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Are you thinking about taking a one-way car rental Australian outback road trip? The Darwin to Alice Springs road trip is one of the most renowned Australian road trips. This journey can take you to some of the Northern Territory’s best-loved destinations, including Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs.
The Northern Territory is vast, with its open land and long, dusty roads. Take a one-way car rental trip from Darwin to Alice Springs, and you’ll be treated to some of the best sceneries Australia can offer. This includes unique outback towns, sacred Aboriginal sites, and rocky red terrains that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
This extraordinary drive from Darwin to Alice Springs isn’t for the faint-hearted. It stretches more than 1,500 km, and you will seldom see people on the road.
Get ready to learn about Darwin’s tragic World War II history, explore the scenic Nitmiluk Gorge at Katherine, and be amazed at the beauty of the MacDonnell Ranges at Alice Springs as you begin your one-way car rental road trip from Darwin to Alice Springs.
How Long Will it Take to Drive From Darwin to Alice Springs?
The journey between Darwin and Alice Springs is a straight 1500 km stretch following the Stuart Highway by car. Luckily, there are many things to see and do to break up the trip. It would be best if you embarked on your journey for at least three days to make the most of it and travel safely.
Which Car Rental Companies Offer One-Way Car Rental Services From Darwin to Alice Springs?
Avis is the only car rental company that offers one-way car hire from Darwin to Alice Springs.
How Much Would I Spend on a One-Way Car Rental?
There are one-way deals available for as little as $400. However, there’s a limitation on the number of kilometres you can drive daily. So, you will need to calculate the mileage you need and how you plan to stagger your journey.
For example, if you hire a car with a limitation of 100 km per rental day, and the extra charge is 0.297 per kilometre, an additional 100 kilometres will cost you $29.70 daily. If you planned the entire journey in one day, you would be required to shell out another $386.10 for the rental. So, you would expect to spend at least $786.10 for the rental vehicle.
There may also be other expenses and surcharges that the rental company adds. If you’re driving from Darwin in your own car, you only need to worry about petrol costs. It’s no secret that petrol costs almost double as you get closer to the Red Centre. Thus, fill up while you can, and make sure you leave Darwin with a full tank.
Why Should You Choose a One-Way Car Hire From Darwin to Alice Springs?
Almost every Australian dreams about embarking through the Outback. The only way you can do so is if you drive your own car, campervan, motorhome or hire a rental car. With these vehicles, you can stop and rest at camping grounds and visit other places at your own pace.
The route is a scenic one. You can expect to pass through several towns, picturesque drives and historical landmarks. If you are arranging a tourist drive, a one-way car hire from Darwin to Alice Springs is your ideal option.
What Can I See Along the Way?
Drive the explorer’s way from Darwin to Alice Springs to uncover unknown local adventures! Linger for longer while dwelling in the thermal springs in and around Katherine, stop in at Tennant Creek, witness the sunrise at Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, and visit the cultural centres and art galleries speckled in between the tropics.
Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge
Make a stop at Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, just a three-hour drive from Darwin. You can ride a canoe, swim, cruise, or even ride a helicopter around the lovely waterways and sheer cliff faces.
Travel a bit further afield, and you’ll see the crystal-clear waters of Mataranka Thermal Pool. It is shrouded by forest and birdlife.
You can stay at the Nitmiluk Campground or one of the holiday parks in Katherine. Reserve a dinner experience at Marksies Stockman’s Camp Tucker Night or Kumbidgee Restaurant on Gorge Road for fine dining infused with native bush tastes.
Tennant Creek
The town of Tennant Creek fills a punch in delivering rewarding local experiences. Discover first-hand the Warumungu legend of ‘Nyinkka’ – the spiky-tailed goanna that moulded the town. There is also the Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre, deemed one of the best in the Territory.
Are you looking for a picturesque lunch spot? Pack a picnic and head north to Lake Mary Ann. The grassy reserve has barbecues, a kids’ playground, bushwalking trails and wildlife-watching sites.
Ormiston Gorge
After arriving in Alice Springs, take a day trip and unveil desert waterholes wrapped in white sand and get ready for swimming.
Ormiston Gorge is a favourite for its easy access (500 m from the car park) and is loaded with water year-round. You can drive 135 km west of Alice Springs township to get there. Take the three-to-four-hour Ormiston Pound loop trek if you’re hyped for hiking. Alternatively, relax on the sandy banks and immerse yourself in the vibrant outback landscape.
Red Centre Mountain Biking
Alice Springs is home to a world-class mountain bike trail with great eastern and western terrain. There are alternatives for all experience levels – from the Ilentye Trail, a smooth 4.9 km track shared with walkers, to more technical paths such as the ‘Bob Gnarly’ route with challenging descents and drop-offs. It is an ideal way for those who lust for adventure to uncover the diverse desert scenery.
Before You Go
We advise planning your Darwin to Alice Springs road trip in advance. Check accommodation and camping alternatives beforehand and whether permits are required. The latter is important if you’ll visit national parks and areas that join Aboriginal land.
Be sure to carefully plan your trip and take plenty of water. Also, make sure to pay close attention to signs and stay on the marked trails.
Ready to Set Your One-Way Car Hire From Darwin to Alice Springs?
Make a price comparison to see what one-way car rentals are available. There tends to be a limited selection, so book it immediately if you encounter a good deal. And book it here at Car Hire and Rental.
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