How long is the Outback Highway?
Australia, oceania
2,800 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
The Outback Way: Calling all adventurers! This epic 2,800 km journey, also known as Australia's longest shortcut, stretches from Laverton in Western Australia all the way to Winton, Queensland, cutting right through the heart of the country.
Get ready to rumble because around 1750 km is unsealed – a proper gravel track that demands a 4WD. This isn't a drive; it's an off-road odyssey through Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia, showing off the raw beauty of the Aussie outback.
Heads up: this trip is remote! We're talking limited everything – communications, repair shops, supplies. So, preparation is key! You'll find food, fuel, and a place to crash every 300 km or so, tops.
Factor in at least 3-4 days of solid driving (forget night driving!) to conquer the Outback Way. But honestly, stretch it to 6-7 days. You'll want to soak in the iconic views, like Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), the Petermann Ranges, and the MacDonnell Ranges. The Outback Way is actually made up of seven interconnecting roads and highways, including the Kennedy Development Road.
Timing is everything: the sweet spot is March to November. Steer clear of November to March when the heat can be brutal, or the rains can turn the roads into a muddy mess. Get ready to experience a kaleidoscope of climates and landscapes as you journey from the tropical vibes near Cairns to the desert heart of Alice Springs and beyond to the Western Australian outback.
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 2,800 km
- Difficulty
- hard
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