Townsville to Alice Springs by car

by Anonymous

What is availability of gas stations, accommodations and food in this stretch of road?

Any special or unusual situations to be aware of in this area?

Thanks!

Hi,
From Townsville to Alice Springs you drive on major highways. Fuel accommodation and food is available in frequent intervals, let's say every 150 to 250 km.

In the Queensland section you use the Flinders Highway from Townsville to Mount Isa. Check out my Cloncurry and Charters Towers pages to see what the typical country town is like.

Australian country towns are beautiful, interesting, and rich in history. These small towns usually have at least one fuel station, a shop, motel and caravan park. Travellers get anything they need there.

In Mount Isa the Barkly Highway begins for the long journey over the Barkly tableland into the Northern Territory. The section from Camooweal to Tennant Creek is the longest stretch without a real town.
However, the Barkly Homestead is an oasis in this part of the Australian Outback. It is about 260 km from Camooweal, and 211 km from Tennant Creek, and offers accommodation, fuel and meals.

Tennant Creek is already on the Stuart Highway, but there are still 550 km to go until you reach Alice Springs.

If you want to book accommodation in advance, or just want to look what is available, check it out for Townsville, Mount Isa, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs.

The only unusual situation I can think of is the weather. I don't know when you intend to travel, but you should be aware that the northern parts of Australia are under influence of the monsoon. The wet season starts late October / November and lasts until March.

As the weather is never exactly predictable, and you never know how far south the rain comes, you just have to expect some problems at these times.
The Barkly Highway for example was closed for a few days because of major washouts in January this year.

Take care that you don't run out of fuel, take plenty of water with you, and enjoy the trip. This is a nice Outback experience.

Rita

Recommended maps for your tour:

                  

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