Australia’s very own wild (north) west, the vast Northern Territory is timeless and iconic.
From the red rivers of rock at Uluru to the nature lover’s haven at Kakadu National Park, there is a seemingly endless parade of wonders to discover here.
Whether you are visiting independently, or as part of a tour, there are some places you really have to see.
So move over Sydney, we have picked out the main highlights of the Northern Territory that’ll make you want to strap on your cork hat and head into the action.
1. Uluru
Ayers Rock (Uluru) might seem like a big rock in the middle of nowhere, and it is, but it is magical. The trip getting here offers the true Australian Outback experience where you’ll drive through some of the most unique landscapes Australia has to offer.
Visit at either sunrise or sunset to view this spectacular sight as Uluru transforms from ochre to burnished orange and intense red. This is something really special!
For a unique experience be sure to catch a bush walk lead by a local ranger where you will learn about Tjukurpa (Aboriginal law) and discover some of the beautiful traditions surrounding the rock.
2. Kata Tjuta
Kata Tjuta is another essential stop off when visiting the Red Centre of Australia. Although not as famous as Uluru, Kata Tjuta, also known as the Olgas, is a group of large, domed rock formations or bornhardts located about 360 km southwest of Alice Springs. This is an essential photo stop destination.
3. Aboriginal Rock Art
Throughout the Northern Territory you can find ancient Aboriginal Rock Art, some are over 17,500 and 17,100 years old! The feeling of standing before these incredible, ancient works of art, the sense of kinship with humans from 40,000 years in the past, will never leave you. Some of the most impressive Aboriginal rock art in the world can be found in Kakadu, Uluru, Watarrka and Katherine.
4. Swim with Crocodiles
The Northern Territory is home to both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles and there are lots of places to see them including the Kakadu National Park, Crocodylus Park and the Territory Wildlife Park In Berry Springs.
If you would like to learn more about these incredible creatures visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory or for something more thrilling head to Crocosaurus Cove.
Here you can see crocodiles and if you are feeling brave you can even swim with crocodiles in the Cage of Death, where you are lowered into the crocodiles’ water in a perspex enclosure.
5. Alice Springs
Alice Springs is the third-largest town in the Northern Territory of Australia and although it isn’t the most culturally rich destination, the chances are if you are going to visit Uluru and the Outback you will stop by here. Alice Springs is small compared to other towns and cities in Australia, but there are lots of bushwalking trails, gardens, and historical buildings.
6. Watarrka National Park
The Watarrka National Park is a protected area and one of the best areas for nature in Australia. This National Park is home of Kings Canyon’s palm-filled crevices, beautiful desert views, and incredible vistas of endless stars that only the outback can provide.
7. Devils Marbels
Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve is a protected area in the Northern Territory of Australia located in the locality of Warumungu about 105 km south of Tennant Creek, and 393 km north of Alice Springs.
8. Wilderness Safari Retreat
Stay on the doorstep of Uluru and experience iconic landscapes and wildlife up close and personal. The stars and sky at night here is really clear and spectacular.
9. Canoeing & Kayaking
For those looking for a little more adventure, kayaking down the ancient waterways of the Katherine area allows for access to remote and dramatic landscapes. This is one of the most fun and relaxing things to do in the Northern Territory and will allow you to go off the beaten track to see more of the area.
10. Explore Darwin
Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and a really underrated city to visit. Although quite isolated from the rest of Australia, if you are planning a trip to the Outback or Northern Territory you can find lots of fun things to do in Darwin.
There is a really beautiful waterfront area, several beaches and also green areas like Bicentennial Park. You can also find museums, shops, restaurants and also there are lots of day trips available. View some more Darwin travel tips.
11. Tiwi Islands
50 miles off the north coast and inhabited by just 3000 people, the Titi Islands are not only stunning, they’re steeped in aboriginal history. They’re also nicknamed the “Islands of smiles”, so honestly how could you resist?
12. Mary River
Fish, cruise, bird-watch, spot salt-water crocodiles, or just camp out and enjoy the seclusion of this national park.
13. Bird Watching
Home to the highest number of waterbirds in Australia as well as rare birds including such fantastically named species as the Chestnut-Quilled Rock Pigeon and the Helmeted Friarbird. It is, however, also home to the Golden Orb Weaver spider which has been known to eat birds. So, you know, it’s probably fair.
14. Scenic Flights
Get a whole new perspective on NT by jumping into a plane and experiencing this vast landscape from the air. With an area the size of France, Spain and Italy combined, there’s an awful lot to see! Only from the air can you really get an understanding of just how breathtaking the endless desert scenery is.
15. Markets
Whether it’s aboriginal crafts, local produce, art or food you’re looking for, at markets in cites like Darwin, rural areas such as Palmerston, or tropical beaches, you’ll find a gift to suit everyone back home…as well as a little something for yourself.
Australia’s Northern Territory is such a unique and fascinating destination, and if you want to go backpacking or just have an interest to discover more of Australia off the beaten track you really should go. You might also want to learn some interesting facts about Australia too.
