Be totally prepared to drive the Old Andado Track

Be totally prepared to drive the Old Andado Track

Australia, oceania

Length

200 km

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're craving a truly off-the-grid experience in Australia's Northern Territory, then the Old Andado Track is calling your name. This outback track offers a wild detour from Alice Springs to Oodnadatta, skirting the edge of the massive Simpson Desert, a landscape of seemingly endless parallel sand dunes (some stretching almost 200 km!).

But fair warning: this isn't your average Sunday drive. Expect a rough and tumble ride with plenty of bumps and potentially slippery sections when wet. The road is seriously unmaintained, with numerous river crossings to navigate. It's mostly unsealed and sandy, so a 4WD is a must, unless you're looking to replace your ride soon! Flash floods can also occur after those quick, heavy storms, even in the dry season.

Stretching 440 km (273 miles) from Alice Springs to Mount Dare, the Old Andado Track is a part of the larger Binns Track tourist route. Picture yourself surrounded by desolate beauty, where even 4x4s can break down.

For those who dare to venture into the heart of the Simpson Desert, this is your chance to experience true isolation and stunning red dune scenery. Do your homework beforehand, and pack more water and spare fuel than you think you'll need. This track isn't heavily traveled, and those rocks are ready to cause serious tire damage. Remember, you're on your own out there, so be self-sufficient with everything from water to communication – cell service is non-existent.

Where is it?

Be totally prepared to drive the Old Andado Track is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -24.4498, 135.2725

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Australia
Continent
oceania
Length
200 km
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
-24.4498, 135.2725

Related Roads in oceania

Galston Gorge Road is one of Australia's top drivesmoderate

Galston Gorge Road is one of Australia's top drives

🇦🇺 Australia

Okay, buckle up for the Galston Gorge Road, a wild ride nestled north of Sydney, in New South Wales, Australia! This 14.5km (9-mile) stretch of asphalt cuts through the stunning Berowra Valley Regional Park, linking Asquith and Dural. Think hairpin turns galore – we're talking seven of 'em! Word to the wise: if you're piloting anything longer than 7.5 meters, this isn't the road for you. Seriously, some vehicles even need to do a little dance (aka back up) to make it through. Built way back in the day (think 1895!), the Galston Gorge Road has a bit of a reputation, and for good reason. Blind turns are all over the place, so keep your eyes peeled, especially for cyclists on weekends. There's also a one-lane wooden bridge over Tunks Creek where you might have to wait your turn. And those hairpin turns? Five in total, with the middle three being the tightest of the bunch. Basically, stay in your lane! During heavy rain, the gorge transforms into a waterfall wonderland – beautiful, but proceed with extra caution! Most folks can cruise through in 20-30 minutes. Pro tip: start from the Galston side if you want a less brake-heavy, uphill adventure!

Road trip guide: Conquering the Jim Jim Fallshard

Road trip guide: Conquering the Jim Jim Falls

🇦🇺 Australia

Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits! You're heading to Jim Jim Falls, a mind-blowing 200-meter waterfall tucked away in the Northern Territory's Kakadu National Park, Australia. First things first: this ain't no Sunday drive. Jim Jim Road, which leads you there, starts off pretty chill, getting you to the camping area no problem. But then, things get real. The last 10 kilometers transforms into a 4WD-only playground (or challenge, depending on your perspective!). Think single-lane track, soft sand that wants to swallow your tires, and corrugations that'll give your fillings a run for their money. Seriously, check your rental agreement – some companies aren’t fans of this kind of fun. The whole track is 57.2 km (35.54 miles) long, peeling off of the main Kakadu Highway (State Route 21). Allow around two hours for the drive – you won’t be setting any speed records. And remember, this adventure is only on during the dry season (May to October). The wet season brings flash floods that shut the whole thing down. Now, a word of caution: saltwater crocs call this place home. Swimming is strictly off-limits, unless you fancy becoming a croc's lunch. And those creek crossings? Yeah, they can get deep and fast-flowing. Before you even think about splashing through, check with the Bowali Visitor Centre for water depth info. Sometimes a snorkel is required, and NEVER get out of your car. But, trust me, the views are worth it. Lush landscapes, dramatic scenery, and then BAM – this incredible waterfall. There's plenty of parking once you make it to the end of the road. Just make sure you’re not driving in the dark, and remember to grab a park pass to enter Kakadu National Park. Get ready for an unforgettable Aussie outback experience!

Boranup Drive is a great road under the majestic karri treesmoderate

Boranup Drive is a great road under the majestic karri trees

🇦🇺 Australia

Okay, road trip dreamers, listen up! If you're anywhere near the Margaret River region of Western Australia (think: three hours southwest of Perth), you HAVE to experience Boranup Drive. This 13.8 km (8.5-mile) gem winds right through the incredible Boranup Karri Forest inside Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. It's a gravel road, so while you can totally do it in a 2WD, be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride – we're talking corrugations, potholes, the works! Keep your speed down, though, because it's narrow, and you'll want to share the road. You can tackle it year-round, and trust me, you should. The views are unreal! Cruise up to the Boranup Lookout (222m/728ft high) for panoramic vistas of the coastline, the towering Karri trees, and Hamelin Bay. It’s near the southern end of the road. Plus, the lookout's the starting point for some great bushwalks and has a perfect picnic spot. Honestly, the forest itself is the star here. It is just magical. And hey, you're in the Margaret River region! That means wineries galore, plus caves, surf beaches, and nature trails. Basically, it's a paradise for everyone! Don't even THINK of leaving your camera at home!

Driving in New Zealand: A guide to navigating its most scenic and remote roadsextreme

Driving in New Zealand: A guide to navigating its most scenic and remote roads

🇳🇿 New Zealand

New Zealand's a driver's dream...if you're up for a challenge! Forget freeways, we're talking winding mountain passes, shingle roads that test your suspension, and weather that can change faster than you can say "Lord of the Rings." Distances can be deceiving! That epic road trip might take longer than you think, thanks to those hilly, twisty roads. Flying is fine for getting from city to city, but rent a car to really *experience* the countryside. If you're tackling the South Island's wild spots like Skippers Canyon, consider a 4WD or SUV. Campervans are classic Kiwi, but remember those switchbacks and potential high winds! Lodges are lovely, but holiday parks and DOC campsites are where it's at for road trippers. If you're in a campervan, get familiar with Freedom Camping rules – you'll need a self-contained vehicle and designated zones to park. Book ahead, especially during peak summer (Dec-Feb)! New Zealand roads are often narrow with little to no shoulder. Locals know the roads well, so use those "slow vehicle bays" to let them pass. It's Kiwi road etiquette! Take time to explore the small towns along the way, soak in the Māori and early settler history. While TripAdvisor is great for hotels, check out the Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) website for up-to-the-minute road closures, especially during winter when Arthur's or Haast Pass could be blocked by snow. Apps like CamperMate are great for finding campsites and water fill-up spots too! Out there in the wilderness, stock up on essentials! Pack water and snacks, because help can be hours away. Always check the weather before hitting the mountain passes – that sunshine can turn into a blizzard real quick. New Zealand has over 13 national parks! Many of the most amazing views—Milford Sound or the glaciers—are reached via technical tunnels and steep descents. Whether you're hiking, biking, or kayaking, remember that the roads leading to these spots are often the most challenging part of the adventure. Respect the terrain, manage your fuel, and get ready for one of the most rewarding driving experiences on the planet.