Things to do in the Northern Territory
Hiking Kings Canyon: Your Must-Do Red Centre Adventure
Soaring cliffs, sweeping outback views, and a hidden oasis — hiking Kings Canyon is one of the most rewarding experiences in Australia’s Red Centre. Here’s how to plan your walk.
Top Things to Do in the Northern Territory: A Region-by-Region Guide
The Northern Territory is a land of rugged beauty, ancient culture, and unforgettable adventures. From the iconic red sands of Uluru to the lush wetlands of Kakadu, the NT offers a rich tapestry of landscapes and experiences. Whether you’re chasing outback road trips, Indigenous cultural encounters, epic wildlife photography, or bucket-list hikes, there are endless things to do in the Northern Territory.
To help you plan your ultimate NT adventure, this guide is sorted by region, with top attractions in a quick-reference table format for each.
Top Attractions in Darwin & Top End, NT
The vibrant capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin is the gateway to the Top End’s tropical climate, outdoor adventures, and multicultural charm. From lush nature parks and Indigenous art to crocodile cruises and lively markets, this region offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. Explore top attractions in and around Darwin that showcase the tropical lifestyle and unique wildlife of Australia’s north.
| Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
|---|---|---|
| Berry Springs Nature Park | Swim in spring-fed pools surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. | Berry Springs |
| Deckchair Cinema | Watch movies under the stars at this unique outdoor cinema experience. | Darwin |
| Darwin Street Art Festival | Explore vibrant murals across the city’s laneways. | Darwin |
| Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve | Spot abundant birdlife and wildlife in a lush wetland. | Humpty Doo |
| George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens | Wander gardens showcasing Northern Australia’s tropical flora. | Darwin |
| Jumping Crocodile Cruise | See crocs leap from the water on the Adelaide River. | Adelaide River |
| Mindil Beach Sunset Market | Enjoy food, crafts, and music with sunset views. | Darwin |
| Museum and Art Gallery of NT | Indigenous art, maritime history, and ‘Sweetheart’ the crocodile. | Darwin |
| Parap Village Markets | Sample food and browse local arts on Saturdays. | Parap |
| Stokes Hill Wharf | Harbour dining, historical displays, and ocean views. | Darwin |
Top Attractions in Litchfield National Park, NT
Just south of Darwin, Litchfield National Park is known for its spectacular waterfalls, magnetic termite mounds, natural swimming holes, and accessible walking trails. It’s a favourite for locals and visitors alike looking for an authentic outback escape without the crowds of Kakadu.
| Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
|---|---|---|
| Florence Falls | Twin waterfalls with a plunge pool perfect for swimming. | Near Batchelor |
| Buley Rockhole | Cascading rock pools ideal for a refreshing dip. | Near Florence Falls |
| Wangi Falls | Year-round accessible falls with a large swimming area. | West Litchfield |
| Tolmer Falls | Scenic lookout over a deep gorge and waterfall. | Near Wangi Falls |
| Magnetic Termite Mounds | See fascinating structures aligned with Earth’s magnetic field. | Near the park’s eastern entrance |
| Walker Creek | Short walk to secluded swimming holes. | East Litchfield |
| Lost City | 4WD access to a series of sandstone pillars resembling ruins. | Southern Litchfield |
| Tjaetaba Falls | Sacred site with walking trail and lookout; no swimming allowed. | Greenant Creek |
| Cascades | Moderate walk to upper and lower cascades; great for cooling off. | Central Litchfield |
Top Attractions in Jabiru & Kakadu National Park
Australia’s largest national park, Kakadu is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and thousands of years of Aboriginal heritage. From ancient rock art galleries and bird-filled wetlands to rugged 4WD tracks and seasonal waterfalls, Kakadu offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
| Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
|---|---|---|
| Bowali Visitor Centre | Learn about Kakadu’s natural and cultural heritage. | Jabiru |
| Cahills Crossing | Watch crocodiles hunt fish at this tidal crossing. | East Alligator River |
| Gunlom Falls & Infinity Pool | Swim in a natural pool with panoramic views. | Southern Kakadu |
| Jim Jim Falls | Hike to a dramatic plunge pool beneath cliffs. | Kakadu National Park |
| Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) | Walk to a crystal-clear pool and seasonal waterfall. | Kakadu National Park |
| Mamukala Wetlands | Observe birdlife from a shaded platform. | Near Jabiru |
| Nourlangie Rock (Burrungkuy) | Indigenous rock art and short walks with views. | Kakadu National Park |
| Twin Falls | Access by 4WD and boat; scenic gorge and swim area. | Kakadu National Park |
| Ubirr Rock Art & Lookout | Ancient Aboriginal rock art and floodplain views. | Kakadu National Park |
| Yellow Water Billabong Cruise | Spot crocs, buffalo, and wetland birds. | Cooinda |
Top Attractions in Arnhem Land, NT
A place of deep cultural significance and pristine wilderness, Arnhem Land is one of Australia’s last true frontiers. Accessible by permit, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to connect with Yolŋu culture through guided experiences, traditional art centres, and coastal retreats. Discover remote beaches, sacred rock art sites, and Indigenous-run tours that provide unparalleled insight into this ancient land.
| Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
|---|---|---|
| Dhimmurru Recreation Areas | Remote campsites and Aboriginal-managed wilderness. | Near Nhulunbuy |
| East Arnhem Land Beaches | Turquoise waters perfect for fishing and 4WD. | Nhulunbuy |
| Gove Peninsula Cultural Tours | Yolŋu-led cultural tours: weaving, bush medicine, dance. | Nhulunbuy |
| Injalak Arts | Watch artists at work and buy bark paintings. | Gunbalanya (Oenpelli) |
| Mount Borradaile | Sacred rock art sites and wetlands by guided tour. | Western Arnhem Land (by permit only) |
Top Attractions in Katherine & Nitmiluk National Park
Katherine is the beating heart of the Top End’s adventure territory, bridging lush tropics and red desert. It’s home to Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge—an iconic system of sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River. The region also features hot springs, underground caves, and immersive Indigenous cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
| Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
|---|---|---|
| Cutta Cutta Caves | Explore limestone caves with stalactites and stories. | 27km south of Katherine |
| Edith Falls (Leliyn) | Swim in upper and lower pools on scenic walks. | Nitmiluk National Park |
| Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Centre | Visual art, performance, and cultural storytelling. | Katherine |
| Katherine Hot Springs | Relax in clear thermal pools under shady trees. | Katherine |
| Kayaking in Nitmiluk Gorge | Paddle between towering cliffs in Nitmiluk Gorge. | Nitmiluk National Park |
| Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge | Cruise, canoe, or hike through the gorge system. | Nitmiluk National Park |
| Top Didj Cultural Experience | Try spear throwing and meet Aboriginal artists. | Katherine |
Top Attractions in the Barkly Tablelands, NT
Stretching between the Red Centre and Queensland, the Barkly Tablelands are a vast, lesser-known region of golden grasslands, cattle stations, and unique geological features. This remote outback area is ideal for those seeking solitude, stargazing, and a taste of authentic Territory life. Discover fascinating landscapes, Indigenous sites, and a slower pace of travel off the beaten track.
| Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Hill Mining Centre | Discover gold mining history and underground tours. | Tennant Creek |
| Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles | See enormous granite boulders scattered across the desert. | Near Wauchope |
| Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre | Learn Warumungu culture through art and displays. | Tennant Creek |
Top Attractions in Alice Springs & Central Australia
Alice Springs is the cultural and geographic centre of Australia, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Red Centre. This region is defined by its dramatic desert scenery, rich Aboriginal heritage, and iconic landmarks such as Uluru, Kata Tjuṯa, and Kings Canyon. From scenic hikes to immersive cultural experiences, Central Australia invites exploration under wide open skies.
Bike Ride Around Uluru
| Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
|---|---|---|
| Alice Springs Desert Park | Desert wildlife, Aboriginal culture, and ecosystems. | Alice Springs |
| Alice Springs Telegraph Station | Historical site marking early colonial settlement. | Alice Springs |
| Bike Ride Around Uluru | Cycle the 15km base loop for a unique perspective on the rock. | Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park |
| Field of Light Uluru | Nighttime art installation of 50,000 solar-powered stems. | Near Uluru |
| Kata Tjuṯa (The Olgas) | Hike among towering domes in the Valley of the Winds. | Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park |
| Kings Canyon | Walk the rim or explore the lush Garden of Eden. | Watarrka National Park |
| MacDonnell Ranges | Gorges, waterholes, and ancient outback terrain. | West of Alice Springs |
| Ormiston Gorge | Swim in a red rock gorge surrounded by ghost gums. | West MacDonnell National Park |
| Simpsons Gap | Spot rock wallabies among dramatic cliffs. | West of Alice Springs |
| The Ghan Train Journey | Iconic train trip from Darwin to Adelaide. | Passes through Alice Springs |
| Tjoritja (West MacDonnell) | Epic hikes and waterholes like Glen Helen Gorge. | West of Alice Springs |
| Uluru (Ayers Rock) | Walk around the base or view at sunrise/sunset. | Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park |
| Uluru Sunrise Viewing | Watch the first light illuminate the rock’s changing colours. | Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park |
Ormiston Gorge, Tjoritja/West Macdonnell National Park
Plan Your Northern Territory Escape Today
Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or cultural explorer, the Northern Territory offers something truly unforgettable. From the wetlands of Kakadu to the spiritual heart of Uluru, the NT is full of stories waiting to be discovered. Explore our blog for photography tips, outback road trip ideas, and Indigenous-led experiences to make your Northern Territory journey extraordinary.
Northern Territory Travel Inspiration & Stories
Hiking Kings Canyon: Your Must-Do Red Centre Adventure
Soaring cliffs, sweeping outback views, and a hidden oasis — hiking Kings Canyon is one of the most rewarding experiences in Australia’s Red Centre. Here’s how to plan your walk.
Bike Ride Around Uluru: A Must-Do in Australia’s Red Centre
Discover the unforgettable experience of cycling around Uluru in the heart of the Northern Territory. This unique adventure offers a peaceful, up-close encounter with one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks — all on two wheels. From sunrise shadows to ancient rock art, here’s everything you need to know to make your bike ride around Uluru one to remember.
Alice Springs Desert Park: A Must-Visit in the Red Centre
Just minutes from town, Alice Springs Desert Park brings the desert to life through native animals, ancient landscapes, and Aboriginal culture. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, nature photographer, or curious traveller, this immersive experience is a must-do in the Red Centre.
Uluru Sunrise: Experience the Magic of Australia’s Red Centre
Experience the magic of Uluru at sunrise — watch the iconic red rock glow against the morning sky in Australia’s Red Centre. Discover the best viewing spots, tips, and cultural insights for an unforgettable start to your day.
Uluru Light Show
Uluru Light Show: Experience the Magic of the Field of Light🌐 Website: Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park 📍 Location: Near Uluru, NT 0872, Australia ⏰ Opening Hours: Daily, from sunset to late evening ⏳ Duration: 1 - 2 hours 👨👩👧👦 Family friendly Uluru Light Show:...
Nitmiluk Gorge
Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge), located just near the town of Katherine, is one of the highlights of a Northern Territory holiday.
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