Guide to Australia’s Northern Territory

The stunning hues of reds, browns, and greens make up the Northern Territory of Australia. Places like Uluru, Darwin, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Katherine, Tennant Creek, and Alice Springs make up some of our favorite spots to visit.

The Northern Territory is rich with Aboriginal history, rugged natural beauty, amazing wildlife, charismatic outback characters, and amazing landscapes to boot. Each area boasts wonders and adventures of all kinds! In Darwin, you’ll find a wonderful array of cuisines and cultures. Discover rainforests and Aboriginal rock art in Kakadu National Park, and gold panning in Tennant Creek. In the Northern Territory, you’re sure to find adventure in every corner.

Here are just some of the amazing Aussie adventures you’ll find in the Northern Territory:

Ayers Rock/Uluru:

Rising 348 meters from the desert, you’ll find yourself breathless at Uluru. An Aboriginal Anangu guide will teach you about Uluru’s cultural significance as you walk around its base. Get up close and personal to the grandeur of Kata Tjuta—sacred russet domes formed through million of years of erosion. Walk to Kathleen Springs, drive the Mereenie Loop, or soar over the canyon in a helicopter!

Uluru Rock in the Outback - Toursim Australia - Travel Northern Australia
The incredible and massive Uluru rock. Image: Tourism Australia

Darwin:

Meet the crocodiles of the Northern Territory. These magnificent, prehistoric creatures are what Darwin is known for! You can take a guided cruise along the river and watch saltwater crocs in their natural habitat, propelling themselves high out of the water to snatch their pray. If you feel like exploring Darwin city, you’ll find unique cuisine, local arts, and live entertainment. From Sparkling Harbour and its WWII history to the city’s Asian-influenced food and tropical outdoor lifestyle, you won’t be disappointed!

Saltwater Crocodile in Water - Tourism Northern Territory - Travel Northern Territory
One of the many enormous saltwater crocodiles in the Northern Territory. Image: Tourism Northern Territory

Kakadu National Park:

Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage Site located less than 3 hours from Darwin. Here you’ll find wildlife, waterfalls, and one of the world’s largest areas of accessible rock art. Explore the scenery that inspired the classic Crocodile Dundee films!

  • Explore on foot with a local guide
  • Spot crocs and birdlife
  • Swim in hidden waterfalls
  • Immerse yourself in the Aboriginal culture
  • Witness the ancient Nourlangie Rock Art in Kakadu National Park

Aboriginal Rock Art - Tourism Australia - Travel Northern Australia
Aboriginal rock art in Kakadu National Park. Image: Tourism Australia

Arnhem Land:

Bordering Kakadu National Park, the Arafura Sea, and the Gulf of Carpentaria, Arnhem Land is a vast and lush wilderness that is rich with Aboriginal culture. The Yolngu people are the owners of Arnhem Land and have occupied the area for at least 60,000 years, keeping strong cultural and spiritual ties to the land. East Arnhem Land is full of historic sites, chartered fishing trips, cultural experiences, and exotic island retreats. West Arnhem Land has loads to explore, including Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, Seven Spirit Bay, Injalak Art Centre, and Mt. Borradaile!

Aboriginal Cultural Experience - Tourism Australia - Travel Northern Australia
An aboriginal cultural experience in the Arnhem Land. Image: Tourism Australia

Katherine:

In this remote region filled with dramatic scenery, you will find a never-ending supply of adventures to explore!

  • Learn about the historic pioneering township of Katherine and trek the ancient Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park
  • Take a soak in the hot springs and thermal pools this region is known for
  • Fish for barramundi of the Gulf of Carpentaria
  • Hire a canoe and paddle along the gorge
  • See Aboriginal rock art and massive amounts of wildlife
  • Explore the area on a luxurious adventure cruise

Katherine Gorge - Tourism Northern Territory - Travel Northern Australia
The magnificent Katherine Gorge. Image: Tourism Northern Territory 

Tennant Creek

History is in abundance in this region. Here are some of our favorite activities while in Tennant Creek:

  • Pan for gold and explore an underground mine in the Battery Hill Mining Centre
  • Visit the Telegraph Station linking Australia to the outside world in 1872
  • Trek to the perilously balanced boulders known as Devils Marbles in the plains south of Tennant Creek. Learn about their significance to the traditional owners, the Warumungu people

Alice Springs:

Stay in the heart of Australia’s outback in the famous town of Alice Springs. Here you can bushwalk, 4WD, or join a camel trek across the sand dunes of the Simpson Desert. Visit Glen Helen Gorge and see rock wallabies at Simpsons Gap, or take a bike ride to Simpsons Gap at dawn! Discover the amazing Aboriginal art styles along Tanami Track and explore rock art, artifacts, and ceremonial sites near St. Teresa.

Baby kangaroo at the Kangaroo Sanctuary - Tourism Northern Territory - Travel Northern Territory
The kangaroo sanctuary in Alice Springs. Image: Tourism Northern Territory

Ready to plan your own vacation to Australia’s Northern Territory? Browse our custom Australia vacation packages, or give us a call at 888-367-0933 to start planning the adventure of a lifetime!