Take some time to plan your trip on The Savannah Way for the best experience possible.

Please remember that The Savannah Way is home to many people as well as a rich diversity of wildlife:

• Don’t leave rubbish behind – even pick some up if you can.
• Please protect waterways – no soap or toileting within 100 metres.
• Think fire safety – extinguish campfires.
• Try to minimise firewood use, especially live or hollow logs that may be animal homes.
• Don’t take too many fish – some areas and species are under pressure.
• Please respect private land and leave gates as you found them.

Travel Tips

Animals

Animals often feed beside outback roads, be especially careful at night, sunrise and sunset.

Emus will often run beside a vehicle and swerve at the last minute. Kangaroos are unpredictable, if one does jump in front of you, don’t over react.
An animal impact may be less harmful than attempting to swerve.

Car Hire

Be sure you understand the conditions of car / campervan / trailer hire before you plan your trip.  Check if you can travel on unsealed roads and the procedures for breakdowns or damage repairs.

Spend some time examining all of the vehicle’s features, and concentrate on feeling how the vehicle brakes, accelerates and turns especially in your fist few kilometres of driving

Driving in Wet Conditions

Be sure you have good tyres and drive below the speed limit in the wet. Check road conditions with the appropriate body and postpone your trip on unsealed roads if required.

Localised rain can make rivers rise and fall rapidly. Don’t attempt to cross flooded bridges or causeways unless you are sure of the depth and the road’s condition.

Crossing should not be attempted if the water is fast-flowing or at a greater depth than the height of the middle of the wheel.Beware, crocodiles inhabit waterholes and creeks across Northern Australia.

Large Vehicles

Huge trucks, known as road trains, traverse Northern Australia. These can be up to the length of 10 cars.

Allow plenty of room before you overtake these vehicles – be prepared for them to sway as you overtake.

If a large vehicle is approaching you, make sure you allow plenty of room to pass. This will also help to avoid windscreen damage

Night Driving

When the sun is low on the horizon it makes clear vision impossible. If you are driving west plan to reach your destination by 4pm.

Avoid night driving as this is the time when most accidents occur. Animals, especially cattle, are difficult to see at night even in the middle of the road.

Towing

Towing requires more skills and effort than normal driving. Schedule extra rest stops and shorter travelling days to avoid fatigue.

Remember the extra length, width and stopping distance required and apply the accelerator and brakes smoothly to avoid trailer sway. If the trailer begins to sway, don’t brake quickly. If the trailer is fitted with brakes apply them gently and continue at a steady speed or accelerate slightly until the swaying stops.

Mobile Phone Coverage

Mobile phone coverage is limited to some major centres on The Savannah Way.

We suggest embracing a few technology free days!

Equipment

Travelling on The Savannah Way is an adventure, and can take you to some remote places. Having the right equipment for your safety and comfort is critical. Please ensure you plan carefully and consider the following items in your packing:

• Water – 20 litres is a good amount for use on the track and in case of breakdown
• Sun Protection – hats, long sleeved shirts and sunscreen
• Vehicle tools, spares and recovery gear
• Spare fuel cans – calculate your travel to determine if you need these
• Maps and GPS navigator
• Communication equipment
• Camping gear or perhaps just an esky/cooler for drinks

And remember to hashtag your photos #savannahway