Day 1
Alice Springs
Kick off your adventure in Alice Springs, the heart of the Red Centre. Pick up your Britz 4WD and stock up on essentials like food, water, spare tires, and recovery gear. Spend the day exploring the town’s attractions, including the Araluen Cultural Precinct and Olive Pink Botanic Garden. For a breathtaking view of the region, visit ANZAC Hill. Stay the night at a local caravan park as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Where to stay: Discovery Parks – Alice Springs
Day 2
Alice Springs to Old Andado Station
Distance 310km - Driving Time 5 hours
Head southeast from Alice Springs through rugged landscapes toward Old Andado Station, a historic cattle station that offers a glimpse into life in the outback decades ago. Explore the homestead, which is frozen in time with vintage furniture and equipment. Wander nearby trails for stunning views of the surrounding desert plains. Set up camp for the night and enjoy the serene beauty under a canopy of stars.
Where to stay: Old Andado Homestead Camping
Day 3
Old Andado Station to Madigan Camp 1
Distance 160km - Driving Time 4 hours
Leave Old Andado Station behind as you venture onto the Madigan Line, a route steeped in history from explorer Cecil Madigan's 1939 expedition. The track begins with gentle sand dunes and low vegetation. Take breaks to explore waterholes and desert flora along the way. Arrive at Madigan Camp 1, where you’ll set up camp and spend your first night fully immersed in the desert’s peaceful isolation.
Where to stay: Madigan Camp 1A NT
Day 4
Madigan Camp 1 to Madigan Camp 3
Distance 100km - Driving Time 4 hours
Travel deeper into the Simpson Desert, moving from Camp 1 to Camp 3. This leg features stunning red sand dunes and endless horizons. Pause for photo opportunities or take short walks to soak in the beauty of the landscape. Camp 3 offers a quiet escape, perfect for enjoying a campfire dinner while watching the desert sunset.
Day 5
Madigan Camp 3 to Madigan Camp 5
Distance 120km - Driving Time 5 hours
Continue your journey eastward toward Madigan Camp 5. Cross salt pans and undulating dunes, keeping an eye out for desert wildlife such as dingoes, camels, and wedge-tailed eagles. The remote beauty of this section of the desert makes it a highlight of the trip. Settle in at Camp 5 for another night under the stars.
Where to stay: Madigan Camp 5
Day 6
Madigan Camp 5 to Madigan Camp 8
Distance 110km - Driving Time 4 hours
Push forward across taller dunes and dry creek beds as you make your way to Madigan Camp 8. This section of the journey becomes more challenging, but the sweeping views and sense of adventure are worth every moment. Unwind at Camp 8, where a crackling campfire and a brilliant night sky await.
Where to stay: Madigan Camp 8
Day 7
Madigan Camp 8 to Madigan Camp 9
Distance 75km - Driving Time 3 hours
Travel from Camp 8 to Camp 9, easing through sand ridges and open plains. This shorter stretch allows you to take your time and explore the region's unique features, such as wildlife sightings or untouched landscapes. Enjoy a relaxing evening at Camp 9.
Where to stay: Madigan Camp 9
Day 8
Madigan Camp 9 to Madigan Camp 10
Distance 75km - Driving Time 3 hours
Continue your journey to Camp 10, with plenty of time to pause and appreciate Aboriginal artifacts and the cultural significance of the area. The shortened travel ensures you arrive refreshed and ready to enjoy the serene environment of Camp 10.
Where to stay: Madigan Camp 10
Day 9
Madigan Camp 10 to Madigan Camp 15
Distance 140km - Driving Time 6 hours
From Camp 10, embark on the longer stretch to Camp 15. With the extra rest day, you'll be better equipped to enjoy the Simpson Desert's towering dunes and salt pans along the way. The remote location of Camp 15 offers spectacular stargazing opportunities to round off the day.
Where to stay: Madigan Camp 15
Day 10
Madigan Camp 15 to Eyre Creek
Distance 180km - Driving Time 7 hours
Make your way to Eyre Creek, a seasonal watercourse that comes alive with birdlife after rare rains. The lush greenery provides a stunning contrast to the surrounding red sands. Take a walk along the creek’s edges, spotting native plants and wildlife. Set up camp nearby for a peaceful night in this unique desert oasis.
Where to stay: Cuttaburra Crossing
Day 11
Eyre Creek to Little Red
Distance 140km - Driving Time 5 hours
Travel from Eyre Creek to Little Red, a smaller yet equally iconic dune near Big Red. This shorter leg allows you to take your time exploring the Simpson Desert's unique landscapes and wildlife. Spend the evening enjoying the peace of this remote location.
Where to stay: Little Red Campsite
Day 12
Little Red to Big Red
Distance 60km - Driving Time 3 hours
Head to Big Red the next day, giving yourself ample time to conquer this towering sand dune. Spend the afternoon soaking in panoramic views, taking memorable photos, and celebrating your achievement. Settle in for another unforgettable night under the stars.
Where to stay: Big Red Campsite
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
Day 13
Big Red to Birdsville
Distance 35km - Driving Time 1 hour
Finally, conclude your journey with a relaxed drive to Birdsville. With more time to rest and reflect, you'll arrive ready to enjoy the charm and history of this iconic outback town. Don't forget to treat yourself to a meal at the Birdsville Hotel and take in the local landmarks.
After Birdsville, continue your journey at your own leisure, whether retracing your steps back to the Alice Springs branch, venturing on to new destinations, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the outback one last time.
Where to stay: Birdsville Tourist Park