Borroloola is a remote township situated on the McArthur River in the Northern Territory’s Gulf of Carpentaria region. Located approximately 670 kilometres east-south-east of Katherine, it serves as the principal service centre for the southern Gulf and an important stopping point along the Savannah Way.
The town is home to the Yanyuwa, Garrwa, Mara and Gudanji peoples, whose continuing cultural connections to the rivers, coastline, islands and surrounding Country are central to the region’s identity. Aboriginal culture remains an important part of community life and is represented through locally produced artwork, cultural knowledge and land and sea management.
Borroloola developed as a frontier settlement during the late nineteenth century and has a distinctive history shaped by pastoral activity, transport, government administration and its remote location. The Old Borroloola Police Station Museum Heritage Precinct preserves part of this history and contains one of the Northern Territory’s oldest surviving police station properties.
Today, Borroloola provides fuel, groceries, mechanical services, health facilities, accommodation and other essential services to local residents, surrounding communities, pastoral properties and travellers crossing the Gulf region. The town can be reached from the west via the Carpentaria Highway and forms part of the Savannah Way touring route.
Fishing is one of the region’s strongest visitor attractions. The McArthur River and nearby King Ash Bay attract anglers seeking barramundi and other northern species, while the wider Gulf provides access to estuaries, wetlands, coastal waters and the Sir Edward Pellew Group of Islands.
The surrounding landscape changes dramatically between the wet and dry seasons. Travellers should check current road conditions, park access information and weather forecasts before visiting. Long distances, extreme heat and limited services also make careful vehicle preparation, adequate drinking water and responsible travel essential.
Borroloola offers opportunities to explore local Aboriginal art, regional history, Gulf Country landscapes and the fishing culture associated with the McArthur River and nearby King Ash Bay.
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Explore Borroloola’s river, town centre, fishing destinations and nearby conservation reserve, which together reveal the natural and cultural character of the southern Gulf region.
A walking trail within Caranbirini Conservation Reserve that passes through woodland and striking sandstone formations. The surrounding landscape holds cultural significance and is associated with the Barrawulla, or white cockatoo, creation story.
The service centre of the southern Gulf region, providing shops, fuel, health services, community facilities and visitor accommodation. The town centre reflects Borroloola’s role as an important hub for remote communities and regional travellers.
A permanent waterhole within Caranbirini Conservation Reserve, approximately 46 kilometres south-west of Borroloola. The waterhole supports birdlife and other native wildlife and can be explored by following the reserve’s designated walking tracks.
Located approximately 50 kilometres from Borroloola on the McArthur River, King Ash Bay is one of the Gulf region’s best-known fishing destinations. Its boat access and fishing facilities attract visitors pursuing barramundi and other northern species.
A spectacular collection of weathered sandstone pillars within Caranbirini Conservation Reserve. Some formations rise approximately 25 metres and resemble the towers and streets of an ancient city.
The major river flowing through Borroloola and towards the Gulf of Carpentaria. It supports local ecosystems, fishing activity and cultural connections while shaping the landscape and identity of the wider district.
Planning a stay in Borroloola? Explore eligible commercial accommodation in the town and around King Ash Bay while discovering the McArthur River, local cultural attractions and the landscapes of the Gulf region.
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This list includes eligible hotels, motels, caravan parks, B&Bs, lodges and other qualifying commercial accommodation in Borroloola and within approximately 50 kilometres of the town. Campgrounds, private holiday rentals and Airbnb properties are not included. Inclusion does not imply partnership or endorsement. Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a booking, at no extra cost to you.