Is there a train to Alice Springs?

The Ghan train operates from Adelaide or Darwin, but there is no rail link from Queensland.

What is the best road to take?

The Barkly Highway is the primary sealed route connecting Queensland to the Northern Territory.

A standard sedan is sufficient for the main highways, but a 4WD is recommended for remote tracks.

Are there crocodiles in the desert?

No, crocodiles are only found in the tropical northern regions of Australia.

How long does the drive take?

Expect at least three to four days of driving to complete the journey safely.

Lake Barrine

Alice Springs

Flight Driving

Lake Barrine to Alice Springs

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

Traveling from the lush Atherton Tablelands to the Red Centre covers approximately 2,800 kilometers. The most efficient route involves driving from Lake Barrine to Cairns Airport, followed by a connecting flight to Alice Springs. Alternatively, a long-haul road trip via the Barkly Highway offers a rugged outback experience. You will traverse diverse landscapes ranging from tropical rainforests to arid desert plains. Plan for significant travel time due to the vast distances involved in crossing the continent.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 2,850 km; straight-line air distance is 1,950 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Cairns Airport is the fastest, taking roughly 7 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is often cheaper for groups, costing approximately $600 in fuel depending on vehicle efficiency.

Compare Lake Barrine to Alice Springs Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	32 hours
Avg Price	$450 - $800	$600 - $900 in fuel
Operator	Qantas	N/A
Route	Cairns Airport (CNS) to Alice Springs Airport (ASP) via Brisbane or Darwin.	Kennedy Developmental Road to Barkly Highway via Mount Isa.
Tip	Book your flight from Cairns early to secure lower fares on regional routes.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced and carry extra fuel when crossing the Barkly Tableland.

Travel Tips

Vehicle Prep
Check your tires, coolant, and oil levels before leaving the Tablelands.
Water Supply
Carry at least 20 liters of drinking water in your vehicle at all times.
Connectivity
Mobile reception is non-existent in many remote sections; download offline maps.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize the risk of collisions with kangaroos or cattle.
Fuel Stops
Refuel at every major town, such as Mount Isa, to avoid running dry in the desert.

Safety Tips

Road Trains
Give road trains plenty of space and only overtake on long, clear straights.
Fatigue Management
Stop every two hours to stretch and rest to prevent driver fatigue.
Emergency Beacon
Consider hiring a satellite phone or PLB if traveling solo through remote areas.
Weather Alerts
Check the Bureau of Meteorology for heatwave warnings before departing.