Is Mildura worth visiting?

Yes, it is a beautiful river town with great food, wine, and history.

How long is the drive?

It is approximately 1,600 kilometers and takes about 18 hours of driving.

Are there trains to Mildura?

No, there is no passenger rail service to Mildura.

Yes, the entire route is on sealed highways.

What is the best way to travel?

Driving is the most common way, but flying is faster.

Alice Springs

Mildura

Flight Driving

Alice Springs to Mildura

Updated: 27 May 2026

The drive from Alice Springs to Mildura is a classic Australian outback journey covering approximately 1,600 kilometers. You will travel south on the Stuart Highway to Port Augusta, then turn east onto the A20 Sturt Highway, which leads directly into the Murray River region of Mildura. This route takes you through the arid landscapes of the Northern Territory and South Australia before reaching the lush, irrigated agricultural lands of Victoria. It is a journey that requires careful planning for fuel and water due to the remote stretches.

Total Distance: 1,600 km driving distance; 1,350 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight to Adelaide followed by a connecting flight to Mildura takes about 8 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups, while flying is the most time-efficient.

Compare Alice Springs to Mildura Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	18 hours
Avg Price	$500 - $800	$350 - $500 in fuel
Operator	Qantas/Regional Express	Private Vehicle
Route	Alice Springs to Adelaide, then Adelaide to Mildura.	Stuart Highway to Port Augusta, then A20 Sturt Highway.
Tip	Regional Express (Rex) operates flights from Adelaide to Mildura.	Ensure your vehicle is in top condition; there are long stretches without services.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Refuel at every major town on the Stuart Highway, such as Coober Pedy.
Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of kangaroos and emus on the road at dawn and dusk.
Accommodation
Book motels in advance in towns like Port Augusta or Renmark.
Connectivity
Mobile reception is limited in the outback; download offline maps.
Vehicle Check
Check your tires and cooling system before leaving Alice Springs.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
Take regular breaks to stay alert on the long, straight roads.
Emergency
Carry extra water and a satellite phone if possible.
Road Trains
Give road trains plenty of space and overtake only when safe.
Weather
Check for heatwave warnings in summer; it can be dangerous to drive in extreme heat.