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The Savannah Way

 

 

The Savannah Way is a great way to see the entire Top End of Australia, whether it be sticking to the main roads or getting off and onto the unsealed roads for some adventure, you'll find a suitable route for what you want to see and do. The Savannah Way commences from the coastal city of Cairns, up the mountains and through the Atherton Tablelands with its myriad of waterfalls, chocolate and cheese factories, food and wine trails, volcanic crater lakes, barramundi fishing at Lake Tinaroo, through to Mt Surprise. From here you can take a guided tour to the Undara Lava Tubes, onto Georgetown to see the popular Terrestrial Centre, Croydon with its rich gold history, up to Normanton, home of the Gulflander which runs to Croydon, further up for fantastic open water fishing and fresh seafood at Karumba, down to Lawn Hill with its stunning views of the gorge, Doomadgee for a top up of fuel and a bite to eat then back up to Burketown. Burketown is another popular fishing spot and is home to the Hells Gate.

 

Queensland  

 

Cairns

 

Eastern terminus of The Savannah Way and Savannahlander Train, with over 600 day tours on offer to the reef, rainforest and more. A wide range of accommodation is available. Cairns has been a tourist attraction for travellers for many decades now. Visitors come from far and wide to explore the only place on earth where two natural World Heritage listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforests – exist side by side. The town itself sits between the Coral Sea, with the reef and its tropical islands just offshore, and the rainforest covered mountain ranges which extend south to Paluma (just outside of Townsville) and north to Cooktown.  It has several beachside suburbs, including Palm Cove, which allows visitors to choose to stay in the city or by the sea. 

Tours and experiences available from Cairns city include cultural, food & wine, adventure, leisure and family-friendly options. 

The local tourism authority’s website provides some examples for easy reference.

Cooktown and Cape York Peninsula to the north offer more adventures.

Savannahlander Train Phone 07 4053 6848

 

Kuranda

 

Visit the tourist markets and an authentic German Sausage cafe, plus some fun attractions and the spectacular Barron Falls.
The historic Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail rainforest cableway operate between here and Cairns/Caravonica, making it a popular day trip from Cairns.

Kuranda Information Centre: Phone: 07 4093 9311

 

Julatten and Mount Molloy

 

A must-do region for bird watchers with transitional habitats supporting over 300 species. The nearby Bump Track is a great walk.

 

Mareeba

 

Agricultural town and hot air ballooning centre with nearby attractions including tropical fruit wineries and coffee growers open for tasting. Birdwatchers enjoy the Mareeba Wetlands. You’ll find fun local markets at one of the Tablelands towns each weekend. Check at Information Centres for the schedule.

Mareeba Heritage Museum and Visitor Information Centre: (07) 4092 5674

 

The Ootan/Chillagoe Alternative Route

 

Travel via Chillagoe for an additional experience with unsealed roads. A former mining centre, Chillagoe is renowned for its marble, Australia’s finest, and limestone caves that have regular tours. Check your map for access via Mareeba and Dimbulah to the east or on the Ootan Road to the south which rejoins The Savannah Way 13 km east of Mount Surprise. More remote adventure is available by taking the Burke Development Road through south west Cape York. You’ll need to be self-sufficient on this route as there are no public facilities between Normanton and Chillagoe.

Chillagoe Mungana National Park

Chillagoe Hub Information Centre: Phone 07 4094 7111

 

Atherton (Tablelands)

 

Mixed farming including dairy cattle and vegetables in an area dominated by volcanic geology. Drive up Halloran’s Hill for expansive views or the surroundings. Nearby Lake Tinaroo is a popular local camping spot. You’ll notice many signs marking the training camps for troops in World War 2 around the region. Local birdwatching sites including Hasties Swamp have a wide range of species. Visit the waterfall circuit, Gallo's Cheese and Chocolate Factory, Crystal Caves, The Crater (Mt Hypipamee), Lake Barrine & Lake Eacham and more.

Wongabel State Forest

Halloran’s Hill Conservation Park

Hasties Swamp National Park

Mount Hypipamee National Park

Atherton Information Centre Phone: 1 300 366 361

Ravenshoe

The highest town in Queensland (930m) surrounded by Bed and Breakfast, farmstay and cottage accommodation. Renowned as a timber centre before World Heritage
Listing Ravenshoe now has Queensland’s largest Wind Farm with over 20 windmills. The Information Centre has several fascinating displays. Be sure to take your camera to the region’s waterfalls and walking tracks. Bush camping is available at Archer Creek and Koombooloomba Dam. Heading west you’ll notice the change from rainforest to savannah environments.

Millstream Falls National Park

Ravenshoe Information Centre: (07) 4089 2243

 

Archer Creek / Innot Hot Springs

 

Visitors take to the waters at Innot Hot Springs Leisure & Health Park have six public pools. Innot Hot Springs is also a great base for gem fossicking, fishing and bird watching. 

Mount Garnet

 

During its heyday, large deposits of copper, silver, tin and lead were extracted from Mt Garnet, the town named for a large garnet lode discovered during copper mining. If you would like to experience real Australian bush style hospitality, turn up at Mt Garnet on the first weekend of May for the town's races and rodeo. This mining town’s streets are named after the minerals that brought the region’s settlement.

 

Forty Mile Scrub National Park

 

A worthwhile stop to walk the short pathway through “dry rainforest” and take a break from the road. Toilets, no camping.

Forty Mile Scrub National Park

 

The Lynd Junction

 

91 kilometres south of the intersection of the Kennedy Highway and Gulf Development Road is the Lynd Junction. From here roads connect to Townsville, Charters Towers, Hughenden, as well as the Alternate Route of The Savannah Way, an unsealed road to Einsaleigh.

 

Mount Surprise

 

Centre for semi-precious gemstones and alternative base for visiting Undara Lava Tubes. Gemstones are on display in town and you can try fossicking for topaz at nearby O’Brien’s Creek with a permit and some local advice. This is an overnight stop for the Savannahlander train.

Blackwater dump site at roadside toilet block

Einasleigh and Forsayth Alternative Route

 

 

Mostly unsealed loop roads travel through scenic country south of The Savannah Way to include several very worthwhile attractions. At Einasleigh Copperfield Gorge’s sheer walls drop into a sandy river bed revealing the lava flow layers, and the historic pub boasts an amazing collection of miniature antique furniture. Try fossicking at Agate Creek gemfields (licence required – ask at Information Centres en route) for the world’s most colourful agate. Cobbold Gorge is a favourite stop for many travellers with gorge cruises and walking tours. Forsayth is the Savannahlander train’s western terminus and the Goldfields Hotel has a marvellous collection of agates and thunder eggs. At Gilberton Outback Retreat there is plenty to see and do. Enjoy abundant wildlife on a leisurely walk or a guided tour. Part of Gilberton is a Nature Refuge, which is recognised by the Queensland Government as being an area of high conservation significance.

 

 

Georgetown

 

An administrative and cattle centre for the Etheridge Shire with a history of gold, silver, copper, lead and tin mining throughout the district. Visit the incredible TerrEstrial Centre, a modern display of over 4,500 gemstones and minerals from around the world.

Terrestrial Information Centre Phone: 07 4062 1485

 

Croydon

 

Visit Croydon in the heart of the Gulf Savannah, on the Savannah Way, a town with a big history that started with the discovery of gold in 1885. Enjoy living history through interactive and static displays and by visiting the businesses still operating from the 1880s. A legendary town, with its historic precinct now restored to its goldrush glory. Take a self-guided walking tour to relive the past. The Gulflander Train arrives Wednesday afternoon and returns to Normanton on Thursday. Lake Belmore is great for swimming and fishing, with free barbecues. The Visitor Information Centre also houses significant collections of heritage items, photographs, information displays, pioneer and descendant genealogy information, a renowned audiovisual in a theatrette and an internet service. Popular camping spot between May and October with fishing and wildlife.

 

Normanton

 

A goldfields port that is now an administrative centre and home of the fantastic Gulflander Train, one of Australia’s great rail journeys. It departs Wednesday morning for Croydon, returning on Thursday. Other shorter trips operate through the week. Take an interesting Heritage Walk and have your photo taken with the replica of the biggest crocodile ever caught (8.63m), spend some time at the historic railway station and Burns Philp building and visit the three pubs that are the social centres of town. The Mutton Hole Wetlands are an internationally recognised birdwatching site, and there are many barramundi waiting to be caught in the Norman River. As The Savannah Way’s intersection with The Matilda Highway Normanton is an important hub on many journeys.

Gulflander Train Phone: 1 800 577 245

Normanton Visitor Information Centre Phone: 07 4745 1065

Blackwater Dump Site at Old Hospital Road (rear of Council Depot)

 

Karumba

 

The prawn and barramundi fishing capital of Australia at the mouth of the Norman River was once a flying boat base. Visit the Barramundi Discovery Centre for a great insight into sustaining this industry. Try to time your visit for the Karumba Katch Seafood festival in October, and when in your tinnie please stay well clear of the ore carrying ships. Excellent birdwatching opportunities in the coastal and mangrove habitats. Choose from the Suave Bar or the Animal Bar when it’s time for a cold one.

Karumba Visitor Information Centre and Library Phone: 07 4745 2211

Blackwater Dump Site at Allen Howie Way (Truck Stop)

 

Karumba Point

 

Visitor centre with some of the best sunsets in Queensland over the Gulf of Carpentaria. A paradise for recreational fishers with fishing charters and boat hire available and an interesting self-guided walk. The Sunset Tavern is popular at the end of the day.

Blackwater dumpsite at Sunset Caravan Park

 

Sweers Island and Mornington Shire

 

Accessible by charter plane from Normanton or Burketown this is a favourite fishing retreat. No alcohol can be carried onto the island, which has its own bar and general supplies. 

 

Burke and Wills Camp

 

Burke and Wills Camp CXIX - The most northerly known campsite of the ill-fated expedition of 1861. Stop to reflect and read the interpretation.

Leichhardt Falls - Good walking and picnic spots around the Leichhardt River crossing – beware of crocodiles. Note the statue of Frederick Walker, founder of the Native Mounted Police, near Floraville.

 

Burketown

 

100 year old natural bore in Burketown

The oldest settlement in the Gulf boasting a rugged frontier history of “Gulf Fever” devastating the pioneers, Burketown is today the “Barramundi Capital of Australia”. Visit historic sites including the cemetery. Fishing tours available. During Sep-Nov you may see the bizarre “Morning Glory” cigar-shaped cloud formations at dawn.

Burketown Visitor Information Centre Phone: 07 4745 5111
 

The unsealed Loop to Lawn Hill Gorge

 

This is a highlight of the region. Try to give yourself at least two nights at the Lawn Hill National Park to enjoy the Lawn Hill Gorge. To clarify road conditions ask for updates from locals and travellers in the days beforehand or phone Adel’s Grove. Heavy rain can be problematic on unsealed black soil.

Boodjamulla National Park

Riversleigh Fossil Site is World Heritage listed, containing over 250 mammal fossil sites from 15-25 million years ago.

Boodjamulla National Park

 

Hell’s Gate

 

Hell's Gate sits on the fringe of the eastern escarpments of the Barkly Tablelands. The long history of the cattle droving era gave this site its name. It was also the final police escort point for drovers and settlers heading for rich country lands of the Northern Territory.

 

Northern Territory 

 

Manangoora Station Campground

 

A fisherman’s paradise with boat ramps providing access to the Wearyan River, Gulf of Carpentaria and Vanderlin Island. Cattle station family the Andersons provide a remote area bush camping experience for the self-sufficient 4WD enthusiast. The Wearyan River offers barramundi, snapper species, jewfish, cod, threadfin salmon, mangrove jack and plenty of mudcrab. The Islands offer barramundi, snapper species, reef fish species, cod, queenfish, trevally, threadfin salmon, coral trout and mackerel. From Borroloola, take the Savannah Way (Wollogorang Road) east towards the Queensland border. Turn left just after the Foelsche River crossing.

 

Seven Emu Station

 

Cattle station owned and operated by an Indigenous family, the Shadforths, for three generations. Camp and fish along rivers and 60km of exclusive beach. Fuel available. Phone: 08 8975 9904

Barranyi (North Island) National Park

Part of the Sir Edward Pellew Group of islands, accessible by boat from King Ash Bay.

 

Borroloola

 

One of Australia’s most remote towns, with a lawless frontier history, and these days a base for many fishermen. Visit the Old Police Station Museum with a key from the caravan park or nearby mechanic. Waralungka Arts Centre sells local Aboriginal art on weekdays. Guided fishing and boat ramps are available. As in all fishing areas, please be aware of estuarine crocodiles and fishing regulations.

Blackwater dump point at Tamarind Park.

King Ash Bay Boat and Fishing Club has accommodation and camping Phone: 08 8975 9800

Savannah Way Motel Phone: 08 8975 8883

They provide a home away from home for business and leisure travellers. Borroloola is the perfect base from which to explore or do business in the Northern Territory’s beautiful and remote Gulf Region just a short stroll from the airport or a drive along the Savannah Way. Borroloola is the main centre of the Northern Territory’s remote Gulf Region. 

Please ensure you plan your fuel usage between Borroloola and Doomadgee as this is a long stretch between fuel stops (and toilets – be prepared!)

Lorella Springs Wilderness Park Phone: 08 8975 9917

Australian Outback Sanctuary Eco Adventure - Located 15 degrees south of the equator, in one of the remotest and most isolated areas of Australia or even planet Earth, we offer a superb retreat experience of an outstanding natural wilderness environment fronting the Gulf of Carpentaria. Camping, Caravanning, Fishing, Crabbing, Magic Thermal Springs, Wildlife, Birdlife, a Photographer’s Dream.

 

Cape Crawford

Caranbirini Conservation Reserve. An opportunity to walk among the 25-metre high sandstone formations, one of several “Lost Cities” in the region.

The Daly Waters (sealed) Route to Cape Crawford

 

 

Travel south from Katherine on the Stuart Highway through Larrimah to turn east at Daly Waters. Larrimah became a town in 1940, and the war history is told in the pub, museum and by exploring nearby Gorrie Airfield. Daly Waters is a historic droving stop and Overland Telegraph Station. The pub is a visitor icon with camping and rooms, and on the outskirts of town is Australia’s first international airfield, also used to help evacuate Indonesian citizens in World War Two. There are roadside overnight camping bays along with the Daly Waters to Cape Crawford section, which is all sealed, single-lane development road.

Daly Waters Historic Pub Phone: 08 8975 9927

Daly Waters Hi-Way Inn Phone: 08 8975 9925

 

 

 

The Roper Bar (unsealed) Route to Cape Crawford

 

Heading east at Mataranka to Roper bar is the primary Savannah Way route which involves a longer unsealed experience. This road can also be an opportunity for those with four wheel drive vehicles to leave their caravans in Mataranka or Katherine and enjoy a more remote touring loop. As with many remote routes, it is advisable to take on fuel at every opportunity. The surface can be rough at times, so drive carefully to preserve your tyres. The road is sealed to Fizzy Creek, about 30km before Roper Bar. Roper Bar is a historic crossing of the Roper River, today consisting of a store and camping ground. From Roper Bar to Cape Crawford there are a series of bush camping opportunities at picturesque river locations. There are pit toilets (no showers) at Butterfly Springs, Limmen Crossing and Towns River. Tomato Island has a boat launching area popular with fishermen. As in all fishing areas, please be aware of estuarine crocodiles and fishing regulations. Lormaieum Lagoon is a peaceful camping site near the evocative St Vidgeon homestead ruins.

Limmen National Park – Nathan River Homestead (Ranger Station) Ph: 08 8975 9940

 

Mataranka

 

Swimming and relaxing at Mataranka Thermal Pools or Bitter Springs Thermal Pools is a must. The classic Australian novel “We of the Never Never” by Jeannie Gunn (1908) tells the story of a pioneer woman’s life here, still represented by the replica homestead and cemetery. 

Elsey National Park

Territory Manor Motel and Caravan Park Phone: 08 8975 4516

Bitter Springs Cabins and Camping Phone: 08 8975 4838

 

Katherine

 

A rich Aboriginal culture is represented in tour experiences and local galleries. Nearby National Parks offer diverse adventure and recreational activities, and the local pioneer history is well interpreted. Amazing swimming at the Katherine Hotsprings in the dry season. Visit Edith Falls, also within Nitmiluk National park and don’t miss going swimming and bushwalking in these spectacular surroundings. A wide range of accommodation is available. Katherine is also a major Australian airforce base and mango growing region.

Blackwater dumpsite on Lindsay Street behind the community market complex and various caravan parks.

 

Katherine Visitor Information Centre

The Katherine Visitor Information Centre has great local information and offers a free tour and accommodation booking service. The centre has a large car and caravan parking area and clean bathroom facilities, free WiFi internet and 2 dollar caravan water refill station. Open 7 days a week.
Located at the Cnr Stuart Hwy and Lindsay Street. Tel: 08 8972 2650 or visit www.visitkatherine.com.au for more information.

 

Victoria River

 

The roadhouse here offers camping and accommodation, helicopter flights and great birdwatching.

 

Flora River Nature Park 

 

The Flora River is feed by many springs that are flowing through limestone structures. These springs bring minerals that give the Flora an emerald colour and creates its spectacular tufa dams. The Gwining/ Flora River Nature Park is a popular spot for camping, fishing and picnicking. Check the park website to confirm whats open and conditions here. Please remember no swimming as estuarine crocodiles are present

 

Buchanan Highway

 

A cattle droving track from near Timber Creek to near Daly Waters offering a short cut or alternative unsealed road experience. Plan your fuel and water stops on this remote route.

Judbarra/ Gregory National Park

This park features a range of gorge scenery, Aboriginal Cultural sites, with European exploration. Camping, fishing and hiking are just some of the many activities that can be done at Gregory National Park. 

 

Timber Creek

 

Stop here for barramundi fishing including boat hire and some rewarding bird watching.

Keep River National Park

Aboriginal sites, fantastic geology and diverse habitats all encompass in the small national park. The geological formations are of particular interest and create great wildlife viewing opportunities. 

 

Western Australia

 

It’s important to know the quarantine rules in advance to save over-shopping or unpacking the whole vehicle! Heading into WA you cannot bring fresh fruit or vegetables (or some dried/frozen), plants, flowers, seeds, walnuts, honey, any soil, animal skins or wool. Many animals and birds require permits. The Inspection Station at the border will confiscate any prohibited items. For more information contact Quarantine WA on 08 9334 1800.

 

Kununurra

 

Photo from Skal International

On the shores of the massive man-made Lake Argyle, this agricultural centre has diverse accommodation and activities for the visitor. Cruise, canoe or fish the lake, abseil or bushwalk, take a scenic flight over the local area or bungle Bungles or learn about locally mined Pink Diamonds. Check out the unique Zebra Rock Art at the gallery near town and local Indigenous art and jewellery.

Kununurra Visitor Centre Phone: 08 9168 1177 

 

 

The sealed Highway Route from Derby to Kununurra

 

You’ll see some expansive landscapes and stop at a range of fascinating cultural sites and activities on this route.

 

 

Purnululu National Park

 

Purnululu National Park

The Bungle Bungles are one of the Savannah Way’s most recognisable icons – stunning beehive domes of weathered sandstone that are spectacular on a walk or from the air (flights from Halls Creek, Kununurra, or Warmun or Purnululu National Park campsites). The access road is for high clearance 4WD vehicles only and is not suitable for caravans.

 

Warmun (Turkey Creek)

 

The closest facilities to the Purnululu National Park turnoff has camping and accommodation at the roadhouse and the Warmun Art Centre has works by local artists.

 

Halls Creek

 

A blossoming service centre and the site of a nineteenth-century gold rush. Base yourself here to see some spectacular nearby sites such as Wolfe Creek Crater, the world’s second largest meteorite crater almost a kilometre wide, the China Wall, a quartz vein breaking through the ground, and four nearby Aboriginal community Artists’ Centres. Goldrush relics and swimming holes make for some fun and scenic local touring. Interesting Town Walk takes around 40 minutes using the brochure from the Visitor Information Centre. Halls Creek Visitor Centre Phone: 08 9168 6262

 

Mimbi Caves

 

90km east of Fitzroy Crossing these are accessed with an Aboriginal guide booked through the Fitzroy crossing Visitor Centre Phone: 08 9191 5355.

 

Fitzroy Crossing

 

A regional centre on the banks of Australia’s largest river, the Fitzroy, in the heart of Australia’s best pastoral country. The town has a growing art network. Geikie Gorge has National Park and local Aboriginal operated cruises that are booked through the Visitors Centre and scenic walks.

Geikie Gorge National Park
Fitzroy Crossing Visitor Centre Phone: 08 9191 5355

 

Wyndham

 

A port for cattle, agriculture and mining. Visit the port area including the Wyndham Museum. Enjoy the free BBQ’s at the panoramic Five Rivers Lookout, and Warrin Park Dreamtime Statues. Birders will enjoy spotting Gouldian Finches here and exploring Parry Lagoon.

 

The Gibb River Road from Derby to Kununurra

 

This iconic unsealed route includes many of The Kimberley’s natural highlights and frontier experiences. Plan your accommodation and fuel stops as there are long remote sections and drive carefully. Note that the road to Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek allows you to mix some Gibb River Road experiences with those on the highway if time is limited. The story of Jandamarra, the Aboriginal outlaw, is a poignant piece of local history.

Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre Phone: 08 9191 1008
Windjana Gorge National Park
Tunnel Creek National Park

King Leopold National Park

The gorges of the Gibb River Road provide idyllic swimming and walking opportunities.
Allow yourself some time to relax at your own selection and meet some locals at the variety of camping and accommodation along the route.

The Kalumburu Road leads to the spectacular Mitchell Falls as well as Kalumburu community. There are some serious 4WD sections in this road so check with locals before proceeding. Home Valley and El Questro are accessible on good quality unsealed road from the eastern end (Kununurra) if you are not driving the entire Gibb River Road.

 

Derby

 

The Kimberley’s first town, famous for its Boab Tree-lined streets and Australia’s highest tidal range (11 metres) Derby is the jumping-off point for the Gibb River Road. Good fishing off the jetty with the incoming tide. Walk the Joonjoo Botanical Trail and visit Wharfinger’s Museum (key from Visitor’s Centre). Check out the nearby 120 metre long cattle trough and Prison Boab Tree.

Derby Visitor Centre Phone: 1800 621 426

 

Broome

 

The pearling history and indigenous culture of Broome are present in its art, food and people, making this outpost a favourite with many travellers. This is also a town managing regional growth from mining and gas resources, so you’ll find modern amenities and creature comforts. Cable Beach is a stunning setting, side trips to the Dampier Peninsula are very worthwhile and spectacular coastal cruises depart from here. View the world’s largest population of Humpback Whales or the renowned shorebirds in their migratory cycles. Try to catch the horse racing or Shinju Matsuri (Festival of the Pearl) for some local fun. Broome can be your start or finish to the Savannah Way, or a base to explore from if you fly in and out. Either way allow a few days here.

Broome Visitor Centre Phone: 1800 883 777

Broome Visitor Centre

The Broome Visitor Centre is a not-for-profit, non-government funded organisation. We offer a free booking service for local tours, accommodation, vehicle hire, and also support and promote local businesses. Freecall 1800 883 777 or visit www.broomevisitorcentre.com.au. Broome… let yourself go.