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Kakadu National Park - Twin Falls - Northern Territory
NORTHERN TERRITORY

Northern Territory

Inhabiting much of Australia’s central mainland and central northern regions, the Northern Territory is one of the last remaining genuine ‘Outback’ destinations in Australia. With so many natural wonders, ancient history, rich culture and unique wildlife to explore, a holiday to the Northern Territory can be as diverse as the region itself.

Today, with its World Heritage-listed sites like Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Kakadu National Park, along with a huge number of other natural attractions, there are plenty of places to lose yourself and become immersed in your surroundings. With its long history of Aboriginal settlement you’ll find plenty of Indigenous culture on display – everything from ancient rock art and cultural centres to the sacred and iconic Uluru. Arnhem Land, to the east of Darwin, is one of the largest Aboriginal reserves in Australia and a bastion of Aboriginal culture – rock art, bark paintings and the home of the didgeridoo.

Darwin is the perfect base to explore the natural attractions of World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park with one of the highest concentrations of Aboriginal rock art sites in Australia. Alice Springs is the perfect destination for an authentic Outback encounter. Spectacular sunburnt landscapes, Outback spirit, isolated communities and colourful local characters. There is a tour to suit everyone. As the hub of Central Australia, Alice Springs combines the rich culture and art of indigenous Australia with a modern and vibrant atmosphere. Marvel at the enormity of Uluru, discover the spiritual significance of Kata Tjuta and explore the rim of Kings Canyon. Six hundred million years in the making, these incredible natural creations will captivate you from sunrise to sunset.



EXPLORE IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY BY RAIL


 
The Ghan

On that momentous journey, the train was dubbed ‘The Afghan Express’ and then shortened to the legend it is today, ‘The Ghan’.

 

 


INSPIRE ME
Northern Territory holiday planning articles


Are you planning your next trip to the Northern Territory, Australia? Want to learn more about this destination? Or looking for ideas and inspiration for your next holiday? Here is where you can find our featured articles on the Northern Territory.

 




OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO EXPLORE IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY


Darwin
Darwin

Darwin is the perfect base to explore the natural attractions of World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park with one of the highest concentrations of Aboriginal rock art sites in Australia. Litchfield is ideal for a day trip to experience the waterfalls, or venture further afield to Nitmiluk National Park, the Tiwi Islands and Arnhem Land. You’ll love the relaxed outdoor lifestyle and warm weather in this multi-cultural capital. Founded as a northern harbour port in 1869, the population expanded when gold was discovered at Pine Creek in 1871. Darwin became a major allied military base during World War II for troops fighting the Japanese in the Pacific. More recently, in 1974, the city was rebuilt in the wake of Cyclone Tracy. This colourful history combines cultural and culinary benefits which you can experience at the weekly markets, in the restaurants and at the various festivals.

Alice Springs
Alice Springs

Spectacular sunburnt landscapes, Outback spirit, isolated communities and colourful local characters…welcome to Alice Springs! The perfect destination for an authentic Outback encounter. Surrounded by the rugged MacDonnell Ranges, ‘Alice’ as it is affectionately known, is a quintessential Outback town. As the hub of Central Australia, Alice Springs combines the rich culture and art of Indigenous Australia with a modern and vibrant atmosphere. Considered the gateway to the Red Centre, Alice Springs provides the ideal base for travellers exploring the area. Whether it be a day trip to attractions around Alice Springs, a trip out to the gorges, chasms and gaps of the West MacDonnell Ranges, an adventure to Palm Valley or Rainbow Valley or a longer journey to Uluru and Kings Canyon, there is a tour to suit everyone. Alice Springs has more art galleries than anywhere else in Australia. Visit the Araleun Arts Centre for  contemporary Aboriginal art.

Uluru
Uluru

Discover the mysteries of the Red Centre as you embark on an unforgettable journey to Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Six hundred million years in the making, these incredible natural creations will captivate you from sunrise to sunset. Marvel at the enormity of Uluru, discover the spiritual significance of Kata Tjuta and explore the rim of Kings Canyon. Whether walking with a traditional owner, meandering atop a camel, exploring by 4WD, car or coach, or dining under a million stars, there is something to suit every budget and every visitor to the Red Centre. What makes this place so powerful is actually the sheer enormity of the rock, particularly as it rises somewhat unexpectedly out of a completely flat and barren landscape. Sit down and take in its immense size and solidarity - regardless of how many other punters you’ll be sharing this experience with, it’s guaranteed to be one of life’s 'sit back and sigh' moments.

 



SOME THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY



Litchfield National Park - Florence Falls LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

Discover crystal blue waterfalls and lush waterholes, hit the trail in a 4WD, or take it nice and slow and wander through Litchfield National Park on foot. Get set for real adventure and to connect with nature at Litchfield National Park. At just over an hour from Darwin, it’s every local’s favourite day trip with its waterfalls and waterholes, bushwalks, four-wheel drive tracks, birds and wildlife.
Kakadu National Park KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres of exceptional natural beauty and unique biodiversity, Kakadu National Park is teeming with wildlife, home to important Aboriginal rock art sites, and takes in diverse and exotic landscapes.
Arnhem Land ARNHEM LAND

Exotic island retreats, historic sites, chartered fishing trips, cultural experiences, or just relax by the pool. Find yourself in paradise – East Arnhem Land is beautiful and diverse with remote and rugged coastlines, and white sandy beaches. This vast area of nearly 100,000 sq km of land is one of Australia’s last strongholds of traditional Aboriginal culture.
Open Air Markets OPEN AIR MARKETS

Soak up Darwin’s tropical night air, as well as aromas of food from all over the world beneath magical sunsets and browse the stalls at Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. Purchase natural skin care, local art, jewellery and clothing. Also make sure you visit Nightcliff and Parap markets, and the Happy Yess Market. Look out for regular and one-off markets in other regional centres, especially the Katherine Community Market, Alice Springs Night Markets and Todd Mall Markets.
Kings Canyon KINGS CANYON

Be captivated by the sheer sandstone walls of Kings Canyon. Witness a sunset from the gorge or experience a three hour guided climb to the rim and marvel at the breathtaking views of Watarrka National Park.
Fishing FISHING
 

Throw a line into the waters of Darwin’s tropical coral reefs for a spot of offshore fishing. Catch a Snapper for lunch or a delicious Spanish Mackerel.
Katherine Gorge NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK
 

Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) covers a vast area of escarpment country, including 13 gorges carved from ancient sandstone. Enjoy a cruise or paddle along the gorges at your own pace.
Aboriginal Art and Culture ABORIGINAL ART AND CULTURE
 
A holiday in the Territory is a cultural journey. Learn about the Dreamtime and experience Indigenous storytelling, dance and music. Get hands-on and try spear throwing, didgeridoo playing or dot painting. View ancient rock art sites at Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock in Kakadu National Park or wander the modern galleries in Darwin, each art piece will tell a story.
Macdonnell Ranges MACDONNEL RANGELS
 

The East and West MacDonnell Ranges are an adventure playground with hiking trails, 4WD tracks and swimming holes. Take in the beauty of the rugged ranges from the air in a hot air balloon or on a helicopter flight, or take it all in on the Larapinta Trail, stretching 223 kilometres along the backbone of the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Uluru Field of Light Sunrise Tour ULURU FIELD OF LIGHT SUNRISE TOUR

Under the cover of darkness you’re invited to wander through the pathways that encompass the 50,000 spheres of light in the desert, before making your way up the hill to the Dune Top viewing area. Watch the amazing transformation of colours and life as the desert awakens, while enjoying tea, coffee or hot chocolate. Then as the first rays of sunlight creep across the desert sky, gaze in awe as the sun rises in the distance behind Uluru, flooding the landscape, including Kata Tjuta behind you, with light.
Explore Darwin City Sights EXPLORE DARWIN CITY SIGHTS

This tour allows for the exploration of attractions in Darwin and is perfect for a first time visitor’s or families. Experienced tour guides will showcase Darwin’s sights and attractions. You will be provided full commentary and you can enjoy the colourful sights of Darwin. Attractions visited include WWII Oil Storage Tunnels, Aviation Heritage Centre, Darwin Military Museum, and Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Jumping Crocodile Day Trip from Darwin JUMPING CROCODILE DAY TRIP FROM DARWIN

Board the Jumping Crocodile cruise. Get up close to the real big crocs, but remember keep your arms in the boat. Keep your camera at the ready as this is also when the big birds of prey swoop down to steal meat meant for the crocodiles. This is as close as you’re ever likely to get to the beautiful White Breasted Sea Eagle. The Adelaide River thrives with wildlife so keep your eyes peeled on the riverbank as well, there’s a lot to see.
Kings Canyon Guided Rim Walk KINGS CANYON GUIDED RIM WALK

From Kings Canyon Resort, join a guide on a rocky climb to the rim of Kings Canyon for superb views of Watarrka National Park. During the 6 kilometre journey, you’ll climb up a 328-foot cliff face and walk around the canyon rim. The walk takes up to three hours and requires a good level of fitness, but you’ll be rewarded with a panorama of sandstone cliffs and other landscapes of Australia’s Red Centre. If you prefer something easier, a creek bed walk is offered as an alternative.
Alice Springs Highlights - Anzac Hill ALICE SPRINGS HIGHLIGHTS HALF-DAY TOUR

At the very heart of Australia lies the historic town of Alice Springs - the pioneering gateway to a mysterious land of natural monuments, colourful outback culture and ancient Dreamtime lore. On this half-day afternoon tour you will visit the School of the Air, the Australia’s Royal Flying Doctor Service as well as take in spectacular views of the West MacDonnell ranges from Anzac Hill.



NORTHERN TERRITORY ACCOMMODATION


Here's a taste of some of our favourite hotels and resorts in the Northern Territory.
Come in-store or send us an enquiry to help us find the best accommodation for you.

Doubletree by Hilton Darwin
Darwin
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DARWIN
 ★★★★

Enjoy the views of Darwin Esplanade this hotel offers and the convenience of downtown Darwin only a few minutes walk from Smith Street Mall and Bicentennial Park. Hotel rooms are lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and Juliette balconies to capture the beautiful surrounds. Take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens, or experience a delicious meal at the Poolside Restaurant.
Mantra Esplanade
Darwin
MANTRA ON THE ESPLANADE
★★★★

 Boasting panoramic views across the harbour or city, you’ll have the ideal vantage point from which to experience a famous Northern Territory sunset. With your location near Darwin Harbour, and close to the CBD, this is a great base to explore the Territory’s lively capital city and a host of stunning natural attractions, being both a short stroll to the Mitchell Street restaurant precinct and within driving distance of Kakadu National Park.
Mercure Alice Springs Resort
Alice Springs
MERCURE ALICE SPRINGS RESORT
 ★★★★
Situated on the Todd River, only a five minutes from the town centre the hotel offers 139 air-conditioned Standard, Superior and Deluxe guest rooms offering a homely, comfortable stay. Barra on Todd Restaurant and Bar is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The local attractions of Alice Springs are only a short distance away. This is perfect option for pre or post Uluru or Kings Canyon itineraries.
Sails in the Desert Hotel
Uluru
SAILS IN THE DESERT HOTEL
 ★★★★half star

Located in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, Sails in the Desert Hotel is the ideal base and gateway to all the cultural, historic and scenic experiences the region offers. The hotel is designed with the inspiration of the Anangu people. The delish culinary choices from Ilkari Restaurant and the Walpa Lobby Bar offer a selection of meals and beverages or relax with a spa treatment at the Red Ochre Spa.






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This is just a taste of the information and advice we have available through our House of Travel consultants.
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