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Cairns, Queensland to Alice Springs, Northern Territory from undefined3291: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Alice Springs, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Alice Springs: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$3291 - DriveBest price
2349 kmDistance
8h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Alice Springs with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  4m
Estimated price
329-784
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
24h  13m
Estimated price
3291-3292
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2349 km
Duration: 8h 4m

See more options

Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
81h 
Estimated price
388-857
Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Average Duration
82h 
Estimated price
739-7268
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
120h 
Estimated price
2357-5002
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
122h 
Estimated price
2528-3290

Traveling From Cairns to Alice Springs

Journeying from Cairns to Alice Springs offers a striking contrast between the lush, tropical landscapes of the coastline and the arid, red deserts of the outback.

Best Neighbourhoods in Alice Springs

Alice Springs features diverse neighborhoods that showcase its cultural richness.

Todd River
• Scenic views along the riverbank
• Great spot for picnics and walks
Stuart Town
• Central hub for shops and cafes
• Close proximity to major attractions
Alice Springs Hospital Area
• Quiet residential vibe
• Access to local parks and artworks

Best Times To Visit Alice Springs's Attractions

Planning your visit to Alice Springs can greatly enhance your experience at its attractions.

Alice Springs Desert Park
Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Anzac Hill
Aim for late afternoon; the sunset views are breathtaking and crowds diminish.
Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum
Weekdays in mid-morning are ideal for a quieter, more informative experience.

Alice Springs Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Alice Springs experiences a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and autumn the ideal times to visit for pleasant temperatures. Understanding the weather patterns allows you to plan your activities and dress appropriately for outdoor adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Alice Springs

Try the kangaroo fillet at the Overlanders Steakhouse, where the bold flavors of native Australian ingredients create a distinct culinary experience that contrasts sharply with the seafood-rich dishes typical of Cairns. The cozy, rustic atmosphere adds a layer of authenticity, allowing you to savor local textures and tastes while immersing yourself in the character of the outback.

Cairns - Alice Springs operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Alice Springs, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
8h 4m
Estimated price
329-784

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
3299-7840

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
8h 15m
Estimated price
7841-7842
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
7h 20m
Estimated price
7843-7844
Website
flybonza.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
7843-7844
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Alice Springs

Average Duration
81h
Estimated price
388-857
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Alice Springs

Average Duration
81h
Estimated price
388-72684
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cairns Central Station to Alice Springs

Average Duration
82h
Estimated price
739-7268
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Alice Springs

Average Duration
22h
Estimated price
8576-8578
Drive

Drive from Cairns to Alice Springs

Average Duration
24h 13m
Estimated price
3291-3292

Cairns to Alice Springs: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cairns and Alice Springs offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience the ultimate adventure as you journey 1459 miles from Cairns to Alice Springs by car, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes of Queensland and the Northern Territory. 💰 Depending on your preferences, the prices for this road trip range from $290 to $430, allowing flexibility to customize your journey with accommodation, dining, and exploration along the way.
Average price
$290 - $430
🌄 Traveling from Cairns to Alice Springs by train offers a unique perspective as you traverse through diverse landscapes and experience the vast beauty of the Australian Outback. The journey takes approximately 3 days and 22 hours, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the country's interior. 💰 The prices of train tickets between Cairns and Alice Springs can vary, with fares ranging from $739 to $7268. Despite the extended duration and transfers involved, the train offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel between these two iconic Australian destinations.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Alice Springs station
🛫 Flying from Cairns Airport to Alice Springs Airport is a convenient way to travel, even though there are no direct flights available. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes with one stopover. 🌏 The total flight duration from Cairns to Alice Springs is approximately 8 hours and 4 minutes. With varying prices ranging from $329 to $784, travelers can find a suitable flight that fits their budget and schedule. Overall, this journey promises stunning aerial views and a smooth travel experience.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Alice Springs Airport. The quickest flight takes 6h 30m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be prepared for at least one stopover, often in either Brisbane or Sydney, which can extend your travel time to around 6h 30m to 8h 4m; check your itinerary closely for connection times to avoid missing your onward flight.
• Upon arrival at Alice Springs Airport, the airport is quite small and easy to navigate; simply follow the signs to the arrivals area where you can find baggage claim and transportation options including shuttles and taxis.
• Expect taxi fares from Alice Springs Airport to the city center to be around AUD $20 to $30; for added convenience, consider using rideshare apps like Uber, which can offer competitive rates and are easy to book from the airport.
🌵 The total travel time from Cairns to Alice Springs by bus, including transfers, averages approximately 3 days and 17 hours. Passengers can relax and enjoy the diverse landscapes of Australia as they make their way through various regions on this extended route. 💰 Prices for bus tickets between Alice Springs and Cairns can range from $388 to $857, offering options for different travel budgets. Whether seeking an adventurous trip or a budget-friendly journey, this bus route provides a unique opportunity to explore the diverse scenery of the Australian outback.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Alice Springs station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Alice Springs.

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The distance between Cairns and Alice Springs is approximately 906 miles. The typical travel time by train is not available. To reach Alice Springs from Cairns by taking a bus and then train, it may take a considerable amount of time. If you prefer to travel by plane, the typical travel time is around 8 hours and 4 minutes. However, if you choose to drive, it can take approximately 24 hours and 13 minutes. Traveling by bus only is not specified.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Alice Springs is by flying. It takes around 8 hours and 4 minutes to reach Alice Springs by plane with ticket prices ranging from $330 to $800. Alternatively, driving is the cheapest option, but it takes significantly longer, around 24 hours and 13 minutes, and costs between $290 and $430 for fuel and other expenses.
The prices of a train ticket between Cairns and Alice Springs can range from $722 to $2374. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket between Alice Springs and Cairns vary from $342 to $889. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, type of ticket, and availability. It is recommended to check with the specific transportation companies for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Cairns to Alice Springs without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance is 1459 miles and it takes approximately 24 hours and 13 minutes by car. Keep in mind that the prices for car rentals range from $290 to $430, depending on the specific rental company and vehicle type. However, driving allows for flexibility in terms of stopping at scenic spots along the way and exploring the Australian outback at your own pace.
To travel from Cairns to Alice Springs without a car, the best options are by bus or by plane. Taking a bus is the more affordable option, with a travel time of approximately 3 days 18 hours. The bus fare ranges from $340 to $900. Alternatively, flying is a quicker option, taking around 8 hours and costing between $330 and $800. If you prefer a longer journey, you can also take a train via Sydney, which takes approximately 3 days 22 hours and costs between $700 and $2400.
No, there is no direct link between Cairns and Alice Springs. However, there are indirect options available for both train and bus travel. For train travel, you would need to take a train from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane, then transfer to another train to Sydney Central Station, and then finally take a train to Alice Springs via Adelaide Parklands. This journey can take approximately 3 days 22 hours. For bus travel, you would need to take a bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane, then transfer to another bus to Sydney, continue on a bus to Albury, and then take a final bus to Alice Springs via Adelaide. This journey can take approximately 3 days 18 hours.
The flight between Cairns and Alice Springs takes approximately 7 hours with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available for this route. The cost of a flight typically ranges from $335 to $755, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is advisable to check with different airlines to compare prices and find the best deal for your travel.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Alice Springs. There are over 23 hotels to choose from, offering a range of prices to suit different budgets. Prices start at $17 per night, making it possible to find affordable accommodations. Whether you are looking for a budget hotel or a more luxurious option, Alice Springs has a variety of choices available to suit your needs.