You don’t get better, more scenic destinations for an adventure holiday and cultural exploration than Northern Territory. From the vibrant landscape of the Red Centre and the majesty of Uluru (Ayers Rock) to the misty waterfalls of Kakadu National Park and the vibrancy of Darwin, every corner of the Northern Territory offers incredible attractions and unforgettable experiences.
With so much to choose from, how do you even begin to plan your trip, especially if you want to see the very best attractions in Northern Territory?
Our guide will cover a few of the best places to visit in Northern Territory and the attractions that make it one of Australia’s most treasured destinations.
Before we dive in, it’s important to know the main regions of the Northern Territory (formerly known as ‘Kingsland’):
- Darwin & surrounds
- Alice Springs & surrounds
- Uluru & surrounds
- Katherine & surrounds
- Kakadu & surrounds
- Tennant Creek & Barkly Region
- Arnhem Land
Each region has so much to see and do, so let’s explore the most popular Northern Territory attractions and what to do at each.
Darwin Waterfront Precinct is a splendid place to unwind, dine, and spend time in the water, and an ideal attraction for families. With over 20 different restaurants, an Aqua Park, a Wave Lagoon, and a beach, you can bring the whole family for a fun weekend in the sun. You’ll even be close to various harbour cruises to explore the bay by boat or venture to Stokes Hill Wharf for a beautiful view of the sunset - made even more magical when dining at one of Darwin’s best waterfront restaurants. To make the most of your visit, book a room at a hotel on the property.
To get there, book your flight to Darwin and drive 12 minutes into Darwin city.
Experiences to book at Darwin Waterfront Precinct
As one of the most memorable Darwin tourist attractions, Crocosaurus Cove offers the chance to see one of Australia’s most iconic animals, the crocodile, up close and personal. Here, you’ll see some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in the country. As the ultimate urban wildlife experience, you’ll explore the 200,000-litre freshwater aquarium filled with marine life, such as Barramundi and Whiprays. The most daring visitors can try one of the region's most unique things to do and sit inches from the crocs in the Cage of Death, or you can even feed the crocs yourself. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance, as this attraction will fill up quickly. With the tourist hotspot just 12 minutes from the airport, it’s an easy place to start your exploration of Darwin.
Experiences to book at Crocosaurus Cove
- Crocosaurus Cove Darwin General Admission Tickets
- Crocosaurus Cove Darwin Croc Feeding Experience
- Darwin Crocosaurus Cage of Death Solo Dive
- Swim With Crocodiles in the Cage Of Death & Cove Entry
Territory Wildlife Park
Located 45 minutes from Darwin, Territory Wildlife Park covers 400 hectares and features flora and fauna native to Northern Territory, including the orange footed scrub-fowl, bowerbirds, and emerald ground-doves. Traverse the various park habitats, from the aquarium to the aviary to the Monsoon Forest Walk, explore the exhibits or book into one of the wildlife encounters. If you’re spending the day here, bring along a packed lunch and enjoy the picnic area. There are also areas for camping if you’d like to take the weekend to see all that this attraction has to offer.
Berry Springs Nature Park
If you’re looking for natural swimming pools, stunning walking trails, and a chance to learn about Darwin’s history, then you have to visit Berry Springs Nature Park. Those eager to explore the marine life while swimming and snorkelling should plan to visit during the dry season, from May to October. But no matter when you come, the walking trails throughout the park will be open, where you can birdwatch, take in the scenery, and enjoy the weather. It's important to note that there's a chance that the pools close for swimming during the wet season (October to April) due to flooding and water quality, but the park itself will remain open.
Don’t forget to stop by the old campsite from World War II, where 100,000 armed forces were once stationed. Be sure to pack some proper clothes, your swim gear, and a water bottle before you take the 30-40-minute trip from Darwin.
Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park
For a day trip just an hour outside of Darwin, Buley Rockhole is an attraction in Litchfield National Park that offers swimming, hiking, and gorgeous natural scenery. Buley Rockhole comprises several small streams, including small deep plunge pools to shallow rock pools to explore. You’ll even be able to lounge in the natural flowing water streams. Near the Rockhole is the Florence Creek walking trail, which is a 3.2-kilometres track that’ll take you to another fantastic Northern territory attraction – Florence Falls. The walk should take about 90 minutes, so wear your best walking shoes and bring a water bottle. You’ll need a park pass for entry to Litchfield National Park, but you can spend the day here swimming, hiking, and picnicking. It’s not the only stunning attraction in Litchfield National Park, so we recommend aiming to spend an entire day in the area to visit as many as possible.
Experiences to book to visit Buley Rockhole at Litchfield National Park
Florence Falls and Waterhole, Litchfield National Park
As one of Litchfield National Park's most popular swimming holes and home of a powerful double waterfall, Florence Falls and Waterhole is a must-stop if you’re already at Buley Rockhole. The falls are accessible year-round, but may be closed due to heavy rain or flooding, so be sure to check ahead of your visit.. Two paths lead down to the swimming hole: one takes you down 130-160 steps, but the other is a one-kilometre walk through a wet, uneven, and rocky trail that may be difficult for some. Make sure to bring your best walking shoes and some swimwear to enjoy the water. It’s the perfect spot to spend the afternoon after stopping by Buley Rockhole.
Experiences to book to visit Florence Falls at Litchfield National Park
Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park
Wangi Falls is one of the most famous Northern Territory attractions and another fantastic swimming hole in Litchfield National Park. The area also includes a campground, picnic area, gas barbeques, and even Wangi Falls Café, where you’ll find a range of food options for a quick snack or meal. Once you arrive at the carpark, take the short walk down to the falls. The water does get deep quickly, but there are handrails to help you. For those interested in hiking and exploring more of Litchfield National Park, take the 1.3-kilometre walking path from the Wangi plunge pool all the way to a viewing platform. It’s a moderate hike, but it’s well worth the view from the top!
Experiences to book to visit Wangi Falls at Litchfield National Park
Uluru and Surrounds
Uluru (Ayers Rock), Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) is the most famous landmark in the Northern Territory, known as the ‘Red Centre’ of the region. It encompasses over 30,000 years of cultural and spiritual significance to the region, offering not only captivating natural views but plenty of rare plants, animals, and Aboriginal stories to explore. The Anangu culture has existed in the area for thousands of years, still protecting and managing these ancestral lands today. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can immerse yourself in the Aboriginal culture of the region, watch the sunrise and sunset, join the rangers on a walk to explore the area’s geological significance, or even take a segway tour or camel ride. For one of the most breathtaking ways to see the iconic landmark, scenic helicopter flights are available. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan around school holidays. Don’t forget to buy your park pass in advance!
To get to Uluru, fly into Ayers Rock Airport and drive 30 minutes to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Experiences to book at Uluru / Ayer’s Rock
- Uluru Sunrise and Field of Light Tour
- Uluru and Kata Tjuta Helicopter Flight
- Uluru Astronomy Tour with Photography
- Dot Painting Workshop
- Uluru Morning Guided Base Walk including Breakfast
- Uluru Sunset Tour from Ayers Rock Resort
- Uluru Segway Tour
Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Kata Tjuta isn’t just an awe-inspiring Northern Territory attraction, it’s also one of the most important sites in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for the Anangu people, comprising 36 domes that cover more than 20 square kilometres. The domes soar to an impressive 546 metres above the plain, standing out on the horizon as you approach them. While here, explore the Walpa Gorge Walk or the Valley of the Winds Walk, or immerse yourself in the stories and culture. If you traverse the Walpa Gorge Walk, you’ll discover plants and animals native to the area, including wallabies and wildflowers. The area is difficult to reach without a car, so plan ahead and either book a tour of the region with transport or choose to rent a car once you fly into Ayers Rock Airport. You’ll also need a park pass to enter.
Experiences to book at Kata Tjuta
Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park
A trip to Kings Canyon is a must to see the Outback in all its glory! This destination is a favourite amongst travellers due to the ancient red canyon walls that soar 100m above Kings Creek and the famous Rim Walk. The environment is full of rare flora to explore, and there are plenty of things to do at Kings Canyon. Best of all, the walking trails are paved and accessible by wheelchair or pram, making it one of the best Northern Territory attractions for families. Whether you engage in ranger-guided activities, take some photos, or go bushwalking, you’re in for a great experience as you explore more about the area’s unique Aboriginal history. Those looking for more exciting experiences can explore the 4x4 tracks, book into a camel tour or even stay in the park overnight. Watarrka National Park is a three hour drive from Uluru or Ayers Rock Airport, which makes for an incredible road trip. Another option is to fly into Alice Springs and hire a car for the five-and-a-half hour drive.
For those looking to experience the beauty and power of the animals of the Outback, visit Alice Springs Desert Park. One of the best places to visit in Alice Springs, this Northern Territory attraction is an immersion in the spirit of the Red Centre, complete with several shows and animal encounters. In the morning, you’ll meet a dingo or an Australian wolf, learn about plant medicine and emus, and even see a free-flying bird show! It’s the perfect place to take the whole family, and you’ll even have an opportunity if you come in the afternoon and evening to learn about the nocturnal animals in the area. It’s best to spend at least three to four hours here. With Aboriginal guides on site, you’ll hear stories, learn more about their culture, and leave with a renewed understanding of what makes the region so spectacular.
Experiences to book at Alice Springs Desert Park
Simpsons Gap, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park
While visiting Alice Springs, Simpsons Gap in the famous Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park is a fantastic attraction to explore– especially if conquering the Larapinta Trail or spotting a black-footed rock wallaby or two is on your bucket list. As one of the most famous gaps in the West MacDonnell Ranges, Simpsons Gap - or Rungutjirpa to the Arrernte people - holds significant spiritual meaning to the local Arrernte community, who have been inhabiting the area since before the European discovery.
For avid hikers, there are several trails to choose from, depending on your fitness level and time. The easiest is the Ghost Gum Walk, which is a 15-min round trip, followed by Cassia Hill, which is 1.5km. For longer walks, Hat Hill Saddle is a moderate trail that is 4.2km return, and experienced hikers won’t want to miss the Larapinta Trail, which is over 230km and made up of 12 sections. For those planning to trek the Larapinta Trail, one of the most incredible walks near Uluru, camping grounds are available should you plan on a multiple-day hike. The location is also famous for its biking paths, so if you’re an avid cyclist, bring your helmet, some food and water, and sun protection. You’ll also need to organise a pass for access to the Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park.
Located 24 kilometres west from Alice Springs, it takes between 20 and 30 minutes to get to Simpsons Gap.
Ormiston Gorge, Tjoritja /West MacDonnell National Park
Situated 135km from Alice Springs in Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park, Ormiston Gorge is a great place to visit to immerse yourself in the beautiful natural landscapes of the Northern Territory. Whether you swim or walk the trails, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your time here. The permanent swimming waterhole is 14-metres deep and cold, so pack appropriate swim gear! There are multiple walking trails for visitors of all fitness levels, so all you’ll need to bring is a pair of walking shoes and your sense of adventure. With barbeques and public facilities, you’ll even have the chance to camp here to ensure you explore all that this national park offers.
Ellery Creek Big Hole, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park
Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the most popular waterholes around Alice Springs and is located 90 kilometres west of Alice Springs. After thousands of years of floods, this waterhole was carved out and left behind right between Ellery Creek and a gorge in the West MacDonnell Ranges, and today is famous for being surrounded by towering red cliffs. Be warned that the roads on the way to the creek become impassible when it rains, but when the sun is out, and the weather is pleasant, it is a perfect day trip from Alice Springs. Once you get to the carpark, it’s a five-minute walk down to the waterhole, best visited in the summer. If you want to spend a weekend here, there are ample camping facilities, gas barbeques, and walking loops that connect to Larapinta Trail.
Palm Valley, Finke Gorge National Park
With over 3,000 adult palms and thousands of juvenile plants in the area, Palm Valley is a beautiful spot to visit and one of the most unique attractions in Northern Territory. Here, you’ll find a diverse collection of plants, including several that are rare in the region. There’s even the famed red cabbage palm, which is why the area is named Palm Valley. The best activities here include four-wheel driving, ranger-guided activities, and even camping. With plenty of walking trails to explore and lots of wildlife, Palm Valley makes for an incredible trip from Alice Springs.
Finke Gorge National Park is located 138km from Alice Springs. The last 16km of the trip is limited to high clearance 4WD vehicles only.
Experiences to book to visit Palm Valley in Finke Gorge National Park
Nitmiluk Gorge, or Katherine Gorge, is a 13-gorge system that’s one of the Northern Territory’s most impressive attractions, and one of the best things to do in Katherine. Whether you swim, mountain bike, camp, boat, fish, or even canoe in Katherine River, you could spend the whole weekend exploring this stunning region! There are multiple campsites and swimming holes to choose from, as well as walking trails that allow you to discover the unique wildlife of Nitmiluk National Park. For a genuinely scenic exploration of the area, book a boat tour, helicopter flight, or canoe for half a day. Don’t miss out on the ancient rock art sites that have been there for centuries, chronicling this destination's deep Aboriginal history. It’s best to plan a weekend here to see all the sites and indulge in the tranquil atmosphere.
Nitmiluk National Park ia 36-minute drive from Katherine Airport, or a three-hour drive from Darwin.
Experiences to book to visit Nitmiluk Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park
Leliyn (Edith Falls), Nitmiluk National Park
With picturesque waterfalls, swimming holes to enjoy, and drive-in campgrounds, what more could a nature love and adventure seeker ask for? Leliyn – also known as Edith Falls – is located within Nitmiluk National Park and is one of the most popular attractions to see in Northern Territory. Once you arrive at the park, it’s only a short walk to the falls and plunge pool. Be careful, as the depths and currents are challenging for novice swimmers. If you get hungry, buy some food or drinks—even basic supplies—at the kiosk located in the carpark. Whether you spend the whole day or the weekend at Nitmiluk National Park, you have access to barbeques, showers, and camping facilities, making it the perfect place to escape for a few days or an ideal location for a quiet holiday retreat.
Mataranka Thermal Pool, Elsey National Park
Mataranka Thermal Pool is a must-visit attraction for those who want to see one of the most unique places in the Northern Territory. Located in Elsey National Park - 109km from Katherine Airport - the water is at a constant 34°C all year round, making it ideal destination for a dip, no matter what season you plan to travel. If you’re an avid boater or angler, you’ll be pleased to know there are two boating ramps and several fishing locations along the Roper River. For those who like history, there are scenic walks that transport you back in time to World War II, where the Aboriginal Army Camp
Kakadu
Ubirr Rock Art, Kakadu National Park
As one of the most unique rock art sites, this Northern Territory attraction offers a glimpse into the area's Aboriginal culture and history. Kakadu National Park, which has dual World Heritage status for both its natural and cultural significance, is one of the best family holiday destinations in Australia and is easily a top place to visit in the Northern Territory. With its varied and rich Aboriginal rock art—from X-ray art to contact art to depictions of the Tasmanian tiger—you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn more about the area’s history. You’ll witness the famous Rainbow Serpent, part of the creation myth that explains the region’s geological development. The x-ray art – which is a style of rock painting that depicts animals and humans by their external shapes, as well as organs and bones – is nearly 1,500 years old and shows the area’s unique fauna, while the contact art shows what occurred during the first interactions with other peoples. It’s a must-see spot for those wanting to learn more about Aboriginal culture and history. To get to the Ubirr Rock Art sites, you’ll need to fly into Darwin first, then drive three hours east.
Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu National Park
Spending time at the impressive Jim Jim Falls is one of the best if you’re keen on an adventure to explore breathtaking scenery. The falls are 200 metres high and have one of the most awe-inspiring views in the Northern Territory. It is taller than any of the waterfalls in Litchfield or Nitmiluk National Park, and it’s only accessible by 4WD, so be sure to rent the right car. Jim Jim Falls will dry up during the dry season from May to October, leaving space for you to walk through the seasonal tropical forest. However, expect heavy rain in the middle of tropical summer from November to April, so plan to see Jim Jim Falls by booking a scenic flight. Those visiting in the dry season can access the falls via Jim Jim plunge pool walk. Don’t forget to pack some sun protection and a camera.
Spending time at the impressive Jim Jim Falls is one of the best things to do in the Northern Territory if you’re keen on an adventure to explore breathtaking scenery. The falls are 200 metres high and have one of the most awe-inspiring views in the Northern Territory. It is taller than any of the waterfalls in Litchfield or Nitmiluk National Park, and it’s only accessible by 4WD, so be sure to rent the right car. Jim Jim Falls will dry up during the dry season from May to October, leaving space for you to walk through the seasonal tropical forest. However, expect heavy rain in the middle of tropical summer from November to April, so plan to see Jim Jim Falls by booking a scenic flight. Those visiting in the dry season can access the falls via Jim Jim plunge pool walk. Don’t forget to pack some sun protection and a camera.
Experiences to book to visit Jim Jim Falls in Kakadu National Park
Twin Falls, Kakadu National Park
Second in height to Jim Jim Falls at Kakadu National Park is Twin Falls, which features a captivating split cascade off of a 150-metre cliff that flows into a deep pool below. Just as with Jim Jim Falls, you can expect the waterfall to be flowing strongly by tropical summer from November to April. You’ll need a 4WD with a snorkel to cross Jim Jim Creek to get to this gorge, so plan accordingly or book a suitable tour so you can traverse the dirt roads. While here, explore the Twin Falls plateau walk for a view of the falls from above. It is a challenging hike, so prepare accordingly for the six-kilometre excursion. After you hike, stop for a quick picnic on the sandy beaches of the gorge or explore the water’s edge to see some amazing aquatic life.
To get to Twin Falls, rent a car or book a tour that departs from Darwin. It’ll take four and a half hours from Darwin to Kakadu National Park.
Maguk, Kakadu National Park
Maguk is one of the best places to swim at Kakadu and throughout the Northern Territory. As a World Heritage site, you can spend the weekend camping, swimming, or walking through the park’s stunning natural landscapes. Maguk specifically offers a pristine waterfall and a plunge pool to swim with the black bream. It’s off the beaten path, only accessible by a four-wheel drive, so plan ahead and rent the right vehicle. Don’t forget your swim gear, sun protection, and a camera to capture the gorgeous views you’ll witness while here!
Travelling to Maguk from Darwin takes three and a half hours. You’ll need a 4WD vehicle to travel the last 14 kilometres into Kakdu National Park to Maguk.
Devils Marbles, or Karlu Karlu, remains an internationally recognised symbol of the Australian Outback and one of the top 10 places to visit in the Northern Territory. A showstopping attraction, Karlu Karlu translates to 'round boulders,’ and travellers come from around the world to see these deep red rocks. The Kaytete, Warumungu, Warlpiri, and Alyawarri Aboriginal tribes are part owners of the site, continuing to protect this historic region. While you’re here, you can see small zebra finch and painted finch throughout the reserve. For the best visit to this iconic Northern Territory attraction, plan to come from April to September during the cooler months to avoid the scorching summer heat.
From Alice Springs, it’s a four-hour drive up to Devils Marbles on Stuart Highway.
Arnhem Land
Injalak Arts & Crafts Association
If you’re looking for Northern Territory attractions and destinations that allow you to explore more about the region’s Aboriginal culture, Injalak Arts & Crafts Association in Gunbalanya (also known as Oenpelli) is a wonderful place to visit. Since 1989, the centre has been open to the public. The word ‘Injalak’ means shelter, and that is what the centre strives to do: to provide a safe space for art, creativity, knowledge, and culture to bloom and to continue to celebrate the Aboriginal history of their people. Over 200 active members produce art year-round, creating everything from traditional paintings, bark paintings, basket weaving, screenprinting, textiles and carvings. Even if you stop just to see their talents, it’s worth the trip!
For those travelling from Darwin, you’ll travel for nearly three-and-a-half hours until you reach your destination.
Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre
As an Indigenous community-run art centre, Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre in in Yirrkala near Nhulunbuy is a fantastic attraction to visit if you want to explore the region’s Aboriginal culture. Their mission is to protect the Yolngu cultural knowledge, working to employ and celebrate their community. The centre is in Yirrkala, a small Aboriginal community east of Darwin. There are two main places to visit: the Yirrkala Art Centre, which represents the Yolngu artists, including those who sell their artwork, and the Mulka Project, which is a digital art studio and archive. Artworks include Ḻarrakitj (memorial poles), Ṉuwayak (bark paintings), Yiḏaki (Didgeridoo), Gunga Djäma (Weaves), and Dharpa (Wood sculptures).
With a 14-hour drive from Darwin, it is a long trek to reach Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre , but if you’re eager to learn more about the Aboriginal history of the Northern Territory, this is a must-stop during your trip! It's also important to note that you can only make the trip during the dry season, from June to November due to the remote location and weather conditions., and you will also need a permit to visit to ensure the preservation of the integrity of the local culture and environment,
