Best Places to Visit in the Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is Australia’s mid-northern region and the home to the ‘Top End’, ‘The Red Centre’, and the real outback of Australia. Vast deserts, tropical beaches, and lush rainforests are what you can expect to find during a visit to the Northern Territory. The most epic way to experience the Northern Territory is a self-drive trip around its spectacular regions, and there are plenty of great campground options to stay during your journey. Here are the top four places to visit during your road trip around the Northern Territory.

Image via Citrus Australia

Darwin

The Northern Territory’s capital city, Darwin, is the ideal starting point for your Top End adventure. Australia’s only tropical capital city will feel a whole world away from the rest of the country, being closer to many Asian countries than it is to Sydney or Melbourne. With its balmy nights, international food markets, and tropical outdoor lifestyle, Darwin is a laid-back city that can be described as anything but dull. Discover Australia’s indigenous arts and culture, go on a wildlife exploration journey or be entertained at many superb dining locations in the city. Darwin is renowned for its multicultural dining experiences, where you can sample anything from Thai cuisine to kangaroo, crocodile, or camel if you are adventurous!

Image via NorthernTerritory.com

Kakadu National Park

Experience the Kakadu National Park for an unforgettable outdoor Australian experience. The World Heritage-listed national park is three hours drive east of Darwin, and the perfect opportunity to go beyond basic tourism. You will uncover the real spirit of Australian natural and cultural heritage in the largest terrestrial national park in Australia. Experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls, Aboriginal rock art galleries, and over 290 bird varieties. Some of our ‘must-do’ recommendations are; taking a cruise on Yellow Water Billabong to discover the wildlife and scenery, visiting the spectacular Jim Jim Falls, and of course, coming face to face with a saltwater crocodile at a feeding show.

Katherine Region

Visit the Katherine Region of NT to discover where the outback meets the tropics. In this adventurer’s paradise, you can take part in activities such as canoeing, bushwalking, and fishing. Visit spectacular natural wonders like the misty Edith Falls, take a journey into Cutta Cutta Caves, or take a dip in the relaxing Katherine Hot Spring. A major attraction in the region is the Katherine Gorge system made up of 13 separate gorges and the spectacular Katherine River that flows through them. Pack yourself a picnic and have a sunset dinner with a fantastic view of the rock formations, or you can even take a helicopter ride if you wish to really take in the scenery!

Image via NorthernTerritory.com

Image via NorthernTerritory.com

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

When anyone thinks of Australia, Uluru is an icon that comes to mind. The physical beauty and awe of the formation is a recognisable image from a postcard or photograph of Australia. This enormous sandstone rock formation rises from seemingly nowhere in the deep Red Centre of Australia and is one of the worlds greatest natural wonders. Lying in the true outback and the spiritual heart of Australia, Uluru and its surrounding area is one of the most culturally significant regions in the country to traditional landowners. Uluru is more than just a rock, it’s a living landscape sacred to Aboriginal identities and the birthplace of many Dream Time stories. Self-discover or take a guided tour of Uluru to learn about its spiritual significance and view some of the starriest skies in the world!

Want to learn more about the Northern Territory? Check out Tourism Top End for more epic travel itineraries or don’t forget to check out our latest deals & specials on campervan hire in Darwin.

If you want to read more of our Darwin adventures, come and explore the dedicated Darwin Road Trips. Happy Exploring!