Discover Darwin and the Top End
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Darwin
Darwin is the northern most capital city of Australia. With a rich history and iconic natural sights such as Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks and Katherine Gorge right on its doorstep, Darwin is the best place to explore and experience the Top End of Australia.
Darwin’s year round warm weather creates a relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for those who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle. Head down to the waterfront precinct and find the city’s buzzing cafés, bars and restaurants. There’s also a giant wave pool that the kids (and adults) will love!
The city has a dramatic history encompassing the tragic WWII bombing of Darwin and the devastation of Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Learn about these historic events and more at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Travel east of Darwin and you’ll find yourself in the in the heart of the Top End at the World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park. You can cruise the fabled Yellow Water Billabong and view ancient Aboriginal rock art sites at Ubirr and Nourlangie. Kakadu has one of the highest concentrations of rock art anywhere in the world and will give you an insight into life in this region 20,000 years ago.
Kakadu is also home to the Aboriginal Reserve, Arnhem Land and is the perfect place to be immersed in Aboriginal culture. It is home to one of the largest indigenous groups in Australia and is where the didgeridoo, the famed instrument of indigenous Australians originally came from.
Along the banks of the Katherine River, is Katherine. The highlight of the region is undoubtedly Katherine Gorge, made up of thirteen towering gorges. This natural haven is guaranteed to take your breath away. Also connected by the Katherine River is (Leilyn) Edith Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls and crystal clear rock pools on the western side of Nitmiluk National Park.
Two hours south of Darwin is Litchfield National Park, a jewel of the Top End. This amazing natural wonderland is home to three spectacular waterfalls Florence, Tolmer and Wangi Falls. These sparkling cascades offer an opportunity to cool off from the tropical heat.
A short scenic flight north of Darwin will see you at the wonderful Tiwi Islands. A trip to the Tiwi Islands will allow you to experience life in a modern day Aboriginal community. Voted as one of the top 100 things to do before you die by Australian Traveller in 2011, this is a must do.
From Darwin you can also embark on a unique Australian adventure travelling across the continent to Alice Springs or Adelaide on the Ghan Train.
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Darwin City
The Northern Territory’s capital Darwin might be the smallest capital city in Australia but it is rich in Aboriginal culture, steeped with history and offers plenty of things to see and do. Once a small port, today Darwin is a thriving modern city.
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Kakadu National Park
In the heart of the Top End is Kakadu National Park, World Heritage listed for its breathtaking landscape, wildlife and Aboriginal cultural significance. Situated 250 kilometres east of Darwin, there’s plenty to see and do in this diverse landscape spanning over 19,000 square kilometres.
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Katherine
Along the banks of the Katherine River, 320 kilometres south-east of Darwin is Katherine, the Top End’s third largest town with a pioneering history dating back to the 1860s.
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Litchfield National Park
Litchfield National Park is the hidden gem among the Top End’s many dramatic landscapes. A two hour drive south of Darwin will find you at this amazing natural wonderland, formed by water and time and bursting with natural attractions and home to a variety of wildlife.
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