Head To The Northern Territory For An Early Dose Of Summer
If you need a break from La Nina #3, have you thought about a trip to the Northern Territory?
Summer – do you remember that?
For those of us in NSW, sunshine and hot weather seems like a distant memory.
But Australia’s Top End, on the other hand, has been basking in prime summer conditions since September.
If you’re itching to feel some rays on your skin again and escape the indoors, allow us to fuel your wanderlust.
From stunning national parks to fascinating Indigenous history, the NT is unlike any other place in the world.
Here are some of the best things you can do there, which’ll leave you running for your suitcase before you know it.
Walk To Nawurlandja Lookout
The Nawurlandja lookout in Kakadu National Park has views that stretch as far as you can see, all across the Arnhem Land escarpment.
The track to get there is an easy walk – it only takes about 40 minutes – and if you get there for sunset, you’ll be glad you made the trek!
Tour Katherine’s Two Gorges
Nitmiluk Tour’s NitNit dreaming cruise takes you along the breathtaking two gorges of the Katherine Gorge by boat.
As you ride along, your cultural guides explain the cultural significance of the gorges to their traditional landowners – the Jawoyn people. And they share valuable insights into the local plants, animals, and dreamtime stories.
Spot Some Crocs
As tempting as it might be to jump in the water to cool off, there are some spots that will definitely make you think twice about it!
The Yellow Water Cruises take you along the Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu, which is the largest river system in the national park. And along the way, you’ll see some of the other local residents – saltwater crocodiles.
One of them, called Van Gogh, is five meters long!
Spot Some Of Kakadu’s Other Wildlife
As well as crocs, Kakadu boasts about one third of Australia’s entire bird species – including the ‘Jesus Bird’ which was named for the way it looks like it can walk on water.
The crocodiles and the birds actually live in perfect harmony together. Crocs can’t eat them because they can’t digest a compound called ‘creatine’ which is found in the birds’ feathers.
Take In Kakadu National Park From The Air
Kakadu Air offers scenic flight experiences, which take you up to the skies in small little planes and give you a totally different perspective of the park.
For a truly memorable experience, we’d recommend the sunset flight. You get to watch the park transform as the sun slowly sets.
Go For A Dip In A Natural Swimming Spot
Fortunately, there are many natural swimming spots where you can go for a dip without worry about crocs.
Maguk Gorge in Kakadu is a tropical dream, while the thermal hot springs in Katherine are the perfect place to relax and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Discover Dawin’s Street Art
Darwin city itself offers everything from food markets to open-air cinema experiences.
But if you want something to look out for as you stroll around the city on a balmy evening, make sure you keep an eye open for some of the amazing street art dotted all around.
Try Local Dishes
Don’t worry all your foodies, we’ve got you covered too.
For a feast that’ll really hit those tastebuds, don’t miss the walking tours that Darwin Gourmet Tours organise.
On the tour you visit three of Darwin’s most award-winning restaurants, where you get to try a range of local produce and Aboriginal bush foods – everything from barramundi and buffalo, to bush species, gold band snapper, and even crocodile.
Watch Sunset At The Ubirr Rock Lookout
To end a perfect day in Kakadu, there’s no better spot to watch the sunset than at the Ubirr Rock lookout.
The rock art painted onto Ubirr is considered among the best in the world, and dates back to when Indigenous people first encountered Europeans.
And if you sign up to the Ubirr Sunset Tour, you’ll hear all the fascinating stories of law, land and culture that the Bininj/Mungguy people have represented for thousands of years.
