travel from broome to darwin

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.

Road Trip from Broome to Darwin

If you've ever wanted to explore the entire range of natural beauty that Australia has to offer, look no further. This road trip from Broome to Darwin lets you experience vast stretches of desert landscapes and outback scenery, whilst also making the most of the many National Parks, wetlands, gorges, sandstone formations and wildlife.

The 1,870 km road trip from Broome to Darwin takes around 20 hours to complete. On the way, you can explore Katherine, Lake Argyle, Berry Springs Waterhole, Bell Gorge, Keep River and Nitmiluk National Parks as well as Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park.

Read on to choose between two suggested routes, select the National Parks that make your explorer heart skip a beat and find out what time of year will allow you to make the most of this trip of a lifetime.

How far is Darwin from Broome and how long will the road trip take?

There are a couple of options for getting from Broome to Darwin, although they both share the same directions for the majority of the drive. The most direct route will take you around 20 hours to complete and will cover 1,870 kilometres.

The National Parks Detour will take 23 and 30 minutes to drive, to allow for the extended distance of 2,200 kilometres without accounting for any stops of detours which you might want to make.

Considering how much distance you'll be covering and the many beauty spots and National Parks to explore, we suggest that you allow between 4 and 6 days to complete your drive.

Best road trip route from Broome to Darwin

Both of the routes we've chosen for this trip from Broome to Darwin take in plenty of desert-like, outback landscapes as well as lush greenery, wetlands, gorges and National Parks.

On the Direct Route, you will get to explore a variety of National Parks, Lake Argyle and the gorgeous town of Katherine. This route will allow you to experience many of Australia's lush forests and plenty of dry desert landscapes.

The National Parks Detour takes a scenic dive into the beautiful parks of the Northern Territory. Among the many parks you will drive past are Geikie Gorge, Keep River, Nitmiluk and Kakadu National Park with countless amounts of sandstone formations, gorges, wetlands, waterfalls and wildlife to explore between them.

Whether you want to take the more Direct Route or allow more time to experience a wider range of natural beauty depends on the amount of time you have to spend on the drive.

The Direct Route

The most direct route takes you simply along the Victoria Highway, Highway 1, with minimal stops. Head inland from Broome on Highway 1, towards the town of Willard. Stick to the highway, through plenty of outback landscapes.

Once you reach the Mueller Ranges area, you could stop at Mimbi Caves. Just a little further along you'll also find Mary Pool along the Mary River. A beautiful place to cool off and even get your wheels wet if you fancy, at the Mary Pool Crossing.

As you approach the town of Kununurra, there'll be plenty to explore including Molly Springs and the beautiful Lake Argyle.

Back onto Highway 1, and time to keep an eye out for the many lookouts by the side of the road, for those perfect holiday snaps. There are also some smaller National Parks dotted along the route, perfect for a picnic lunch.

The next bigger town you'll reach will be Katherine. The Nitmiluk National Park is worth exploring here as well as the Hot Springs.

The next leg of your journey along Highway 1 takes you into greener and more lush landscapes as you get closer to Darwin. Stretch your legs in Pine Creek before carrying on through quaintly named Tortilla Flats and Acacia Hills, followed by Humpty Doo a little further along.

As you approach Darwin, the possibilities for stops to explore hot springs and parks become almost endless. Berry Springs Waterhole is a great stop before finally arriving at your end destination.

The National Parks Detour

This route shares the majority of the directions with the direct route, especially at the beginning of your drive.

You'll find the first detour as you arrive on Highway 1 from Broome in Fitzroy Crossing. Head along Geikie Gorge Road to the National Park of the same name where you can explore a stunning limestone reef.

Keep following Highway 1 until you reach the town of Katherine, where the main detour from the direct route begins. First, you'll be heading towards Katherine Gorge and Nitmiluk National Park.

Once you've had your fill of nature pursuits here, re-join the highway before taking Highway 21 in Pine Creek. This will take you to Kakadu National Park.

Here, you will also have the option of an additional stop at Yellow Water Cruise where you can participate in a range of watersports and cruises in one of Australia's celebrated wetlands.

Follow Highway 21 towards Jabiru, where you'll then head west on Highway 36 towards Mount Bundley, and ultimately all the way to Darwin.

Best places to stop between Broome and Darwin

Since you're covering quite the distance on your journey, you'll want to plan in a few overnight stops to get the most out of your trip. We've picked a few conveniently located places that will allow you to both relax after a long day of driving and explore what Australia has to offer further if that's what you'd prefer. Both overnight options apply to either route so why not pick both!

Get pampered in Kununurra

Located halfway through your journey on both routes, the town of Kununurra is located near the beautiful Lake Argyle and right next to Lily Creek Lagoon. This charming town makes for a brilliant overnight stop and a base from which to explore many outdoor pursuits.

The Kimberley Grande Resort gets our vote for your overnight accommodation , being Kununurra's premier resort destination. It boasts modern and stylish décor that prides itself on reflecting the surrounding landscapes as well as a range of dining options on-site and nearby.

If you like to feel pampered, this is the place to get yourself booked in for some treatments and you can also make use of the spa suites and the outdoor swimming pool.

If you'd like to explore all the beauty that the area has to offer, the Lily Creek Lagoon nearby offers several lush green spaces and the town centre has much to offer, including the Waringarri Aboriginal Arts Gallery.

A short drive will take you to Lake Argyle, where you can take a lake cruise or simply enjoy stunning views from its Dam Wall. The hotel is located close to the Victoria Highway to seamlessly continue your journey when you're ready.

Find tranquility in Katherine

Another great place for an overnight stop, once again suitable for both routes, is the town of Katherine. This is one of the last larger towns you'll be driving through before you reach Darwin, around two-thirds of the way into your journey.

Katherine is charmingly known as ‘the town where the outback meets the tropics' and is also home to the Nitmiluk National Park with plenty of gorges to explore on foot, by canoe, boat or even helicopter.

Although located a few kilometres outside the town of Katherine, our favorite is the Almost Off Grid Tranquility Guest House to stay at during your visit to the town. This hotel is surrounded by beautiful scenery and has easy access back to the highway when you're ready to complete your journey,

Each superbly appointed room offers its own patio and garden view. If you'd like to have your own quintessential barbecue experience, the hotel offers cooking facilities for its guests as well as a shared lounge and kitchen. Such a unique Australian outback experience!

The Nitmiluk National Park is located close by, or if you'd rather spend your time here unwinding, you could visit the Katherine Hot Springs to relax and recharge amongst its greenery and walking trails.

Where to stay when you reach Darwin

Once you reach Darwin, we recommend the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront as your base from which to experience the city. It's brilliantly located to explore the waterfronts many shops, restaurant and bustling nightlife and offers rooms with harbour views.

This waterfront district is a thriving part of the city and offers much in terms of recreational activities. The hotel itself has plenty of amenities to allow for a day or two of total relaxation after your long drive through the outback.

There is a semi-indoor pool, as well as a wave pool and a range of restaurants to dine at, so you will have the convenience of re-energise at your own pace after a long drive.

Things to see on a road trip from Broome to Darwin

There are so many things to see on an epic road trip like this, and you can break up your drive through the vast Australian outback with lush National Parks, rock formations, wildlife and Aboriginal history.

Since the second of our route options is simply a detour from the first, most of the attractions and activities suggested below apply to both routes, so read on below to find out our recommended things to see and do.

• Kakadu National Park – Known for its coastal plains and many Aboriginal archaeological sites across its sprawling 20,000 square kilometre size, this national park has been recognized as a World Heritage Site.

• Litchfield National Park – Experience the green lushness of this National Park before embarking onto the outback portion of your drive. With plenty of waterfalls, wildlife and walking trails to explore, you won't regret your stop here.

Both Routes

• Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) – About 30 minutes away from your driving route but absolutely worth it to see this stunning sandstone valley. You'll find walking trails, a gorge and a waterfall where you'll be able to swim and canoe.
• Dimalurru National Park – Explore a creek-carved cave system featuring stalagmites, waterfalls and even nocturnal animals.
• Mimbi Caves – Aboriginal expert tours of this 350-million-year-old reef system are a must-see along your route.
• Purnululu National Park – A prime example of outback Australia's arid landscape, this national park will have you in awe of the sculpted sandstone rock formations which resemble beehives.
• Lake Argyle – Western Australia's largest lake is a worthwhile stop for water-based activities such as a lake cruise, or to simply enjoy the tranquil lookout from the Argyle Dam Wall.
• Keep River National Park – Striped sandstone towers line the edges of the hiking routes in this national park and sights along the way could include both Aboriginal art and rock wallabies!
• Nitmiluk National Park – The string of gorgeous national parks continues! This particular one boasts thirteen beautiful gorges that have been carved out of sandstone cliffs over thousands of years.
• Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park – Guided tours are available at this nature reserve to make the most out of viewing the karst limestone caves, dramatic rock formation and roosting bat colony.
• Berry Springs Waterhole – Natural swimming spot surrounded by both wetlands and monsoon forests as part of a park which is known for its aviary and floral offerings. (Please note that swimming may not be possible during the wet season October – April, check prior to arrival)
• Howard Springs Nature Park – Make a final stop before hitting Darwin to take advantage of the hot springs and rock pools on offer in this beautiful park. Keep your eyes peeled for Australian wildlife, too!
• Nightcliff Jetty – a small detour will take you to Nightcliff Jetty, which looks out on the Timor Sea and where you can enjoy a stunning sunset and refuel after your drive from a vast variety of food trucks.

Best time to go on a road trip from Broome to Darwin

With Darwin being the largest city in the Northern Territory, it's no surprise that there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities accessible all year round. Add to that the consistent heat it receives throughout the seasons, you could easily make this trip at any time of year.

November and December mark the hottest months in Darwin with temperatures ranging between 28-32 degrees Celsius, which means these months are also prone to be the muggiest and wettest time of year.

The coolest months tend to be June, July and the start of August, meaning they tend to be the driest and clearest months in terms of weather conditions.

Temperature differs only by a degree or so between the ‘hot' and ‘cold' seasons with 32 and 31 degrees Celsius respectively.

The busiest time in terms of tourism is during the city's dry season, between May and October. Accommodation will be a little more costly, but if you're planning on taking advantage of the many outdoor pursuits on offer, you can pretty much guarantee that they won't be interrupted by weather events.

If you plan on taking in more cultural and indoor events, there is plenty to explore in Darwin all year round. There are festivals and events for every taste, as you would expect from a metropolitan city.

October brings the music festival Electric Storm, take your pick between the Darwin Fringe or the Darwin Show in July, or be spoilt for choice between music, theatre, visual art, dance, cabaret and comedy during the Darwin Festival each August.

Activities in the many National Parks along the route may be weather dependent so do check before you travel if your heart is set on a particular experience.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

All Destinations , Australasia , Australia , Overland Itineraries , Plan Your Trip

Broome to darwin drive itinerary (via the gibb river road).

There’s two ways you can do the Broome to Darwin drive . One’s via the highway, which has some nice stops but is a little bit bland. Or, you can say yes to adventure , stock up the 4WD with spare tyres and a puncture repair kit , and brave the Gibb River Road.

The best part of the Broome to Darwin road trip traverses the astonishingly beautiful Kimberley region , which is known as ‘Australia’s Last Frontier’. It’s one of the biggest portions of untouched wilderness left on this earth, and its natural beauty is one like no other. With dramatic gorges that drop off into oblivion, secluded swimming holes flanked by exotic trees, and roaring waterfalls plummeting into depths below, the Kimberley is a place like no other, and without a doubt is the very best part of a Broome to Darwin drive itinerary.

And of course, you’ve got some other gems around the Gibb River Road area too. The endlessly blue Lake Argyle , the tiny settlements of Derby , Wyndham and Kunanurra , and over the border Katherine Gorge and the stunning Litchfield National Park are all worthy stops on this Broome to Darwin drive itinerary.

So what are you waiting for? Jump in that high clearance 4WD (well not quite, we did it in a Subaru Forester and the worst thing that happened was a flat tyre!) and buckle up for one hell of a Western Australia road trip.

Broome  2+ days

The starting and finishing point for two road trips; the Western Australia road trip and of course, this Broome to Darwin drive, in the dry season Broome is full of travelers either stopping over for a day or two or some, staying even longer and working. There’s plenty to do in Broome, so even if you’re not planning on spending long in the town, it’s worth enjoying a few days there.

Things to do in Broome include:

• Watch the sunset at Cable Beach
• Drive along Cable Beach (in that high clearance 4WD you have for your Broome to Darwin road trip, right? JK I did this in my Subaru too!)
• Admire the cliffs, blue waters and dinosaur footprints of Gantheaume Point – and go cliff jumping if you’re braver than me!
• Explore some of the more remote coastal areas; like Coconut Wells , James Price Point and Cape Leveque .
• Walk around Chinatown
• Visit one of the many Aboriginal Art Galleries
• Go to the Japanese Cemetery and learn about the pearling industry in Broome

Derby – 1 day

It’s a short hop from Broome to Derby on sealed roads – just 2 hours, which, if you’re used to driving in Western Australia, will feel like nothing at all! Derby is mainly used by travelers as a pit stop destination before they tackle the Gibb River Road, and if you are not already stocked up with food, do so here – there’s no shops on the Gibb River Road (apart from a horrendously overpriced gas station at midway point). Don’t forget to get fuel , even if you already bought some in Broome the day before – you definitely want to be joining the GRR with a full tank!

Make sure you go to the Visitor’s Centre to learn about the current conditions of the road. They’ll give you any specific advice and answer any questions needed. There’s also a $5 booklet about the road that is well worth buying – it details all of the road’s camp site locations and attractions and the distances between them. (I mean, I’m aiming for this Broome to Darwin drive itinerary to be so useful that you’ll already know it all, but we’ll see!)

Before you reach Derby, the Boab Prison Tree is just off the main road. It’s a sad place; Aboriginal people were kept within the tree during the massacre of their people when their country was invaded (I’m not cushioning any of that deliberately – people need to stop tiptoeing around what happened and realise the enormity of the tragedy). But these things are worth visiting to understand the scale of the tragedy. The fact that an Australian mother and daughter walked up next to me and the mother said ‘that’s where they put the naughty people’ showed me that perceptions still need to be altered so much.

Wharfingers House Museum showcases the history of Derby’s communication links, including an aviation section – a flight from Geraldton to Derby in 1922 was Australia’s first scheduled aviation service.

Windjana Gorge – half a day/ one day

And onto the road! Windjana Gorge is the first area to explore and it’s a very picturesque spot. It’s one of the most popular places in Australia to find freshwater crocodiles – whether that makes it a more or less appealing place to visit, I don’t know! Freshwater crocodiles can give nasty bites, but only attack if they’re provoked. I still wouldn’t want to go swimming with one though, and there’s no swimming available at Wdjana Gorge.

There’s a few different walks which can be had along the sandy banks along the dramatic cliffs.

Tunnel Creek – half a day

Tunnel Creek is a network of underground caves that are very dark – bring a strong torch! To explore the creek, you need to wade through water and navigate the diverse rock formations. Bats swoop over you and various cave critters live on the floor – so mind your step! We also spotted a freshwater crocodile at the side of the cave – ooerr! Follow the path where everyone has already stepped and you’ll be fine.

At the end, the tunnel gives way to light and it looks a little bit like paradise. There’s also some Aboriginal rock art and some interesting animals calling this area home! You’ll need to go back on yourself to get back to the car park.

Bell Gorge – half a day

It’s of the most famous waterfalls on the Gibb River Road, and it’s easy to see why; Bell Gorge is absolutely spectacular. A short detour off the Gibb River Road, Bell Gorge was where we had our first creek crossings. None are too deep and Nulla (my Subaru) had no problems whatsoever.

It’s a short walk to reach the gorge where the gushing waterfall interrupts the red rock to plummet into the swimming hole below. The climb into the gorge is moderately difficult, but people of all ages were making their way down and back up.

Once you get to the bottom of the gorge, cool off in the fantastic swimming hole and then venture on a little bit – the river continues to eventually descend in another colossal waterfall, this time with nobody there. It’s an amazingly photogenic place and the perfect chance to enjoy nature!

Galvans Gorge – half a day

Down a dusty road is Galvan’s Gorge , which at first looks like just a small clearing with beautiful Boab trees. But if you walk down the secluded path, you’ll find a fairytale-like setting, complete with bubbling creek, chirping birds and butterflies flying around you (I’m not making this up, I swear!). Eventually you’ll reach a swimming hole and waterfall, and it’s just spectacular. We got there at 7:30am and we were the only ones there!

If you fancy plummeting yourself into the swimming hole, there’s a Tarzan swing which is great fun. Other than that, it’s a fantastic place for a morning dip – and our friend even managed to climb right to the top of the waterfall, although he said it was a bit dodgy.

Mount Barnett Roadhouse – enough time to fuel up and to satisfy those soy cappuccino (or equivalent) cravings

You’ve reached the halfway point of the Gibb River Road! Mount Barnett is the only place on the 661 kilometre stretch where you can fuel up, so make sure you do so: they also serve half decent cappuccinos here (and even stock soy milk!) which make it a very worthy pit stop.

Manning Gorge – 1 day

Manning Gorge is just 7 kilometers from Mount Barnett, but there’s a couple of river crossings in that space. Again, nothing to sweat about, little Nulla pulled through no problem so they’ll be like puddles to any bigger 4WD cars.

It’s a longish walk to reach Manning Gorge from the campsite, which is difficult in the heat. You have to get in a small, rickety boat at first and pull yourself over on a rope – when we were there some kids were pulling us over – and one was still doing it on the way back! Be sure to take plenty of water on the Manning Gorge walk – it’s quite arduous to reach the end, but it’s so worth it.

There’s a secluded ‘beach’ part of the gorge and just over the rocks, a large swimming hole with a powerful waterfall. I don’t mean to scare anyone (I’ve already petrified myself), but we did see a freshwater crocodile on a rock when we were getting the small boat across. This wasn’t in the area we were swimming in, and as I already mentioned, freshwater crocodiles are not a huge threat to humans, but it’s something worth considering.

El Questro Wilderness Park – 2-4 days

The Pentecost River is part of this stretch of road, and it was somewhere we were kind of dreading in little Nulla. Some people had advised we wait to be towed over – we also knew that there were saltwater crocodiles in the river, so it was probably (definitely, on my part – in case you haven’t noticed, I’m completely petrified by crocodiles) the very last place we wanted to get stuck. But it was absolutely fine – people who had just gone across said that we’d have no problems, so we swallowed some courage and just went for it – and once again, the gal had no problems. It’s also one of the most beautiful places on the Gibb River Road, which made the victory of crossing it even sweeter!

El Questro Wilderness Park is an area worthy of a few day’s exploration. Now, even though Nulla is one tough bitch she’s not quite ready for some of the crazy 4WD tracks in El Questro. Luckily our friend had a very well equipped 4WD capable of anything! If you’re doing the Broome to Darwin road trip in a similar car to ours, try and make a few Gibb River Road pals (it won’t be hard, everyone’s super lovely) and sweet talk them into taking you to some of the best spots!

Areas accessible by an AWD not-so-high clearance like Nulla are the main camp spot (a fairly wide river crossing to get there though, but Nulla had no problems), Zebedee Springs (which are amazing hot springs, perfect to go to in the morning as they’re typically quite cold!) and a few other springs and water holes, depending on road conditions.

But the best attractions in El Questro are the badass 4WD tracks, and they include El Questro Gorge (inventive), Moonshine Gorge and any of the 4WD tracks – we went to Explosion Gorge which was probably one of the most spectacular views (and hair-raising rides) of my lifetime. To reach the lookout, you have to cross a river with boulders, not rocks, at the bottom, and climb up steep rocky pathways, knowing that if the brakes fail you could plunge to imminent doom. Fun, eh?

El Questro campsite is a little community, and there’s amazing showers, a restaurant, a bar (which does pizza night three times a week!) and a small shop. It feels very ‘holiday’ – you’re going to want to spend a couple of nights here after the wilderness of the Gibb River Road!

Emma Gorge – 3-4 hours

Once you’ve left El Questro, you’ll be greeted by a feeling you thought you’d forgotten… the car driving on tarmac roads! The turn off for Emma Gorge is once again down gravel roads and has a creek crossing, but you should be well versed in them by now!

It’s a moderate hike to get to Emma Gorge – with very little shade – take a hat and plenty of water! There’s one swimming hole before the main gorge and then Emma herself. We stripped off and waded into the water, to be greeted by absolute horror – the water was freezing .

Not wanting to be defeated, we swam all the way to the waterfall. I started to think the temperature wasn’t that bad – until I wasn’t warm, my skin was burning, and I knew it was time to get out. It was definitely an interesting experience, especially after being so warm on the walk! If you’re not good with cold water, maybe just stand at the edge and take some photos.

Half an hour later, and you’ve left the Gibb River Road. Make sure to snap a photo with the ‘Gibb River Road’ sign to let everyone know your trip was victorious!  

Wyndham – half a day

Wyndham’s a sleepy little town an hour off the Gibb River Road. There’s two attractions – one is the huge crocodile in the town centre (if you can call it that, there’s nothing else there!), which, if you like taking photos of big things in Australia, (you may laugh but they’re everywhere. I’ve seen at least one ‘big thing’ on every Australian road trip I’ve done so far so I figured I may as well add to the collection!) is a must-see.

There’s also a beautiful lookout called five rivers lookout featured above. You can see for miles from this viewpoint – across the vast expanse of the Kimberley and the desolate surroundings. It’s well worth the steep climb to the summit!

Kunanurra – half a day/ one day

  You’re finally in a town of size! Use Kunanurra to get supplies, put some air back in your tyres if you don’t have the right equipment and of course, go shopping for some tacky Gibb River Road memorabilia. My car now has an ‘I survived the Gibb River Road’ bumper sticker next to its ‘we crossed the Nullarbor’ one – a memento of driving across the Nullarbor – which I think is a fantastic marketing strategy when I want to sell her, right?

There’s a few fun things to do in Kunanurra , if you’re sticking around for a day:

Lake Kunanurra – this beautiful spot is a fantastic place to enjoy a sunset!

The Grotto – this natural amphitheater boasts impressive red colours of the Kimberley region and contains a big waterfall, with steps reaching the swimming hole

Zebra Rock Gallery – an art gallery dedicated to Aboriginal art Kelly’s Knob – an intense climb up to a fantastic viewpoint, with views across the red sandy outback

Lake Argyle – 1 – 3 days

An hour away from Kunanurra is the famous Lake Argyle. To experience Australia’s second largest lake in all its glory, it’s a great idea to stay at the Lake Argyle campground with a marvellous infinity pool . It’s a fantastic bit of luxury after the roughage of the Gibb River Road and a great spot to reflect on your journey so far!

Things to do…

• There’s lots of bushwalking trails around Lake Argyle
• If you have your mountain bike with you; there’s a five kilometer Rotary Lake Argyle Mountain Bike Track , which is meant to be a great adventure!
• Boat trips of the lake are available, which will take you to some of the best spots in the vast abyss of Argyle.
• Canoeing , swimming and watersports are also possible at Lake Argyle. There’s a lot of freshwater crocodiles in the lake, which are not normally a risk to humans. Locals deem the lake safe for swimming, but I’m very unsure whether I would myself!

Cross the Western Australia/ Northern Territory border – not far from Lake Argyle. Remember to change your clocks – you’re now an hour and a half ahead and officially NTing it!

Katherine – 1 – 2 days

Image via Flickr by Vaka0627

  Katherine’s a pretty sizable town; if you need any new tyres or want something on your car checked that can’t wait until Darwin, here’s the place.

There’s a few attractions within Katherine that are worth checking out. They include:

• Katherine Gorge – within Nitmiluk National Park are 13 gorges, that consist of an intertwining web of beautiful hikes and helicopter ride opportunities.
• Katherine Hot Springs – the thermal springs are some of the best in Australia, with an array of pools and opportunities for walks and picnics alongside.

Litchfield National Park – 2 days

A couple of hours away from Katherine, through remote NT roads, is Litchfield National Park . The park is full of swimming holes and beautiful walks amongst the unique Northern Territory natural surroundings. Highlights of Litchfield are:

Florence Falls – beautiful waterfalls that can be seen from above and below; visitors can also enjoy a swim in the plunge pool

Wangi Falls – Waterfalls with a large swimming hole and lots of facilities

Bluey Rockhole – a fantastic place to cool off, cascades where you can sit half in and half out

Magnetic Termite Mounts – there’s hundreds of them and they stand at over two meters high, such a bizarre attraction!

The Lost City – a 4WD track takes visitors to these rock formations that have been discarded as the sandstone cap of a mountain has been eroded away

Darwin – 4 days

Image via Flickr by Sarah Stewart

Once you’ve left Litchfield, it’s not far at all to Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, the end of your Broome to Darwin drive itinerary and the closest thing you’ll see to a city since Perth. Darwin’s got a bit of a reputation for being Australia’s tacky party capital, and it does somewhat live up to that, but there’s another side to Darwin too.

Things to do in Darwin include:

• Mindil Beach Markets – these are an icon of Darwin and offer a variety of local products, entertainment and tropical fruit. They operate on Thursday and Sunday evenings throughout the dry season.
• Watch the Sunset – although Darwin is at Australia’s top, its geographical position means that it is actually facing the west – so if you’re already missing the Cable Beach sunsets, don’t worry – there’s one to rival it at Mindil Beach!
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory – the museum and art gallery tells the story of the state and city of Darwin – the state capital of a not-official state; visit the museum to learn all about its Aboriginal history, see some amazing artwork and even visit Darwin’s most famous croc – a five meter beast called ‘sweetheart’!
• Tiwi Islands – a 2 and a half hour ferry ride away from Darwin, the Tiwi Islands are a somewhat forgotten paradise. They are renowned for Aboriginal art which can be enjoyed on a walking tour.
• Lagoon – there’s no swimming in Darwin’s seas due to jellyfish and crocs, but there is a huge, free to use lagoon which is guaranteed to be free of any critters! There’s also a wave pool and recreational area.
• George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens – these gardens will show you the best of Northern Australia’s flora and are a fantastic place for a day’s walk around
• Military Museum – this establishment will teach you all about the city during WWI and WWII; it was Australia’s most affected region by both wars, and the museum houses some interesting artifacts and lots of information about both conflicts.
• Do a guided tour of Darwin and the surrounding areas

How much does the Broome to Darwin Drive Cost?

This is very subjective, depending on exactly what you want to do and how long you take for the road trip. It took us just over a week to drive from Broome to Darwin, but I could have easily spent a month exploring the vast Kimberley region – an area that’s bigger than most countries.

We filled my (60 liter) car up six times; and the price of fuel ranged from around $75 to $110 in the middle of the Gibb River Road. We also bought a $20 fuel can and filled that up with around $28 worth of Petrol. We only ended up using this once.

I’d say allow $600 for fuel (if you are sticking to this route and not taking any of the other GRR detours). This will obviously be split between however many there are of you in the car.

We spent about $200 on food for three of us for a week; but obviously this largely depends on your food preferences (note that a lot of food will very quickly go bad in the heat of the Kimberley – meat without a fridge is not a good idea!)

There’s not many free campsites on the Gibb River Road, although we found two by following people’s recommendations. Camp sites cost around $12 per person – because we spent 5 nights on the GRR and free camped twice, that meant we spent $36 each.

The Lake Argyle campsite was an additional $17 per person.

Most of the attractions are free or require a parks pass (which start at $40 for a 4 week visitors’ pass).

So I estimate that I spent between $300 – $350 on the road trip. Of course, there’s lots of places where you can spend more money – like in the restaurants of El Questro, or on tours at Lake Argyle – but if you’re travelling in Western Australia on a budget  and are splitting fuel, this road trip can be done very cheaply.

Gibb River Road Driving Tips

I’ve got a lot to say about this road. It’s my favourite road in Australia and was without a doubt one of the most adventurous things I’ve ever done. I absolutely loved every second of my time on the Gibb River Road, and I’ve got so much to share with you all about it!

BUUUT… not quite yet. I’ll be publishing my ‘How to Drive the Gibb River Road’ post very soon – so stay tuned on my Facebook to know when!

If you liked this article, please pin it so more people can discover the Kimberley magic!

4 thoughts on “ Broome to Darwin Drive Itinerary (via the Gibb River Road) ”

We are heading from Darwin to Broome via the Gibb river in July this year! We will have our caravan but we are planning o leaving that to do the Gibb, should we leave in Kunnanurra and head into the Gibb then back track to pick up van and go aroung to broom via the highway or should we do some day and overnight trips back and forth and move van to say Fitzroy crossing etc???? Any suggestions would be amazing!!!!

Hi, This trip sounds incredible- wow! I am going to Australia next year and will be travelling around the west coast and outback for 3 months. I can drive but wouldn’t be confident driving around on this uneven and rocky terrain. Is there a budget tour option available or any form of public transport to cover this? Thank you.

Hi Kate, look up road 2 adventure, I’m not sure if they still run but they do a cool group tour that I don’t think is too expensive. Otherwise, there are definitely other options but I think they are more on the pricier side. No public transport in this area of the world, unfortunately!

Exactly what I was looking for, thankyou for putting up.

Comments are closed.

• New Zealand
• The Philippines
• The Netherlands
• United Kingdom
• Inspiration
• Overland Itineraries
• Packing Lists
• Travel Tips
• Working Abroad
• Accomodation Guides
• Overland Travel
• Preserving Cultures
• Protecting Animals
• Living Abroad

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

Broome to Darwin drive

Broome to darwin road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Broome to Darwin. If you're planning a road trip to Darwin, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Broome drive for about 4.5 hours

2:16 pm   Fitzroy Crossing stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:16 pm drive for about 3 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 7 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Halls Creek drive for about 2.5 hours

12:25 pm   Bungle Bungle National Park stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:25 pm drive for about 6 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 8.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Timber Creek drive for about 2.5 hours

12:18 pm   Katherine stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:18 pm drive for about 3 hours

4:26 pm  arrive in Darwin

day 3 driving ≈ 5.5 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Fitzroy Crossing Halls Creek Bungle Bungle National Park   (2 mentions) Timber Creek Katherine   (2 answers)

What are some things to do in Darwin?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Darwin. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Darwin.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Darwin to Broome drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Broome to Darwin . Or get a full Broome to Darwin flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Broome well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Broome!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Broome to Darwin

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Deals of the Week   Green Hikes & Treks   Up to 50% OFF

Broome to Darwin Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Broome and then finish in Darwin. Trips from Broome to Darwin are most popular in July, with the most tours doing this route then.

7 Broome to Darwin tour packages with 5 reviews

Broome to Darwin Outback

• Coach / Bus
• In-depth Cultural

Wonders of the Kimberley (11 Days)

Perfectly paced tour that incudes all the highlights of the Kimberley region. Highly recommend pre booking the full day Bungle Bungles optional tour. Worth every money to get in and experience a really special part of the country. Spend extra time in Broome to visit a pearl farm and the Horizontal Falls.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Broome to Darwin 4WD Adventure

An excellent trip comprehensively covering the Kimberley and Bungle Bungles. Excellent tour guides Tom and Lucy with great meals provided

• Ocean Cruise

The Kimberley: Broome to Darwin Cruise- Premium Adventure

Uncover the Kimberley Coastline: An Ancient Wilderness

Kimberley Coast Adventure Broome to Darwin (2024)

Kimberley Coastal Expedition Broome → Darwin (2024)

• Australia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 4 Week Australia Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Explorer from Broome to Darwin (6)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Rundreisen von Broome nach Darwin
• Français: Voyages de Broome à Darwin
• Español: Broome a Darwin Viajes
• Nederlands: Van Broome naar Darwin Reizen en Tours

• 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

Darwin to Broome road trip

Travel & Touring  |  WA Road Trips

This quintessential Aussie road trip is definitely one for the bucket list.

Hailed as Australia's wildest road trip, the journey from tropical Darwin to coastal Broome  will also take you along a stretch of the Savannah Way, through a contrast of palm-fringed gorges and vast grasslands, towards pristine beaches and surreal sunsets. 

Watch the scenery change from one day to the next as you leave Darwin and drive through some of Australia’s wildest terrain.

This long but incredible journey will take you through gorges, our vast outback and past unmissable landmarks before the horizon opens up in Broome and its pristine beaches.

At a glance

Day one: darwin to katherine (320 kms).

After the three-plus hour drive from Darwin, the outback township of Katherine is ideal for spending a few days and exploring. The star of the show is the dramatic Katherine Gorge, especially at dawn and dusk when the colours turn beautiful shades of mauve and red.

Nearby Nitmiluk National Park has more than 100km of walking trails to choose from, where you’re bound to spot a red-tailed black cockatoo or a freshwater crocodile snoozing on the water’s edge. 

The spectacular Aboriginal rock art sites dotted throughout Nitmiluk, aka ‘place of the cicada dreaming’, are sacred to local Jawoyn who have a close relationship with their land, culture and traditions.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jonny Melon | Bali 🌴 (@jonny.melon)

Day two: Katherine to Victoria River (380 kms)

The mighty Victoria River is renowned as a mecca for fishing barramundi which can be caught all year round. If you prefer someone else to skipper the boat, take a scenic cruise at sunset to admire the magnificent and unique native boab trees, the oldest living trees in Australia.

Day three: Victoria River to Halls Creek (500 kms)

From Victoria River, head on to Halls Creek, originally the site of a 19th century gold rush and although it only lasted three months at the time. More than a century later in 2015 commercial mining has begun to pull gold out of the Halls Creek area once again. There’s gold in them hills and if you try your luck at panning you just might strike it rich.

Viewing the Wolfe Creek meteorite crater, formed 300,000 years ago, is a must.

The crater lies on the edge of the East Kimberley and Great Sandy Desert and is the second largest meteorite crater in the world. You can walk to the top of the crater and along the way check out the brown ringtail dragons stalking insects in the shrubs.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Josh Artell (@joshartell) on Jun 12, 2019 at 6:39am PDT

Day four: Halls Creek to Broome (690 kms)

The longest stretch on this road trip is also the last, where you join what is know as The Savannah Way, ending at the clear turquoise waters and dazzling white sand of Broome.

Don’t miss Roebuck Bay with its alluring Staircase to the Moon, a spectacular natural phenomenon of tidal reflections that only occurs around the full moon between March and October. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Johns iPhone Photography (@slatts_snaps)

Need a place to stay?

RAC members get exclusive discounts at RAC Cable Beach Holiday Park, a relaxing base to explore Broome and the North West.*

Find out more

*Terms and conditions apply. RAC member discount not applicable on already discounted rates. Discounts available on direct bookings only made online or via phone. Visit our Parks & Resorts website for more information.

Last updated: April 2021

Related articles

10 of the best stargazing spots in wa.

Stargazing hotspots that are far from light pollution so you can take in the horizon.

The North West's precious rock art

A look at some of the world's oldest rock art

Top 5 WA road trips up north

The best road trip routes for your next adventure up north.

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

• 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

Broome to Darwin Outback

10 days | explore caves, swim in lakes and discover hidden gorges in the australian outback.

Explore Australia’s North-West – one of the last remaining wilderness regions in the country – on this 10-day 4WD safari trip of the Northern Territory and the vast Kimberly region. Journey along the Gibb River Road, sleep under a blanket of Outback stars, enjoy your nights around the campfire, get back to basics and explore El Questro. Check out the famous Bungle Bungles, walk through national parks, swim in refreshing watering holes and look out for freshwater crocs on the way to Darwin, the Northern Territory’s gorgeous capital.

Trip overview

• Spend your nights camping in the Australian Outback under a star-studded Milky Way sky. There is almost no reception here, so it’s the perfect chance to disconnect, recharge and get back to basics in the heart of nature. 
• Explore the unique geology of Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) – a limestone cave system home to bats, stalactites and fascinating First Nations history.  
• Spend two full days exploring the Bungle Bungles – including magnificent gorges, unique rock formations, hidden waterholes, sandstone towers and Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge. 
• Cruise Lake Argyle – Western Australia's largest and Australia's second-largest freshwater man-made reservoir – on an optional boat ride on the still waters, looking out for crocodiles, wallabies and rare birds. 
• Take refreshing swims in waterfalls, rock pools, and watering holes, travel along the Gibb River Road in a 4WD and hike through rivers past towering red cliffs, rocks and spires.  
• This trip is operated and run by our trusted partner, Kimberley Wild Expeditions. You will be travelling with a mixture of both Kimberley Wild Expeditions customers and Intrepid customers.
• On some days of this trip, you’ll spend many hours driving through very sparse areas of Australia. Sit back and enjoy landscapes that you’d miss in any other form of travel. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. Think of it as a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. The drive days can be long, but it's as much about the journey as the destination, and half the fun is the camaraderie!
• This trip involves camping out in nature so the facilities are very basic. It is definitely a trip for either younger, fit travellers or the young at heart and fit in body! A lack of emphasis on creature comforts makes this an authentic experience of the Australian outback. Some locations will have little to no Internet connection or phone service. 
• This trip involves activities like hiking on uneven terrain and clambering over boulders. It is best suited to travellers with good mobility and fitness. Details on physical activities can be found in the itinerary.

Welcome to Broome! Or Rubibi, in the language of the Yawuru people, who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which Broome is now located. Start your adventure straight away, setting off into the Australian Outback. After a bit of highway driving, you’ll reach the Fitzroy River, then it’s all off-road to the Napier Range. The main attraction here is Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) – a vast cave system that extends 750 m underground. It’s from here that the Indigenous warrior Jandamarra waged his rebellion against the colonial authorities – a legacy you’ll learn more about on a walk through the tunnel with your guide. Spend the night camping at Windjana Gorge – once an underwater reef! During the wet season, a river flows through it, but during the dry season, it’s a series of ponds and billabongs. Enjoy a camp dinner with your group and then maybe do a spot of stargazing – the sky in the Outback is something to behold!

• Camping (1 night)

Spend the morning exploring Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) – this gorge in The Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges attracts many species of birds and bats and is a great spot to see wild freshwater crocodiles! In the afternoon, journey to Dalmanti (Bell Gorge) – a segment of a 375-million-year-old reef that was once underwater. Take a refreshing swim here, soak up the natural views and then travel further east to Mt Barnett Station. This is where you’ll camp for this evening. Enjoy dinner by the campfire and get to know your fellow travellers better as you swap stories.

After breakfast, stretch your legs on a morning hike and be rewarded at the end with a swim in a large rock pool at the base of Manning Falls. After lunch, discover Adcock or Galvins Gorge before returning to camp to relax around the campfire and tuck into some dinner.

Over the next two days, you’ll drive through rivers and weave through gorges as you travel by 4WD along the wild Gibb River Road – a 600 km stretch that winds right through the heart of the Kimberley. You’ve got a fair bit of ground to cover, so there’s a fair bit of drive time, but you’ll be breaking up the journey with lunch and a few stops to stretch your legs along the way. Cross the iconic Pentecost River crossing and explore El Questro – established initially as an enormous cattle station, it’s now a vast wilderness reserve sprawled over more than one million acres. Camping out here, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere (an extremely beautiful middle of nowhere). The ochre-coloured massifs of the Cockburn Ranges frame the landscape every way you turn, and numerous natural springs offer plenty of opportunities for a refreshing cool-off. Following a soak in Zebedee Springs, enjoy a short trek to either El Questro or Emma Gorge.

• Camping (2 nights)
• Breakfast (2)

Say so long to El Questro and hello Bungle Bungles! Today, you’ll drive through the rugged landscape of Carr Boyd and the Durack Ranges into Purnululu National Park – home to the Bungle Bungles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dominated by massive sandstone karsts that rear hundreds of metres above the surrounding grasslands. You’ll spend the next two days and nights exploring this region. Arrive at your bush camp in time to sit back and watch the sunset over the Osmond Ranges. If you’ve had enough tent camping, you might want to spend tonight sleeping out beneath the stars, snuggled up in a swag. Unbelievably, only the locals knew this place existed until the early 1980s when they were ‘discovered’ by a film team. You’ll go on a walk through Echidna Chasm – a long and narrow ravine banked on either side by 200 m-high rock walls – and enter the massive natural Amphitheatre of Cathedral Gorge.

Today, you’ll leave the Bungle Bungles behind and head for Kununurra – the largest town between Broome and Darwin. Tonight’s campsite is on the shores of Lake Argyle, which you have plenty of free time to explore. Maybe head out on a sunset cruise on the lake – this is highly recommended, as the best way to witness the immensity of this lake is on the water! Tonight, enjoy a group dinner together at camp.

Lake Argyle is a man-made lake, though you’d never have guessed it by looking! See barramundi, birds and freshwater crocodiles that thrive in these waters, and the islands that look like they’ve always been there (they used to be mountains). In the afternoon, push on across the state border into the Northern Territory, where you’ll have a group dinner and spend the night.

Today, you’ll head to Darwin, stopping at either Katherine Gorge or Edith Falls along the way for a quick swim and a last opportunity to soak in the natural wild views of rural Western Australia. Take in the gorgeous scenery and then arrive in Darwin, where your trip comes to an end.

9 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 9 dinners

Private 4WD vehicle

Camping with Shared Facilities (9 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

START & END TIME Your trip commences in Broome on Day 1 at 7 am and finishes in Darwin on the last day at approximately 6 pm. We recommend you arrive a day early and onward travel should be booked for the following day. No accommodation is included on Day 10.

LUGGAGE A strict luggage limit of 15 kg applies. Please bring a soft-sided bag only.

CAMPING The accommodation on this trip is Basix-style twin-share camping in dome tents with swags with fitted sheets & pillows with pillow cases. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Some on site ablutions have hot showers and flush toilets however on some nights the ablution facilities can be very basic.

SLEEPING BAG This trip requires a sleeping bag. You can bring your own or can purchase one. Please let your booking agent know ahead of time if you would like to add this to your booking.

OPERATOR This trip is operated by our partners Kimberley Wild Expeditions

MINIMUM NUMBERS Please note this trip requires a minimum of 6 travelers to operate. Your Booking Agent will advise at time of booking if the departure has met minimum numbers. If minimum numbers are not met, you will be advised no later than 56 days out from departure (prior to full payment due). We recommend arranging flights and related travel services once your departure is guaranteed. In the event that your departure is cancelled due to minimum numbers not being met, a full refund will be provided of monies paid.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

$145 cheap flights from broome (bme) to darwin (drw).

Bundle Your Flight + Hotel & Save!

Add a place to stay

Direct flights only

Featured airlines

Cheap Flights from Broome to Darwin (BME-DRW)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $145 for one-way flights and $290 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Broome to Darwin Flights

Whether you’re looking for a grand adventure or just want to get away for a last-minute break, flights from Broome to Darwin offer the perfect respite. Not only does exploring Darwin provide the chance to make some magical memories, dip into delectable dishes, and tour the local landmarks, but the cheap airfare means you won’t bust your budget. So no matter whether your ideal itinerary involves flying one way, non-stop, or round trip, you’re bound to find flights that match your schedule on Expedia, and at prices that won’t shock your wallet.

Bagging a cheap flight from Broome to Darwin may mean more dollars to spend on for one-of-a-kind souvenirs when you arrive, but it doesn’t mean you have to skimp on your travel experience, as Expedia offers a sizzling selection of cheap airlines that’ll put you in your happy place on their planes, whether that’s getting lost in a hair-raising airport thriller, dreaming on the passing landscape over a glass of bubbly, or jotting down your vacation bucket list at 38,000 feet. There’s also bound to be plenty of opportunities to snap a few photos of the high life that will make your friends green with envy. After all, enjoying the journey is part of the fun.

With so many affordable flights and so many wonderful adventures awaiting you, there’s no reason to put off booking a fantastic flight from BME to DRW today. So don’t leave it to the last minute to make your dream trip a reality: pack your bags with your go-to travel accessories, put together your list of must-see attractions and can’t-miss activities, and get ready to broaden your horizons – with Expedia, the wonders of Darwin are only a plane trip away. Book your travel arrangements with us today!

If you would like to book flights to Darwin more flexibly many prefer to purchase one-way tickets with options to take different airlines. A one way ticket to Darwin is $145 now!

Frequently asked questions

• Trending Routes
• Trending Flights
• Top Flights Destinations

More Popular Airlines

• Flights From Other Airports
• Expedia's Latest Trends

Top Routes from Broome

• Broome to Denpasar (BME - DPS)
• Broome to Gold Coast (BME - OOL)
• Broome to New York (BME - JFK)
• Broome to Melbourne (BME - MEL)
• Broome to Brisbane (BME - BNE)
• Broome to Orlando (BME - MCO)
• Broome to Atlanta (BME - ATL)
• Broome to Singapore (BME - SIN)
• Broome to Perth (BME - PER)
• Broome to Sydney (BME - SYD)

Top Routes to Darwin

• San Diego to Darwin (SAN - DRW)
• Newark to Darwin (EWR - DRW)
• Melbourne to Darwin (AVV - DRW)
• Los Angeles to Darwin (LAX - DRW)
• Bangkok to Darwin (BKK - DRW)
• Denpasar to Darwin (DPS - DRW)
• Honolulu to Darwin (HNL - DRW)
• Cairns to Darwin (CNS - DRW)
• Manila to Darwin (MNL - DRW)
• New York to Darwin (JFK - DRW)
• New Orleans to Darwin (MSY - DRW)
• Geneva to Darwin (GVA - DRW)
• Singapore Airlines Broome to Denpasar

Top Flight Destinations

• Flights to Sydney
• Flights to Melbourne
• Flights to Gold Coast
• Flights to Brisbane
• Flights to Perth
• Flights to Adelaide
• Flights to Sunshine Coast
• Flights to Canberra
• Flights to Cairns
• Flights to Hobart
• Flights to Newcastle
• Flights to Busselton
• Flights to Byron Bay
• Flights to Wollongong
• Flights to Coffs Harbour
• Flights to Port Macquarie
• Flights to Geelong
• Flights to Port Douglas
• Flights to Townsville
• Flights to Launceston
• Virgin Australia
• Qantas Airways
• Singapore Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Air New Zealand
• Airnorth Regional
• Jetstar Asia

Nearby Airports

• Derby Airport (DRB)

Cheap flights from Broome, Australia to Darwin, Australia

Flights starting at £114. choose between qantas, virgin australia airlines, or jetstar airways to find the best price..

Kiwi-Code uncovers prices airlines don't want you to see.

Use our flexible filters to tailor your search.

Look out for the travel hack star icon for even cheaper fares.

Tips to know when travelling to Darwin

Search by stops.

• Up to 1 stop
• Up to 2 stops

Search by carrier

• Virgin Australia Airlines
• Jetstar Airways
• Indonesia AirAsia

Search by price

• From £337 to £513
• From £513 to £771
• From £771 to £1,023

Search by departure date

• Depart this week
• Depart next week
• Depart this month
• Depart in May

One-way trips

Updated: 04.04.2024

Round trips

By subscribing you agree to receive offers according to the conditions described in our Privacy Policy .

Weekly direct flights

Discover the top airlines offering direct flights from Broome to Darwin in the next month. You’ll find the number of daily direct flights per airline in the table.

Weekly direct flights for Mon 01.04 - Sun 07.04

Weekly direct flights for mon 08.04 - sun 14.04, weekly direct flights for mon 15.04 - sun 21.04, weekly direct flights for mon 22.04 - sun 28.04, check-in for a flight from broome to darwin, weather in darwin, average weather, 14 day forecast, frequently asked questions.

Planning a trip? Thanks to our Virtual Interlining algorithm, we offer billions of route combinations between any A and any B in the world by plane, train, and bus. Find the cheapest routes and best deals for you, as well as the best dates on which to travel.

Explore alternative trips

Flights from broome.

• Flights from Broome to Denpasar
• Flights from Broome to Cairns
• Flights from Broome to Perth
• Flights from Broome to Melbourne
• Flights from Broome to Brisbane
• Flights from Broome to Gold Coast
• Flights from Broome to Sydney
• Flights from Broome to Hanoi
• Flights from Broome to Iloilo City
• Flights from Broome to Kununurra
• Flights from Broome to Manila
• Flights from Broome to Singapore
• Flights from Broome to Auckland
• Flights from Broome to Proserpine
• Flights from Broome to Hobart
• Flights from Broome to Esperance
• Flights from Broome to Karratha
• Flights from Broome to Amritsar
• Flights from Broome to Tel Aviv
• Flights from Broome to Hamburg

Flights to Darwin

• Flights from Sydney to Darwin
• Flights from Brisbane to Darwin
• Flights from Melbourne to Darwin
• Flights from Perth to Darwin
• Flights from Manila to Darwin
• Flights from Cairns to Darwin
• Flights from Bangkok to Darwin
• Flights from Denpasar to Darwin
• Flights from Adelaide to Darwin
• Flights from Cebu to Darwin
• Flights from London to Darwin
• Flights from Singapore to Darwin
• Flights from New Delhi to Darwin
• Flights from Townsville to Darwin
• Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin
• Flights from Alice Springs to Darwin
• Flights from Kununurra to Darwin
• Flights from City of Newcastle to Darwin
• Flights from Angeles to Darwin
• Flights from Gold Coast to Darwin

Popular routes

• Flights from Edinburgh to Dinard
• Flights from Kyiv to Budapest
• Flights from Bangkok to Surakarta
• Flights from Kyiv to Beirut
• Flights from London to Alicante
• Flights from Stockholm to Newquay
• Flights from Angeles to Phuket City
• Flights from London to Tirana
• Flights from Angeles to Surigao City
• Flights from Ibiza to Stockholm
• Flights from Larnaca to Lyon

The nearest countries with flights to Darwin

Other destination countries from broome.

Search, compare, and book flights, trains, or buses to get there.

Kiwi.com: the best free travel app for Android and iPhone

Find out more about the Kiwi.com app on kiwi.com/mobile . With our app you can search for the best plane, train and bus connections. The Kiwi.com mobile app offers cheap flights, access to hidden features, travel hacks and special offers.

Search cheap flights

Simplified planning and booking

Travel deals built for you

Kiwi.com travel hacks

Help & support

Find cheap flights from Darwin to Broome from $269

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from darwin to broome departing on 25/7. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to broome.

Save 15% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Free to use There are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Cheap flight deals from Darwin to Broome

Flights from darwin to broome - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from darwin to broome to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from darwin to broome, if your flying dates are flexible, you should consider flying to broome on a monday, as we generally find the cheapest rates on that day for this route. on the other hand, saturday is the most expensive day to fly from darwin to broome. for your return ticket, we recommend flying on a wednesday and avoiding sundays for the best deals., what is the cheapest month to fly from darwin to broome, the cheapest month for flights from darwin to broome is september, where tickets cost $736 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are january and november, where the average cost of tickets is $1,023 and $1,017 respectively., how far in advance should i book a flight from darwin to broome, to get a below average price on the flight from darwin to broome, you should book around 3 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 59 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from darwin to broome, in the last 72 hours, the cheapest one-way ticket from darwin to broome found on kayak was with airnorth for $269. airnorth proposed a return connection from $620 and qantas airways from $1,250., which cabin class options are there for flights between darwin and broome, there is only one cabin class option available for the route, which is economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from darwin to broome take, there are no direct flights for this route. the shortest travel duration to get to broome from darwin is 3h 00m., good to know, when to book flights from darwin to broome, faqs for booking flights from darwin to broome, what is the cheapest flight from darwin to broome.

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Darwin to Broome was $177 for a one-way ticket and $408 for a return.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from Darwin to Broome?

The Embraer 170 is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the Darwin to Broome flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from Darwin to Broome?

oneworld is the only airline alliance operating flights between Darwin and Broome.

Which is the best airline for flights from Darwin to Broome, Qantas Airways or Airnorth?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from Darwin to Broome are Qantas Airways and Airnorth. With an average price for the route of $1,037 and an overall rating of 7.7, Qantas Airways is the most popular choice. Airnorth is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $739 and an overall rating of 7.0.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Darwin to Broome?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Darwin to Broome.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Darwin to Broome?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Broome from Darwin is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Darwin to Broome?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to Broome with an airline and back to Darwin with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Darwin to Broome?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Broome from Darwin up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top airlines flying from Darwin to Broome

It's only a short trip from Sydney to Melbourne, which i have done many times. The trip met my expectations

I really appreciated the fact that when I checked my bags at the Quantas counter after arriving from an international flight an hour early, the agent noticed I had a very long layover. He then found an earlier flight that allowed me to get to Cairns several hours earlier than I planned. That was amazing because I had already traveled over 20 hours and wasn’t looking forward to such a long layover. It allowed me to see my daughter and grandchildren much earlier (it had been two years since I visited last).

Qantas cancelled my flight for no good reason and rebooked me into a middle seat.

The flight met my expectations. It left and landed on time

Flights delayed multiple times, travellers requests for updates ignored. Qantas continues to desatisfy travelling basics.

Better food, hotter coffee, otherwise it was a very smooth and reasonably comfortable flight.

Packed flight. Urged to check carry-on before boarding only to discover numerous empty overhead bins after boarding. Challenging entertainment screen. After almost 20 minutes to arrive at baggage claim, waited over 30 mins before luggage was loaded on baggage claim carousel.

Grubby plane, dirty seat & table, poor food, wait for baggage, staff ok.

First flight on Quantas. High marks all around. Plus it appears as if the have a comparatively new flight. Excellent airline!

flight delays seems to be the norm these days. pies with soggy pastry.

Book cheap flights from Darwin to Broome

Recent one-way flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, darwin - broome flights.

Darwin (DRW) Australia

Destination:

Broome (BME) Australia

Return flight deals:

Broome - Darwin

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 
• Australia  » 

Browse destinations:

• Worldwide  » 
• South Pacific  » 

Airport firefighters set to strike nationally, threatening school holiday travel plans

Aviation firefighters at major Australian airports are set to strike on April 15 amid claims from their union that a shortage of aviation fire and rescue firefighters is putting air passengers at risk.

United Firefighters Union Australia (UFUA) says it has leaked documents from employer Airservices Australia showing an "extreme risk" at 13 airports, and "high risk" at 14 others.

The planned work stoppage is due to affect 27 airports around the country and run for 4 hours from 6am.

The action threatens to disrupt school holiday travel plans as students in New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory begin their two-week term break and those in other states return to begin term two.

UFUA has claimed that government-owned air navigation regulator Airservices Australia has failed to address resourcing issues, but the regulator has hit back, saying staffing levels are adequate.

The union's aviation branch secretary, Wes Garrett, told ABC radio the "primary concern" of every aviation firefighter was the "safety of air travellers that they have sworn to protect and the safety of their fellow crew members".

"These leaked documents confirm that Australia's air travellers face a dire risk every time they set foot on an aircraft in Australia, should an incident occur," Mr Garrett said.

"At 13 major airports across Australia, including Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide, the leaked documents confirm that air travellers face extreme risk."

He said air travellers at 14 remaining airports across Australia, including Sydney, Canberra, and Hobart were at "high risk".

Mr Garrett added that the task resource analysis (TRA) of the service showed current staffing numbers were "well below what they ought to be".

"What we say is that the outcomes and risk identified in those processes needs to be reflected in our enterprise agreement," he said.

He said the TRA was an internationally recognised methodology for determining the amount of firefighters, trucks and resources required to protect passengers in the event of a worst-case scenario at an Australian airport.

"Disgracefully, Airservices have known about the dire risk to air travellers should an incident occur since 2022 and have refused to release the documents to the Union or the public," he said.

Mr Garrett said the staffing concerns topped the list of 26 items on a log of claims that were sought to be resolved in the current enterprise bargaining negotiations, which began last October.

"We don't seem to be making any progress whatsoever," he said.

"These resource shortages include a lack of key personnel to operate breathing apparatus, shortages of firefighting agents to suppress multiple incidents, insufficient personnel and vehicles to protect both sides of a crashed aircraft, a lack of personnel for effective fire ground command and control, and a lack of procedural control at Australia's airports."

The union is seeking a 20 per cent pay increase over three years, while Airservices Australia has offered 11.2 per cent over three years.

Mr Garrett said the timing of the strike action had "coincidentally" fallen during school holidays for some states.

"I don't think there is any convenient time for a work stoppage when it comes to aviation and I think that should really actually inspire Airservices to get in and settle the deal as soon as possible so that there aren't any stoppages and there's no inconvenience to the public."

Airservices Australia said the union's action was motivated by its bid for a pay rise as part of the ongoing employment agreement negotiations.

In a statement, Airservices Australia said the dispute had "nothing to do with staffing levels" which were sufficient to meet operational requirements.

It added that the TRAs "do not measure current state operational risk".

"The risk assessments included in the TRA process are based on theoretical scenarios that do not account for the likelihood of an event occurring or reflect the current operational environment," the statement said.

"Airservices conducts operational risk assessments to capture and define the management of risks and manage them to a level that is as low as reasonably practicable, and the TRA documentation states that Airservices' existing processes are both effective and appropriate for current levels of operational risk."

"Airservices has sufficient ARFF personnel to meet our regulatory obligations and is investing $1 billion over the next 10 years in equipment and facilities for our Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) crews."

The statement said the union's bargaining claims would cost the aviation industry and passengers an extra $128 million.

Airservices Australia said it would work with the airlines and airports to maintain safe operations and minimise any impact on the travelling public during the planned work stoppage.

General manager of people and culture at Adelaide Airport Dermot O'Neill said he was unsure "precisely what impact there might be on operations" at the airport, which was about to embark on its busiest month since the pandemic.

"At this stage, it's our intention to keep in touch with Air Services and we will provide any relevant updates to our customers via our social media channels and no doubt airlines will be doing the same thing," he said.

• X (formerly Twitter)
• Air Transport Industry
• Industrial Relations
• Travel Preparation and Advice