Guide To The Gulf Savannah Region

17 May 2023
Karumba-Sunset-in-mangrove Gulf Savannah Tour

The Gulf Savannah region is a unique and diverse region located in the northern part of Queensland, Australia. It stretches from the Gulf of Carpentaria in the west to the Great Dividing Range in the east. It covers an area of approximately 400,000 square kilometers. This region is known for its vast open grasslands, wetlands, and tropical savannahs. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts.

There is so much to do and see with outdoor activities. World Heritage listed fossil fields, gem fossicking, rolling grasslands, ancient Aboriginal rock art, old mining towns and some of the best fishing locations in the country. Take a look at our Guide to the Gulf of Savannah Region.

Climate

As is typical with North Queensland, The Gulf Savannah has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season typically lasts from April to September, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. The wet season, on the other hand, lasts from October to March and is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. The average annual rainfall in the Gulf Savannah is around 1000mm.

bird watching in the Gulf Savannah

Wildlife

The Gulf Savannah is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including marsupials, reptiles, birds, and insects. Some of the most notable animals that can be found in the region include the saltwater crocodile, the green python, the red kangaroo, and the dingo. The Gulf Savannah also boasts a large number of bird species, including the brolga, the white-bellied sea eagle, and the Australian bustard.

Plants

The Gulf Savannah is known for its diverse plant life, including tropical savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. Some of the most common plants found in the region include the eucalyptus, the acacia, and the melaleuca. The Gulf Savannah is also home to a wide variety of grasses, including the giant spear grass and the buffel grass.

Gulflander Rail Motor Train Gulf Savannah Tours

Activities

There are a wide variety of activities to enjoy in the Gulf Savannah, including camping, hiking, bird watching, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the region’s many national parks, such as the Lawn Hill National Park and the Boodjamulla National Park. In addition, the Gulf Savannah is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. There are many popular species such as barramundi, threadfin salmon, and mangrove jack.

The Gulf Savannah is also ripe with opportunities to take a train journey. Iconic trains Gulflander and Savannahlander will take you on an amazing journey through outback QLD, usually departing from Cairns. Take a look at some of the Train Tours we have on offer.

Another unique experience you can have in Gulf Savannah is staying on the nature reserve and cattle station within Kinrara. Welcoming travellers and adventure seekers to explore the land, learn more about the area’s unique flora and fauna, and get to know the even more unique inhabitants of Australia’s youngest land. Comfortable private tents with decks. Hot showers for days with communal shower and eco toilet facilities draw marvels from guests at their simplicity yet architectural design. Take a look at our 5 Day Kinrara Cattle Station Experience Savannah Wetlands for more information.

Cobbold Gorge 1 Gulf Savannah Tour

Sights

Tours of the Gulf Savannah operate from Cairns to Darwin, and towns within the area include Georgetown and Croydon. It holds many sights that you’ll need more than a full day road trip to see, such as lookouts, waterfalls, a world heritage rainforest, and swimming holes.

Explore towns such as the Atherton Tablelands. As well as the known locations that are the heart of the Gulf Savannah such as Chillagoe, Undara, Cobbold Gorge, Undara Lava Tubes, Karumba, Normanton, Riversleigh, Adels Grove, Lawn Hill Gorge, and Boodjamulla National Park. Trains are a highlight of the Gulf Savannah region along with the Kinrara wetlands all found in this amazing location.

Another way to see the sights is to Road Trip along the Savannah Way. This stretch of country connects Cairns with Broome and contains 15 National Parks and five World Heritage-listed sites.

The Queensland stretch of the Savannah Way (Cairns to the Northern Territory border) provides an amazing and diverse landscape of horizons. Ancient gorges, rock pools, hot springs and wildlife. You will visit a lot of the locations already mentioned above, and a few more like Normanton and Burketown before reaching Broome Western Australia.

So what are you waiting for?

The Gulf Savannah is a unique and diverse region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re into nature or the outdoors, or just looking for a relaxing holiday, the Gulf Savannah has something to offer. With its diverse wildlife, plant life, and activities, the Gulf Savannah is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Australia.

Feeling overwhelmed with all the many sights of this wonderful region? Don’t worry, we have many guided tours that can do all the heavy lifting for you combined with amazing tour guides.