Gulf Savannah Development

Extending from the Great Dividing Range in the east, to the Northern Territory border in the west, the Gulf Savannah region of Tropical North Queensland covers an area of 186,000 square kilometres.  This is the unique ‘Tropical Outback’- where the rich biodiversity of the tropics spills over into the golden woodlands of the outback.  

The Gulf Savannah offers the visitor wide open spaces, spectacular flora and fauna, abundant and accessible wildlife, changing landscapes, World Heritage fossil fields, historic towns, aboriginal rock art, gemstones and fossicking opportunities.  Add to this mix some of the best fishing in the world and the natural phenomena of meandering river systems, world-class wetlands, hot springs, lava tubes and ancient gorges, and you have a special destination for those looking for out-of-the-ordinary experiences.

Most of the small historic towns of the region (Mt. Surprise, Georgetown, Forsayth, Einasleigh, Croydon, Normanton, Karumba and Burketown) boast modern telecommunications, schools and hospitals.  Sealed roads from Cairns through to Karumba offer easy and reliable access, but there are plenty of off-road experiences awaiting the adventurous traveler.   

The Gulf Savannah is also traversed by the Savannah Way – Australia’s premier adventure drive and the only drive route that crosses the continent, from Cairns to Broome, via Katherine.   The route traverses some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery including four World Heritage-listed areas and over 15 National Parks.  The Savannah Way covers almost 3000km, an excellent length for a 14 day adventure across Northern Australia – or a 40 day adventure!

The best time to visit the Gulf Savannah is year round – the two seasons of the Wet and the Dry have their unique aspects and the ‘green’ season of rains is surprisingly comfortable, uncrowded and has abundant wildlife.  It is always advisable to check all road conditions and acquire current weather reports before undertaking your journey. 

Gulf Savannah Development provides a tourism information service for the region and we look forward to helping you plan your next family holiday or your next wilderness adventure.

Contact us on Freecall 1800 630 119 or (07) 40311 631, or email n This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it >info@gulf-savannah.com.au