Top Guide To Travelling In The Northern Territory With A Campervan

Dreaming of an epic road trip through Australia’s wild heart? There’s no better way to explore the Northern Territory (NT) than in a campervan. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, driving past rugged landscapes, and chasing sunsets over iconic landmarks like Uluru. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time explorer, this guide has you covered!

Coming up we’ve got the best time to visit the Northern Territory, how to get there from our Cairns branch, how long to stay, where to camp, top adventures (remember our campervans cannot be driven on unsealed roads), and the must-see destinations you simply can’t miss!

 

Ubirr in Kakadu, Shay C

 

Best Time to Visit the Northern Territory

The NT’s climate is split into two distinct seasons: Dry (May to October) and Wet (November to April).

The Dry Season (May–October):

• Why it’s ideal: Clear skies, cooler temps (20–30°C), and minimal rainfall.
• Perfect for: Outdoor adventures, camping, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
• Bonus: Major events like the Darwin Festival (August) and Alice Springs Desert Festival (September).

The Wet Season (November–April):

• What to expect: High humidity, heavy rains, and temps soaring above 35°C.
• The upside: Lush landscapes, dramatic waterfalls (especially in Kakadu), and fewer tourists.
• Considerations: Some roads, especially unsealed ones, may be closed due to flooding.

Pro Tip: If you’re sticking to sealed roads, the Wet Season can still offer an unforgettable experience—just be flexible with your itinerary.

 

Arnhem Highway, Shay C

 

How to Get There from Cairns

Starting your NT adventure from Cairns? Buckle up—it’s a legendary drive!

Route Overview:

• Distance: 2,500 km to Darwin (via sealed roads).
• Driving Time: Around 28–30 hours (spread over 4-5 days).
• Main Route:
  1. Cairns → Croydon (524 km) – Kick things off along the Savannah Way.
  2. Croydon → Mount Isa City (639 km) – Explore the outback
  3. Mount Isa City → Tennant Creek (661 km) – Enter the NT.
  4. Tennant Creek → ANYWHERE! – Head north via the Stuart Highway to slowly make your way through Mataranka, Kakadu National Park, Litchfield, and Darwin – or go south down to Alice Springs and Uluru.

Key Stops Along the Way:

• Undara Lava Tubes (QLD): Ancient volcanic tunnels—super cool!
• Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles, NT): Giant, round boulders that seem to defy gravity.
• Mataranka Thermal Pools: Perfect spot to soak and relax before hitting Darwin.

Travel Tips:

• Fuel up whenever you can – service stations can be few and far between.
• Carry extra water, especially between remote stretches.
• Check road conditions via local updates, particularly during the Wet Season.

 

Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), Shay C

 

How Long Do You Need to Explore the Northern Territory?

While you could do a whirlwind tour in a week, the NT deserves time. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 1 Week: Focus on the Top End (Darwin, Litchfield, Kakadu).
• 2 Weeks: Add Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) and Alice Springs.
• 3–4 Weeks: The ultimate adventure—Top End + Red Centre, including Uluru and Kings Canyon.

Pro Tip: Factor in driving distances. The NT is vast, and you’ll want time to actually enjoy each destination without feeling rushed – sometimes you’ll be driving 3-5 hours between stops.

 

Mataranka Thermal Springs, Shay C

 

Where To Camp In The Northern Territory

From fully equipped caravan parks to remote bush camps, the NT caters to every camping style.

Top Caravan Parks (Sealed Road Access):

• BIG4 Hidden Valley Holiday Park (Darwin): Great facilities, close to the city.
• Cooinda Lodge (Kakadu): Perfect base for Yellow Water Cruises.
• Mataranka Homestead: Camp right near the thermal pools.
• Ayers Rock Campground (Yulara): The only campsite near Uluru—book ahead!

Free & Budget Campsites:

• Fogg Dam (near Darwin): Basic, but great for birdwatching.
• Edith Falls (Nitmiluk National Park): Low-cost, with stunning swimming spots.
• Stuart Highway Rest Areas: Handy for overnight stops during long drives.

Camping Tips:

• Always check if a camping permit is needed, especially in national parks.
• Respect the land—leave no trace, and be mindful of Indigenous sacred sites.

 

Kakadu Highway, Shay C

 

Exploring The NT On Sealed Roads Only

Our campervans aren’t allowed on unsealed roads, but not to stress, you can still see the NT’s best sights without venturing off road.

Key Routes:

• Stuart Highway: The iconic “Explorer’s Way,” stretching from Darwin to Adelaide.
• Arnhem Highway: Takes you from Darwin to Kakadu (sealed all the way to Jabiru).
• Lasseter Highway: Connects the Stuart Highway to Uluru.

Must-See Destinations In The Northern Territory (No 4WD Needed):

1. Kakadu National Park: Stick to the main roads and visit Ubirr, Nourlangie, and Yellow Water.
2. Litchfield National Park: Gorgeous waterfalls like Wangi and Florence Falls are sealed-road accessible.
3. Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk): Enjoy boat cruises or short hikes without needing to go off-road.
4. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Fully sealed access with well-maintained paths for walking.
5. Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu): Right off the Stuart Highway, with easy access and a campground.

Bonus: Many tours in Kakadu and other parks offer 4WD experiences if you want to venture deeper without driving off-road yourself.

 

Florence Falls in Litchfield National Park, Shay C

 

Key Destinations You Can’t Miss

Here’s your NT bucket list:

• Darwin: A vibrant tropical city with markets (Mindil Beach Sunset Market), museums, and stunning sunsets.
• Kakadu National Park: Ancient rock art, wetlands teeming with wildlife, and epic views from Ubirr.
• Litchfield National Park: Waterfalls galore, plus magnetic termite mounds that’ll blow your mind.
• Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk): Cruise or kayak through towering sandstone cliffs.
• Alice Springs: A hub for exploring the Red Centre, with art galleries and desert landscapes.
• Uluru & Kata Tjuta: The spiritual heart of Australia—sunrise and sunset here are life-changing.
• Kings Canyon: Hike the Rim Walk for jaw-dropping views of sheer cliffs and desert oases.

 

Darwin, Shay C

 

FAQs

1. Do I need a 4WD to explore the NT?
   Nope! Many major attractions are accessible via sealed roads. However, if you want to reach remote spots, consider joining a 4WD tour.
2. Is wild camping allowed in the NT?
   Free camping is available in designated rest areas, but always check signs. In national parks, camping is only allowed in specific sites (permits may be required).
3. What’s the fuel situation like?
   Fuel stops can be sparse, especially on long stretches. Top up whenever you see a service station.
4. Are there any road safety tips?
   Watch out for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive cautiously, stay hydrated, and avoid driving at night.

 

Final Thoughts: Hit the Road, The NT Awaits!

Travelling through the Northern Territory in a campervan is an adventure like none other! Whether you’re chasing sunsets at Uluru, swimming in crystal-clear waterholes at Litchfield, or cruising through ancient gorges in Katherine, the NT delivers untamed beauty at every turn.

Remember:

• Plan ahead, but stay flexible.
• Respect the land and its Traditional Owners (you will need passes to visit the National Parks).
• Pack your sense of adventure—you’ll need it!

So, what are you waiting for? Fuel up, hit the open road, and let the NT’s magic unfold! Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the campervans. Whilst we don’t have a branch in Darwin, there’s definitely a lot to see on a road trip from our cairns branch! Otherwise, if you’re travelling from Perth to Cairns, it’s well-worth dropping into the NT on your way past.