2 minute read
Savannah Way
You’ll start your journey in the tropical city of Cairns, from where you can explore two World Heritage areas: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest.
Initially you’ll be following the same route as the Great Inland Way, passing through Mareeba and then Ravenshoe. Then there’s the Undara Volcanic National Park, where you will see the world-famous lava tubes. Next comes Einasleigh, where the Savannahlander train from Cairns stops outside the pub.
Advertisement
Via turning off the main highway at Georgetown, you can enjoy cruising the Cobbold Gorge, which is only 2 metres wide in some places with 30-metre sandstone cliffs on either side! See the amazing mineral collection in Georgetown before continuing on now passing through the gulf country Savannah grasslands, before reliving the gold mining days as you explore the well-preserved buildings of Croydon’s historic precinct. At Normanton you can go croc spotting or fishing on the river, or take a detour north to the coast to experience Karumba’s famous sunsets and amazing fishing.
Still travelling through grasslands rich with wildlife including an array of birds, you’ll reach Burketown, where the Morning Glory wave-shaped cloud formation rolls across the Gulf of Carpentaria at dawn between late September and early November. Relax in the outback oasis of Adel’s Grove before exploring the World Heritagelisted Riversleigh Fossil Fields, then take a detour south and be awestruck at Boodjamulla National Park’s spectacular Lawn Hill Gorge.
Before crossing the Western Australia border, see the Aboriginal community of Doomadgee and then stop awhile at the Hell’s Gate Roadhouse.
Savannah Way Must Do’s
Arguably the most scenic and adventure filled drive-route in Australia! Here’s 5 Must Do’s we recommend whilst on-route.
1. Undara Lava Tubes The strange but incredible Lava Tubes are found three hours southeast of Cairns. The lava tube formations are now believed to be one of the longest lava tube systems known in the world and are open to explore! Great for a family day trip.
2. Cobbold Gorge Cobbold Gorge is found deep in the heart of the Gulf Savannah region of Far North Queensland and is a geographical passage way with a lake flowing through. We recommend taking a guided boat tour to discover the unreal scenery and rich cultural history.
3. Boodjamulla National Park and Lawn Hill Gorge Possibly one of the greatest secrets of the Queensland Outback is the Boodjamulla National Park. The emerald coloured water is ideal for kayaking and swimming with the gushing waterfalls and overhanging foliage adding to the ambience of this oasis. Don’t forget to take some pics from the Upper Gorge lookout walk!
4. Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) In case you haven’t noticed, magnificent gorges are a huge part of the Savannah Way and Nitmiluk National Park is home to 13 of these stunning ancient sandstone wonders. Whether you choose to explore by foot, canoe, boat or helicopter, which ever angle you view this incredible National Park and gorges from will take your breath away. We recommend a trip to Leliyn (Edith Falls) for a refreshing swim in the lower and upper pools or take the Baruwei Lookout or Loop walks in the western end of Katherine Gorge.
5. Camel Tour Cable Beach If you’ve Googled images of Broome then you’ve likely seen the iconic image of a camel tour strolling majestically along Cable Beach at sunset. We can’t think of a more spectacular and scenic way to finish off the Savannah Way! Make sure you bring your camera to capture this beautiful experience.
