When speaking of the Northern Territory, it’s hard not to give mention to the breath-taking beauty of its vast landscapes, bursting with unmatched natural, historical and cultural diversity.
Although often overlooked by many on their tours of the Northern Territory, the city of Darwin is much more than just a portal to Australia’s outback. It’s untamed tropical charm and small-town feel, coupled with a year-round outdoor lifestyle is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Here’s a list of some of the best things to do when visiting Darwin and the Top End of the Northern Territory.
Take part in a day trip, or stay the night at our luxurious Tiwi Island Retreat to experience the richness of culture across these secluded islands. Largely untouched, the Tiwi Islands span across a combined area of 8,320 square kilometres, boasting some of Australia’s most lively flora and fauna.
A thirty-minute flight or 2.5-hour ferry ride north of Darwin, the Tiwi Islands are a great place to immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture and embrace the seclusion of a of a true natural paradise. Meeting local artists at the islands’ art centres and experiencing a smoke ceremony are a must do when visiting.
It’s no secret that one of the best things to in the Northern Territory is to make the most of its year-round fishing. All four seasons boast an amazing variety of species to be found, with the famous NT Barramundi available throughout the year. As part of our tours offering in the Tiwi Islands you can head out on a charter boat and try your hand at blue water fishing. And, if you’re feeling game, you can even sign up to try your luck with the annual million dollar fish competition!
Often regarded as one of the best kept secrets in the NT, Litchfield National Park should be a definite location on your list of places to visit. A one-hour drive to the south of Darwin, Litchfield covers around 1,500 square kilometres and features stunning tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear swimming holes. Whether you’re hiking it’s walking trails, marvelling at the natural wonders, or simply looking for a respite from Darwin’s tropical heat, a visit to Litchfield National Park is sure to be a memorable experience. For an all-inclusive tour of the spectacular wildlife and landscapes of the Litchfield region, check out our Top End Safari Camp Tours.
Surrounded by scenic mangroves and pristine waters, Darwin Harbour is an amazing place to wander around and witness one of many stunning sunsets. Bursting with unique marine life and sprinkled with sunken ships from World War II and Indonesian fishing vessels, the tidal waters of Darwin’s foreshore are an amazing place to sail, fish, dive, or experience one of our breathtaking Adventure Boat Tours. Close to Darwin’s city centre and world-class accommodation (including our very own Fresh Water Retreat), Darwin’s waterfront is an attraction to tourists and locals alike, host to many amazing cultural and community events, gatherings, and markets.
For a deep dive into the Northern Territory’s fascinating history, take a quick trip to MAGNT. An amazing place to visit for an eye-opening insight into the NT, here you’ll find amazing collections that showcase the rich diversity of Darwin’s Indigenous art and culture, natural wonders, and maritime history.
Australia’s largest national park, Kakadu, covers nearly 20,000 square kilometres and is listed as a World Heritage Site for its awe-inspiring cultural and natural wonders. A trip to Kakadu will see you learning ancient stories of the Bininj/Mungguy people, who have been home to Kakadu for some 65,000 years.
With more than 5,000 Aboriginal rock art sites and a seemingly endless supply of stunning ancient landscapes, experiencing Kakadu National Park either by tour or on your own is a must do when visiting the Northern Territory.
We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present, and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation; we are proud to work closely with the traditional owners of the Northern Territory and to honour their land and culture in everything we do.
