North-west of the central outback lies the Gulf Savannah — a vast tropical-savanna country of golden grasslands, ancient lava tubes, hidden gorges and great rivers running to the Gulf of Carpentaria. It is a different face of outback Queensland: greener, wilder and steeped in the history of the old goldfields and the heritage railways that still run here. From the Undara lava tubes to Cobbold Gorge and the Savannahlander train, the Gulf Country rewards the adventurous traveller. Cooee Tours can include Gulf Savannah experiences on tailored northern journeys.
The Undara Lava Tubes
One of the natural wonders of northern Australia, the Undara lava tubes were formed when a massive volcanic eruption sent lava flowing across the savanna, the outer crust cooling and hardening while the molten rock drained away beneath — leaving a network of vast hollow tunnels. Guided tours lead visitors into these remarkable formations.
Set within the savanna woodlands of Undara Volcanic National Park, the experience combines geology, wildlife and atmosphere in a way that is unique to the Gulf Country.
Gorges, Rail & the Gulf
The Gulf Savannah is dotted with extraordinary places: Cobbold Gorge, a narrow sandstone chasm explored by boat; the heritage Savannahlander and Gulflander trains, survivors of the old railway era; and the Gulf ports of Karumba and Normanton, where the rivers meet the sea and the famous barramundi run.
Normanton is also home to a replica of 'Krys', a record-breaking saltwater crocodile, a reminder that this is genuine tropical-north country. It is a region of long horizons, big rivers and frontier history.
Touring the Gulf with Cooee Tours
The Gulf Savannah covers immense distances across remote northern country, which is why guided touring makes it so much more rewarding. Cooee Tours can build Gulf experiences — the lava tubes, the gorges, the heritage rail and the Gulf ports — into tailored northern journeys.
Talk to us about how the Gulf Savannah can feature in an extended outback and northern Queensland itinerary, with the logistics and local knowledge handled.
Gulf Savannah Highlights
Undara Lava Tubes
Explore one of the world's most remarkable lava-tube systems, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption across the savanna.
Cobbold Gorge
Glide through a narrow, ancient sandstone gorge by boat — one of the Gulf Country's most beautiful hidden places.
Heritage Rail & the Gulf
Ride the historic Savannahlander or Gulflander and reach the Gulf ports of Karumba and Normanton.
Explore the Gulf Savannah with Cooee Tours
The lava tubes, gorges, heritage rail and Gulf ports of the Savannah country can be built into tailored northern journeys. Talk to us about including the Gulf Savannah in an extended outback Queensland itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gulf Savannah?
The Gulf Savannah is the tropical-savanna country of north-west Queensland — golden grasslands, lava tubes, gorges and great rivers running to the Gulf of Carpentaria.
What are the Undara lava tubes?
The Undara lava tubes are a vast network of hollow tunnels formed when an ancient volcanic eruption sent lava across the savanna; the outer crust hardened while the molten rock drained away beneath.
What is there to see in the Gulf Country?
Highlights include the Undara lava tubes, Cobbold Gorge, the heritage Savannahlander and Gulflander trains, and the Gulf ports of Karumba and Normanton.
Can Cooee Tours include the Gulf Savannah?
Yes. We can build Gulf experiences into tailored northern journeys, with the long distances and logistics handled for you.
When is the best time to visit the Gulf Savannah?
The dry season from around May to September is the best time, when roads are accessible and the savanna country is at its most comfortable.
Travel Agents & Group Organisers
This destination suits coach groups, clubs and social groups touring Outback Queensland. Cooee Tours offers net rates, custom routing and guaranteed departures — get in touch to discuss your group's needs.