Cost to Drive from Darwin to Alice Springs
1,493 km via the Stuart Hwy · about 15 h 15 min driving · range spans 6–11 L/100 km at Darwin's weekly average price
Fuel: Darwin U91 avg, week ending 30 August 2026 · distance computed once from open routingThe Stuart Highway runs the length of the Northern Territory between Darwin and Alice Springs, a long haul through remote outback country. Towns and roadhouses are spread far apart, so fuel planning is essential: fill up whenever you reach a reliable stop rather than pushing on to the next one. Carry water, watch for wildlife and stock on the road, and treat this as a multi-day drive rather than a single push.
Darwin → Alice Springs fuel cost
Default price: Darwin average U91, week ending 30 August 2026. Fuel only — tolls, wear and rest stops not included.
The breakdown at typical consumption
| Car | L/100 km | Fuel used | One way | Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economical small car / hybrid | 6.0 | 89.6 L | $189.55 | $379.10 |
| Typical car | 8.0 | 119.4 L | $252.74 | $505.47 |
| Large SUV / ute | 11.0 | 164.2 L | $347.51 | $695.02 |
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to drive from Darwin to Alice Springs?
- Between $190 and $348 in fuel one way at this week's Darwin average price (211.6 c/L), depending on your car's consumption (6–11 L/100 km). A typical 8 L/100 km car uses about $252.74.
- How far is Darwin to Alice Springs by road?
- 1,493 km via the Stuart Hwy, around 15 h 15 min of driving without long stops.
Related trips
- Australian Institute of Petroleum — weekly petrol prices report, week ending 30 August 2026verified
- OSRM open routing (road distance, computed at build)cross-checked
Fuel cost only — tolls, food and accommodation not included. Distance is the practical sealed-road driving route; drive time excludes long breaks. Prices along remote corridors run above city averages. Updated each week from AIP's Monday report; this is the week ending 30 August 2026.