Australia’s deserts aren’t just vast, dry stretches of sand, they’re places of soul-stirring beauty, ancient stories, and unforgettable adventures. I’ve been lucky enough to traverse some of these iconic landscapes, and each one has left a lasting impression. Here are my top five desert adventures, from the mighty Simpson to the raw, remote vastness of the Great Victoria Desert.

1. Simpson Desert – Following the Madigan Line

Forget the French Line — if you’re chasing a real desert adventure, the Madigan Line is the one to beat. Named after explorer Cecil Madigan, who crossed this route in 1939 with camels and a scientific party, the Madigan Line is the most remote way to cross the Simpson Desert and follows a series of marked campsites from east to west.

Starting just north of Old Andado Station, the track snakes west across the desert towards Mt Dare, traversing vast dune fields, swales, and spinifex-covered plains. It’s a slow and challenging crossing, and on some days, we barely made 50 kilometres, but the sense of solitude and connection to the land is unmatched.

Trip Tip:

Permits are required from the Aboriginal Land Councils and the Northern Territory Government. You’ll need a high-clearance 4WD, GPS mapping, and full self-sufficiency.

2. Great Sandy Desert – Across the Nyangamarta Highway

The Nyangamarta Highway, formerly known as the Kidson Track, is a raw, remote route stretching over 600km through the western fringes of the Great Sandy Desert. Created in the late 1960s, this track begins near Sandfire Roadhouse and runs east toward Well 33 on the Canning Stock Route, carving through some of the most untouched country in Western Australia.

Crossing Nyangumarta country, this journey is about more than just ruts, dunes, and spinifex plains — it’s about respect. The track passes several sacred sites where photography is not permitted; travellers are urged to tread lightly and observe local cultural protocols. Two designated campsites are available on the western half of the route, offering safe and respectful places to stop and soak in the desert’s silence.

This is a truly isolated track with long, soft sandy stretches, occasional corrugations, and a deep sense of wildness. I didn’t pass another vehicle for days — and that’s part of the magic.

Trip Tip:

A permit is required from the Nyangumarta Warrarn Aboriginal Corporation. Carry ample water, fuel, recovery gear, and travel in convoy if possible. This is serious country — remote, sacred, and absolutely unforgettable.

3. Little Desert – Where the Bush Meets the Sands

The Little Desert in western Victoria is a unique blend of sandy desert terrain and rich biodiversity. I explored this gem in spring, and the contrast between desert sands, banksia woodlands, and wildflowers was remarkable.

It’s ideal for beginner off-roaders or anyone wanting a taste of desert adventure closer to civilisation. Wildlife is abundant, from shingleback lizards to mallee fowl.

Trip Tip:

Set up camp at Kiata campground for easy access to 4WD tracks. A great entry point for those new to desert driving.

4. Great Victoria Desert – Along the Anne Beadell Highway

Spanning over 700km, the Anne Beadell Highway is a true test of endurance and remote travel. Built by legendary surveyor Len Beadell and named after his wife, this track runs between Coober Pedy (SA) and Laverton (WA), cutting right through the heart of the Great Victoria Desert.

This track is rough, slow-going, and rarely travelled, perfect for those seeking raw adventure. Along the way, you’ll encounter wild camels, salt lakes, old military relics, and silence so thick it hums.

Trip Tip:

You’ll need multiple permits to cross Aboriginal lands, and fuel logistics must be carefully planned. Travel prepared, travel slow, and let the desert show you its secrets.

5. Gibson Desert – Along the Talawana Track

The Talawana Track runs through the remote heart of the Gibson Desert, from Windy Corner to the Marble Bar Road. It’s one of the loneliest tracks I’ve driven, but also one of the most rewarding.

Constructed in the 1960s by Len Beadell’s team, this track offers a true test of self-reliance. With no services, minimal signage, and vast stretches of spinifex and salt lakes, you need to be completely self-sufficient.

Trip Tip:

Fuel, water, and navigation are critical. A satellite phone, StarLink or HF radio is non-negotiable. Travel with a second vehicle if you can.

Final Thoughts

Each of these desert adventures has challenged me, changed me, and deepened my love for Australia’s rugged heart. Whether it’s the towering dunes of the Simpson via the Madigan, the remoteness of the Nyangamarta Highway, or the sheer isolation of the Anne Beadell and Talawana Tracks, the magic of the desert keeps calling me back.

Australia’s deserts demand respect, they’re not to be rushed or taken lightly. But for those willing to prepare and take the plunge, they offer an experience like no other. So fill up your tank, drop those tyre pressures, and lose yourself in the silence of the sands.