Country Guides: Australia - A Guide to the Northern Territory

Written by Gapyear.com

In association with Northern Territory Tourism (Tourism NT)

A Guide to the Northern Territory

Gapyear.com says:

The Northern Territory is arguably the most beautiful and most impressive part of Australia. You’ll hear talk of ‘The Outback’, of the amazing colours, smells, sheer vastness and the incredible stunning beauty of Australia. But if you want to experience it for real when you get to Australia, this is where it’s at.

The Northern Territory houses Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), Kings Canyon, Karlu Karlu (The Devils Marbles), Arnhem Land, Katherine Gorge and Kakadu National Park, all the stuff you go to Australia to see. The area is tens of thousands of years old and the direct descendants of the native Aboriginal inhabitants are still around today to show you their backyard, which has remained pretty much the same since time began. Rock art looks amazing in photos, but is breath-taking from ten feet. The Aboriginal culture is abundant so it’s easy to immerse yourself in it and experience it as it should be experienced - up close.

The most famous towns are Darwin and Alice Springs, from where you can access backpacker tours to all these famous places. However, some of the most popular places to visit are the small outback towns where you’ll feel just what’s it’s like to live in the Great Outdoors.

It’s one thing being able to hop on a bus into town on a night out. It’s another having to drive for six hours straight just to get to your nearest neighbour to borrow some sugar!

This country is vast and the Northern Territory is just that too. So it has everything. From the dryness of the central deserts to the wetlands of the North, you’ll see everything from kangaroos the size of houses to crocs the size of buses (well, not quite, but you get the idea!) to barramundi (that’s a ‘big fish’ to you), the odd lizard, birds you never knew existed and all the other extras from Crocodile Dundee (in fact one museum has the buffalo Mick Dundee tamed, stuffed and in it’s bar - so you really can meet a few of them!).

Where else would host a ‘Camel Cup’ and a boating regatta on a river bed that dried up a few thousand years ago? The Northern Territory sounds exciting ... well - because it is. As a backpacker you’ll come home with photos of the Opera House and countless golden beaches. But this is where the lifelong memories and the stories you’ll tell your mates are all formed. This is why the Northern Territory is one of the most visited Australian States on the backpacker trail. Just make sure you put enough time aside to see it properly.

We hope you find this guide both inspiring and useful. We’ve enjoyed putting it together.

Thinking of visiting Kakadu National Park?

We’ve got just the guide for you!

Download the gapyear.com guide to Kakadu National Park using the link below:

www.gapyear.com/articles_downloads/gycg_0007-guide-to-kakadu-national-park.pdf

About Northern Territory*

Equivalent in size to France, Italy and Spain combined, it’s not surprising the Northern Territory is blessed with an abundance of natural environments.

There is no greater haven than the Northern Territory for those looking to make a connection with nature.

The Aboriginal people, hold a deeply spiritual connection to the land that dates back tens of thousands of years, yet can still be shared today.

The Northern Territory is renowned for its colourful characters. The type you’d meet at one of our legendary outback pubs, cattle stations or country towns. Uncomplicated, larger than life, and only too willing to share a yarn or two. You’ll be inspired by the spirit of the people in Australia’s outback.

Getting to the Northern Territory

Getting to the Northern Territory is easy. The vibrant capital city of Darwin is closer to Asia than any other capital city in Australia and, in the centre, Alice Springs only a 2-3 hour plane ride from most Australian capital cities.

Flights to the Northern Territory

Qantas

Qantas is widely regarded as the world’s leading long distance airline and one of the strongest brands in Australia. Qantas operates regular flights into Alice Springs and Darwin from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Cairns. There are also a number of direct flights to Yulara from Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Cairns.

In addition Qantas offers daily flights within the Northern Territory, connecting Darwin, Alice Springs and Yulara.

Regional Link

Regional Link is a newly formed division of the NT aviation services company Capiteq Limited, whose other airline subsidiary is Airnorth. Regional Link offers numerous flights into Darwin from regional areas including Broome, Kununurra, Gove, Groote Eylandt, Granites, Maningrida and McArthur River. Regional Link also operates one flight a week from Perth via Kununurra.

Tiger Airways

Tiger Airways is a low-cost airline providing daily flights to the Territory. The company’s majority owner/operator is Singapore Airlines.

Jetstar

Qantas’s budget airline, Jetstar, operates low-cost services direct to Darwin from Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Cairns.

Virgin Blue

Virgin Blue is a budget airline providing daily services to Darwin from Brisbane. The company flies to all Australian States and Territories, New Zealand and selected Pacific islands.

Skywest

Skywest is the major regional airline in Western Australia, providing an essential link for regional communities, tourists and businesses. They operate three flights a week from Perth to Darwin via Broome.

From Overseas

Darwin is increasingly popular as a traveller’s gateway between Australia and Asia. Our visitors are now choosing to fly to Singapore and catch the short flight down to Darwin.

If you fly from the Americas and enter another Australian city, just jump on a domestic airline to Darwin, Alice Springs or Yulara, the location of Uluru/Ayers Rock. Either way, the Northern Territory is an easy destination to get to and a great place to visit.

By Rail

The Ghan train journey traverses the country from south to north over 2979 kilometres. Travellers can commence the journey in Adelaide and disembark in Darwin, or vice versa, with passengers able to stop over in Alice Springs and Katherine en route.

By Road

From South Australia

Driving north from South Australia you’ll take the Explorer’s Way (Stuart Highway) from Adelaide through Coober Pedy into the Northern Territory. In the NT, you’ll drive through the major centres of Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Katherine before arriving in Darwin.

From Western Australia

There are a few access points from Western Australia, including the Savannah Way (Victoria Highway) and Butine Highway in the north and the Tanami Road that runs across the Tanami Desert in the south

From Queensland

When driving west from Queensland, the most easily accessible route is the fully-sealed Overlander’s Way (Barkly Highway) from Mt Isa. Alternatively travellers can drive the Savannah Way from Cairns, which contains unsealed sections. A 4WD is recommended!

By Sea

Cruising has increased in popularity in the Northern Territory and the schedules for several international cruises include a day stopover in Darwin. Expedition cruise ships touring the northern coast of Australia are becoming a popular way to visit remote Aboriginal art communities in Arnhem Land and Groote Eylandt.

Essential Info*

The Northern Territory is home to two World Heritage-listed national parks - Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta - along with over 50 other national parks, nature reserves, conservation areas and marine parks. These parks offer plenty of experiences for travellers: bushwalking, swimming under waterfalls, Aboriginal cultural tours and camping under the stars.

Following is some essential information on the Northern Territory’s national parks:

• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park requires a permit to access, which is provided at the entry station. The cost of an adult, three-day pass is $25
• Camp in designated camp sites and remember to take all rubbish with you when you leave. Camping is not permitted in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
• Pets are not permitted in any national park in the Northern Territory
• Some parks in the northern part of the Territory, such as Kakadu, are home to saltwater crocodiles. Obey the ‘no swimming’ warnings!
• Take care with fire, light fires only in fireplaces provided. Take a gas barbecue in case there is a total fire ban
• Avoid using soaps and detergent in or near waterways
• All cultural items and wildlife are protected. Don’t feed native animals

Climate Information*

Central Australia

The Northern Territory is so large it covers two very distinct climate zones: The Red Centre and the Tropical North.

Central Australia, which includes Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, the Barkly Tablelands and Uluru / Kata-Tjuta regions, has a semi-arid climate. It experiences Australia’s four typical seasons: summer, autumn, winter and spring.

The Red Centre has hot summer days from December to February and surprisingly cold nights from June to August. Spring and autumn are warm throughout the day and cool at night.

Tropical North (Top End)

The Tropical North or Top End, which includes Darwin, Katherine, Kakadu and Arnhem Land, has a tropical climate. Darwin has an average temperature of 32 degrees celsius all year, with varying humidity. The tropical summer, from December to March, is considered by many to be the region’s most beautiful time of year.

The summer rains bring the natural landscape to life and deliver the picturesque storms and sunsets the Northern Territory is renowned for.

The dry season, from May to October, has warm, sunny days and cool nights.

At the end of the year, the build up, or pre-monsoon season, begins and humidity levels start their rise.

Climate charts*

The following chart outlines Alice Springs’ monthly climate averages as an indicator for the Red Centre.

Mar - May

Min average temperature - 12C (55F)

Max average temperature - 27C (82F)

Jun - Aug

Min average temperature - 3C (37F)

Max average temperature - 20C (68F)

Sept - Nov

Min average temperature - 14C (57F)

Max average temperature - 30C (86F)

Dec - Feb

Min average temperature - 20C (69F)

Max average temperature - 35C (95F)

The following chart outlines Darwin’s monthly climate averages as an indicator for the whole northern region.

Jan - Feb

Min average temperature - 24C (75F)

Max average temperature - 31C (88F)

Mar - Apr

Min average temperature - 24C (75F)

Max average temperature - 32C (90F)

May - Sept

Min average temperature - 21C (69F)

Max average temperature - 31C (88F)

Oct - Dec

Min average temperature - 25C (77F)

Max average temperature - 32C (91F)

Gapyear.com says

The Northern Territory is an enormous place. As a result the climate at the bottom is very different from the top. The Tropic of Capricorn runs through Alice Springs and everywhere North of that is heading towards the Equator. This means that when it is hot, it is hot. Very hot! And when it is ‘Tropical’, it is best described as ‘Wet’.

As a visitor to the area if you are from colder climates such as the Northern Hemisphere or Europe then please be aware of issues such as sunstroke and drinking enough water throughout the day to stop dehydration, both of which can hospitalise you pretty quickly. If in doubt seek local advice.

So please be safe, be wise and have a good time!

Geography in the Northern Territory*

Rock Formations

The world’s most famous rock, Uluru / Ayers Rock, is an inselberg and the largest single piece of exposed rock on the planet. Nearby, Kata Tjuta National Park is a group of 36 rock domes that date back about 500 million years. Complete the 9.4km base walk around Uluru then take the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta.

Mountain ranges

Central Australia features the MacDonnell Ranges, Petermann Range and the Harts Range. The Northern Territory’s highest peak, Mount Zeal, 1531m, is part of the West MacDonnell Range, which features a series of dramatic highlights and can be accessed on the Red Centre Way.

Escarpments

The sandstone escarpments and plateaus of Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park form some of the NT’s most incredible scenery. The escarpments are punctuated by waterfalls and line the floodplains.

Kakadu and Arnhem Land are renowned for both their natural and cultural features and provide many opportunities to discover the landscape and the indigenous lifestyle.

Islands

The coastline of the Top End includes three of Australia’s largest islands, Groote Island, Bathurst Island and Melville Island. Together, Bathurst and Melville Islands make up the the Tiwi Islands and offer unique indigenous cultural experiences.

Rivers

The Northern Territory is home to the world’s oldest river system, the Finke River, and Kakadu National Park encompasses almost the entire catchment of a major monsoonal river system.

The Northern Territory’s extensive river systems include the Alligator River, Adelaide River, Daly River, Finke River, McArthur River, Roper River, Todd River and Victoria River.

Deserts

Alice Springs is surrounded by a red sand sea the size of Europe. The Simpson Desert stretches south from Alice towards the South Australian border and the Tanami Track goes more than 1000km to the north-west and into Western Australia.

The desert is imprinted with spiritual significance for the local Aboriginal people, who see Dreamtime stories give meaning to its striking landforms.

Movie Territory*

The Northern Territory has provided the dramatic and inspirational backdrop for numerous films and television programs throughout the years.

Baz Luhrmann’s epic feature Australia has Darwin buzzing with excitement. The film features the historic Stokes Hill Wharf and majestic harbour and brings Darwin’s forgotten war story to the international stage.

The Red Centre’s vast deserts and spectacular rock formations exemplify the magic and mystery of the outback. The dramatic panorama of the Red Centre, including Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park and Rainbow Valley, set the stage for memorable scenes in Priscilla Queen of the Desert and The Alice.

The untouched landscapes of World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, in the Northern Territory’s Top End, were the location for adventure in Rogue and the classic film Crocodile Dundee.

Aboriginal films are gaining national and international recognition for their quality and innovation. The acclaimed films Ten Canoes and Yolngu Boy are set in the remote landscapes of Arnhem Land and share the fascinating culture of its indigenous people.

Movie Landscapes

Darwin City

Darwin is the tropical capital city of the NT, and features harbour views, a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and warm weather all year round.

Kakadu National Park

The billabongs, woodlands, sandstone escarpments and coastal beaches of Kakadu provide a plethora of scenic movie backdrops.

Arnhem Land

Arnhem Land is one of the last great unspoiled areas of the world, where the traditional Aboriginal cultures remain largely intact.

Nitmiluk National Park

Home to the spectacular Katherine Gorge and 200,000 hectares of rugged landscapes, dramatic waterfalls and lush gorges.

Alice Springs

The heart of Central Australia is comprised of cavernous gorges, desert landscapes and vibrant aboriginal communities.

Kings Canyon

The dramatic red walls and sheltered valleys of this chasm 270 metres deep provide a multitude of locations for mystery and adventure.

The Regions of Northern Territory*

The Northern Territory can be divided into 6 regions...

1. Darwin and Surrounds

Darwin, featured in Australia the movie, is the tropical capital city of Australia’s Northern Territory. Darwin has a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and enjoys warm weather all year round. Perched on a peninsula with sea on three sides, Darwin is an excellent base to explore the natural attractions of World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks, the Tiwi Islands and Arnhem Land.

Darwin was founded as Australia’s most northerly harbour port in 1869, and its population rapidly expanded after the discovery of gold at nearby Pine Creek in 1871. World War II put Darwin on the map as a major allied military base for troops fighting the Japanese in the Pacific.

Today travellers can see evidence of Darwin’s World War II history at a variety of preserved sites including ammunition bunkers, airstrips and oil tunnels in and around the city. Darwin again made world news when the city was rebuilt in the wake of Cyclone Tracy in 1974 - an event well documented at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. Its colourful history has contributed to Darwin’s cultural diversity - more than 50 nationalities make up its 100,000 population, including the area’s traditional landowners, the Larrakia Aboriginal people. The cultural and culinary benefits of such a melting pot are best experienced at Darwin’s weekly markets, variety of restaurants and through the annual calendar of festivals and other Darwin events.

Close to Darwin is the Mary River region. This area is renowned for its wetlands and wildlife, and is home to millions of birds, saltwater crocodiles and fish, including the mighty barramundi, which makes it a fishing hot spot. Also nearby, the Tiwi Islands’ are known for their dense rainforests, sandy beaches and rock pools. These breathtakingly beautiful islands lie 80 kilometres north of Darwin and can be reached by light aircraft in 20 minutes.

Heritage and culture

Darwin’s cultural heritage is a unique blend of ancient Aboriginal custom, European pioneering legacy, WWII history and fresh Asian influence. A visit to the eclectic collection at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, just 4 kms from the city centre is a great place to start your exploration of Darwin’s heritage.

2. Kakadu and Arnhem Land

Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land comprise more than 110,000 square kilometres in the north-east corner of the Northern Territory.

The landscapes of Kakadu and Arnhem Land are diverse and set the scene for outback adventure travel, aboriginal culture and nature activities.

Kakadu National Park is the largest national park in Australia. It contains one of the highest concentrated areas of aboriginal rock art sites in the world; the most famous examples are at Nourlangie Rock and Ubirr.

Nature and wildlife abound in this area, which is known for its level of biodiversity.

Wholly aboriginal owned land, Arnhem Land is known for its strong aboriginal culture, towering escarpments, wild coastline, savannah woodlands, lush wetlands and prolific wildlife.

Aboriginal Art & Culture

Visit a place where time stands still and an ancient culture lives on. For more than 40,000 years, the Aboriginal people of Kakadu and Arnhem Land have lived in harmony with nature. Their history is intrinsically linked with the land, and their stories, told on rock canvasses endure.

Road conditions and access can change rapidly during the Tropical North season, so it is important to always check road conditions before travelling.

For more details, visit www.roadreport.nt.gov.au.

For more detailed information visit www.australiasoutback.com.

3. Katherine and Surrounds

Sweeping from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the West Australian border, the vast Katherine region is full of hidden gems.

Its diverse landscapes and unique ecosystems set the scene for outback adventure activities like fishing, canoeing, bushwalking, birdwatching, camping and four-wheel driving.

The outback meets the tropics at Katherine, about 300 kilometres south of Darwin. The township is situated on the banks of the Katherine River, which flows down from the world-renowned Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park).

Day trips from Katherine can be taken north to Pine Creek or south to Mataranka. Pine Creek has a strong gold mining heritage, with original buildings dating back to the 1800s, while Mataranka is famous for its tropical thermal pool and nearby Elsey National Park.

The Victoria River region, south west of Katherine, is well known as a premier fishing holiday destination. There are also excellent four-wheel drive tracks and camping spots.

Further north, the Daly River region is another spot popular for fishing and camping travellers with hot springs, gorges and rivers. The remote Gulf region, east of Katherine, is perfect for adventurous anglers who enjoy fishing in remote rivers.

Adventure

The Katherine region sets the scene for some real Territory-style adventure. It is a relatively remote destination with abundant waterways including gorges, rivers waterfalls and the ocean. It’s these characteristics that attract an influx of adventure seekers all year round. Access is limited during the wet season.

4. Tennant Creek and Surrounds

Tennant Creek in Central Australia sits on the Explorer’s Way, 500 kilometres north of Alice Springs and 1000 kilometres south of Darwin.

The town is surrounded to the east by the Barkly Tablelands - a huge expanse of land that supports some of Australia’s premier outback cattle stations.

Tennant Creek is also known as the Territory’s heart of gold; a reference to the friendliness of its people and the area’s gold mining history. Australia’s last gold rush took place here in the 1930s, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about it at attractions around the town. Visitors can even try fossicking for their own gold.

Prior to the gold rush era, Tennant Creek’s first European residents were workers on the Overland Telegraph Line, which established a communication link between Australia and the rest of the world. The Telegraph Station was built in 1872, and this historical collection of stone buildings can be explored today. Aboriginal culture is strong in Tennant Creek.

The traditional land owners of this area are the aboriginal Warumungu people, and they recognise a number of sacred sites in the area, including the region’s most famous landmark - Karlu Karlu (The Devils Marbles) - about 100 kilometres south of the town. The Nyinkka Nyunyu Culture Centre in Tennant Creek is an award-winning aboriginal attraction that showcases the people’s stories and art.

Adventure

Adventure lovers have plenty of options in the Tennant Creek area. Four-wheel-drivers in particular are spoilt for choice with the plethora of moderate to challenging tracks available to test their skills and their vehicles.

5. Alice Springs and Surrounds

The heart of Central Australia is comprised of cavernous gorges, boundless desert landscapes, remote Aboriginal communities and a charming pioneering history.

Alice Springs was established by the early explorers and remains as the centre of activity in this region. From the early 1900s, the vast desert of Central Australia was explored for its promise of rubies and gold. Today, north of Alice is an adventure travel destination where visitors can still fossick for gems and explore the Australian desert while trekking, camping or four-wheel driving.

North-west of Alice, along the Tanami Track and south of Alice Springs in the Simpson Desert, the art styles and stories of the Aboriginal people give meaning to the surrounding landscape.

The most well-known natural highlights of Central Australia are the East and West MacDonnell Ranges that straddle Alice Springs and run for 223 kilometres.

Visitors to the NT’s Red Centre can enjoy views of dramatic scenery, bushwalking, swimming, four-wheel driving or quad-bike riding.

Desert landscapes

Bronzed by the sun and painted with red ochre, emerald and azure, the desert landscapes surrounding Alice Springs are just waiting to be explored.

6. Uluru-Kata Tjuta & Surrounds

Rising from the broad desert plain in the deep centre of Australia. Uluru Ayers Rock is Australia’s most recognisable natural icon. The famous sandstone monolith stands 348 metres high and, like an iceberg, has most of its bulk below the surface.

It is located 440 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. 40 kilometres to the west of Uluru / Ayers Rock is Kata Tjuta, also known as The Olgas. This massive pile of rock domes dates back 500 million years.

Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta have great aborioginal cultural significance for the Anangu traditional landowners, who lead walking tours that inform about the local flora and fauna, bush foods and the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories of the area.

Watarrka National Park, encompassing Kings Canyon, lies 300 kilometres to the north-east of Uluru and 310 kilometres west of Alice Springs.

Kings Canyon has 300-metre-high sandstone walls, walking trails, palm-filled crevices and views across the desert.

Nature

While the Central Australian environment may at first seem stark - a barren landscape supporting spectacular rock formations - closer inspection reveals it as a complex ecosystem, full of life.

The Outback*

The Northern Territory’s outback contains an assortment of quirky pubs, fascinating characters, enduring landscapes and endless yarns. It invokes a spirit of exploration and freedom with its wide open spaces and cobalt blue skies and is full of surprises. You never know what’s going to be around the next corner.

Imagine yourself as a pioneer and discover the iconic Australian outback on a journey through the Simpson and Tanami Deserts, West MacDonnell Ranges or along the Savannah Way.

Listen to tall tales from locals in an outback pub, or get your hands dirty on a cattle station at one of the Northern Territory’s historic homesteads.

Take a journey on The Ghan passenger train, watch the desert change from red to gold and view steep escarpments, savannah woodlands and lush tropical monsoon rainforests of the far north. Simply, discover the real Australia.

Visit Aboriginal Australia*

The Northern Territory is home to Australia’s largest population of Aboriginal people. Discover living aboriginal culture rich with traditions over 40,000 years old.

Weave a basket, spear a fish, enjoy story telling, translate rock art and taste local bush tucker on an Aboriginal guided tour.

Watch traditional dances and learn to play the didgeridoo at one of the many cultural festivals, or visit community art centres and watch the artists create their vibrant Aboriginal art.

Wherever you go in the Northern Territory you’ll learn more about Aboriginal culture and art than anywhere else in Australia.

Great things to see and do in the Northern Territory...*

1. Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)

 

There are many ways to experience the spectacular Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) and its world-renowned gorge system - you can walk, swim, canoe, boat or fly.

Walks over the sandstone plateau range from an hour to 5 days and offer spectacular views of the gorge, as well as other landscapes. Some, like the 58 kilometre Jatbula Trail, take in most of Nitmiluk’s landscapes - monsoon rainforest, stone country, upland swamp, woodland and river - while the shorter walks may not be quite so varied, but are always spectacular.

You can hire canoes at the gorge, or bring your own. Commercially operated two, four and eight hour cruises are available, as are helicopter flights.

Rivers rising during December to April can restrict all activities but there is always something to do. Swimming and canoeing are generally only activities for May to November.

The cruises available vary between the 2 varying seasons. Leliyn / Edith Falls is another spectacular part of Nitmiluk that is well worth a visit. Leliyn / Edith Falls is accessed from the Stuart Highway about 45 kilometres north of Katherine.

Entry is free!

2. Gregory National Park, Katherine Region

Gregory National Park is the Northern Territory’s second largest national park, encompassing spectacular ranges, escarpments, gorges and eucalypt woodlands.

A drive through the eastern section of the park along the Victoria Highway will reveal some of these landscapes while the easily accessed walks near the Victoria River Roadhouse provide close up experiences of the dramatic sandstone escarpment.

These are the 3 kilometre return Escarpment Walk and rocky 1.7 kilometre Nawulbinbin (Joe Creek) Loop Walk. Also near the roadhouse is boat access to the Victoria River. Distinctive Boab Trees can be seen throughout the park but are particularly striking in the limestone landscapes that can only be reached by four-wheel drive vehicles.

The western section of the park extends from the sub tropical zone in the north to the semi-arid zone in the south. Bullita Homestead is the furthest south that two-wheel drive vehicles can venture (high clearance recommended) and includes a historic homestead and stockyards where you can find out more about the park’s nature, culture and history. Gregory’s Tree is another historic site that is two-wheel drive accessible.

A network of remote four-wheel drive tracks for those who are well-equipped and well prepared is open usually during May and November. Call before you travel for up to date information (Parks & Wildlife, Gregory National Park - Tel 08 8975 0888).

There also are plenty of opportunities for fishing and camping. Commercial boat tours and scenic flights are available from the Victoria River Roadhouse and Timber Creek.

Entry is free!

3. Tiwi Islands

Located 80 kilometres north of Darwin, the Tiwi Islands are the combination of Bathurst and Melville Islands and collectively the Aboriginal population call themselves the Tiwi people.

The Tiwi Islands remain a unique and rare opportunity to view and share this culture.

You can’t arrive on the islands unannounced and tour around - there are no facilities to do so. You must go with an organised tour or fishing group.

There are several fishing lodges on the islands to cater for the fishing enthusiast, or for those wanting the cultural experience you can do this on a day tour.

There are also overnight camping tours for a once in a lifetime authentic cultural exchange and experience, including going out with a hunting party to gather traditional bush foods such as mud mussels, mud crab and mangrove worms.

The Tiwi people are world famous for their art, and many paintings can be found hanging in major art galleries around the world. Their art extends from the traditional forms of paintings on bark and canvas to wood carvings, distinctive silk screened cloth, woven accessories and pottery. There are several art galleries on both Melville and Bathurst Island and you are more than welcome to purchase directly from the artists.

The Tiwi Islands are also famous for their love of sports, in particular Australian Rules Football with several Tiwi men holding important positions in the Australian Football League. The Tiwi Football Grand final held in March is a must see if you are in the area at the time.

Nicknamed the Islands of Smiles, Tiwi people are coastal Aboriginals with a culture different to those on the mainland. Their strong traditions from who can be married to who, rituals and traditional foods are still a very important part of everyday life today, and they appear to have successfully combined both traditional and modern lifestyles.

Entry fees apply!

4. Tennant Creek

Tennant Creek is a small township of about 3500 people, located 500 kilometres north of Alice Springs and 1000 kilometres south of Darwin. It’s a place shaped by Aboriginal culture, gold mining and pastoralism. The surrounding area is called the Barkly Tablelands, a region characterised by wide grassy plains, endless blue sky and massive cattle stations.

The traditional Aboriginal owners of the area surrounding Tennant Creek are the Warumungu people. Their culture and stories are showcased at one of the country’s best art and cultural centres called Nyinkka Nyunyu.

Tennant Creek is also known as the ‘Golden Heart of the Northern Territory’ - a name that refers to the warm personalities of its people and because it is the site of Australia’s last major gold rush in the 1930s. People initially looked for gold in quartz, but it wasn’t until the 1930s that they discovered that the gold was still in the ironstone.

The town’s goldmining history remains, and is captured at sites around the town such as the Battery Hill Mining Centre. In fact, it’s thought that there is still plenty of gold to be found, and mining for this and other valuable minerals, like manganese and copper, remains a vital economic contributor for the region.

Until the 1930s gold rush era, the repeater station, built in 1872 for the Overland Telegraph Line, was the only building that stood in this area, alongside the creek. The Telegraph Station is located 11 kilometres north of the town, and travellers can explore the buildings and grounds to get a feel for life here 130 years ago.

The old Police Station Waterhole, located in the Davenport Range National Park (proposed), south-east of Tennant Creek, is ideal for swimming during the summer months. Lake Mary Ann is located five kilometres north of Tennant Creek and provides a cool oasis for locals and travellers.

Just north of Tennant Creek is The Pebbles, known as Kunjarra to the Aboriginal people, a granite rock formation and sacred site of the Warumungu people. The site is culturally significant as a women’s dancing place for the Munga Munga Dreaming and is a spectacular example of the geological wonders the region has to offer.

Short nature walks around the Barkly region allow travellers along the Explorer’s Way to stop and stretch their legs. There’s the15-minute self-guided walk at Karlu Karlu (the Devil’s Marbles), or a 45-minute walk through the Jim Rennie Memorial Park at Elliott, which provides an introduction to the local flora and its traditional uses by Aboriginal people.

5. Darwin

Darwin has played a significant role in the events that have shaped Australia’s history, so it’s no wonder Darwin plays a starring role in Baz Luhrmann’s epic feature film Australia. Today Darwin still has a fascinating story. A vibrant, tropical city, with a diversity of experiences on offer to the traveller, with quality art, festivals, events, fishing, heritage trails and food.

With year-round temperatures in the low 30s and the heavenly swimming holes of Litchfield National Park on its doorstep, Darwin is an ideal tropical escape holiday. Darwin is an excellent base to further explore the Top End. There is so much to see and do, the more you explore, the more you will be rewarded.

Food & Wine: Darwin’s South East Asian cultural mix, outdoor eateries, exotic local produce and fresh seafood will add spice to your life. There is a wide range of ‘foodie’ experiences though visiting the local markets is a must-do. For a real buzz head to the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, dine waterside in Cullen Bay, or savour fish and chips at Stokes Hill Wharf, one of the sets of film Australia.

Festivals: With the city’s easy-going attitude, Darwin is the perfect place to party. From the Darwin Beer Can Regatta, to the array of Aboriginal, national and international talent on show at the Darwin Festival, Darwin’s outdoor venues and great climate make it a totally unique place to experience live performances.

Art: Darwin exhibits a fantastic mix of Aboriginal art from all quarters of the Top End. Visit galleries filled with traditional and contemporary paintings and prints, sculpture, fibre craft, glassware, jewellery and ceramics. For a real kick visit the Tiwi Islands Art Sale coinciding each year with the Tiwi Islands Football Grand Final.

History: Darwin’s cultural heritage is a unique blend of ancient Aboriginal custom, European pioneering legacy, WWII history and fresh Asian influence. Begin with a High Tea in the tropical, frangipani-lined gardens of Burnett House, one of the few remaining 'troppo' architecture homes on the coast, then move onto the Military and Aviation Museums.

Outdoors: Wake up to a view of sailing boats on the bluest waters and try to catch a barramundi before you go. Darwin is also the gateway to World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and the refreshing swimming holes of Litchfield National Park.

6. Kings Canyon / Watarrka National Park

Watarrka National Park is best known as the home of Kings Canyon, a mighty chasm cleaving the earth to a depth of 270 metres. It is situated on the western edge of the George Gill Ranges, 300 kilometres to the north east of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and 310km west of Alice Springs by following the Red Centre Way on the unsealed Mereenie Loop Road, or alternatively 471km via sealed roads..

Drivers can reach Kings Canyon from Uluru in three hours by taking the Lasseter Highway and Luritja Road. Those with a four-wheel-drive and at least a day’s travelling time can take the unsealed Mereenie Loop from Alice Springs. Watarrka is an important conservation area with rock holes and gorges providing refuge for over 600 species of plants and many native animals. The sheer red rock face of Kings Canyon soars over 100 metres above dense forests of palms, ferns and cycads; sheltering them from the surrounding desert conditions.

A moderately challenging six-kilometre walk takes in magnificent views of the Canyon rim, the weathered, buttressed domes of ‘the Lost City’ and the ‘Garden of Eden’ - a sheltered valley with permanent waterholes and lush vegetation. The walk is suitable for fit, relatively experienced walkers and can be completed in about three to four hours. For the less energetic, the shorter and easier Kings Creek walk leads into the centre of the Canyon. Derived from an Aboriginal word referring to the umbrella bush that thrives here, Watarrka National Park has been home to the Luritja people for more than 20,000 years. The area was little known to Europeans until recently; Ernest Giles being the first white man to explore the area in 1872.

Accommodation (ranging from motel-style to campsites) is available at the Kings Canyon Resort, seven kilometres from the Park, where there’s also a service station and a shop. Kings Creek Station, 35 kilometres from the Park also has campsites and budget style accommodation.

Just south of Watarrka National Park is Kings Creek Station which is a working cattle property. It covers some 1800 square kilometres and offers budget accommodation, fuel, food and a wide range of activities for the adventurous visitor like camel rides, quad biking and helicopter flights over Kings Canyon.

7. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Few are ever prepared for a visit to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru (Ayers Rock) is Australia’s most recognisable natural icon. Standing 348 metres high, the monolith has a great cultural significance for the traditional Aboriginal owners, the Anangu people. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is located 440 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs near the town of Yulara, and encompasses both Uluru and the great rock domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). This ancient landform dates back 500 million years.

All Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park information services are housed within the award-winning Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, a stunning example of contemporary Australian architecture. Dynamic displays, video and artwork explain this world heritage landscape from the perspective of the traditional owners, Anangu. Learn about Tjukurpa, creation stories and laws, which explain the spiritual meanings of the surrounding landscapes. Entry to the centre is free!

Camel Tours (which provide great views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta) are available at the Ayers Rock Resort. Camels were first introduced to Australia by Afghan cameleers. The resilient creatures played an integral role in the development and exploration of Central Australia.

Get up close and personal and enjoy a short ride atop one of these gentle giants of the desert, or browse through the museum and display area and pick up a memento of your visit. A free shuttle service is available from all Ayers Rock Resort hotels, please check with hotel reception for timetable. A range of accommodation from camp sites to five-star luxury is available at the Ayers Rock Resort located just outside the Park, in the small, purpose built township of Yulara which services travellers to the Park. Yulara also offers an airport, and the Yulara Visitors Centre provides information on the history, geology, flora, fauna and culture of this amazing region.

Entry fees to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park apply!

8. West MacDonnell National Park, Alice Springs Region

The West MacDonnell National Park encloses a vast and spectacular section of the MacDonnell Ranges, located west of Alice Springs. This panoramic landscape is an outstanding example of an ancient landscape sculptured over time. Each of the West MacDonnell’s chasms and gorges has its own unique character and scenery. Make use of the sealed bike path between John Flynn’s Grave and Simpsons Gap or spot the Black-footed Rock Wallabies that live in the Gap’s rocky ridges. Take a refreshing dip in the waterholes of Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen Gorge or Redbank Gorge. Or visit the Ochre Pits and gain insight into the ancient culture of the local Aboriginal people, who for thousands of years have used the area as a quarry for ochre, a traditional material for paint and ceremonial body decorations.

Continuing west, you’ll travel on a road winding to the south and come to Tylers Pass, a place to stop for spectacular views of Tnorala / Gosse Bluff Conservation Reserve, a five kilometre crater created by a comet 142.5 million years ago. Next, visit historic Hermannsburg, the birthplace of renowned Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira.

An exciting four-wheel-drive track leads out of Hermannsburg to the Finke River, thought to be one of the world’s oldest watercourses. The Finke Gorge National Park is best known for Palm Valley, where groves of unique and beautiful Red Cabbage Palms, that are botanic remnants from millions of years ago, adorn a hidden oasis.

One of the best ways to see the West MacDonnell Ranges is by foot. Bushwalking takes you where no roads can go and provides views that few travellers see. The 223 kilometre Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell National Park is the showpiece of Central Australian bushwalking.

Because the West MacDonnell Ranges are so close to Alice Springs, you can take in the major sites in an enjoyable day trip, or spend longer if you can as there is much to explore. Whether you plan to hike through the bush, or drive from place to place, take the time to discover the unique and ancient beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Entry into the National Parks is free.

Fees applies at Standley Chasm.

9. Alice Springs - Aboriginal Art Galleries

Aboriginal art is a thriving industry in Alice Springs, known as the Aboriginal art capital of Australia. In some art centres visitors can watch the artist at work and buy pieces direct. Contact the art centres for more information before travelling. Some are remote and may have limited facilities and a permit may be required to visit.

Papunya Tula Artists: Papunya Tula Artists are dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the Western Desert Culture and have a total of more than 100 contributing artists. Artworks from the Papunya Tula Artists are internationally renowned and have been exhibited in major galleries, museums, both within Australia and overseas as well as many large private collections. Distinctive and powerful artworks capture the artist’s knowledge of traditional body and sand paintings.

Gallery Gondwana Pty Ltd: Recognised as one of Australia’s leading Indigenous art galleries since 1990, Gallery Gondwana, located in Todd Mall, Alice Springs, sources work from leading established and emerging artists from Australia and the South Pacific. Gallery Gondwana showcases fine art in the mediums of painting, works on paper, fibre, glass, metal and wood.

Mbantua Art Gallery & Cultural Museum Alice Springs: Home to one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia. Specialising in indigenous art from the Utopia region of Central Australia, Mbantua Gallery and Cultural Museum has over 1,500m2 of fabulous displays, representing over 200 Aboriginals artists.

Aboriginal Australia Art and Culture Centre: More than 100 artists from central Australia create a distinct style of ground mosaics that are restricted to the Aboriginal people of the Red Centre.

Araluen Arts Centre: The Araluen Arts Centre is the focal point of Alice Springs’ performing and visual arts scene, incorporating a series of art galleries and a professional theatre. The galleries feature a program of exhibitions with a focus on Aboriginal art from Central Australia, and contemporary art by local and Australian artists, with traveling exhibitions being a key feature of the annual visual arts program.

The Albert Namatjira Gallery displays a rotating selection of paintings by this famous Aboriginal artist, his descendants and contemporaries. The Araluen Arts Centre was designed and built around the 300 year old Corkwood Tree in the Sculpture Garden. This tree, another at the front of the building and Big Sister Hill are also considered sacred by the local Arrernte people.

10. Kakadu National Park

World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is a place of rugged escarpments, lush wetlands and cascading waterfalls covering over 19,000 square kilometres. Kakadu is Australia’s largest national park and can be entered either from Darwin on the Arnhem Highway or via Pine Creek on the Kakadu Highway.

The Nature’s Way tourism drive is a great way to explore the park. The flora and fauna found is diverse, with pockets of rainforest, wetlands rimmed with paperbarks, pandanus and cycads and dotted with lotus lilies. Some of Kakadu’s amazing wildlife includes crocodiles, barramundi, and birds, such as magpie geese, brolgas, jabirus and white-bellied sea eagles. Around 1,000 different plant species, a quarter of all Australian freshwater fish species, and over one third of Australian bird species can be found in the park.

Kakadu National Park is managed jointly by Parks Australia North, an Australian government body, and the park’s traditional Aboriginal owners. A number of Aboriginal clans reside within the boundaries and have for some 50,000 years. Kakadu is home to one of the largest concentrations of Aboriginal rock art in the world with natural galleries of ancient paintings at sites like Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock. Other spectacular landmarks include Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, Maguk, Jarrangbarnmi / Koolpin Gorge and Gunlom, which means ‘waterfall creek’ in the Jawoyn Aboriginal language. Kakadu National Park also offers several established walking tracks and camp grounds.

At the centre of the park is the small mining township of Jabiru, which offers a range of services and accommodation and serves as a touring centre. Another settlement, Cooinda, also offers accommodation and is located on the banks of Yellow Water, a billabong teeming with migratory birds, saltwater crocodiles and other wildlife. Cruises on Yellow Water depart daily. A visit to Kakadu is best started at the Bowali Cultural Centre near Jabiru or the Warradjan Cultural Centre near Cooinda. Each provides visitors with a good appreciation of the park’s traditional owners’ culture and heritage.

Entry is free!

11. Nourlangie Rock Art Site, Kakadu National Park

The walls of the Nourlangie Rock Art Site, in World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, have served as a shelter and canvas for thousands of years, providing windows to a rich spiritual tradition. Paintings such as Namarrgon, lightening man, explore the relationship of the people to their country and beliefs.

The paintings at the base can be reached by the circular 1.5 kilometre Nourlangie Rock Art Walk. During the months of April until October, Park Rangers invite visitors to join them and share their knowledge of this ancient gallery. There is a lookout that is well worth the climb for sweeping views of the escarpment. For the more adventurous, there is also a moderately steep climb to Gunwarddehwardde lookout which provides impressive views of both Kakadu’s escarpment and Nourlangie Rock.

Entry is free!

12. Ubirr, Kakadu National Park

Ubirr is one of Kakadu National Park’s two most famous Aboriginal rock art galleries. The galleries can be viewed by following an easy one kilometre circular walking track. During the dry season Park Rangers give free scheduled talks about the ancient rock art.

A moderately steep 250 metre climb takes you to a rocky outlook with views across the floodplains. Enjoying a spectacular tropical sunset from the top of Ubirr is not to be missed. During the tropical summer months access is restricted, check with the Bowali Visitor Centre for the latest information.

Entry is free!

The Wildlife of Kakadu National Park...

Flora

Kakadu’s flora is among the richest and most diverse in Northern Australia, ranging from stone country to floodplains, lowlands, estuaries and tidal flats.

More than 1700 plant species are recorded, so you’ll definitely see one or two! This richness is a result of the Park’s geological, landform and habitat diversity.

10 of the most common species to look out for include:

Stone country and outliers:

Native ginger Curcuma australasica

An attractive leafy annual that grows from a tuber. Its hot pink flowers can be seen at Ubirr and Nourlangie in the wet season. It is also related to the turmeric plant, a native of Asia.

Sandstone pandanus Pandanus basedowii An-more

Grows only in the sandstone areas of Kakadu and Arnhem Land.

Southern Hills and Basins:

Freshwater mangrove Abrringtonia actuangula An-galnggi

A small, spreading tree that grows on the banks of freshwater creeks, rivers and swamps. It develops hanging, bright-red flowers between September and December. It is also known as the ‘itchy tree’: small caterpillars feed on the leaves during the wet season and cause localised skin irritation if touched.

Silver-leafed paperbark Melaleuca argentea Gun-god

A large, spreading tree commonly seen along the waterways. Its pale-yellow flower spikes appear mainly between June and October and produce a sickly sweet fragrance that attracts many animals.

Lowlands:

Billy goat plum Terminalia ferdinandiana An-morlak

Harvested commercially outside of Kakadu and marketed as the Kakadu plum. It is a medium-sized tree with large broad leaves. It is deciduous in the dry season and between March and June and bears edible fruits known to have exceptionally high levels of vitamin C.

Darwin woollybutt Eucalyptus miniata An-djalen

Grows to 10-20 metres; it has dark, rough bark on the lower half of its trunk and smooth, white bark on the upper half. Bright-orange flowers appear between May and August.

Floodplains:

Blue lily Nymphaea violacea Barradjungga

Commonly seen along the margins of billabongs. Its violet-tipped white flowers appear between January and July. The seeds and stems can be eaten raw; the tuberous underground bulbs can be eaten after cooking.

Red lily Nelumbo nucifera Wurrmarninj

Grows in lowland wetlands. Its leaves are very large and stand erect above the water. Large, fragrant deep-pink flowers appear between March and November.

Estuaries and Tidal Flats:

Banyan Ficus virens An-borndi

A large spreading tree with aerial roots and large prop roots from the major branches. It is a strangler fig with edible fruits and makes a great shade tree.

Beach hibiscus Hibiscus tiliaceus

A small tree, 5 to 8 metres high, commonly found in monsoon pockets along the coast and river banks. It has a large yellow flower with a dark maroon centre.

Fauna

The diverse environments of Kakadu National Park support an astonishing array of animals, a number of which have adapted to particular habitats. Some animals in the Park are considered rare, endangered or endemic (not found anywhere else in the world).

Responding to the extreme weather conditions experienced in the Park, many animals change their behaviour and are seen only at particular times of the day or night or at particular times of the year.

Some of the most common species to look out for include:

Mammals:

Agile wallaby Macropus agilis Gornobolah

Black fruit bat Pteropus alecto Na-ngamu

Birds:

Barking owl Ninox connivens Mobbok

Black kite Milvus migrans Marram

Reptiles:

Estuarine crocodile Crocodylus porosus Ginga

Frill-necked lizard Chlamydosaurus kingii Narlangak

Amphibians:

Green tree frog Litoria caerulea Djangeredjingeredj

Copland’s Rock Frog Litoria coplandi

Fish:

Barramundi Lates calcarifer Na-marnkol

Long Tom Strongylura kreffti Burdukkulung

Saratoga Scleropages jardini

Invertebrates:

Leichhardt’s grasshopper Petasida ephippigera Al-yurr

Green ant Oecophylla smaragdina Gabo

Endangered or vulnerable animal species:

The Red Goshawk Erythrotriorchis radiarus

The False Water Rat Xeromys myoides

Events in the Northern Territory*

1. Alice Springs Camel Cup

The quirky, annual Camel Cup attracts visitors to Alice Springs from all over the world. While camels may have a reputation as dedicated ‘ships of the desert’, these magnificent beasts are certainly not short on personality.

Racing them can prove a nightmare for riders and handlers but fantastic viewing for spectators. Entertainment is assured, with nine races scheduled around the dusty outback track throughout the day.

There will be lots of action between races, too. Belly dancers, rickshaw races, ‘Kids Kamel Dapers’ hobby camel races, rides, Mr and Miss Camel Cup challenges, food stalls and bars will add to the carnival atmosphere.

The Cup is held in its own arena at Blatherskite Park, a section of the Central Australian Show Society grounds.

Entry fees apply

2. Alice Desert Festival, Alice Springs

Be inspired and entertained with the diversity of desert arts and the Central Australian lifestyle.

Alice Springs is the meeting place of many different cultures and the Alice Desert Festival will celebrate this rich diversity.

The Alice Desert Festival is a unique annual event showcasing the thriving community of visual and performing artists, both indigenous and non indigenous from the Central Australian region. The Festival attracts inspirational acts from interstate and overseas.

The festival brings to the streets, theatres, galleries and public venues of Alice Springs, a kaleidoscope of events from theatre, dance, film screenings, sculpture, music, poetry readings, physical theatre, workshops, pottery, writing and book launches, indigenous art and craft, to concert evenings of jazz, orchestral, hip hop, samba, salsa, fusion and world music.

Entry is free!

Admission costs apply to some shows.

3. Desert Mob, Alice Springs

Share the story and history of the Aboriginal arts phenomenon in Central Australia.Desert Mob is an Aboriginal art and festival event, held in Alice Springs, that celebrates and defines a living art movement that is expressed through the heritage values of the oldest living culture in the world. The art is diverse and complicated, vibrant and intense, and reflects the expansive cultural landscape that is the inspiration of the stories.

The annual exhibition, presented by the Araluen Art Centre at the Araluen Cultural Precinct, features art works from Aboriginal art centres in the Northern Territory, South Australia and Western Australia, which are Aboriginal owned and governed, non-profit organisations.

The exhibition gives visitors a complete overview of the work by Aboriginal artists in this vast region and the opportunity to purchase artworks from both new and established artists all in one place, directly from the art centres.

Nearly every year, a new art centre has emerged and developed, which adds new energy and dimension to the exhibition.

Entry fees apply

4. Australia Day Breakfast and Activities Tennant Creek

Take part and help celebrate Australia’s very own special day.

On 26 January the nation celebrates what’s great about being Australian with official and formal functions as well as fun activities with family and friends.

The ‘Golden Heart’ town of Tennant Creek celebrates all day long. Kicking off early the official flag raising and the National Anthem paves the way to an outback ‘Aussie breakfast’.

Afterwards, head out to the Mary Ann Dam Recreational Lake for very Australian activities like egg catching, sack races and thong throwing. The highlight of the day is a raft race on the lake.

After the Barkly Triathlon you’ll smell the food cooking on the barbecue and realise you have worked up an appetite once more, it’s free so enjoy.

Entry is free!

Top Experiences in the Northern Territory

1. Discover Kakadu

Kakadu National Park, in Australia’s Northern Territory, is one of only a handful of world heritage sites listed for both its natural and cultural values.

Spanning some 1,980,400 hectares, the park is ecologically diverse and dynamic in landform.

A sheer and spectacular escarpment frames tidal flats, floodplains, lowlands and plateau, providing a habitat for some 1600 plant species and over 200 species of birds.

Kakadu’s caves and rock overhangs are astounding. Richly decorated with Aboriginal rock art, some dating back 50,000 years, telling the stories of life of the early Aboriginal inhabitants to those still living in the park today.

From vast horizons and pristine environments to rich characters and the world’s oldest living culture, Kakadu captures the essence of Australia. To truly appreciate the majestic beauty and spirit of Kakadu National Park, we suggest you spend 5-6 days there.

2. Drive the Nature’s Way

Eye candy for every driving holiday traveller, the Nature’s Way meanders through World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park and Nitmuluk National Park.

It’s a drive through the Territory’s stunning and lush northern tropics, steeped in nature, aboriginal culture and outback pioneering history.

For the adventure traveller - canoe down the Katherine River, swim in waterfalls at Litchfield and discover the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal rock art at Kakadu National Park.

Explore in your own time, but 5-7 days is best for this journey.

3. Drive the Explorer’s Way

Follow the same route of famous Australian explorer John McDouall Stuart and travel through red desert country via the real Australian outback en route to the Territory’s lush northern tropics.

This road links the Territory from top to bottom, encompassing some of its best-known natural icons; the Devils Marbles, Litchfield National Park, Nitmuluk National Park, Cutta Cutta Caves and Bitter Springs.

In the south, the road is straddled by the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

You can get a snapshot of the Territory in 7 days, but with so much to explore, it’s easy to stay much longer.

4. Bush Tucker - Tropics

The billabongs, woodlands, sandstone escarpments and coastal beaches of the Northern Territory provide a rich source of food and medicines used by Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years. What we know as 'bush tucker' is a multitude of plants and animals that are used in a variety of ways to best extract their nutritional and medicinal values.

They can also be used to make baskets, boats and ceremonial decoration. The different environments of the tropical north feature plants endemic to each habitat, as well as some that thrive across the entire region.

5. Outback Ballooning Adventure

Hot-air balloon pilot Byron Hall has been soaring above the ridges of the outback all his life.

Just like the watercolours of Albert Namatjira, an outback sunrise from aloft is like viewing a painting of pastel blues, purples and yellows.

The early start is rewarded with a silent journey across the expansive semi-arid landscape, waiting as the sun spreads its rays between desert oaks and mulga scrub.

The trip ends with images of the Australia’s outback crowding your mind.

Guide to Aussie Strine!

To help the Poms and those not familiar with our lingo, we’ve put together a little guide to ensure you know your billabongs from your thongs, your muddys from your bushies!

It’s a bit of fun, but they do actually use a lot of these words over here so you might find some of them useful. Strewth - we’re teaching you some Strine!

Terms & phrases you might hear in the Northern Territory

Billabong: a watering hole / ox-bow river

Bities: biting insects

Bitzer: mongrel dog

Blowie: blow fly

Bogged: Vehicle stuck in mud or deep sand

Boomer: large male kangaroo

Brumby: wild horse

Bunyip: mythical outback creature

Bush: the Outback / hinterland, anywhere that isn’t in town

Bush telly: campfire

Bushie: someone who lives in the Bush

Click: kilometre - 'it’s 10 clicks away'

Cockie: cockatoo, cockroach or farmer

Corroboree: a ceremonial meeting of Australian Aboriginals

Damper: bread made from flour and water

Fossick: to prospect, e.g. for gold

Fossicker: prospector, e.g. for gold

Jackaroo: a male trainee station manager or station hand (See ‘Station’ below)

Jillaroo: a female trainee station manager or station hand (See ‘Station’ below)

Joey: baby kangaroo

Jumbuck: sheep

Matilda: swagman’s bedding, sleeping roll

Mob: family of kangaroos

Mozzie: mosquito

Muddy: mud crab

Muster: a round up of sheep or cattle

Never Never: remote Outback of Australia

Road train: huge truck pulling many trailers

Roo: kangaroo

Roo bar: bar fixed to the front of a vehicle to protect it against hitting kangaroos (also known as a bull bar)

Servo: petrol station

Station: a big farm or a grazing property

Top End: far north of Australia’s Northern Territory

Tucker: food

Tucker bag: food bag

Ute: utility vehicle, pickup truck

Walkabout: a walk in the Outback by Aborigines that lasts for an indefinite amount of time

Yabby: inland freshwater crayfish found in Australia

Other Australian words & expressions

Arvo: afternoon

Beaut, beauty: great, fantastic

Bonzer: great, ripper

Boozer: a pub

Cobber: friend

Coldie: a beer

Dag: a funny person, nerd

Dinkum / Fair dinkum: true, real, genuine ('I’m a dinkum Aussie'; 'is he fair dinkum?')

Dummy, spit the: get very upset at something

Dunny: outside lavatory

Footy: Australian Rules football (not your European rubbish!)

G’Day: hello!

Galah: fool, silly person. Named after the bird of the same name because of its antics and the noise it makes.

Heaps: a lot, e.g. 'thanks heaps', '(s)he earned heaps of money' etc.

No worries! : Expression of forgiveness or reassurance (No problem; forget about it; I can do it; Yes, I’ll do it)

Pom, pommy, pommie : an Englishman

Ripper : great, fantastic - 'it was a ripper party'

Rock up : to turn up, to arrive - 'we rocked up at the party'

She’ll be right : it’ll turn out okay

Shoot through : to leave

Strewth : exclamation, mild oath ('Strewth, that Dave is a bonzer bloke')

Strine : Australian slang and pronunciation

Clothes

Bathers : swimming costume

Cozzie : swimming costume

Daks : trousers

Strides : trousers

Sunnies : sunglasses

Thongs : cheap rubber backless sandals

Togs : swim suit

Trackie daks : tracksuit pants

Food & drink

Amber fluid : beer

Avos : avocados

Billy : teapot, container for boiling water

Esky : large insulated food/drink container for picnics, barbecues etc.

Flake : shark meat (sold in fish & chip shops)

Snag : a sausage

Stubby : a 375ml bottle of beer

Stubby holder : polystyrene insulated holder for a stubby

Tallie : 750ml bottle of beer

Tinny : can of beer or a small aluminium boat