Things to do in the Northern Territory
Uluru Sunrise
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.
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 National Park, 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—making it easy to explore top attractions and hidden gems across each unique part of the Territory.
Top Attractions in Darwin & Surrounds
Katherine serves as a gateway between the tropical Top End and the arid Red Centre, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Berry Springs Nature Park | Swim in spring-fed pools surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. |
| Deckchair Cinema | Watch movies under the stars at this unique outdoor cinema experience. |
| Darwin Street Art Festival | Explore vibrant murals across the city’s laneways from local and international artists. |
| Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve | Spot abundant birdlife and wildlife in a lush wetland environment. |
| George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens | Wander through extensive gardens showcasing Northern Australia’s tropical flora. |
| Jumping Crocodile Cruise (Adelaide River) | See saltwater crocodiles leap from the water on a guided river cruise. |
| Mindil Beach Sunset Market | Enjoy local food, crafts, and live music with stunning sunset views over the Timor Sea. |
| Museum and Art Gallery of NT | Discover Indigenous art, maritime history, and exhibits like Sweetheart the crocodile. |
| Parap Village Markets | Sample international street food, browse fresh produce and local arts on Saturdays. |
| Stokes Hill Wharf | Dine by the harbour, visit historical displays, and enjoy views of Darwin’s coastline. |
Top Attractions in Litchfield National Park
An easy day trip from Darwin, Litchfield is known for its stunning waterfalls, magnetic termite mounds, and natural swimming holes surrounded by monsoon forest.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Buley Rockhole | Relax in a series of cascading rock pools ideal for cooling off. |
| Florence Falls | Swim beneath twin waterfalls in a scenic gorge surrounded by tropical forest. |
| Magnetic Termite Mounds | See towering termite structures aligned with Earth’s magnetic field. |
| Tolmer Falls | View dramatic falls plunging into a deep, restricted-access pool. |
| Tjaetaba Falls | A lesser-known area with walking trails and Aboriginal cultural significance. |
| Walker Creek | A peaceful walking trail with multiple private swimming spots. |
| Wangi Falls | A popular swimming spot with a short rainforest walk and waterfall views. |
Top Attractions in Katherine & Nitmiluk National Park
Home to dramatic gorges, thermal springs, and rich Indigenous heritage, Katherine is a key stop between Darwin and the Red Centre.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Cutta Cutta Caves | Explore underground limestone caves with impressive stalactites and Indigenous history. |
| Edith Falls (Leliyn) | Swim in upper and lower plunge pools connected by scenic walking trails. |
| Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Culture Centre | Regional hub for visual art, performance, and storytelling. |
| Katherine Hot Springs | Relax in crystal-clear thermal pools shaded by lush vegetation. |
| Kayaking in Nitmiluk Gorge | Paddle between towering sandstone cliffs in a peaceful, immersive experience. |
| Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge | Canoe, cruise, or hike through the spectacular gorge carved by the Katherine River. |
| Top Didj Cultural Experience | Learn about Aboriginal art, spear throwing, and fire lighting from local artists. |
Top Attractions in Arnhem Land
A remote and culturally rich region, Arnhem Land is accessible by permit and offers visitors a rare chance to experience traditional Yolŋu culture, coastal beauty, and vast wilderness.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Dhimmurru Recreation Areas | Access remote campsites, wild coastline, and Aboriginal-managed conservation zones. |
| East Arnhem Land Beaches (Nhulunbuy) | Explore pristine beaches and turquoise waters perfect for fishing, 4WD, and cultural tours. |
| Gove Peninsula Cultural Tours | Participate in immersive experiences led by Yolŋu people – bush medicine, weaving, and dance. |
| Injalak Arts (Gunbalanya/Oenpelli) | Visit a community-run centre to watch artists at work and purchase traditional bark paintings. |
| Mount Borradaile (by permit/tour only) | Discover sacred rock art sites and wetlands rich in wildlife with an Indigenous guide. |
Top Attractions in Alice Springs & The Red Centre
The heart of Australia, the Red Centre is known for iconic landscapes, deep spiritual significance to Aboriginal people, and unique desert ecosystems.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Alice Springs Desert Park | Learn about desert wildlife, Aboriginal culture, and local ecosystems. |
| Alice Springs Telegraph Station | Discover colonial history at the town’s original settlement site. |
| Kata Tjuṯa (The Olgas) | Hike the Valley of the Winds trail through towering domes. |
| Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park) | Walk the rim for breathtaking views or explore the Garden of Eden. |
| MacDonnell Ranges | Hike or 4WD through gorges, waterholes, and ancient landscapes. |
| Ormiston Gorge | Swim in a deep gorge surrounded by red rock and ghost gums. |
| Simpsons Gap | Spot black-footed rock wallabies among the dramatic cliffs. |
| The Ghan Train Journey | Travel from Darwin to Adelaide through the Red Centre on this iconic railway. |
| Tjoritja (West MacDonnell National Park) | Discover epic hikes and waterholes like Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen Gorge. |
| Uluru (Ayers Rock) | Walk around the base or view sunrise/sunset over this sacred sandstone monolith. |
Top Attractions in Jabiru & Kakadu National Park
Jabiru serves as the main township within Kakadu, Australia’s largest national park, known for its biodiversity and cultural heritage.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Bowali Visitor Centre (Jabiru) | Learn about Kakadu’s natural and cultural heritage and plan your park activities. |
| Cahills Crossing (East Alligator River) | Watch crocodiles hunt fish at this tidal crossing near the Arnhem Land border. |
| Gunlom Falls & Infinity Pool | Swim in a natural infinity pool with sweeping views (check access; road subject to seasonal closures). |
| Jim Jim Falls | Take a 4WD adventure and hike to a dramatic plunge pool beneath towering cliffs. |
| Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) | Hike through monsoon forest to a crystal-clear plunge pool and waterfall. |
| Mamukala Wetlands | View thousands of magpie geese and other birdlife from a shaded observation platform. |
| Nourlangie Rock (Burrungkuy) | Explore stunning galleries of Indigenous rock art and short walks with escarpment views. |
| Twin Falls | Access via 4WD and boat shuttle; enjoy swimming and relaxing in a scenic gorge. |
| Ubirr Rock Art & Lookout | See ancient Aboriginal rock art and panoramic views over the Nadab floodplain. |
| Yellow Water Billabong Cruise | Spot crocodiles, buffalo, and wetland birds on this iconic wildlife cruise. |
Plan Your Northern Territory Escape Today
Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or cultural explorer, the Northern Territory promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and deep connection to Aboriginal heritage, there’s something for every kind of traveller. Explore our latest blog posts for more travel ideas, photography tips, and insider knowledge to help you make the most of your journey through this extraordinary part of Australia.
Northern Territory Travel Inspiration & Stories
Uluru Sunrise
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
See the Uluru Light ShowUluru’s Field of Light: A Desert DreamscapeIn the heart of the Northern Territory’s outback, something magical happens after dark. As twilight deepens over Uluru, thousands of tiny lights blink to life across the desert floor. This is Field of...
Nitmiluk Gorge
Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge), located just near the town of Katherine, is one of the highlights of a Northern Territory holiday.
Gunlom Falls
Take a 4WD adventure to Gunlom Falls and plunge pool (made famous in the Crocodile Dundee film) in the beautiful Kakadu National Park.
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