged scenery with ancient geological formations.

If you’re travelling through Karijini during the dry season (April to October which generally the best time to visit), it’s going to be fairly hot.

You should be prepared with good hiking shoes or sandals, protective weather gear, swimwear and water for your hikes.

The roads in the park are mostly unsealed though 2WD vehicles will still be able to drive through fine.

The roads are mostly red dirt so if you’re bringing your own car, beware that this stuff is almost impossible to get out!

You’ll start at the westernmost point of the national park and head to Hamersley Gorge.

Here, you can enjoy a beautiful morning descending into a gorge with dramatic colours, textures and reflections.

In the middle of the national park, you’ll find a cluster of incredible gorges and waterfalls where you could easily spend a few days exploring.

To break these up and to ensure you have sufficient energy for hiking and to enjoy the gorges, it’s best to group a couple of gorges together, stay overnight and then tackle the others the next day.

These two gorges are class 5 trails which means they are the most difficult in the park. Expect to find steep and slippery sections.

If these hikes are inaccessible to you, you can head to the Joffre and Knox lookouts and enjoy the views from above.

Karijini Eco Retreat offers stay-in or campsite options but needs to be booked ahead of time . There are full facilities here as well as a restaurant.

Day 11: Karijini

Wake up to a morning view of Western Australia’s abundance of wildflowers in bloom and prepare yourself for another epic day of exploring gorges.

An easy 30-minute return hike will take you to some breathtaking views of Hancock Gorge.

From here, you can continue along to Oxer Lookout which consists or a narrow trail with loose rocks.

After enjoying your views from above, head to Weano Gorge and take on the shorter Upper and Lower Weano trails.

From the Lower Weano trail, you can continue on to Handrail Pool at the peak of the day when it’s hottest. The Gorge is refreshing and cool so this is the best time to go for a lovely dip.

Take on Hancock Gorge after this and walk all the way downstream to Kermits Pool where you’ll find a small turquoise pool with some spots to jump in.

This hike is also a class 5 hike and is one of the most difficult in the park.

In the late afternoon, pop into the Karijini Visitor Centre to immerse yourself further in the park.

The Visitor Centre provides plenty of fascinating information about the gorges, the stories behind them, the surrounding Pilbara area and the geology on the site.

Wifi, public toilet and shower facilities are also available here.

Your overnight pit stop will be at Dales Camping Area and needs to be booked well in advance.

Campsites are in very high demand from June to September and the only other campsite is back at the Karijini Eco Retreat.

Day 12: Karijini National Park

Spend your last full day of in Karijini National Park in Dales Gorge before continuing your Perth to Broome drive.

There are a few different trail options through Dales Gorge that you could do all in a day. Start with the 2km Gorge Rim trail and enjoy the wonderful views into Dales Gorge.

Fortescue Falls is a stunning waterfall that can’t be missed. You can enjoy a few hours here laying in the sun, having a picnic and revelling in the tranquillity of the surrounding nature.

From Fortescue Falls, continue the hike onwards to Fern Pool, another beautiful little swimming hole.

From the car park, descend down a steep slope to the bottom of the gorge before you reach the fern-framed pool that is another great spot to enjoy for a couple of hours.

Once you’ve finished exploring Dales Gorge, you can either spend the night in the camping area otherwise exit the park and stay at Auski Tourist Village which is a short drive away.

There are both campsites and accommodation options here.  

You could easily extend your time in Karijini to a week and take your time exploring the gorges individually. This would also allow you to get plenty of rest between big hikes and spend more time in the swimming holes.

If you do have the time, you could tack on Mount Bruce which is the second-tallest peak in WA. Here you’ll find three trail options, the longest being to Mount Bruce Summit which is a 9km, 6-hour return hike.

Day 13: Karijini to Eighty Mile Beach

• Distance: 580 km
• Time: 6.5 hours

Enjoy your last morning in Karijini and perhaps making any last stops in any gorges you missed before continuing on your road trip.

After this, you’re in for another big drive out of the National Park and back towards the coast to Port Hedland.

While Port Hedland isn’t exactly the top of any must-see destinations, this mining town does have a couple of things in town to give you a chance to stretch your legs.

You can head to Pretty Pool Park for a quick swim or go to Dalgety House Museum which showcases a little bit about the local history of the town.

This is also a good opportunity to top up on fuel and any supplies you might need.

After that big drive, you’ll stop and spend the rest of the day and night here at Eighty Mile Beach.

Famous for its fishing and shell collecting, Eighty Mile Beach is given its name thanks to the super long stretch of coast that seemingly goes on forever.

If you have a 4WD you can drive along the beach and find a nice spot to spend the day and enjoy an epic sunset on the beach.

Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park offers powered and unpowered campsites as well as self-contained cabins to stay in.

Day 14: Eighty Mile Beach to Broome

• Distance: 380 km
• Time: 4 hours

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise on the beach and prepare yourself for the final leg of your Perth to Broome drive itinerary.

Turn left from the main road towards Port Smith Caravan Park and drive along the 23 km well-maintained dirt road to one of WA’s best-kept secrets.

Pop in to go fishing or for a refreshing dip to break up your drive.

Continue along the National Highway all the way to your final destination, Broome!

Broome is the famous beach resort town in Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Known for its dramatic sunsets, camel rides and incredible beaches, you will plenty to do here.

The question is, how much time can you spend here?

Make a brief stop in the visitor centre to get information on tides, weather updates and a map for the different beaches around town.

Reward yourself with a relaxing afternoon at Cable Beach and spend the rest of the day fishing or swimming.

Cable Beach is also a nude beach though most of the time you’ll only find the older folks stripping down and taking advantage of this liberty.

If you’ve booked a camel ride, you’ll do this on the beach in the late afternoon or at sunset.

If you aren’t doing this, stay around for a spectacular sunset before heading to your accommodation for the night.

READ MORE: Check out all of these other great things to do when you are in Broome!

That wraps up your incredible Perth to Broome road trip itinerary! This itinerary can be modified to suit any length of time you have but we definitely recommend extending it out if you have time available.

Western Australia is huge and unless you are on a time crunch, there are plenty of other side trips you can take on this road trip.

Don’t forget to have plenty of water, supplies and tools handy in the car as driving in remote Western Australia will often leave you out of range and a flat tyre is a nightmare.

Drive safe and let us know if you’re planning this road trip soon and what you’re looking forward to most!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Amanda Tran

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

25 Amazing Things to Do in Australia (2024 Edition)

Getting Around Magnetic Island – ‘How to’ Transportation Guide

The Ultimate GUIDE to the Best MAGNETIC ISLAND BEACHES and Bays

Related Posts

Your guide to the top vivid sydney photography tips and locations, a photo journey across australia on the indian pacific, the ultimate guide to camping in tasmania (2024 guide), 20 awesome things to do in airlie beach [2024 guide], 7 thoughts on “the most epic perth to broome road trip itinerary [2024]”.

Are there any good companies that people would recommend that we could rent a SUV or motorhome and drive one way up to Broome? (Versus having to drive back?)

This is such a great, comprehensive guide. Really helpful when planning my own WA trip, thank you 🙂

You are welcome. So glad you found our article helpful. We hope you had a great time in Broome. 🙂

This trip looks amazing also all the photos looks awesome. I enjoyed alot your blog

What is the best route coming home in about the same time length of 14 days? 🙂

West Coast is the best! But I read the part about the campervan and I don’t think that spaceships campervans operate in western Australia though. Loads of other options though! (I.e. home on the road, travellers Autobarn , share bus who help find a group to rent with etc)

Yes it is Jade. West is best. I say this to Jarryd all the time. I am from the west. Thank you for this. Amanda is from the west too, but we both haven’t been back for a while. We will change that. Thanks for letting us know. 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Honest tourism information about Australia

Broome to Derby road trip: Distance, drive time and best stops

• David Whitley
• Practicalities

The Broome to Derby drive in Western Australia’s Kimberley region is 221km long, with a 2h14m driving time. Road trip attractions include the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park and Boab Prison Tree.

The Broome to Derby drive is a logical first leg if undertaking a road trip across Western Australia ’s remote Kimberley region.

Broome and Derby are the two largest towns in the western end of the Kimberley, and both make good bases for further exploration.

Broome offers trips to natural wonder Horizontal Falls , sunset camel tours on Cable Beach, boat cruises to 120 million-year-old dinosaur footprints and pearl farm tours by helicopter. To check out a great range of Broome activities and tours, browse here . For Broome accommodation,  book here .

Broome to Derby distance and driving time

The Broome to Derby drive is 221km in distance if tackled via the most direct route. This makes for a Broome to Derby driving time of two hours and 14 minutes.

Best 5 Broome day trips to book in advance

• Horizontal Falls and Dampier Peninsula day tour – including speedboat ride and Buccaneer archipelago flight. (See other Horizontal Falls tour options here ).
• Dampier Peninsula 4WD tour – including Beagle Bay’s pearl shell church, Aboriginal communities & Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm.
• Fixed wing air tour – including Cape Leveque, Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm & Horizontal Falls.
• Windjana Gorge day tour – including the Tunnel Creek caves.
• Epic full day combo – see Mitchell Falls, Horizontal Falls and the Dampier Peninsula in one trip.

The Broome to Derby drive starts out along the Broome Road before joining the Great Northern Highway at the Roebuck Plains Roadhouse . The Great Northern Highway is the name given to National Highway 1 in these parts.

At Willare, you need to branch off the Great Northern Highway onto the Derby Highway. Follow the Derby Highway past Derby Airport and you’ll quickly come to the town itself.

✅ Find the best tours and experiences in Western Australia right here . ✅

Broome to derby road trip attractions.

The major problem with the Broome to Derby drive is that there’s really not much to see on the way. Road trip attractions in the Kimberley tend to come after Derby, not before.

The best things to do between Broome and Derby tend to cluster close to the towns.

On the way out of Broome, you can stop at the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park in Roebuck. This wildlife park offer crocodile feeding shows, as well as other Aussie creatures such as kangaroos, emus and snakes.

Broome to Derby drive: Boab Prison Tree

Alas, the next Kimberley road trip attraction of any note is on the outskirts of Derby. The Boab Prison Tree is a tree so big, it was once used to house prisoners.

Other things to do in Derby include scenic helicopter flights, tours to Horizontal Falls and the Mowanjum Museum .

Derby accommodation picks include the Boab Inn near Old Derby Gaol, the solid Mud Crab Motel and the pool-toting Spinifex Hotel .

9 great Broome experiences to book today

• 1. Sunset camel ride – take in the changing colours of Cable Beach on camelback.
• 2. Horizontal Falls flight – see one of nature’s most extraordinary natural phenomena
• 3. Crocodile park visit – watch big crocs being fed up close.
• 4. Half hour helicopter ride – see the extraordinary red rock coastline from above
• 5. Dinosaur footprints adventure – including a wildlife spotting boat ride down Dampier Creek.
• 6. Sunset cruise – enjoy an Indian Ocean sunset with wine in hand
• 7. Windjana Gorge day trip – venture deeper into the rugged Kimberley.
• 8. Town tour – learn Broome’s fascinating history along the way.  
• 9. Mud-crabbing experience – catch crabs in the mangroves then eat them after they’re cooked by a pro.

Broome accommodation recommendations

There are plenty of places to stay in Broome – mostly scarily expensive. These are the best accommodation choices if they’re available on your dates.

• For the best pool scene: Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa .
• For Cable Beach location, but considerably cheaper : RAC Cable Beach Holiday Park .
• For a good value, fairly central aparthotel: Moonlight Bay Suites .
• For character, heritage and charm: Pinctada McAlpine House .

More Western Australia travel

Go snorkelling at the Aquarium , Yallingup – or surf at Smiths Beach .

Western Australian town and city guides .

Stay at Cocklebiddy or Balladonia on the Eucla to Norseman drive .

Drop by Dongara on the Jurien Bay to Geraldton drive .

Admire the 8,000 square metre Wellington Dam mural near Collie .

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Gab Travelling | Travel Blog

Road Trip Guide: Darwin, NT to Broome, WA 2WD

I’m lucky my partner loves driving more than I do, because staring out the window in the Kimberley for hours was something I’ll never regret. The road trip guide from Darwin, Northern Territory (NT) to Broome, Western Australia (WA) is filled with some of my favourite views of Australia. A lot of this is because I had no idea what to expect.

When I first heard about ‘the Kimberley’ I didn’t understand what or where it was. Some northern WA hills? Since going through it, I understand. And, the Kimberley is just one of the few incredible reasons why this road trip is so special and cannot be missed!

This road trip guide goes from Darwin, NT to Broome, WA two huge states in Australia’s top end. What I focus on in this guide is what there is to do along the way, where to stop, 2 wheel-drive accessibility, driving during the wet season and campsites. All with an emphasis on seeing the best of Australia’s natural beauty, while staying budget and comfortable.

I did this road trip during the wet season, in a 2WD amid state border restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite all the odds aimed at having a rough trip, my partner and I made the best out of it. And, I can’t say there’s much I would do differently.

Check out my guide on travelling to Northern Australia during the wet season to learn more about doing this trip during Australia’s wet season!

Road Trip Guide: Darwin, NT to Broome, WA

Total kilometres and hours driving: 23 hrs (2,189 km), recommended days: 7 days.

Table of Contents

About this Road Trip Guide:

Travelling through Australia’s outback is one of the most unique road trips I’ve ever done. Before going into this road trip guide from Darwin, NT to Broome, WA I’m going to go into some specifics about the trip.

When travelling in remote areas, it’s not possible to do this road trip without being prepared. However, despite the large amount of variables that could deter people from this journey, it’s well worth it. Check out my guide on driving through Northern Australia during the wet season for specifics during this time of year.

What’s most important to remember about this road trip, and going through Australia’s outback is that it’s vast and isolated. There’s also extreme weather conditions with limited resources. Stock up at grocery stores and always have extra food and water, do not rely on restaurants or servos along the way for this as they can be closed without notice.

There’s also limited cellphone reception throughout the outback, and small towns (including stores, restaurants and accommodation) close early. If you’re planning on accommodation, make sure to book in advance . Showing up the day of might mean everything it’s fully booked—or it’s closed.

Year-round, temperatures can be hot and it’s often hard to retain energy to enjoy certain activities. Don’t overbook yourself or plan for too many physical activities as you could get run down quickly due to the weather. As for 2WD, there’s not as much to see in the Kimberley as there would be with a 4WD. But, it’s still possible to see amazing landscapes and have a great experience.

I included both drive times (according to Google Maps) and kilometres from each destination to the next, these are approximate. In many areas of this road trip the highway speed limit is 130 km. Personally, I didn’t drive that fast so these drive times were much faster than what I actually took.

Enjoy this road trip and Australia’s vast outback. This is an incredible road trip from one regional city to the next—with almost only nature in between. The recommended days is the bare minimum to do this trip in a relaxing way. It’s best to allow time to spend a few extra days at different stops such as Kakadu , and Lake Argyle.

Drive safely—preferably not in the dark—and don’t take your vehicle somewhere unsafe and remote if you’re ill prepared. Always play it safe in the outback. And finally, respect the property and country of where you’re travelling.

Leave no trace and be kind to the locals!

Day 1: Darwin to Jabiru, Kakadu National Park , Northern Territory

Drive time: two hours and 40 minutes (254 km).

Day one of this 2WD road trip guide from Darwin, NT to Broome, WA and it’s time to leave Darwin. Head south-east towards Australia’s largest (and arguably most wild) national park: Kakadu National Park . For those that haven’t checked it out, in my road trip guide from Cairns, Queensland to Darwin , NT I recommend visiting Litchfield National Park on the way up. Whereas I focus on Kakadu National Park for this road trip guide from Darwin, NT to Broome, WA.

This helps break up all of the driving between the national parks, and to stock up on groceries as they’re both in remote areas.

While Kakadu National Park has long been known as the famous backdrop for Australia’s iconic Crocodile Dundee, it has a lot more to offer than a famous filming location.

The amount of wildlife specifically is jaw dropping and heartwarming. I saw crocodiles, emus, wallabies, lizards, kangaroos and birds of all sorts—and most I just saw while driving. The culture I experienced in Kakadu was welcoming, easy going and beautiful. Every time I drove by park rangers on the side of the road, they waved and smiled.

While driving into Kakadu National Park, make sure to get ahold of a national park’s pass , which is valid for seven days—plenty to enjoy and explore the park. Stop at the information bay while heading towards Jabiru , which has maps, and it’s a good photo opportunity with the notable (and colourful) Kakadu sign.

After the information bay, stop in at South Alligator River to take in the views and maybe enjoy lunch. It’s a popular boat launch area, where people head out fishing or just to enjoy a day with the crocs. Don’t mind the flies.

After, take a walk through the Mamukala Wetlands —which is just a short drive away. These wetlands are the perfect bird watching spot, a sheltered viewing area with information on the wetlands. And there’s also a large binocular to get a closer look at the plants and birds. Depending on what time of year you visit, this area could be closed due to flooding, or nearly dry.

Next stop is getting into Jabiru, see below for accommodation options and follow along for day two of this road trip! If visiting during the dry season, heading to Ubirr Rock Art site for sunset is major highlight of visiting Kakadu. It’s only a short drive (30 minutes one-way) from Jabiru.

Accommodation

Depending on your set-up or vehicle travelling in, there’s many different options for accommodation in Jabiru. The most legendary is the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile , which is a literal giant crocodile-shaped hotel. If you don’t stay here, at least drive by to check it out.

I stayed in my van at one of the caravan parks, the Aurora Kakadu Lodge , as it’s the only one open during the wet season. The other is the Anbinik Kakadu Resort . Both are campgrounds mixed with lodges and have incredibly relaxing pools—which make all the difference in Kakadu’s humid and hot climate.

There’s no free campgrounds in Kakadu, though there are a few budget-friendly ones. Malabanjbanjdju camp site and Burdulba camp site are remote, bush camp site run by the national park and cost around $6 per adult per night. Just beware of the mozzies and other general bugs as they’re everywhere.

Check out my list of natural mosquito repellents for tips on surviving the bugs!

Day 2: Jabiru, to Cooinda Lodge, Kakadu National Park, NT

Drive time: 40 minutes (58 km).

There’s not a lot of driving for this day, making it a great day for exploring. The point is after driving so long to Kakadu National Park, it’s important to spend at least a full day exploring and enjoying the park. If you haven’t yet, head to Ubirr Rock Art site , then pop over before heading south to the next end of Kakadu.

Also drop in at the Bowali Visitor Centre to learn more about the area, and seasonal spots to visit in the park. Remember to fuel up before leaving Jabiru, as it’s the only reasonably priced fuel station in Kakadu National Park—although there are a few others for emergencies.

Next up there’s a few different options for seeing the best of Kakadu. Start by doing the short but stunning walk up Nawurlandja Lookout . It’s good to get this done early if it’s a hot day as there’s no shade on the rocks. Remember to follow and obey all signs in the park, as you are visiting. There are signs at this lookout to not walk further at a certain point.

After taking in the views, check out the rock art at Anbangbang Rock Shelter . This area has picnic tables, shade and toilets making it a convenient stop. There’s also Gunwarrdehwarrde Lookout , which isn’t much of a hike up. However, if you do it in 45 degree heat with humidity like I did, it will feel hard.

Taking breaks and staying incredibly hydrated does help. Just down the road is Nanguluwurr Art Site , and whilst it’s a 4WD-recommended track, I made it in a 2WD in the wet season. This is a 3.4km walk to the actual art site, so make sure to bring snacks and plenty of water along for the ride.

Once you’re back on the road, there’s another hike at Mirrai lookout , the facilities here are well-maintained but there’s more trees at this lookout than others. It’s still worth the walk on a clear day—especially if it’s not too hot. Finish driving for the day by heading to Cooinda Lodge Kakadu .

I had an incredible time doing the Yellow River Cruise , I saw crocodiles, lily pads, magical sights and many birds. I did the earliest cruise in the morning so we finished just as it was getting hot, and there was a huge buffet breakfast included!

Though this day ends in Cooinda Lodge , that doesn’t mean it’s the only accommodation option. I enjoyed staying there because it was the wet season and I was happy to shower and use a laundry machine. I also did the river cruise in the morning which is close by. But, there are more bush camps if that’s your jam. Specifically, there’s Jim Jim Billabong , and Mardukal campground one and two.

Out of these bush camps, Jim Jim Billabong is the most affordable at $6 per adult per night, but there’s no shower. Both Mardukal have showers available but they’re also $15 per person per night.

These types of campgrounds are good if you’re on a budget, or if you have a vehicle that’s great at keeping out bugs and mosquitos. It will likely be uncomfortable outside with the bugs and mosquitos if you’re not wearing some type of repellent.

Day 3: Cooinda Lodge to Katherine, NT

Drive time: two and half hours (256 km).

Heading out of Kakadu National Park is a bit sad, but there’s still plenty of drive time to enjoy the views. Make sure to drive slowly and watch out for animals on the road such as emus, kangaroos and lizards. It’s not a crazy long drive to Katherine, so there’s still time to enjoy a bit more of the park.

When it’s finally time to exit the park, start heading south to the Katherine. The drive is lush and green, there’s a few different stops for fuel , but don’t wait to long to fill up. The road is a bit hilly and wavy, but as it goes more into the outback the road will straighten and the trees clear.

Katherine is a great stop for this lag of the journey, as it’s the final stop for a major grocery store before Kununurra. These are also the only two stops with major grocery store on this road trip guide aside from Darwin and Broome.

There’s also Nitmiluk National Park and Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge , these are natural beauties hidden in the bush from Katherine. The way the forests and gorges take over the scenery it’s like walking into another world. There’s actually 13 different gorges in this area, but most aren’t accessible by foot.

Due to the risk of crocodiles and flooding, many areas of Nitmiluk National Park aren’t accessible during the wet season. However, if you do happen to rock up during the humid wet season, the best thing to do is book a boat tour to see the gorges. Not all are accessible even by boat, but different tours access different sorts.

Or, if you’re really feeling energetic, do the Jatbula Trail, which is the only way to access many parts of the national park. There’s also other shorter trails around the park to see the gorges.

There’s so many different places to stay in Katherine, whether you have a high-end caravan in tow, or just a car. There’s also loads of campgrounds available, I stayed at the Riverview Tourist Village , they have a relaxing pool and an outdoor kitchen area. It’s also quite grassy and green. It’s just one of many campgrounds in the area though, there’s lots to choose from so book ahead during the busy season to get a good one.

In terms of a free option, King River South Rest Area just outside of Katherine is an option, but just be careful about safety.

Day 4: Katherine to Timber Creek, NT

Drive time: three hours (289 km).

This is the day the road trip is leaving the last bit of civilization for a while. Make sure to stock up on groceries and fuel before leaving Katherine. It’s important to know how far your vehicle will go on a tank of fuel and figure out where the next servo is.

This part of the road trip from Darwin, NT to Broome, WA really starts to feel different as the route heads south west (finally!). It’s not necessarily barren, but the more dramatic landscapes picks up in this portion of the drive. I didn’t find there was a lot to see or many places to stop for the first part of this day.

The views are changing often, shifting between thin eucalyptus trees to hills and rocky escarpments. Around Gregory, the views get really spectacular. This is also where Judbarra / Gregory National Park begins, and you’ll know when.

From the dark red escarpments to the hills and the Victoria River, the landscape is warm and comforting.

Judbarra / Gregory National Park covers 13,000 km2 throughout the area. Most of the national park is 4WD tracks, but if you have a 2WD fear not, there’s also good stops.

Just two kilometres after the Victoria River roadhouse is the Nawilbinbin Walk . This hike is easy, and the incline is quick to get up there. Just don’t make the same mistake I did by wearing open shoes—there’s ants, there’s lots, they’re big, and they bite. Also look out for the giant golden orb webs along the trail, I came across multiple while on this trail. If you’re lucky, there will be a bit of a breeze as the path inclines, which makes the whole thing a lot more bearable.

Further down on the Victoria highway is the Escarpment Walk , also part of Judbarra / Gregory National Park. Aside from this, head to accommodation in Timber Creek .

As the area gets more remote, it’s also important to book campgrounds or accommodation ahead of time. This does make it tougher to be spontaneous, but it’s important to have a safe place to sleep at night. And it’s not just about booking ahead, also get there on time as in remote areas places close early.

There’s a few different options for campgrounds and general accommodation. In remote areas like this and thereafter, most accommodation is combined with campgrounds. Usually by small cabins or units close by the other camping area. Victoria River Roadhouse Caravan Park is an example of this, but it does close during the wet season.

There’s also Timber Creek Hotel & Caravan Park , which is a lovely spot near a creek where freshwater crocs can be seen. Or for a budget option, check out Big Horse Creek Campground which is part of Judbarra / Gregory National Park.

Day 5: Timber Creek, NT to Lake Argyle, WA

Drive time: two hours and a half (225 km).

Looking back at all of these drive times I know for sure I took longer. In most highways along this road trip the speed limit is 130 km/hr. My van goes 110 km max, but I tend to sit more comfortably at 100 km. That means a lot of these drive times can be much longer depending on your vehicle—which is why I include the kilometres as well!

Leaving Timber Creek, there’s a few different options for stops before hitting the WA border. First off, Gregory’s Tree , is a small but cute stop with a short walk. It’s also an opportunity to imagine how life was over a hundred years ago in this exact spot.

After leaving the area and Judbarra / Gregory National Park behind, the next national park, which is a must-see before the border is Keep River National Park . Unfortunately, this park is mostly closed during the wet season. However, it is open to 2WD during the dry season, via corrugated roads. Roads flood during the wet, which is why it’s closed.

There’s only one entrance road to this park and there’s a billboard by the road (as with many other NT national parks) where the ranger often will write what’s open or closed in the park. This makes it really easy to see what’s open or not, without committing to driving all the way up towards the national park. If it’s the dry season, take a few days to spend in the park, otherwise Cockatoo Lagoon and Ginger’s Hill walk should be open year-round.

Next, cross the border and head straight into the Kimberley. Almost immediately after crossing the border things start to change. Or maybe that was just my relief from waiting months to finally get in? No really though, ridges grow from nowhere, trees cascade in all different directions and then comes the road to Lake Argyle. The hills are a deep red, and they seem to move with you on the drive to the lake.

Since crossing the border to WA is when I understood the beauty of the Kimberley. It’s somehow desolate, dramatic and so comfortable at the same time. This blended in with the occasional thunder and rainstorms the wet season brought, was perfect.

Crossing the NT to WA Border

If you’re travelling with our modern-day COVID regulations, it is mandatory to apply for a G2G PASS to enter the state. Don’t get caught without this or the border police will just turn you away. What’s also important is that this is a quarantine area for plants and produce. There’s signs along the way to remind you of this.

What that means is no fruit, vegetables, honey, soil, plants and more—click the link for the full government website on this. If you missed the many rubbish bins along the highway before the border, you can declare these items at the border. Security will check your vehicle, so don’t lie or hide anything. This quarantine area is to keep out damaging fungi and pests that would be detrimental to WA’s northern farms.

As for the G2G PASS, this is another government document where it’s illegal to lie. There should be no need for that either. WA’s border has been notoriously hard to enter throughout the pandemic, but it’s for good reasons. Just be honest about where you’ve been and it should be okay. If the conditions change once you arrive in WA you may be asked to self-isolate even after entering the border. So, you’re not in the clear until 14 days after arriving to WA.

There is an array of accommodation options in and around Kununurra. Despite the area being isolated, I felt it was a relatively bustling town considering where I had just driven through. However, this road trip guide focuses on staying at Lake Argyle—and you won’t be disappointed.

During the wet season (although don’t quote me on this, because it could change anytime), Lake Argyle Caravan Park has a wicked BOGO discount. Meaning you pay for one night and get two nights, and that’s an amazing time to take advantage of this location. The facilities are superb and have individual bathrooms with shower facilities that are newly renovated.

There’s also an outdoor kitchen area with covered seating, so for an unpowered vehicle like mine, it was splendid. Even throughout the wet season, there’s optional boat tours or kayak rentals which are great ways to explore the area. There’s also multiple lookouts for watching the sunset! And no, there aren’t any salties in the lake, so it’s safe to swim in.

Day 6: Lake Argyle to Warmun, WA

Drive time: three hours (266 km).

After finally leaving Lake Argyle, (it’s hard to leave all that natural beauty behind) take some time to check out Kununurra. It’s less than an hour drive from the lake to Kununurra so it’s easy to get there early. Visit Mirima (Hidden Valley) National Park , which is just a stone’s throw from Kununurra’s town centre.

Park fees are mandatory at this park and many other great WA parks, so if you’re visiting many it might be worth while to purchase a park’s pass. This national park is accessible year round, and is 2WD-accessible. It has just one entrance road and a few walks throughout the park. Though it’s small, there’s lots of views to see and many educational spots throughout the trails.

I was able to do all of the short walks in the park in a few hours while really taking my time and stopping for lunch. It’s good to do in the morning on a hot day as there isn’t a lot of tree coverage on the trails. Make sure to be sun safe as WA’s northern sun is brutal.

For short walks, there’s the 800m return Derdbe-gerring Banan Trail which goes up to multiple lookouts, it can be steep in places. There’s also the 400m Looking at Plants Trail which is essentially the loop trail below the Derdbe-gerring Banan Trail, it’s an easy and accessible boardwalk. Lastly, there’s the 500m return Demboong Banan Trail which goes through a gap in the sandstone range—almost like a gorge, but completely geographically different—to a view over Kununurra.

If you’re a fan of trees and the shade they give, check out Celebrity Trees Park . There aren’t celebrities there, but there are trees planted by celebrities, complete with plenty of shade. After visiting this park, stock up on groceries and fuel in Kununurra before leaving.

This section of the road trip from Darwin, NT to Broome, WA becomes more isolated, especially in terms of finding accommodation. Much earlier than Warnum, there’s camping and accommodation available at Doon Doon Roadhouse , but that will mean more driving the next day. In Warnum the only accommodation and camping is the Warnum Roadhouse .

Or, past Warnum there’s further options, both as bush camping or caravan parks. For 2WD accessible, there’s Bungle Bungle Caravan Park and there’s two free options/rest areas. These include: Spring Creek Rest Area and Leycesters Rest Area .

Day 7: Warnum to Mimbi Caves, WA

Drive time: three hours and 45 minutes (346 km).

It’s almost the last day this outback touring and the thrills aren’t over yet. There’s no major grocery stores, but there is some options in Halls Creek as you pass through. I don’t know a lot about Halls Creek, but I noticed while driving by the Centrelink office it was nicer than many others I’ve seen in cities.

Other than this, the town seemed quite similar to other small outbacks towns—although definitely more green and vibrant than the surrounding landscape.

At this point you’ll realize how important it is to wash your windshield at every servo possible. Not just because of the bugs, but with the dust and dirt, the windshield often becomes a smorgasbord of substances that makes it tough to see clearly.

After Halls Creek, the highway goes through Mueller Ranges , which are some desert mountain ranges that go throughout highway. It’s surprising and impressive how quick they appear and then disappear, while driving. Use the rest areas to take breaks along the way and take it all in.

The Mimbi Caves is a perfect in between stop before Broome. It’s located in the stunning Gooniyandi country, and offers both tours of the caves and a campground. These are 100% owned and operated by Indigenous people, so you can feel good about supporting the local economy. Finally, there’s the Mimbi Caves Campground which has hot showers, and outdoor kitchen and more for guests.

Also in the area is Larrawa Station Nature Stay , which is a campground on a working cattle station. And for free options there’s two rest areas: Mary Pool and Ngumban Cliff .

Day 8: Mimbi Caves to Broome, WA

Drive time: five hours (492 km).

It’s the final day of this road trip from Darwin, NT to Broome, WA! It’s a wild ride through the outback and there’s so much to see each day—and even more driving each day.

If you’re driving on a hot day, try getting up and start driving early then take a break mid-way through the day. This is a good way to avoid the hot sun, though many times of the year the sun is hot and burning throughout the entire day… air conditioning helps greatly.

The drive from Mimbi Caves area to Broome changes a lot from the rest of this road trip. It evens out quite a bit, there’s fewer hills and rocky mountains, instead trees take over the landscape. And, the closer to Broome, the more humid it will be.

There’s a lot to see around Fitzroy Crossing area in terms of national parks, but most are 4WD-only accessible. If you’re wanting to see more, try going on a tour. Although, all of this is closed during the wet season as the remote areas like national parks flood and are difficult to access.

Other than this, there isn’t too much to see on the road to Broome. Definitely stop whenever you can, there’s a few spots with giant boab trees . The picnic areas surrounding these areas are quite overgrown, but it’s still nice to get out and stretch your legs.

Cell phone reception is quite spotty along the drive to make sure to have pre-downloaded playlists for music, and to book accommodation in Broome ahead of time.

Plan accommodation in Broome ahead of time. During the wet season, nearly every place will have rooms or campsites available, but that’s not guaranteed. It’s also good to plan accommodation so you don’t have to think about it on the drive. In terms of pricing, it’s not cheap.

Campgrounds are all starting at around A$30 per night for unpowered, but they do have all the facilities. However, sleeping through extreme humidity is uncomfortable. .

For more road trip guides, check out Cairns, QLD to Darwin, NT or the ultimate east coast trip from Brisbane to Cairns, QLD . Or, the cross-state journey from Melbourne to Sydney along the coast, or the inland route !

Share this:

Site Navigation

• About Gab Travelling
• About Gabrielle
• Let’s Work Together
• Privacy Policy

@gabtravelling