Brisbane to Darwin

21 dayssuggested duration
4,735 kmtotal distance
Brisbane → Darwinone-way route
32 highlightsacross 23 types
Brisbane to Darwin 21-day route · Brisbane → Darwin
21 days 1 states Brisbane → Darwin
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  • Averages about 225 km a day
  • Longest single day around 404 km
  • 4,735 km total distance
  • Crosses Australia
  • RVs from ~55 $ AU/night — enter your dates for a quote
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What you'll see

What's along this route

This 21-day drive links 32 stops across 23 kinds of experience along the way.

Australia
  • 2 Animals Show / Wildlife watch
  • 1 Aquarium
  • 1 Art Gallery
  • 1 Bike Rental
  • 1 Botanical garden
  • 1 Canoe / Kayak / Rafting
  • 2 cave
  • 1 Cruise Terminal / Sailing
  • 1 Extreme Activity
  • 1 Heritage
  • 3 hiking area
  • 4 Historical Site
  • 1 Horseback Riding
  • 2 Local Industry
  • 1 Museum
  • 1 Natural Feature
  • 1 Science Site
  • 1 Swimming
  • 1 Tourist Attraction
  • 2 Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining
  • 1 Traditional Visit
  • 1 Water Park
  • 1 Zoo

Route overview

Embarking on a 21-day adventure from Brisbane to Darwin in a rented motorhome offers the perfect blend of inland charm and coastal beauty. As we prepare for this epic journey, careful road trip planning and a well-crafted route planner ensure we make the most of every stop along the way.

Starting from the vibrant city of Brisbane, we head north in our comfortable campervan, our first major destination being the world-renowned Australia Zoo. This incredible wildlife sanctuary, founded by the late Steve Irwin, captivates the entire family with its diverse animal exhibits and exciting wildlife shows. The kids especially enjoy seeing the crocodiles up close and personal.

Continuing our journey, we make our way to the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens. This beautiful oasis provides a serene setting for a leisurely stroll and a picnic, and the kids love exploring the lush landscapes and vibrant flora.

As we drive further north, we arrive at the Rockhampton Heritage Village. This living museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past, with historic buildings, vintage vehicles, and engaging exhibits. The interactive displays and friendly volunteers make it a memorable experience for the whole family.

Our route then takes us inland to the Porcupine Gorge Lookout. The stunning views of the deep gorge and surrounding landscape are breathtaking, and we take some time to stretch our legs and capture photos of this natural wonder.

Next, we venture to the Hard Times Mine in Mount Isa, where we embark on an underground tour that reveals the life of a miner. The kids are thrilled by the chance to don helmets and headlamps as we navigate the tunnels and learn about the mining process.

In Tennant Creek, the Battery Hill Gold Mining & Heritage Centre awaits. Here, we delve into the history of gold mining in the region, with informative exhibits and tours that engage the whole family. The kids enjoy panning for gold and discovering the rich heritage of this historic site.

As we continue our motorhome journey, we make a stop at the iconic Daly Waters Historic Pub. This quirky outback pub, adorned with memorabilia from travelers, offers a unique dining experience and a taste of true Australian hospitality.

The next highlight is the Mataranka Thermal Pool and Rainbow Springs. These natural hot springs provide a relaxing and rejuvenating swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. It's a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the outback.

Our road trip planning ensures we don't miss the incredible Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site in Kakadu National Park. The ancient Aboriginal rock art here is awe-inspiring, offering a deep connection to the cultural heritage of the land. The kids are fascinated by the stories depicted in the art, and we all gain a greater appreciation for the history of the area.

As we near the end of our journey, we arrive in Darwin, where a visit to Crocosaurus Cove is a must. This exciting attraction brings us face-to-face with some of Australia's largest saltwater crocodiles. The kids are especially thrilled by the interactive exhibits and the chance to hold a baby croc.

Throughout our road trip, our motorhome provides a comfortable and flexible home on wheels, allowing us to explore at our own pace and make spontaneous stops along the way. With careful planning and a well-thought-out route, our 21-day journey from Brisbane to Darwin is an unforgettable adventure filled with family-friendly activities, cultural discoveries, and natural wonders.



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FAQs About Renting an RV in Brisbane

How much does it cost to rent an RV for this trip?

Prices depend on the season, the RV class and how long you rent. Enter your travel dates in the search above for a live quote across our suppliers.

How many days do I need for the Brisbane–Darwin route?

We suggest about 21 days to cover 4,735 km at a comfortable pace. That works out to roughly 225 km a day, with the longest single day around 404 km.

Where does this road trip go?

The route runs one-way from Brisbane to Darwin, passing through Australia.

What type of RV is best for this route?

Any RV class can drive this route. Compact campervans are easier to handle on mountain and canyon roads and to park in towns, while larger motorhomes give families more living and sleeping space. Compare classes in the search to find the right fit.

Can I rent one-way or start from a different city?

Yes — this is a one-way trip, picking up in Brisbane and dropping off in Darwin. One-way fees vary by supplier, and several nearby cities also work as starting points (see the route overview above).