The Northern Territory (NT) is almost as large as Queensland, and we’ve spent a fair bit of time exploring it over the last ten years. While the husband and I have a deep love for the ruggedness of Central Australia, the Top End isn’t without its (crowded) charm either.
My guides are about finding a bit of peace and quiet and exploring the NT without any fluff—just the far-flung corners, the raw beauty and the more popular sights (which are usually popular for a reason).
NORTHERN TERRITORY AT A GLANCE
NORTHERN TERRITORY REGIONS
TROPICAL TOP END
Monsoonal waterfalls, ancient rock art and dramatic stone country. Walking tracks guide for Kakadu and more.
KATHERINE REGION
Deep sandstone gorges and vast river networks. Guides for Nitmiluk and the rugged East Arnhem Land road trip.
CENTRAL AUSTRALIA
Rugged desert ranges, spinifex and massive red gaps. In-depth guides on the Larapinta Trail, the East Macs and beyond.
NT PARKS PASSES AND PERMITS
- The NT Park Pass: Unlike Queensland, you need a pre-paid entry pass for all NT national parks. Multi-day or annual passes are the best value if you’re staying a while. Note that Kakadu and Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa have their own separate parks pass systems.
- Campsite Bookings: To camp in the national parks, you need to book your campsite online. There are no honesty boxes anymore. Some of the more popular places, e.g. Litchfield, book out months in advance.
- Aboriginal Land Permits: If you are heading into East Arnhem Land or crossing certain remote sections of the Red Centre, you will need transit or entry permits from the Northern Land Council (NLC) or Central Land Council (CLC). They are usually free but take time to process.
NORTHERN TERRITORY HIGHLIGHTS
It’s hard to pick highlights for the Territory because there is just so much to love here! Here are a couple of our absolute standouts (that I’ve written about 🙂 ).
LARAPINTA TRAIL (CENTRAL AUSTRALIA)
Australia’s most impressive hike. It’s a serious logistical planning, but the jagged desert ranges are an incredible trade for the effort.
NITMILUK NP
(KATHERINE REGION)
Far more than just a boat cruise. The real magic is found on the walking tracks above the sheer sandstone walls and gorge views.
EAST ARNHEM LAND ROAD TRIP (TOP END)
A proper remote 4WD road trip. It requires permit planning and a willingness to rattle your teeth loose on the corrugations.