Equivalent in size to France, Italy and Spain combined, Australia's Outback Northern Territory is bordered by Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia. Blessed with an abundance of natural environments the NT is famous for its spectacular wildlife.
This is an environment that ebbs and flows with the seasons, of contrast and colour, where change is the only constant. Of awe inspiring iconic wonders - the World Heritage National Parks of Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta (Ayers Rock). Of flora and fauna as diverse as desert blooms are to lotus lilies and the fearsome saltwater crocodile is to the Brolga, the elegant dancing bird that is our emblem.
Our indigenous culture, the Aboriginal people, hold a deeply spiritual connection to the land that dates back tens of thousands of years, yet can still be shared in the present day - through commercial art galleries, a walk in the desert in search of bush tucker, a visit to the ancient rock art sites, community events or touring that involves a story-telling session.
Australia's Outback Northern Territory is renowned for its colourful characters. The type you'd meet at one of our legendary outback pubs, cattle stations or country towns. Uncomplicated, larger than life, and only too willing to share a yarn or two. It's hard not to fall in love with our down to earth attitude. Welcoming, friendly and laid back. You'll be struck by the spirit of the people.
The Northern Territory is home to two World Heritage-listed national parks - Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta - along with over 50 other national parks, nature reserves, conservation areas and marine parks.
These parks offer plenty of experiences for travellers: bushwalking, swimming under waterfalls, Aboriginal cultural tours and camping under the stars.
Essential information:
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park requires a permit to access, which is provided at the entry station. The cost of an adult, three-day pass is $25.
- Camp in designated camp sites and remember to take all rubbish with you when you leave. Camping is not permitted in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
- When bushwalking, stay on the marked trails.
- Pets are not permitted in any national park in the Northern Territory.
- Some parks in the northern part of the Territory, such as Kakadu, are home to saltwater crocodiles. Obey the 'no swimming' warnings.
- Take care with fire, light fires only in fireplaces provided.
- Take a gas barbecue in case there is a total fire ban.
- Avoid using soaps and detergent in or near waterways.
- All cultural items and wildlife are protected. Don't feed native animals.
Aboriginal Culture:
A rich tapestry of Aboriginal cultures can be found throughout the Northern Territory. There are hundreds of different languages, customs and laws, each woven together to tell a story thought to be more than 50,000 years old. Almost one quarter of the Northern Territory's population are Aboriginal people and approximately half of the Territory is Aboriginal-owned land. So when you visit the Territory, it's likely you'll pass through country traditionally associated with different Aboriginal groups.
Much of this land is managed by land councils, and for some areas a permit is required before entering. When dealing with Aboriginal people, there are some cultural considerations to remember:
- Some Aboriginal people have beliefs that mean they don't like having their photo taken. It is courteous to ask for permission first.
- Family business and ceremonies are an important part of life for Aboriginal people and these matters take priority, which can interrupt scheduled tours.
- Access to some sites with spiritual significance may be restricted.
Must See Destinations
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Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is Australia's largest, covering more than 19,000 square kilometres. World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is situated 250 kilometres from Darwin on the Arnhem Highway. Pockets of monsoon rainforest, paperbark forests and wetlands are a haven for Kakadu’s amazing wildlife including crocodiles, barramundi, and birdlife. |
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Katherine
The Katherine Region stretches from Dunmarra in the south, to the Daly River region in the north. From east to west, we embrace both the Queensland and Western Australian borders and in total cover around 480,000 sq km.
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Uluru-Kata Tjuta
Rising from the broad desert plain in the deep centre of Australia, Uluru/Ayers Rock is Australia's most recognisable natural icon. The famous sandstone monolith stands 348 metres high and, like an iceberg, has most of its bulk below the surface.
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Tennant Creek
The Tennant Creek township in Central Australia sits on the Explorer's Way, 500 kilometres north of Alice Springs and 1000 kilometres south of Darwin. The town is surrounded to the east by the Barkly Tablelands - a huge expanse of land that supports some of Australia's premier cattle stations.
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Darwin
Australia's proximity to Asia is never more apparent than when you are in Darwin. The northernmost capital, named after Charles Darwin, is an exotic blend of frontier town, Asian village, & modern life. Darwin is located on a peninsular with the sea on three sides. It is a place unvisited by winter where the weather can be described as either balmy or sultry.
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Alice Springs
In the heart of Central Australia, between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges, sits Australia's most famous outback town. Alice Springs is a thriving, spirited outback centre - as famous for the personality of its locals as the natural wonders that surround it. |
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MacDonnell Ranges
The East and West MacDonnell Ranges stretch out for hundreds of kilometres on both sides of Alice Springs. The panoramic landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges are easily accessed from Alice Springs.
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