Savannah Way

The Savannah Way is over 3,700kms long, and thus, could possibly be done in as little as 3 days. Although that said - why would you do that!! Make the most of it, and give yourself a couple of weeks to absorb the interesting towns and spectacular attractions along the way. Although most of the trip is sealed, making large sections doable for 2WD sedans; there are sections where a 4WD is required. This includes the stretch between Borroloola and Normanton in the Gulf of Carpentaria (with some sections impassable during the November to April ‘wet season’). Generally, the Savannah Way is an easy to follow route that features clear signage, interpretative displays, maps and brochures, as well as a comprehensive visitor information centre network for travellers.

This fascinating drive passes through some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery, including 4 World Heritage Areas and 15 National Parks - ideally suited for the ultimate getaway!!! Marvel as you journey through diverse and spectacular landscapes featuring ancient gorges, rock pools, waterfalls, salt pans and hot springs. All the things to do and see within this trek are near infinite, although beginning from Broome, the highlights of this trip in respective order could include: Geikie Gorge and the vast flood plains of the Fitzroy River, Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle), Lake Argyle near Kununurra, Timber Creek (the doorstep to Gregory National Park), Katherine Gorge (one of NT’s most scenic natural attractions), the small township of Roper Bar, the remote fishing community of Borroloola, the bird-watching wetlands between Normanton and nearby Karumba, and last but not least - the Undara Lava Tubes (in the Undara Volcanic National Park), which boasts the largest and most preserved lava tubes system on earth.

The Savannah Way needs to be well planned before undertaking such a long journey. The route is one of Australia’s newest ultimate self-drive adventures, with clear signage, interpretative displays, maps and brochures, and a comprehensive visitor information network for travellers.

Consider taking adequate fuel, water and supplies, and plan the stops where you can fuel up, and even stay overnight to rest. It’s a good idea to carry sun protection, sunscreen, insect repellent, first aid kit, and sufficient clothing for the time of the year. Staying in contact in the outback is vital, and while mobile phones will work in many towns, staying in contact by radio, satellite phone or carrying an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is advisable. Obtain current maps of the route, and if you are venturing off the main road into Aboriginal lands, you will need to enquire about permits - contact the local tourist centre for more information.

It is important to take heed of the road conditions, as it can vary from bitumen to gravel and dirt, and can be affected by climatic conditions. It is best not to attempt the route in the wet season from January to March in any vehicle, because you might get stuck for many days or even weeks. Although the most scenic time to travel is in Summer, as this time of year produces lush green foliage, clear, full-flowing waterways and greater numbers waterbirds in the surrounding wetlands. Unfortunately, one of the challenges of travelling in summer is that some of the main routes will be closed. Alternate routes are available and access is possible throughout the year, although certain areas may be temporarily impassable following prolonged periods of rain. Check the road conditions for each state before departing:

• for a 24 hour road report in Western Australia, phone: 1800 013 314 or visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au


• for a 24 hour road report in Northern Territory, phone: 1800 246 199 or visit www.roadreport.nt.gov.au


• for a 24 hour road report in Queensland, phone: 1300 130 595 or visit www.racq.com.au

There are some good PDF brochures on the Savannah Way, including maps and safety information, which is available for download. Please click: Savannah Maps and Brochures.

The Savannah Way travels through 19 bioregions across two states (Western Australia and Queensland) and one territory (Northern Territory). The tropical savannah regions, which cover around 1.9 million square kilometres (a quarter of mainland Australia) can be generally described as landscapes of dense grass and scattered trees. Home to hundreds of species of native plants, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, many of these groups are found nowhere else in the world but within our tropical savannahs. The Gulf Savannah region in particular - is hugely diverse, as it provides habitats within tropical rainforests, rocky gorges, mangrove swamps, wetlands and rivers.

Some iconic fauna and flora you should keep an eye out for are; Wedge-tailed eagles, which have wingspans of 2.5m and are amongst the largest eagles in the world; Camels, as they are an estimated 200,000 ferel camels in the Northern Territory alone, and the Boab tree, which is found in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia and stores water in its bulbous trunk. The town of Normanton in Queensland is internationally recognised as an important location for an estimated third of Australia’s migratory wading birds, such as brolgas and sarus cranes. Another amazing iconic and natural phenomena is the Magnetic termite mounds, which are predominantly found in the Northern Territory are precisely oriented with their narrow edges facing north-south. These mounds are built by tiny blind insects and are oriented so that they get the least sun at the hottest time of the day.

The Savannah Way was officially launched at the Australian Tourism Exchange on June 4th 2004 by Queensland Tourism Minister Margaret Keech and her Northern Territory and West Australian counterparts Claire Martin and Bob Kucera. This tourist route across Australia’s ‘Top End’ was coined under a spirit of cooperation and adventure, reminiscent of the pioneers who first explored the region.

The three ministers signed a Memorandum of Agreement to work together to develop and promote the route - a 3700km route linking Broome in Western Australia, Katherine in the Northern Territory, and Cairns in Tropical North Queensland. The project, which has been jointly funded under the Drive Tourism and Federal Government Regional Tourism programs, have provided more than half a million dollars to make the route more ‘tourist friendly’, including erecting directional road signage, interpretive panels, and publishing dedicated route brochures, map, and a trip planning website - namely: www.savannahway.com.au

Over 80 per cent of the 3700km route has been sealed, but for more adventurous drivers an alternative 4WD unsealed route can also be taken. The route passes through some of Australia's most spectacular scenery, including five World Heritage areas, 15 national parks, the world's longest lava tubes, historic gold mining towns, Outback cattle stations, Australia's oldest pub and a wealth of indigenous culture.