East Arnhem Land is accessible via daily flights from Cairns or Darwin, or you can have an adventure on your way and drive the iconic Central Arnhem Road.
Flying
Airnorth operates daily flights to Gove Airport (GOV) from Cairns Airport (CNS) (1 hour 40 minutes) and Darwin Airport (DRW) (1 hour 10 minutes), both of which connect with flights from other capital cities. Airnorth also operates services from Gove Airport to Groote Eylandt (GTE) several times per week.
Airnorth also operates a range of regular air services from Darwin to the major East Arnhem Land communities of Milingimbi and Galiwin’ku (Elcho Island) and Groote Eylandt.
There is also a range of smaller charter companies that offer flights around East Arnhem Land; learn more about the Regular Passenger Transport services and companies offering charter services here.
Driving
The Central Arnhem Road turnoff is 50 kilometres south of Katherine on the Stuart Highway, and it is 675 kilometres from this turnoff to Nhulunbuy through Arnhem Land. Take note that when travelling along the Central Arnhem Road a permit is required from the Northern Land Council and for some of the recreation spots you will require an additional permit from Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation. Please make sure to check all the relevant permits are obtained prior to embarking on your adventure. You can learn more about permits here.
ROAD SAFETY AND CONDITIONS
A four wheel drive vehicle is essential for travelling the Central Arnhem Road as the majority of the road is unsealed. The unsealed road can reduce visibility considerably and contains some river crossings, large corrugations and is prone to washouts. Do not swim at the river crossings as saltwater crocodiles inhabit these areas. It is not uncommon for buffalo and other animals to stray onto the road so be careful, particularly at night, and be sure to drive to the conditions at all times. Be sure to carry plenty of food, fuel, drinking water and the appropriate vehicle equipment such as spare tyres.
Road conditions on the Central Arnhem Road can vary from sealed roads to gravel and dirt roads and can be affected by weather. Do not travel on a road that has been closed, and do not attempt to cross flooded roads or bridges unless absolutely certain of the depth and the road condition. Before travelling, it is recommended to check road conditions here.
You can read more about the Central Arnhem Road here.
