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If you’re road-tripping through the West MacDonnell Ranges, there’s one stop you don’t want to miss: Standley Chasm, NT, Australia. Just under an hour’s drive from Alice Springs, this narrow red-rock gorge is famous for its fiery midday glow, where sunlight hits the chasm at the perfect angle, lighting up the sandstone walls in what can only be described as one of the most stunning natural sights in the NT. 

But there’s more to Standley Chasm than just a good photo op. From easy walking trails to rich cultural experiences guided by local Arrernte people, it’s a place where you can slow down, stretch your legs, and learn something new about the land you’re exploring. Whether it’s a quick detour from town or a highlight on your Red Centre road trip, this one’s worth pencilling in. 

Tucked along the stunning Cassowary Coast, Mission Beach is one of Queensland’s most underrated coastal gems. Just under two hours south of Cairns, this laid-back tropical town is where the lush rainforest meets the famous Coral Sea. It’s a destination that quietly lures you in, then totally wins you over. Whether you're a foodie on the hunt for fresh tropical produce, a history buff curious about Indigenous heritage, or simply a nature lover looking for the next hidden gem, there are plenty of things to do in Mission Beach to quench your thirst.   

This coastal haven is also a magnet for road trip adventurers and campervan travellers, thanks to its scenic surroundings and excellent campgrounds right on the beachfront. Plus, it has easy access from Cairns and Brisbane, so it’s no wonder so many Aussie families and international visitors include it in their travel itinerary. Whether you're winding your way up or down the coast, Mission Beach is a must-stop spot that feels both off-the-beaten-track and effortlessly accessible. 

Picture this: sunrise streaking across ochre-red earth, emus strutting past the windscreen, and an endless ribbon of red-dirt track unfurling towards the horizon. That’s the spell of the Australian Outback—a place so vast it swallows time, brimming with wildlife you won’t find anywhere else, and so beautifully remote that phone reception becomes a distant memory. But make no mistake: this adventure playground is as unpredictable as it is rewarding. Dust storms roll in without warning, creek beds turn to torrents after a single downpour, and fuel stops can be hundreds of kilometres apart. 

That’s where a bit of savvy preparation comes in. In this guide, you’ll find all the down-to-earth Australian Outback driving tips you’ll need for your upcoming adventure - from choosing between a trusty 2WD campervan and a go-anywhere 4WD camper, to reading Australian Outback road conditions and planning for sudden Outback road closures. We’ll flag the routes where a 4WD (and Britz’s written permission) is essential, show you how to dodge common rookie errors, and point you to some handy resources for an extra confidence boost. Whether you’re plotting a long-haul travel itinerary or a weekend road trip, consider this your friendly co-driver. Okay, but first…