DARWIN AND SURROUNDS MUST DO S Cool down at the Wave Pool and Recreation Lagoon at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct. As the Northern Territory s thriving capital, Darwin attracts travellers from all around the globe for its outdoor tropical lifestyle. With waterfront dining, crocodile adventures, rich historical experiences, and access to the Tiwi Islands all within a few minutes of the city centre, there s enough to do to fill a weekend or a week. Litchfield National Park is just a 90-minute drive from Darwin and is a favourite for the locals year-round. Litchfield National Park is renowned for its swimming spots and waterfalls, bushwalks, fourwheel drive tracks, monsoon rainforests and wildlife. 150km east of Darwin and bordering Kakadu, is Mary River National Park. The Mary River region is known for freshwater billabongs, paperbark and monsoon forests that provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, fishing, bushwalking, and photography. AQUATIC AND COASTAL SELLING TIPS The Northern Territory s tropical Top End is at its greenest during the tropical summer season (November April). The afternoon rains bring unique and amazing wildlife, dramatic waterfalls, cooler temperatures and access to places you ll never see if the rivers don t flow. The Northern Territory s tropical Top End allows your clients to escape the crowds, swapping busy beaches for secluded coastlines and waterholes. Watch a fiery Darwin sunset on-board a harbour cruise or at one of Darwin s many waterfront restaurants, cafes and pubs. Take the ferry to the Tiwi Islands and be immersed in the distinct culture of the Tiwi people - experience a smoking ceremony, visit the renowned art centre and learn about the Tiwi people s traditional island lifestyle. See saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat onboard a jumping crocodile cruise on the Adelaide River, just 45 minutes from Darwin. Search for the elusive barramundi on a fishing charter along Darwin s pristine coastline. Cool off at Buley Rockhole, a series of cascading waterfalls and rockholes in Litchfield National Park. Sample exotic flavours at the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. Float or fly across the Mary River floodplains on a cruise or airboat. Stay in luxurious safari style accommodation such as Bamurru Plains or Wildman Wilderness Lodge. For more information on activities, accommodation and events in this region, visit www.travelnt.com 1
Aquascene Take part in the daily fish feeding ritual at Doctors Gully in the heart of Darwin, where hundreds of fish come to shore at high tide to be hand-fed. The ritual began over 50 years ago and today visitors come from near and far to participate in this unique spectacle. Trays of bread are provided at regular intervals during the feeding period for hand feeding the many fish species. As feeding times change daily, it is important to check this information before visiting. www.aquascene.com.au Bamurru Plains Bamurru Plains is located just to the west of Kakadu National Park on the Mary River floodplains. A profusion of bird and wildlife are on the doorstep of the unique bush lodge that exudes Wild Bush Luxury and brings a touch of style to the discovery of a remote and beautiful wilderness. The nine room camp ensures that guests are introduced to the sights and sounds of this spectacular environment in style and exclusivity. Each suite blends seamlessly with the surrounding bush, with a focus on the key luxury comforts, a supremely comfortable bed, innovative Australian cuisine and premium wines. The lodge offers activities by open safari vehicle, river cruises and airboats on the floodplains showcasing a prolific wildlife spectacle. www.bamurruplains.com Crocosaurus Cove Located right in the heart of Darwin s central tourist precinct, enter the world of the awesome Northern Territory Saltwater Crocodile. Adrenaline junkies should make a beeline to the terrifying Cage of Death; the clear fibreglass enclosure lowers into a tank until you are face-to-face with a giant croc. This facility also accommodates the largest display of Australian reptiles in the world, a two storey fresh water aquarium, a turtle sanctuary, Aboriginal Art and local NT Aboriginal Culture displays as well as comprehensive displays of crocodilian from other parts of the world. www.crocosauruscove.com Darwin Barra & Crab Prepare yourself for an incredible fishing and crabbing adventure aboard our small group vessels in Darwin and the Top End. Half day and full day fishing tours include rods and tackle, meals and soft-drinks. Extended charters are combined with your choice of the many accommodation options available in the region. For a unique experience, ask about booking a live-aboard mothership. www.darwinbarraandcrab.com Darwin Harbour Cruises Darwin Harbour Cruises is a locally owned family business which has been operating cruises of Darwin Harbour since 1996. Cruising the magnificent waters of Darwin Harbour aboard your choice of either Tumlaren or Charles Darwin is a great way to embrace the Top End lifestyle. Harbour Cruises are a great and easy add on for any Darwin itinerary. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner using only local produce in the air-conditioned comfort aboard the Charles Darwin, the 25m tri-level catamaran. Or experience a Taste of the Territory aboard the Tumlaren, the 20m motorised schooner vessel. www.darwinharbourcruises.com.au Darwin Heli-Fishing Helifish specialise in heli-fishing tours that allow access to remote coastlines and waterways that are inaccessible by other means. The full day tour allows guests to escape the crowds and visit remote fishing locations such as Crab Claw Island, Tiwi Islands or Shady Camp. Along with fishing, over 2 hours is spent in the chopper flying over wetlands where waterbirds and crocodiles can be viewed. www.helifish.com.au
Heli Pub Tour Voted as one of the Top 10 Things to do in Darwin, this tour is a must do for locals and visitors alike. Arrive at iconic outback watering holes with a rock star landing in your very own helicopter. You will be sure to hear your fair share of tales from the laidback locals and meet the charismatic publicans that define each establishment, all whilst on your quest for the Top End s coldest beer. So round up your mates! www.airbornesolutions.com.au Outback Floatplanes The Outback Floatplane Adventures Ultimate Tour is an action packed half day adventure that starts with a scenic flight complete with a spectacular floatplane landing on the waters of Sweets Lagoon where your once in a lifetime adventure unfolds. The tour includes an airboat ride through the rainforest channels, a relaxing billabong cruise including a BBQ breakfast or lunch, scenic helicopter flight, Airboat fast lap, swimming in the croc cage and the opportunity to view the NT s unique wildlife www.outbackfloatplanes.com.au Sealink Tiwi Island Tour Take the 2.5 hour Sealink ferry trip across the water from Darwin to discover the beautiful Tiwi Islands. The Tiwi people are famous for their art and this trip provides the opportunity to visit the renowned arts and craft centre and see local artists paint, weave, sculpt and carve their distinctive pieces. Visitors can also enjoy morning tea with the Tiwi women elders who perform a smoking ceremony to bless visitors and explain the meaning behind their traditional rituals. www.sealinknt.com.au Sea Darwin Eco Cruises (Turtle Tracks Tour) An adventure and wildlife experience all rolled into one the Turtle Tracks cruise is a sunset odyssey for those with a spirit of adventure. Explore Bare Sand Island with Team Turtle, learn about the turtles, the unique war history and Larrakia stories as you experience day turning to night with the backdrop of the famous Top End sunset. After twilight fades, Team Turtle will take you for a guided walk to witness the egg laying. Tours operate on select dates from April to September during turtle nesting season. www.seadarwin.com Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise On a Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise travellers can view elusive, powerful crocodiles in their natural habitat. The huge saltwater crocodiles launch themselves vertically out of the Adelaide River to claim meat dangled for them over the edge of the cruise boat. Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruises are located on the Adelaide River, an hour from Darwin. Cruises run several times a day all year round and are one of the best ways to view these awesome creatures up close in the wild. www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au Wildman Wilderness Lodge Located in the majestic Mary River National Park, Wildman Wilderness Lodge offers an extraordinary wetlands safari experience. Wildman is a small-scale, high quality safari lodge featuring a variety of boutique and environmentally sensitive touring options including tours of Kakadu National Park and cruising on the Mary River. Wildman comprises of a central lodge, 10 airconditioned Habitat cabins and 15 Safari Tents. Both options feature an ensuite bathroom and stylish finishes to create accommodation with a touch of luxury in an awe-inspiring environment. www.wildmanwildernesslodge.com.au
KAKADU NATIONAL PARK & ARNHEM LAND Kakadu National Park is a timeless place a land of extraordinary ecological and biological diversity. Kakadu is Australia s largest national park and offers visitors an array of experiences, from cruising on billabongs that team with wildlife to exploring Australia s 50,000 year indigenous culture through Kakadu s abundant natural rock art galleries. Arnhem Land lies east of Kakadu National Park and is made up of 91,000 square kilometres of unspoiled wilderness bordered by the Arafura Sea and the Gulf of Carpentaria. The region is rich in culture and features a diverse landscape characterised by wild coastlines, towering escarpments, savannah woodlands and wetlands. Arnhem Land also provides a natural habitat for abundant wildlife including crocodiles, dugongs, nesting turtles and migratory birds. AQUATIC AND COASTAL SELLING TIPS Joining a guided tour provides valuable information on indigenous culture, geology and nature which will enhance your clients overall experience. A scenic flight is a great way to see Kakadu, particularly in the wet season when Kakadu s famous Twin and Jim Jim Falls are in full flood. Arnhem Land is Aboriginal owned and visitors require a permit to travel to the region. To make the most of this unique destination, join a guided tour with an operator who has permission to enter the region. There are a number of ways to travel to the remote East Arnhem Land. Airnorth operate daily return services from Darwin to Gove, and Cairns to Gove, the adventurous can cruise from Darwin to Nhulunbuy and return on a working cargo ship or four-wheel drivers can revel in the Arnhem Way journey from Katherine to Nhulunbuy. MUST DO S Experience the remarkable scenery and wildlife of Yellow Water Billabong by taking a sunrise or sunset cruise. Hike up to nature s infinity pool at Gunlom Falls for a swim and the magnificent views over Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Visit Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock for art galleries that date back to more than 50,000 years. Both these site offer spectacular views of the surrounding escarpment and floodplains. Fish one of Kakadu s many waterways and go in search of the mighty barramundi. Camp safari-style on the remote Cobourg Peninsula overlooking the azure waters of the marine park after a four-wheel drive tour of the surrounding area. Lirrwi Tourism provides authentic Aboriginal cultural experiences where you can learn about the Yolngu people the traditional landowners of the area. Participate in activities such as spear fishing, basket weaving and painting. Travel to Bremer Island and stay at ecofriendly Banubanu Wilderness Retreat. Join a fishing charter on the Gove Peninsula to experience some of the best tropical sports fishing available anywhere in Australia.
Banubanu Wilderness Retreat Nestled into the sand dunes on the northern tip of Bremer Island, between two pristine beaches and rocky headlands, Banubanu is part of the beautiful offshore islands in the Arafura Sea. The rustic beach retreat offers tours including world-class fishing, bird and turtle watching and the opportunity to experience Yolgnu Culture with members from the local Indigenous community. Accommodation options include twin share tents or the Hideaway Cabin set in lush tropical surroundings. The accommodation and facilities at Banubanu are simple but comprehensive in keeping with the need to maintain a minimal ecological footprint in one of Australia s most pristine areas. www.banubanu.com Brookes Australia Tours Brookes offer luxury four-wheel drive adventures in the Top End, specialising in private charter touring with customised itineraries. The high quality interpretive safari tours feature Aboriginal rock art and culture, unique flora and fauna and spectacular landscapes. Join the tours from Darwin and explore the floodplains, lowlands, timberlands and sandstone escarpments unique to Australia s outback region, the Top End. Brookes offer private charters and a range of scheduled small group tours taking in Litchfield National Park, Kakadu National Park, Arnhem Land and Katherine Gorge. All tours are designed to suit the true nature seeker and Brookes cater for people wanting to get away from the crowds at a relaxed pace without missing out on the luxuries of hotel/lodge accommodation. www.brookesaustralia.com.au Cobourg Fishing Safaris Heralded as one of the best fishing destinations in Australia, the remote Cobourg Peninsula is only an hour s flight from Darwin. Cobourg Fishing Safaris (operated by Venture North) offer fly in/fly out fishing charters based from Cobourg Coastal Camp. Catering for just one fishing group at a time, Cobourg Fishing Safaris offer an exclusive fishing experience. Whether it s the mangrove lined creeks, or the bay s pinnacles and headlands and coral reefs, the diversity of the area means there s something for every fisherman. www.cobourgfishingsafaris.com.au Davidson s Arnhemland Safaris Davidson s Arnhemland Safaris operate Aboriginal culture, fishing and adventure tours in West Arnhem Land. Eco lodge accommodation is provided on a vast outcrop of Aboriginal sacred land that edges the Arnhem Land escarpment which includes billabongs, floodplains and monsoonal rainforests. Based in a newly refurbished lodge, guests are within half an hour of some of northern Australia s best rock art sites and most diverse ecosystems enriched by a cultural overlay that stretches back 50,000 years. There are various eco tour and experiences available including barramundi fishing, a sunset cruise on the billabong, and exploring the surrounding wetlands by boat or four-wheel drive touring. www.arnhemland-safaris.com Guluyambi Cruise (Kakadu Cultural Tours) Experience Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land through the eyes of traditional owners on a Guluyambi Cruise on the spectacular East Alligator River. Take in the wonderful pristine wilderness as you cruise upstream keeping a look out for the variety of wildlife that inhabits this region. With special permission from the local custodians, disembark on the Arnhem Land side of the river for a short walk into Arnhem Land. Enjoy the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Aboriginal culture during a display of traditional hunting and gathering techniques. Limited to just 25 guests, the Guluyambi Cruise ensures an intimate and personalised cultural experience. www.kakaduculturaltours.com.au
Kakadu Air See the rugged landscape of the iconic Kakadu National Park from the air and appreciate its vastness of savannah forest, the Arnhem Land Plateau, winding rivers and Mary River National Park. Between November and May fly over the famous Jim Jim and Twin Falls to see the water thundering over the escarpment. www.kakaduair.com.au Lirrwi Tourism The Yolngu people of East Arnhem Land offer authentic cultural experiences on their remote homelands. The diversity of things to see and do is as vast as the land. From meeting traditional owners and learning how to spearfish to visiting Indigenous art galleries and learning didgeridoo from a Yidaki master, there is nothing quite like East Arnhem Land with its spectacular white sandy beaches. This experience offers a variety of operators, tours, arts and culture and is completely authentic supporting local Aboriginal-owned business and communities. www.lirrwitourism.com.au Lords Kakadu and Arnhemland Safaris Lords Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris specialise in outstanding life experiences in the form of tailored luxury private tours which allow you to escape far from the crowds. Lords proudly showcase the best the Northern Territory has to offer, including Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Koolpin Gorge, Bamurru Plains and Davidsons Arnhemland Safari Camp. Lord s tours have an Aboriginal heritage focus and all itineraries are on request and are tailored to suit the groups specific needs. www.lords-safaris.com Venture North Venture North Australia operates personalised small group tours and private charter programs to many of the Top End s most unique and unspoilt wilderness and cultural areas. The tours travel to Kakadu National Park, Arnhem Land and the Garig Ganuk Barlu National and Marine Park on the Cobourg Peninsula. Visitors can camp safari-style on the remote Cobourg Peninsula overlooking the waters of the marine park after four-wheel drive tours of the surrounding scenery. As holders of restricted permits and concessions, Venture North can move you off the beaten track and away from the crowds for a truly memorable and rewarding Top End adventure. Local operators who have exclusive access to many of northern Australia s best wilderness and cultural areas. www.venturenorth.com.au Yellow Water Cruise/Spirit of Kakadu Adventure Tours Wildlife is abundant in Kakadu National Park and a wide variety of flora and fauna inhabit the majestic 10 square kilometres of the landlocked Yellow Water Billabong. Yellow Water Cruises have canopied boats which steer travellers through the tranquil waters where the abundant birdlife and the prehistoric crocodile may be viewed. Guides provide commentary on the ecosystem, Indigenous culture, birdlife and beauty of this region. Cruises depart daily all year around and though sunset and sunrise are popular, no matter which cruise you take there will be something different to see in this every-changing habitat. www.kakadutourism.com
KATHERINE REGION Katherine is the gateway to the magnificent Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge). This is Jawoyn Country where the red sand of the outback meets the lush tropics, offering the best of both worlds. Discover a region full of gorges, misty waterfalls, thermal springs and an ancient aboriginal culture. Explore this spectacular region on foot, by canoe, on a cruise or helicopter for a birds-eye view. AQUATIC AND COASTAL SELLING TIPS Airnorth operate full service flights three times a week between Darwin and Katherine, with connections to Tennant Creek and Alice Springs. Airnorth is also a codeshare partner of Qantas Airways. A Katherine Gorge cruise is included on The Ghan journey from Darwin to Adelaide. MUST DO S Stop at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre to find out about the cultural and spiritual significance of the gorge for its traditional owners, the Jawoyn and Dagomen people. Hire a canoe and paddle along the gorges at your own pace to see waterfalls, rock art and wildlife. Cruise the mighty Katherine Gorge and learn about the stories of the Jawoyn people. Swim at Leliyn (Edith Falls), a pandanusfringed plunge pool on the park s western boundary. Join an extended canoe and trekking tour along the mighty Katherine River with an experienced guide. Stay at Cicada Lodge, a unique luxury property overlooking the Katherine River, and experience the history, beauty and culture of this magnificent destination. Stock up on souvenirs such as a didgeridoo, boomerang, or authentic Aboriginal artwork at the Top Didj Cultural Experience. Unwind with a relaxing dip in the natural Mataranka Thermal Pools, where the water stays at a constant 34 degrees. For more information on activities, accommodation and events in this region, visit www.travelnt.com 7
Bullo River Station Bullo River Station covers 500,000 acres and is situated in the north-western corner of the Northern Territory. Surrounded by the Victoria River and rugged hills adorned with Aboriginal rock art, this vast property is not only home to around 9,000 Brahman-cross cattle, but also a stunning variety of local fauna species including wallabies, wild buffalo and crocodiles. Get outdoors for a day of fishing or enjoy the local wildlife on a cruise of the Bullo River Gorge. Take an exhilarating helicopter flight over the property, or try your hand at cattle mustering or horse riding with the local experts. www.bulloriver.com Cicada Lodge Cicada Lodge is a private sanctuary from which to embrace the ancient landscapes and Indigenous culture within the iconic Nitmiluk National Park. Cicada Lodge is a luxury property designed for the sophisticated traveller looking for an authentic Indigenous and natural Australian experience-of-a-lifetime, in the heart of the Top End. A sanctuary of elegant comfort, the Lodge provides a level of excellence in accommodation, service and dining. With experienced guides, immerse yourself in ancient and authentic terrains and cultures. Activities include tours of ancient rock art sites, learning ancient Indigenous crafts and skills, or swimming in private and pristine waterholes accessible only by helicopter. www.cicadalodge.com.au Gecko Canoeing and Trekking Gecko Canoeing and Trekking provides immersive small group nature based touring in some of the most remote nature destinations in the Northern Territory. The tours operate in the non-gorge section of the Katherine River, exploring the secluded reaches of this interesting river system, its many different habitats and the abundant wildlife. Gecko also provides multi-day hiking adventures throughout the Top End, including the Jatbula Trail in Nitmiluk National Park and Twin Falls Trail in Kakadu National Park. Gecko also arranges special interest tours and private charters. www.geckocanoeing.com.au Nitmiluk Tours Indigenous owned, Nitmiluk Tours is the exclusive tour operator within Nitmiluk Natioanl Park. Nitmiluk Tours offer a variety of experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in the history, rugged beauty and culture of this majestic region. Gorge cruises, dinner cruises, self-guided canoeing, bush walks, helicopter touring, swimming and cultural interaction programs are some of the activities on offer. Nit Nit Dreaming Cruise 2hrs On the Nit Nit Dreaming cruise you will discover the cultural significance of the first 2 gorges to the traditional landowners - the Jawoyn people. Timeless Land 3 Gorge Cruise 4hrs Prepare for a truly memorable experience as you travel through time and the 3 gorges of Nitmiluk Gorge. Marvel at the sheer rock face walls as the scenery becomes more striking as you head further into the Gorge. Freshen up with a swim and light refreshments before you return back to the Nitmiluk Boat Jetty. Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise 3.5hrs Sit back and relax as the tranquil surroundings transport you into a spiritual world of the Jawoyn culture and history. Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge, changing colour with the setting sun. Tour includes a three course candle light dinner, featuring fresh, local Australian produce cooked on board, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. Scenic Flights Whether it s an intense 3 gorge buzz, a breathtaking 8 gorge flight, or an aerial journey over all 13 gorges, there s a scenic flight to suit everyone s desires and budget. A scenic flight will give you a great perspective of Nitmiluk Gorge system with spectacular views from our state of the art helicopters. www.nitmiluktours.com.au