Is there a train to Alice Springs?

The Ghan train runs from Adelaide to Darwin, stopping in Alice Springs.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 38 hours of pure driving time.

A 4WD is highly recommended for outback roads, though main highways are sealed.

Are there flights from Mandurah?

No, you must travel to Perth Airport for flights.

What is the best month to visit?

June and July offer the most comfortable daytime temperatures.

Mandurah

Alice Springs

Flight Driving

Mandurah to Alice Springs

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Mandurah to Alice Springs spans approximately 3,200 km. Most travelers fly from Perth Airport to Alice Springs Airport via a connection in Adelaide or Darwin. Driving requires traversing the Great Northern Highway or heading south to the Eyre Highway. Expect a multi-day expedition if driving through the arid outback. This route connects the coastal beauty of Western Australia with the red desert heart of the Northern Territory.

Total Distance: 3,200 km driving distance; 2,100 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight via Perth to Alice Springs takes 7 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper for groups of three or more, costing roughly $800 in fuel.

Compare Mandurah to Alice Springs Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	38 hours
Avg Price	$600 - $1,200	$800 - $1,500 in fuel
Operator	Qantas	Private Vehicle
Route	Perth Airport (PER) to Alice Springs Airport (ASP) via Adelaide (ADL).	Kwinana Fwy to Great Northern Hwy or via Eyre Hwy and Stuart Hwy.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Carry at least 20 liters of extra water and a satellite phone.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Always fill your tank at every major roadhouse in the outback.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize collision risks with kangaroos.
Connectivity
Mobile reception is non-existent on many stretches; download offline maps.
Hydration
Keep a minimum of 10 liters of drinking water per person in your vehicle.
Permits
Check if you need transit permits for any Aboriginal lands along your route.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and cooling system are serviced before departure.
Emergency Beacon
Carry a PLB or satellite messenger for remote areas.
Fatigue
Stop every two hours to stretch and maintain alertness.
Weather
Monitor Bureau of Meteorology alerts for flash flooding or heatwaves.