The Northern Territory: full of culture, endless experiences, and vast landscapes as far as the eye can see.

If you’re planning on a road trip around Darwin and need to spend some time away, we’ve narrowed down the most sought-after weekend getaways.

Remember, if you intend on travelling longer distances: plan your route, pack extra supplies and prepare for a memorable trip – an adventure across Darwin is not one to be missed! For the ultimate getaway, hire a campervan, and hit the road towards nature.

Now before we dive in, here’s another bonus tip: Darwin’s wet season often occurs between November and April, so be sure to check weather conditions, just in case any areas are affected by flooding.

Alright – without further ado – these are the best weekend road trips from Darwin: Australia’s Top End…


Darwin to Kakadu

A road trip is all about the journey, not the destination, right? Sealed roads allow for an easy trip with many sights and attractions close to the main road along the way. This trip can be completed in under 2 hours, but why not take your time and check out a few sights along the way? One of your first stops is near Humpty Doo where you will find numerous mango plantations! Further along you will come across large Termite mounds and even a crocodile cruise.

Jim-Jim-Falls-Kakadu

Once you reach Kakadu National Park, you will begin to realise just how enormous it is. To experience the culture-rich terrain, swimming spots, and wildlife, we recommend spending 3-4 days here.

Campsites are allocated to first come first serve basis. Before heading in, contact Bowali Visitor Centre to check on vacancies.

Barramundi-Falls-Kakadu

How big is Kakadu National Park?

As Australia’s largest national park, Kakadu is covers close to 20,000 square kilometers.

How much does it cost to go to Kakadu National Park?

Until the 31st of December 2020, all park entry fees have been waived.


Darwin to Berry Springs

A perfect day trip from Darwin is to Berry Springs. A short 45-minute drive from Darwin leaves you able to spend most your day at the springs. Aside from the beautiful native flora, you can even spot some native aquatic life while swimming! If you are a bird lover, you can also spot some natives hiding about in the trees above. There are plenty of bushwalks and even more picnic spots to form the perfect ingredients for a day in nature.

 

How do I get from Darwin to Berry Springs?

To reach Berry Springs, you will need to drive 40 minutes south of Darwin via Tiger Brennan Drive.

Berry-Springs


Nature’s Way Drive

If you’re limited on time and just want to explore as much as you can, the Natures Way Drive could be the way to go. It’s a 460km loop drive where you start and finish in Darwin. This drive takes you through Kakadu and Nitmiluk National parks. You will weave your way through stunning landscapes while having many opportunities for bush walks or swimming stops. Make sure you visit the Katherine Hot Springs along the way!

There are plenty of pit stops along the way including camping grounds to break up the drive. If you aren’t wanting to stay in a National Park overnight, there are plenty either side of the National parks.

Natures-Way-Drive


Darwin to Nitmiluk National Park

Nitmiluk National Park is a 3-hour drive South East of Darwin. It consists of 13 impressive gorges carved from the ancient sandstone country, that stretch as far as the eye can see. This park allows for canoeing, lots of Insta-worthy gorge shots, and has multiple natural swimming holes to cool off after an action-packed day. To really experience the serenity of this National park, we recommend following the track to Sweetwater Pool which is a secluded swimming hole where the waters mimic the sky in a spectacular display.

The National Park also offers multiple camping grounds if you wish to stay overnight. We recommend the Nitmiluk camping and caravan park located only minutes away from the start of the gorge system.

 

What does Nitmiluk mean?

Nitmiluk means ‘Cicida Place’, a translation native to the Jawoyn people.

nitmiluk-national park northern territory


These are only a few of the top places to visit while adventuring in the NT. The best time to head to Darwin is between May to October during the dry season.

So, what are you waiting for? Hire a campervan out of Darwin, and get tagging!

 

Looking to explore other areas? Check out our Best Australian Weekend Road Trip Guide.

 

About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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