Road Trip Bliss: Exploring The Gulf Savannah’s Scenic Drives

Road Trip Bliss: Exploring The Gulf Savannah’s Scenic Drives

Nestled in the heart of Northern Queensland, the Gulf Savannah is a vast and varied landscape teeming with natural beauty, historic towns, and abundant wildlife. A road trip through this region promises an unforgettable adventure, as you traverse rugged terrain, discover hidden gems, and experience the true essence of the Australian outback.

We highly recommend a guided tour for your road trip, but if you want to do the drive yourself the team at 4WD Hire Cairns can assist with all your questions, planning, hire and insurance needs.

Here’s a guide to exploring the Gulf Savannah’s most scenic drives and the must-see attractions along the way.

Cairns to Karumba: The Savannah Way

The journey from Cairns to Karumba, known as part of the Savannah Way, is one of Australia’s most iconic road trips. Stretching over 700 kilometers, this route takes you from the tropical coast through lush rainforests and across the expansive savannah plains to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Highlights Along the Route:

• Atherton Tablelands: Just a short drive from Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands offer a stunning start to your journey. Enjoy the cool climate, picturesque waterfalls such as Millaa Millaa Falls, and charming towns like Yungaburra. Don’t miss the Curtain Fig Tree, an impressive example of a strangler fig.
• Undara Volcanic National Park: Continue west to the Undara Volcanic National Park, home to the world’s longest lava tube system. Take a guided tour to explore these incredible geological formations and stay overnight in unique railway carriage accommodations at the Undara Experience.
• Cobbold Gorge: A detour south to Cobbold Gorge near Georgetown is highly recommended. This stunning gorge, with its towering sandstone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, offers boat tours, stand-up paddleboarding, and scenic walks. The on-site resort provides comfortable accommodations and a refreshing pool.

The Gulflander: Normanton to Croydon

One of the quirkiest and most nostalgic experiences in the Gulf Savannah is a ride on the Gulflander, a historic railway that runs between Normanton and Croydon. Known as the “train from nowhere to nowhere,” the Gulflander offers a unique glimpse into the region’s past.

What to Expect:

• Normanton: Start your journey in Normanton, where you can visit the historic Burns Philp Building and see Krys the Crocodile, a life-size replica of the largest saltwater crocodile ever caught. The Normanton Railway Station is an attraction in itself, with its well-preserved heritage architecture.
• Croydon: Upon reaching Croydon, explore this charming town that once thrived during the gold rush era. Visit the Croydon Historic Precinct, which includes the old police station, courthouse, and other heritage buildings. Lake Belmore, just outside town, is a great spot for a picnic or a swim.

Savannah Way: Burketown to Borroloola

The stretch of the Savannah Way from Burketown to Borroloola takes you through some of the most remote and pristine parts of the Gulf Savannah. This route offers a true outback adventure, with opportunities to see unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes.

Highlights Along the Route – Exploring The Gulf Savannah’s Scenic Drives

• Burketown: Known as the “Barramundi Capital of Australia,” Burketown is a paradise for anglers. The town is also famous for the Morning Glory cloud formations, a rare meteorological phenomenon that occurs in the spring. Visit the Burketown Pub for a hearty meal and a taste of local hospitality.
• Leichhardt Falls: As you travel west, make a stop at Leichhardt Falls, a picturesque waterfall on the Leichhardt River. The falls are particularly impressive during the wet season, but the surrounding area offers stunning views and excellent birdwatching year-round.
• Hells Gate: Named for its rugged terrain, Hells Gate is a remote roadhouse offering a much-needed rest stop for travelers. Enjoy a meal, refuel, and learn about the area’s history and local legends from the friendly staff.
• Borroloola: Arriving in Borroloola, you’ll find a town rich in Aboriginal culture and history. Visit the Carpentaria Visitor Information Centre to learn about the region’s indigenous heritage, and take a trip to the nearby Limmen National Park for breathtaking landscapes and the chance to see ancient rock art.

Karumba: The Gulf’s Coastal Gem

Your road trip wouldn’t be complete without reaching the coastal town of Karumba, where the savannah meets the sea. Karumba is famous for its spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Carpentaria and its thriving fishing industry.

Things to Do in Karumba:

• Karumba Point: Head to Karumba Point for stunning sunset views and enjoy a meal at the Sunset Tavern. The Point is also a great spot for fishing and birdwatching.
• Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre: Learn about the life cycle and conservation of the iconic barramundi at this interactive and informative centre.
• Croc and Crab Tours: Join a guided tour to see saltwater crocodiles and catch mud crabs, offering a hands-on experience of the region’s unique wildlife.

Exploring The Gulf Savannah’s Scenic Drives – Road Trip Bliss

A road trip through the Gulf Savannah offers an unparalleled adventure through one of Australia’s most diverse and captivating regions. From the lush Atherton Tablelands to the remote wilderness of the Savannah Way, each leg of the journey presents its own unique charm and beauty. So pack your bags, fuel up your 4×4, and set off on a road trip that promises to be as memorable as it is exhilarating.