Overlanders Way

Overlanders Way drive takes you from the Great Barrier Reef to the Northern Territory outback, so be sure to pack your flippers and your hiking boots.

The Overlanders Way is an experience you’ll never forget. This self-drive track served as an important line during World War II and stretches across 1,550km taking you from the ocean to the Outback.

Start your engines in Queensland

Beginning at the tropical city of Townsville in Queensland, be sure to take in the magnificent Great Barrier Reef.

Kick off your drive to Charter Towers and explore the history-filled small town. Discover the World War II bunkers, visit Pioneers Cemetery, and if you’re feeling brave, join the ghosts of gold heritage trail.

Continue across Queensland to Hughenden, Richmond, Cloncurry and Mt Isa, the ‘Rodeo Capital of Australia’.

Northern Territory adventure

Stop by the Barkly Homestead for a chat with locals and travellers and take time to refuel and learn some of the history of this epic region. The homestead is an authentic Outback roadhouse, providing accommodation options and great Aussie tucker.

Drink billy tea by the roadside and wave to passing road trains as you slowly unwind and immerse yourself in the land of the stockmen. Journeying into the Barkly Tablelands is a great way to comprehend the vastness and beauty of the Australian Outback.

This mighty grazing region is still considered the heart of the Northern Territory’s cattle country, with some cattle stations the size of small European countries.

Try a little detour to Tennant Creek’s stunning Iytwelepenty/Davenport Ranges National Park for camping and swimming. Right next door you’ll find the Aboriginal sacred site of Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve – rare and wonderful rock formations that provide unforgettable sunsets.

This part of the world presents a canvas of changing colours and never-ending horizons and is the driving opportunity of a lifetime.

Top 5 must-do’s for the NT stretch

1. Visit Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles
2. Share tales of the stockman’s life on a horse trail guided tour with a traditional local man from the region
3. Take a side trip to explore Connells Lagoon Conservation Reserve, and spot rare and endangered native wildlife
4. Learn about the Warumungu people at the Nyinkka Nyunyu Art Centre
5. Experience the outback gold rush at Battery Hill Mining Centre.

Remember to plan your trip with these road safety tips before starting your Northern Territory drive adventure.

Suggested itinerary