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Things to do in Darwin

A stone's throw from some of Australia’s best natural scenery, this state capital is a tropical oasis.

Our most recommended things to do in Darwin

From Darwin: Litchfield Park Tour & Jumping Crocodile Cruise

1. From Darwin: Litchfield Park Tour & Jumping Crocodile Cruise

Spend a day in the natural habitat of fascinating wildlife creatures at Litchfield National Park. After being picked up from your accommodation, ride to the famous Adelaide River. There, you'll board your private boat and cruise up the river. Feed the crocodiles from the boat that teem in the water and see an abundance of wildlife all around you. You may even see a crocodile launching itself out of the water with the power of its tail. At the famous Litchfield National Park, you'll visit three waterfalls – the Wangi, Florence and Buley rock holes – and get the opportunity to swim in all three. Lunch is prepared in the park by your guide – a big bush picnic with an array of wraps, cold meats, bread, salad and fruit. Snacks are also included along the way if you're ever feeling peckish. Local and knowledgeable guides will give you thorough commentary throughout the day and stop for lots of photo opportunities. Marvel at the magnetic and cathedral termite mounds, and take time to visit the butterfly farm. Return to your accommodation in Darwin, or on Sundays and Thursdays, at the famous Mindil Beach Markets.

Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls Full-Day Tour from Darwin

2. Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls Full-Day Tour from Darwin

Discover a network of 13 gorges carved into billion-year-old sandstone rock by the Katherine River of Nitmiluk National Park on this scenic full-day sightseeing tour from Darwin. During the tour you will learn about the Aboriginal culture abundant in the area and see rock art sites dotted throughout the park. With its rugged landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and lush gorges, the Nitmiluk National Park is a haven for nature lovers, with plentiful flora and fauna. Travel south through tropical country, passing former World War II airstrips en route to the Adelaide River. Make a short stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery to pay your respects to those killed in the air raids of Darwin in the 1940s. Continue to Edith Falls for a refreshing swim in the paperbark and pandana-lined waterhole (conditions permitting). After an inclusive lunch, enjoy a 2-hour scenic cruise through the Katherine Gorge, looking for freshwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks of the river. Keep your eyes open for the many interesting species of birdlife. Enjoy a brief tour of Katherine, hub of the region’s cattle and farming industries. Then, travel via the historic mining town of Pine Creek to an evening stop along the Adelaide River. From May through September lunch can be taken on board your cruise, while dinner is available at your own expense at the evening stop, before your transfer back to Darwin.

From Darwin: Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Culture Tour with Lunch

3. From Darwin: Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Culture Tour with Lunch

Make your way to the Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal, a five-minute drive from Darwin CBD, then cruise over to Bathurst Island, one of the Tiwi Islands. Upon arrival, meet your guide and the modern-day Aboriginal community of Wurrumiyanga. Stop by the Early Mission Precinct with its Tiwi-style Catholic Church, and learn how the Tiwi people have blended their culture with Christianity. Later, spend some time with the Tiwi ladies while they work on their weaving and painting. Then, watch the ladies demonstrate a totem dance and perform a smoking ceremony to bless the visitors.  Once you’ve worked up a bit of an appetite, enjoy a tasty lunch, served with local billy tea and damper. After lunch, there’s time to see more of the community’s arts and crafts and have the opportunity to purchase some. Finally, learn about the complex rituals associated with the Pukamani (burial ceremony). You'll then be taken back to the ferry port for your return to Darwin.

From Darwin: Kakadu Wilderness Escape Day Tour

4. From Darwin: Kakadu Wilderness Escape Day Tour

Discover the spectacular Kakadu National Park for its exceptional natural and cultural values. Visit the infamous Cahills Crossing to safely spot saltwater crocodiles, explore the floodplains of Ubirr, go to Fogg Dam Conservation Centre and the Bowali Visitor Centre. Leave tropical Darwin, traveling through the rich floodplains towards Kakadu National Park, a 20,000 square kilometer area, teeming with wildlife, important Aboriginal rock art sites, and diverse landscapes. Make an optional stop at the Jumping Croc Cruise on the Adelaide River, or visit the Fogg Dam Conservation Centre. See the traditional lands of the Limilngan-Wulna people (who are active in the reserve's management) to explore the diverse wildlife of the Top End, home to numerous species of birds, turtles, water pythons, and of course, the iconic Saltwater Crocodile. Go to the Bowali Visitor Centre and learn more about this special place's rich indigenous culture and history. Visit the famous Cahills Crossing searching for crocodiles at this eye-opening stretch of water, the only road access point between Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park. Visit the World Heritage-listed, sacred site Ubirr rock art, home to some of the oldest and best-preserved rock art galleries in the world dating back some 20,000 years, and discover the hidden secrets with a guided walk.

Darwin: Mary River Wetlands Wildlife Cruise with Lunch

5. Darwin: Mary River Wetlands Wildlife Cruise with Lunch

Today starts with a pick-up from your Darwin accommodation at around 9:00 AM. Listen to interesting commentary about the region from your knowledgeable guide as you make your way to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve. Originally set up as a large scale rice growing project in the 1950s, this location is now a haven for many varieties of birds that you'll get a chance to admire. A short drive from there takes you to the “Window on the Wetlands” Information Centre, where you can enjoy a hands-on display explaining the wetlands and get a fantastic view over the Adelaide River floodplains from their upper viewing deck. Your highlight for the day is an amazing 2.5-hour cruise on the wetlands! See an abundance of birds, crocodiles and wildlife in their natural habitat on the Mary River Wetlands. Home to a huge variety of animals, birdlife and also boasting the largest concentration of Saltwater Crocodiles in the world, these pristine wetlands are a nature lover's paradise. Participants generally see about 30 different species of birds on these cruises! Enjoy a delicious cold lunch on the wetlands, surrounded by nature at its best, as you get up close and personal with plenty of local wildlife. Lunches are healthy and consist of individual pre-packed fresh salads with dressings. There will also be a selection of cold sliced meats and bread so you can make sandwiches if you wish. From here it is just under a 90-minute drive to return you to your Darwin accommodation at around 5:00 PM.

Darwin: Kakadu National Park Cultural Day Tour with Lunch

6. Darwin: Kakadu National Park Cultural Day Tour with Lunch

Travel from Darwin to Kakadu on a day trip exploring the best of Kakadu National Park. See ancient rock art, unique plants, and wildlife, and spectacular bush views as you drive, walk and cruise through Kakadu. After pickup from your Darwin hotel, enter Kakadu National Park, and travel to Ubirr Rock, the site of some of the world’s oldest rock art. Join your guide on an interpretative walk through ancient rock galleries, and hear about the history and culture of the traditional custodians. There are plenty of opportunities for bushwalking, but the pace is slow, with plenty of stops to discuss the rock art and the history of those who painted it. Stop at Nadab Lookout for amazing 360-degree views over the wetlands of the Nadab floodplains, before continuing to East Alligator River. A descendant of the traditional owners will join you for a Guluyambi cultural cruise along the East Alligator River. The River which divides Kakadu and Arnhem Land is home to some of the region’s largest saltwater crocodiles. Feel honored to be invited onto Arnhem Land shores to see a cultural demonstration of how the Bininj people work with the waterways to this day. The Guluyambi cultural cruise is a great opportunity to hear about the area, history, and culture directly from the land's traditional custodians. During your Kakadu day trip there is a stop for a picnic lunch and at the end of the day, get dropped off back at your Darwin hotel.

Darwin: Jumping Crocodile Cruise

7. Darwin: Jumping Crocodile Cruise

How close are you willing to get to some of nature’s most aggressive and dangerous reptiles as they leap out of the Australian Northern Territory waterways to grab a little snack? Feel your heart beating as you see the biggest reptile in the world and the oldest creature to walk the planet since the time of dinosaurs from the safety of an Adelaide River boat cruise.  Stand in awe of these prehistoric beasts, which can grow up to 6 meters in length – the size of a small bus – and can weigh up to 1,000 kilograms. Don’t worry, you’re in the safe hands of highly trained guides who will ensure the safety of both the crocodiles and passengers at all times while feeding the crocodiles buffalo meat. See firsthand the powerful and spectacular hunting techniques of saltwater crocodiles.

Litchfield National Park: Full-Day & Lunch from Darwin

8. Litchfield National Park: Full-Day & Lunch from Darwin

Enjoy a full-day trip to Litchfield National Park from Darwin. See lush monsoon forests, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls, and cascades. Experience a park that includes the spectacular Tabletop Range, a sandstone plateau surrounded by cliffs. During the green season, 4 major waterfalls thunder down to tropical rock pools below. They flow more gently in the dry season, making them perfect spots for a refreshing swim. Follow the Stuart Highway to reach Litchfield National Park. Visit park waterfalls like Florence Falls, where you’ll enjoy a scenic and interpretive bush and monsoon vine forest walk. Go for a swim by making your way down the stairs to the plunge pool below. Continue on to Tolmer Falls and see water cascading down into a deep waterhole at the base of the falls. Visit Wangi Falls, which features a large, crystal-clear pool that’s a perfect spot for a cool dip. Finally, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the park’s natural wonders.

Darwin: Sunset Harbour Cruise with Fish and Chips Dinner

9. Darwin: Sunset Harbour Cruise with Fish and Chips Dinner

Begin your cruise from Stokes Hill Wharf with a complementary refreshment in hand. Sail out past Kitchener Bay and pause to admire the magnificent expanse of the Darwin Harbour and its fascinating landmarks.  Next, hold on to your hats as you leave other boats in your wake and get to know the sights and sounds of the Darwin city seascape. On arrival at Cullen Bay, be treated to stories of this historic part of town while the crew picks up your dinner of deliciously fresh, wild fish with chips from the award-winning La Beach restaurant. As you eat your dinner onboard, cruise to the best location for enjoying a delightfully warm breeze and an exquisite tropical sunset. The tide, wind, weather and season will all be considered as the captain turns the boat in a particular direction. You may experience a walk on the Fannie Bay sandbar or enjoy your meal among a pod of frolicking dolphins or dugong.

From Darwin: 4-Day Kakadu Outback Group Trip with Meals

10. From Darwin: 4-Day Kakadu Outback Group Trip with Meals

Explore Kakadu National Park with this small group tour from Darwin. See the oldest Aboriginal rock art in the world, visit waterfalls, and cruise through wetlands on this unique experience. Day 1: Depart from Darwin and head out to the floodplains of the Mary River to board a Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise. Take in the views as you sail to Kakadu. Get an introduction to the park's landscape at the Bowali Visitor Center. Head to your accommodation to relax for a bit before going out to Cahills Crossing on the border of Kakadu and Arnhem land where you can spot crocodiles in the East Alligator River. See the Ubirr rock art as the sun sets over the Nadab Floodplain. Day 2: Partake in an exclusive aboriginal cultural experience. Hike out to Jim Jim or Twin falls and enjoy the shady monsoon forest. Stop for a hearty picnic lunch. Visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Center learn about the culture and management of Kakadu. Day 3: Begin bright and early to catch the sunrise at one of the best sunrise spots in the park, the Nawurlandja Lookout. Have a delicious breakfast at Anabangbang Billabong. Discover Burrungkuy Rock which houses some of Bininj Aborigional rock art. Drive up to Kunwarddewardde Lookout for incredible views of Kakadu’s Escarpment. Travel south and enjoy a picnic lunch at the plunge pool of the pristine waterfall Maguk. Travel back to your accommodation in Pine Creek to relax. Day 4: Explore and swim at Edith Falls or Butterfly Gorge, where you can cool off in the clear water. Start the return trip to Darwin with a stop at Adelaide River, a town steeped in history. Learn about the impact of World War II at the Adelaide River War Cemetery.

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Frequently asked questions about Darwin

What are the best day trips and excursions from Darwin?

The best day trips and excursions from Darwin are:

Kakadu National Park

Other Sightseeing Options in Darwin

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What people are saying about Darwin

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 1,689 reviews

Our family of four had an amazing time today with Lee who was our incredibly informed and experienced guide for our 1 day tour of Kakadu. Lee shared a plethora of local knowledge gathered over years and his commentary, care for nature and ability to answer any question in depth was a highlight of the day. Ion the trip we made plenty of comfort stops and could buy from local roadhouses and water and a shared esky was provided. It was a long trip for one day and is really better experienced over three or more days. This was certainly a great introduction to the top end and Lee made it a highly educational and interactive experience, for example mid trip he stopped the bus, pointed out a grilled next lizard, caught it and brought it on the bud to show us! Highly recommend any tour with Lee as the guide! My questions were also answered quickly by emailing the company. We are now inspired to see much of the NT. Thanks Lee.

It was crazy. You don't realise how huge and preastoric these animals actually are. The guides were very friendly and accommodating. Great experience. The only issue I had was you pay $180 for 15 minutes I think the photo package could be included. Cheers Jamie

Very enjoyable trip. Good commentary mixed with Australian music. Long day, but lots of different stops. Every stop was unique in its own way, even my 8yr old enjoyed it.

Had an amazing time! Our guide Andrea was very knowledgeable and friendly. Overall very happy with the tour.

Amazing experience, would definitely do it again and something I never realised I would enjoy so much.