Located nearer to south-east Asia than Sydney and Melbourne, Darwin is the pearl in Australia’s tropical Northern Territory. With year-round heat, Darwin offers a number of attractions, including exuberant outdoor festivals, absorbing art galleries, the colourful Mindil Beach Markets and tropical parklands which showcase the unique flora and fauna of the area. The city’s modern waterfront offers a quality selection of bars and restaurants whilst culture buffs can learn about Darwin’s tempestuous history at its distinguished museums. In addition to its own charms, Darwin also acts as a base to discover the natural beauty of Litchfield National Park, Kakadu, Arnhem Land and Tiwi Islands. For ambitious adventurers, Darwin is an important pit-stop for inter-state journeys on the Ghan Railway, the Explorer’s Highway and the Savannah Way.
What you’ll love most about the Darwin and Kakadu areas
- Discover the vibrant heart of Darwin at its waterfront precinct, where you can stroll along the promenade, dine at waterfront restaurants, shop at boutiques, and cool off in the Wave Lagoon or the Recreation Lagoon, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment
- Immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture of the Top End at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, where exhibits showcase traditional art, artifacts, and stories of the region’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, providing insights into their ancient traditions and contemporary life
- Embark on a thrilling crocodile-watching cruise along the Adelaide River, just a short drive from Darwin, where you can encounter massive saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat, learn about their behaviour and conservation, and marvel at their powerful presence from the safety of a boat
- Venture into the wilderness of Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure located a few hours’ drive from Darwin, where ancient landscapes, rugged escarpments, and diverse ecosystems await exploration, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, cultural experiences, and discovering ancient rock art sites such as Ubirr and Nourlangie
- Witness some of the world’s oldest and most significant Indigenous rock art at Kakadu, where ancient galleries depict stories of Dreamtime ancestors, wildlife, and cultural traditions, providing a window into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Aboriginal peoples who have called this land home for thousands of years
- Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kakadu’s iconic waterfalls, including Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, which cascade from towering cliffs into crystal-clear plunge pools surrounded by lush vegetation, offering opportunities for swimming, photography, and experiencing the raw power of nature in a pristine wilderness setting