Yes! The Tiwi Islands are open to visitors, but access is restricted to guided tours or by obtaining a special permit. This is to preserve the local Aboriginal community and maintain the natural beauty of the islands.

A day tour to the Tiwi Islands, such as the AAT Kings’ Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural Tour, starts from $445 per person. This includes your ferry ride, guided experiences, and a full day exploring the highlights of the islands.

The Tiwi Islands are just 80 kilometres north of Darwin. A scenic ferry ride from Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach the islands. The Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal is a short 7 minute drive from the Darwin Esplanade.

The Tiwi Islands are known as the 'Island of Smiles' and are rich in culture and history. On your visit, you’ll experience:

• The unique Tiwi-style Catholic Church

• Traditional art and craft centres showcasing world-class Aboriginal art

• A totem dance and traditional smoking ceremony

• Stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and pristine rainforest

We recommend bringing the following items for your trip to the Tiwi Islands:

• Comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for a tropical climate

• Sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses

• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

• Good walking shoes for the day’s adventures

• A camera or phone to capture the memories

Yes, visitors require a permit to access the Tiwi Islands. However, if you book a guided tour, such as the AAT Kings’ Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural Tour, your permit is included in the package.

The Dry Season, from May to October, offers more comfortable weather with warm days and cooler nights, making it perfect for exploring the islands’ culture and landscapes. AAT Kings offers Tiwi Island Tours between May and September.

Absolutely! Many visitors explore the Tiwi Islands on a day tour. The AAT Kings’ full-day tour offers a complete and immersive experience of the islands, including a ferry ride, cultural activities, and guided visits to significant landmarks.

The Tiwi people have a unique and rich cultural heritage, distinct from mainland Indigenous communities. You’ll encounter:

• Traditional songs, dances, and stories passed down for generations

• Unique Tiwi-style wood carvings, batik fabrics, and Pukamani burial poles

• A blend of traditional Tiwi culture and Catholicism introduced by missionaries

Yes, the islands are a haven for nature lovers! They’re home to species found nowhere else in the world, such as the endangered Carpentarian dunnart and Olive Ridley turtles. Additionally, the Tiwi Islands host the world’s largest breeding colony of crested terns.

After exploring the Tiwi Islands, many visitors continue their Northern Territory adventure by visiting Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park, or Arnhem Land. Each offers its unique landscapes, cultural experiences, and incredible wildlife.