Melbourne to Alice Springs - Journey Through Australias Wonders

17 dayssuggested duration
3,512 kmtotal distance
Melbourne → Alice Springsone-way route
32 highlightsacross 24 types
Melbourne to Alice Springs - Journey Through Australias Wonders 17-day route · Melbourne → Alice Springs
17 days 1 states Melbourne → Alice Springs
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  • Averages about 207 km a day
  • Longest single day around 488 km
  • 3,512 km total distance
  • Crosses Australia
  • RVs from ~71 $ AU/night — enter your dates for a quote
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What you'll see

What's along this route

This 17-day drive links 32 stops across 24 kinds of experience along the way.

Australia
  • 1 Animals Show / Wildlife watch
  • 1 Aquarium
  • 1 Art Gallery
  • 1 Beach
  • 1 Botanical garden
  • 1 Canoe / Kayak / Rafting
  • 1 cave
  • 1 Day Tour
  • 1 Extreme Activity
  • 1 Family Activity
  • 3 hiking area
  • 1 Historical Site
  • 1 Local Industry
  • 1 Museum
  • 3 Natural Feature
  • 1 Park
  • 1 Picnic Area
  • 4 Point Of Interest
  • 2 Scenic Route
  • 1 Tourist Attraction
  • 1 Traditional Market
  • 1 Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining
  • 1 Traditional Visit
  • 1 Zoo

Route overview

Setting off on a 17-day RV motorhome road trip from Melbourne to Alice Springs along the Great Ocean Road and through Australia's heartland was an unforgettable family adventure, blending breathtaking scenery, cultural experiences, and exciting activities.

Our journey began in Melbourne, where we loaded up our campervan and made our first stop at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. The kids were mesmerized by the colorful marine life and interactive exhibits. It was a fantastic start to our adventure, sparking their curiosity about the natural world.

As we left the city behind, the iconic Great Ocean Road awaited us. This stretch of coastline is renowned for its stunning views and scenic drive. We visited the Piccadilly Market, a charming stop with local crafts and delicious treats. The kids enjoyed picking out souvenirs while we savored the local flavors.

Continuing our journey, we marveled at the Californian Redwoods and the majestic Twelve Apostles. These natural wonders were a highlight of our trip, and we made sure to capture plenty of family photos against the breathtaking backdrops. The kids were particularly fascinated by the towering limestone stacks at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility.

Our adventure took us further along the coast to Victor Harbor, where we experienced the unique Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram. The gentle tram ride was a delightful way to enjoy the coastal scenery and a memorable experience for the entire family.

In Adelaide, we explored the Art Gallery of South Australia, which offered a diverse collection of artworks that captivated both adults and children. The interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities made it a fun and educational stop.

Venturing into the heartland, we visited the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden. The kids enjoyed learning about the unique flora of the arid regions, and the walking trails provided a great opportunity to stretch our legs and soak in the natural beauty.

Lake Hart was a serene stop along our route, offering stunning reflections and a peaceful atmosphere. The kids loved exploring the salt lake and spotting the local wildlife.

Our journey continued to Coober Pedy, where we visited the Umoona Opal Mine & Museum. The underground tour was a fascinating glimpse into the world of opal mining, and the kids were thrilled to see the sparkling gemstones. We also explored the Coober Pedy Wellbeing Labyrinth, a unique and calming experience for the whole family.

As we neared the Red Centre, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre provided an insightful introduction to the cultural significance of this iconic landmark. The kids enjoyed the storytelling sessions and learning about the indigenous history of the area.

Finally, we reached Alice Springs, where we visited the Alice Springs Reptile Centre. The kids were excited to see the reptiles up close and even had the chance to hold a friendly lizard. Our trip concluded with a visit to the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, where we picked up some last-minute souvenirs and enjoyed a family meal.

Throughout our journey, our RV route planner was indispensable. Road trip planning was essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure. We made sure to plan for frequent stops, pack plenty of snacks, and keep an itinerary handy. This approach kept our trip fun and stress-free, allowing us to make the most of our incredible journey.

This 17-day road trip from Melbourne to Alice Springs was a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. It created lasting memories for our family and strengthened our bond through shared adventures and discoveries.



PageType: Trip (1995)

FAQs About Renting an RV in Melbourne

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 Melbourne–Alice Springs route?

We suggest about 17 days to cover 3,512 km at a comfortable pace. That works out to roughly 207 km a day, with the longest single day around 488 km.

Where does this road trip go?

The route runs one-way from Melbourne to Alice Springs, 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 Melbourne and dropping off in Alice Springs. One-way fees vary by supplier, and several nearby cities also work as starting points (see the route overview above).