Is it safe to drive to Mount Isa?

Yes, provided you have a reliable vehicle, carry extra water, and avoid driving at night.

What is the best highway to take?

The Landsborough Highway (A6) is the primary route for reaching Mount Isa from the east.

Are there trains to Mount Isa?

No, there is no passenger rail service to Mount Isa from the Gold Coast.

How long does the drive take?

The drive takes approximately 26 hours of pure driving time, usually split over three days.

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

Reedy Creek

Mount Isa

Flight Driving

Reedy Creek to Mount Isa

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Reedy Creek to Mount Isa spans approximately 2,200 kilometers across the heart of Queensland. Most travelers prefer a flight from Gold Coast Airport to Mount Isa via Brisbane to save time. Driving requires navigating the Warrego and Landsborough Highways through towns like Charleville and Longreach. This route traverses diverse landscapes from coastal hinterlands to the rugged red earth of the outback. Expect a multi-day drive if choosing to travel by road due to the vast distances involved. Ensure your vehicle is serviced for remote conditions before departing.

Total Distance: 2,200 km driving distance; 1,750 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight via Brisbane is the fastest, taking approximately 6 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Reedy Creek to Mount Isa Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	26 hours
Avg Price	$450 - $800	$500 - $700 in fuel
Operator	Qantas	Personal Vehicle
Route	Gold Coast Airport (OOL) to Brisbane (BNE) to Mount Isa (ISA).	M1, A2, and A6 (Landsborough Highway) via Charleville and Longreach.
Tip	Book early to secure lower fares on the Brisbane to Mount Isa leg.	Carry at least 20 liters of extra water and spare tires.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up at every major town as fuel stations can be hundreds of kilometers apart.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize the risk of collisions with kangaroos and emus.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as mobile reception is non-existent in many outback stretches.
Accommodation
Book caravan parks or motels in advance during the peak winter tourist season.
Vehicle Check
Check your oil, coolant, and tire pressure before leaving the coastal region.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Stop every two hours for a break to prevent driver fatigue on long, straight roads.
Emergency Supplies
Carry a satellite phone or PLB if traveling off the main highway.
Road Conditions
Check the Queensland Traffic website for road closures due to flooding or maintenance.
Heat Safety
Never leave children or pets in the car, as temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius.