Fuel Stops on the Sandover Highway

The Sandover Highway is a 561 km remote outback route connecting the Plenty Highway, east of Alice Springs, with Alpurrurulam (Lake Nash) near the Queensland border. Predominantly unsealed, the route follows the Sandover River through vast desert landscapes, cattle stations and Aboriginal communities, offering adventurous travellers an alternative east west journey across Central Australia. Due to its remote location, limited services and long distances between fuel stops, the Sandover Highway is best suited to well prepared 4WD travellers.

⚠️ Note that road conditions can change considerably following rain and flooding. Travellers should check current road conditions (link out NT road conditions page: https://roadreport.nt.gov.au/home) before departure, as sections can become badly damaged or impassable.

Arlparra

250km from Alice Springs | 390km from Alpurrurulam (Lake Nash)
Opening hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 am–5:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am–12:00 pm, closed Sundays

Approximately 279km northeast of Alice Springs, Arlparra is a small but valuable stop for anyone travelling the Sandover Highway. The Puma fuel station and community store provide fuel along with everyday essentials such as groceries, cold drinks, snacks and takeaway items. Services are limited, so it's a good opportunity to refuel and restock before heading further into the outback, where distances between towns become even greater.

Ammaroo

310km from Alice Springs | 330km from Alpurrurulam (Lake Nash)
Opening hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 am–5:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am–12:00 pm, closed Sundays

Around 500km north of Alice Springs, the Puma fuel station at Ammaroo is a welcome sight for travellers exploring the eastern reaches of the Northern Territory. Fuel, cold drinks and a small selection of convenience items are available, making it an ideal place to take a break and prepare for the next stretch of your journey. Situated on the Sandover Highway, Ammaroo is the last place to refuel in this remote part of the Territory, so it's wise to make the most of the stop while you're there.

Fuel is available at Arlparra, while availability at Alpurrurulam can be less reliable. Travellers should refuel whenever possible and confirm availability and opening hours before departure. The distances are significant, with approximately 310 km between Alice Springs and Arlparra, and a further 340 km from Arlparra to Alpurrurulam. Plan your trip carefully, top up whenever you can and check ahead where possible before setting out. The Sandover Highway is a very remote route with limited services, minimal signage and long distances between fuel stops. Carry additional fuel, water, food, spare tyres, recovery equipment and reliable offline navigation. Do not rely solely on Google Maps or mobile coverage.

Map and Fuel Stops of the Sandover Highway