Old Andado Track
About this track
The Old Andado Track is a classic 320 km red-centre run from Alice Springs to the historic Old Andado homestead on the Simpson Desert's fringe, skirting the Mac Clark (Acacia peuce) reserve in the Northern Territory. This moderate 4WD route captures the isolation and raw character of the outback's interior—sandy country with corrugated stretches, rewarding solitude and a genuine sense of remoteness on Australia's least forgiving frontier. A 1–2 day drive that demands respect, self-sufficiency and proper planning, but no permits.
Highlights
- Historic Old Andado homestead and station buildings at track's end
- Mac Clark reserve: ancient desert oak woodland, botanical significance
- Sand patches and corrugations—technical but achievable for experienced drivers
- Genuine outback isolation; minimal traffic and mobile coverage
- Sunrise/sunset photography over red sand and spinifex country
- Recovery-track potential; convoy travel strongly recommended
What to expect
Sandy, corrugated outback road with variable surface. Expect deep sand patches alternating with hard-pack and washboard; low-range driving through tussocky spinifex country. Track is well-defined but remote—no services, no water stops, minimal shade. Crossings are minor but sandy. Visibility is excellent; navigation straightforward. Isolation is absolute; recovery is self-reliant or via satellite comms.
Permits, prep & good to know
- Permits: No — confirm current details before you go.
- Surface / hazards: Sand, corrugations.
- Remoteness: High — travel self-sufficient, ideally in convoy.
- Carry an EPIRB or satellite communicator, recovery gear, extra fuel and water.
No permits required. Best April–October (avoid wet season). Fuel at Alice Springs and Mt Dare; plan your range carefully. Carry minimum 80–100 L jerry cans plus tank. Water: bring 20+ L per person. Dual battery, UHF radio and EPIRB essential. Travel in convoy (at least two vehicles). Recovery gear, sand ladders and spares mandatory. Tyre pressures 18–20 psi for sand. Leave no trace; pack all rubbish. Check road condition with Alice Springs visitor centre before departure.