Driving
| Leg | Approx. distance |
|---|---|
| Darwin → Katherine | ~320 km |
| Katherine → Timber Creek | ~290 km |
| Timber Creek → Kununurra | ~225 km |
| Total | ~830 km |
The Victoria Highway is sealed. Most people break the trip at Katherine or Timber Creek.
WA border checkpoint
Western Australia runs a quarantine checkpoint on the highway near the border. Fresh fruit, vegetables, honey and some other items are restricted — eat or dispose of them before the border. Check current rules.
Time zones
Clocks go back 1.5 hours when you cross from the NT into WA.
Flying
Regional flights connect Darwin and Kununurra. See flights to Kununurra.
Stops along the way
Katherine is the obvious first stop for Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge). Further west, Victoria River and Timber Creek offer river views, escarpments and roadhouses. Gregory National Park (Judbarra) lies along the route for those with time and a suitable vehicle.
Road conditions
The highway is sealed but narrow in parts, with road trains and wandering stock. Drive in daylight and fuel up at each roadhouse.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Darwin to Kununurra?
About 830 km by road via Katherine.
What can you not take into WA?
Fresh fruit, vegetables, honey and some plant material are restricted; check current quarantine rules.
Is there a time difference between Darwin and Kununurra?
Yes, WA is 1.5 hours behind the NT.
How long is the drive from Darwin to Kununurra?
Around 9–10 hours of driving; most people take two days.
Is the Victoria Highway sealed?
Yes, though narrow in places, with road trains and stock on the road.
Where should I stop between Darwin and Kununurra?
Katherine and Timber Creek are the usual stops.
