Driving From Marla To Alice Springs: Fuel, Sites & Tips

Experience the 450km drive from Marla to Alice Springs. Discover essential fuel stops, wildlife, road conditions, and scenic highlights along the Stuart Highway.

We left Coongra Creek on the Oodnadatta Track where we had camped for the night and headed into Marla. When we got to Marla we pulled over just before the roadhouse on the side of the Oodnadatta Track and put air back into our tyres. Then it was a quick stop at the roadhouse for fuel and something to eat and we headed north on the Stuart Highway on the drive from Marla to Alice Springs.

Driving from Marla South Australia to Alice Springs, Northern Territory is a true outback adventure! It’s a stretch of around 450 km (about 5-6 hours of driving) along the Stuart Highway, giving you a real taste of the Aussie outback. Here’s a simple guide to help you plan your journey including fuel stops, things to see and road conditions.

Tun Right Out Of Marla Roadhouse To Drive From Marla To Alice Springs

Distance Between Fuel Stops

There aren’t heaps of places to fuel up, so plan ahead. Here’s where you can stop along the way:

• Marla: Your starting point. Fill up here before you hit the road.
• Kulgera Roadhouse (about 180 km from Marla): The first fuel stop. It’s also a good place to stretch your legs, grab a feed and maybe a cold drink.
• Erldunda Roadhouse (around 100 km from Kulgera): Another fuel stop where you can top up your tank. There’s also a café, a caravan park and some cool emus wandering around.
• Alice Springs (165 km from Erldunda): Your destination. Make sure to fill up when you get here especially if you plan to explore more remote areas.

Tip: Always fuel up when you can, as distances between stops can be long, and sometimes roadhouses may run out of supplies.

Airing Tyres Back Up At Marla After Completing The Oodnadatta Track

Things To Do When Driving Between Marla SA and Alice Springs NT

Driving from Marla, South Australia, to Alice Springs, Northern Territory, is a real outback adventure. It’s a long stretch through the red centre, but there are plenty of unique stops and sights along the way. Here’s a simple guide to things you can do to make the trip more interesting.

1. Stop at the Roadhouses

The outback roadhouses are not just for fuel—they’re a good spot to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and meet some friendly locals.

• Kulgera Roadhouse: About 180 km from Marla, it’s your first proper pit stop. Grab a cold drink and check out the quirky outback vibe.
• Erldunda Roadhouse: About 100 km further, this roadhouse is known as the “Centre of the Centre.” You’ll also see emus wandering about!

1. Look for Wildlife

The outback is full of Aussie wildlife, and you’re likely to spot kangaroos, emus, and even wedge-tailed eagles. But be careful—especially at dusk and dawn, as roos have a habit of hopping onto the road without warning.

2. Take in the Desert Landscape

The drive is long, but the changing colours of the outback landscape are worth admiring. From the red dirt to the striking desert oaks, it’s a truly unique view. Keep an eye out for wildflowers, which bloom after rain, and add bursts of colour to the desert.

3. Detour to Rainbow Valley

If you’ve got a bit of time and a 4WD, you can take a detour to Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve. It’s around 75 km south of Alice Springs and is famous for its colourful sandstone bluffs that glow red and orange, especially at sunset.

4. Take a Photo at the Northern Territory Border

You’ll cross from South Australia into the Northern Territory, and there’s a big sign marking the border. It’s a must-do for a quick photo to remember your outback adventure.

5. Relax at Desert Oaks Rest Stop

Just before you reach Erldunda you’ll notice a rest area surrounded by tall desert oaks. These iconic trees make for a perfect spot to take a break, have a picnic and enjoy the shade.

6. Geocaching

if you’re into geocaching as we are then you will find quite a few of them on the Stuart Highway along the stretch between Marla and Alice Springs. Here’s your chance to pick up a few that not a lot of people have!

Geocache Found Across The Road From The Pines Rest Area On The Stuart Highway

Road Conditions – Marla To Alice Springs

The Stuart Highway is sealed (paved) all the way, so you won’t need a 4WD for this trip. However it’s still important to be prepared:

• Long straight roads: The highway is mostly straight, with long stretches of road. It can get monotonous, so take breaks and keep hydrated.
• Wildlife: Kangaroos and emus can pop up unexpectedly especially early morning or around dusk. Keep an eye out and don’t drive too fast when it’s dark.
• Road trains: These huge trucks can be intimidating. If you’re overtaking, make sure you have plenty of room.

Stuart Highway Between Marla And Alice Springs

Final Tips

• Pack Water and Snacks: It’s a long drive with limited stops, so make sure you have plenty of supplies.
• Watch for Road Trains: These huge trucks can be tricky to overtake so take your time and only pass when it’s safe. Have your UHF radio turned on and listen for information from the pilot vehicles.
• Fuel Up When You Can: Always top up your tank at each roadhouse as fuel stops are few and far between. And you never know if the next roadhouse has just run out of fuel.

Driving from Marla to Alice Springs is more than just a trip—it’s an outback experience. Take your time, soak in the wide-open spaces, and enjoy the unique stops along the way. Safe travels, mate!

Final Thoughts

Driving from Marla to Alice Springs is a fantastic way to experience the Aussie outback. Make sure your car’s in good nick, bring plenty of water and enjoy the rugged beauty of the desert. Remember to take it slow and enjoy the journey after all you’re in the heart of Australia!

Driving From Marla To Alice Springs Photo Gallery