Canberra to Perth road trip: Distance, driving time & best stops

Canberra to Perth road trip: Norseman to Perth

From here, it’s just over two hours’ drive north to gold mining city Kalgoorlie.

There are several things to do in Kalgoorlie. Options include learning about the city’s gold mining heritage at the Museum of the Goldfields and Hannans North Tourist Mine. You can also see how the modern day operation works, on a tour of the staggeringly enormous Superpit. Scenic flights over the Superpit are another option.

Where should I stay in Kalgoorlie?

Specialist Australian accommodation website Wotif offers Kalgoorlie accommodation for from $133 a night. Check out the deals page to search for the best value stay.

However, you should consider these options first.

For central location and a pool: Plaza Hotel.
For best quality: Quest Yelverton apartments.
For proximity to the railway station: Quality Inn Railway Motel.
For pool, free parking and good value: Hospitality Inn (part of the Best Western group).

Superpit Kalgoorlie — It is possible to visit the Superpit in Kalgoorlie on a guided tour. Photo by David Whitley/ Australia Travel Questions

The Kalgoorlie to Perth drive is, frankly, a bit of a slog. The 593km drive along the Great Eastern Highway should take around six-and-a-half hours, and most of the highlights are essentially within an hour of Perth.

The Granite Way, a 60km driving route between the big granite outcrops of Kellerberrin, Quairading and Bruce Rock, is a possible exception worthy of a detour.

If you do want to break the journey later on, you can visit the Karakamia Sanctuary in Chidlow, the John Forrest National Park near Hovea and Mundaring Weir. The latter is the end of the giant water pipe that runs alongside the Great Eastern Highway, providing water to Kalgoorlie.

Other options along the route include learning about the gargantuan State Barrier Fence in Burracoppin and Indigenous culture at the Bilya Koort Boodja centre in Northam.

Northam accommodation options include the heritage-centric Duke’s Inn and the amiable Fairway Manor.

DON’T MISS OUT! 9 fabulous Perth experiences to book today ✅

✅ See the Rottnest Island quokkas the smart way – with a ferry and bike package.
✅ Be amazed by the abundant wildlife – on a dolphin, penguin and sealion cruise.
✅ See clear night skies in a moon-like desert – on a Pinnacles stargazing experience.
✅ Indulge in chocolate, cheese & premium wines – on a Swan Valley food and wine tour.
✅ See the city sunset from the water – on a Swan River dinner cruise.
✅ Watch gold being melted and poured – on a Perth Mint gold tour.
✅ Combine nature with imperious city views – on Kings Park Segway tour.
✅ Face your fears and get the thrill of your life on a – on a 15,000ft skydive.
✅ Find all the best hidden hangouts – on a small bar and street art tour.

When you finally arrive in Perth, there’s lots to do. Try a Rottnest Island day trip, swimming with wild dolphins or a Swan Valley wine cruise.

Good value Perth hotels include the small but cheap Pensione, the Murray Hotel – which has a little pool – and the Hotel Northbridge, which is close to the nightlife.

5 great day trips from Perth – make your visit special

Rottnest Island ferry transfer – with bike hire and snorkelling gear. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Pinnacles desert – with koalas 🐨 and sandboarding.
Wave Rock day tour – with wildflowers & Aboriginal culture.
Margaret River wineries experience 🍷 – with tastings, caves & Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.
Full day Swan Valley wine tour 🍷– with lunch.