East Point Reserve, Northern Territory
Darwin
On traditional Larrakia land lies this unique tropical capital filled with endless experiences that’ll make you go “far out!”. From jumping-crocs to luxurious sunset cruises, to undiscovered festivals and events, the activities are as extreme and varied as the weather. To get a glimpse of local life or before venturing to the Top End, be sure to visit this adventurous paradise.
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Places to stay
Whether the city is your gateway to the Top End or you’re looking to delve deeper into the heritage and culture of the NT’s capital - Darwin is a booming and buzzing place. Along the Darwin Esplanade are a string of luxury hotels coupled with some more affordable and self-contained options - all of which come with harbourfront views and easy access to the city’s many attractions. Beat the heat by jumping between the pool bar and the private beach at the premium Mindil Beach Resort which will put you in a prime position to enjoy Mindil Beach.
Darwin is a great city to explore on a budget with Chilli's Backpackers or Melaleuca on Mitchell-Darwin YHA both offering up fun stays in the heart of the town. In Parap you’ll find plenty of serviced apartments to relax at in between visits to the Saturday markets and the area’s many cute cafes.
Halfway between Darwin and Kakadu, you’ll find a luxury safari camp Bamurru Plains. The journey to get there is just the beginning of this outback experience which includes a variety of safaris and native-inspired dining. Mary River Wilderness Retreat is also an excellent camping option if you want easy access to Kakadu and all the incredible wildlife that lives there.
Things to do
Darwin is a daring city where you can experience some of Australia's genuinely epic environments mixed with culinary and cultural delights.
What lengths will you go to to spy a crocodile? At Crocosaurus Cove, in the city, you'll find two options - watching them from the stands or seeing their smiles up close in a cage swim. If you'd prefer to see these calculating creatures in their natural habit, take a 40-minute drive to the Adelaide River where one of the tour companies can take you out onto the water to see crocs jump for their supper.
If you want your crocs coupled with culture, Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is owned and operated by local aboriginals and provides a unique tour along Kakadu's scenically spectacular East Alligator River as well as an insight into the culture of the Traditional Owners of the land. For a croc-free spot to cool off, visit the pristine swimming holes, mini waterfalls and lush green surrounds of Berry Springs which, unlike many of the region's other glorious swimming holes, is only 40 minutes from the city.
Once you're done with the waterholes, make a day out of exploring the wetlands. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise offers incredible bird sightings along the Mary River Wetlands while Ayal Aboriginal Tours provide an exclusive tour of a rarely seen area of Kakadu where you can learn about the fascinating history of buffalo hunting and their special ancestral connection to this country.
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Where to go
Kakadu National Park
A must see in the NT the world heritage-listed park is filled with beautiful cascading waterfalls, exotic birdlife and walking trails to suit any level of fitness. Visit one of the largest collections of Aboriginal rock art in the massive Kakadu National Park.
Take the Nature's Way tourist drive to experience many of the parks major sites including Mamukala Wetlands, the Bowali Visitor Centre, the town of Jabiru, Nourlangie Rock, Jim Jim and Twin Falls, Cooinda and Maguk.
Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park
In the outdoor playground, you’ll be spoilt for choice from fishing, camping, kayaking and trekking or hop on a sunset dinner cruise through Nitmuluk Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park.
See the mighty Katherine River flowing through Nitmiluk Gorge or head out for camping and adventure in the Elsey and Gregory National Parks. The Daly River and Gulf Region are renowned as top fishing destinations, and Mataranka is rich in history.
Getting around
At the airport: Darwin airport services domestic and international flights and is located 12.5km from the city centre. There's a taxi rank and shuttle service outside the terminal.
In and around the city: buses, taxis and bike make getting around Darwin easy, but the best way to see the sights is on foot. There are a number of walks that cover the wharf, esplanade, city and gardens along with other points of interest and historical landmarks.
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Disclaimer: #You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.