While it’s true that the Northern Territory draws in plenty of tourism through Uluru and Kakadu, the territory’s capital is often completely overlooked by tourists.
Situated on the shores of a harbour that dwarfs the more famous Sydney Harbour, Darwin is a rapidly growing tropical city where aboriginal and European culture meet in a way you won’t see elsewhere in Australia. Explore historic Fannie Bay Gaol, see some of Australia’s most dangerous predators at Casuarina Coastal Reserve, or spend a day picnicing in Charles Darwin National Park.
Darwin’s also a city with a lot of history. The site of the infamous Japanese bombing as well as Cyclone Tracey in 1974, Darwin has overcome great obstacles on its way to establishing itself as the Australian gateway to South East Asia.
Nearby Litchfield National Park, just ninety minutes drive from Darwin, is also worthy of a visit. Picturesque waterfalls, secluded swimming holes, and the crumbling remains of long abandoned mines are all on offer inside the 1500 square kilometre national park.
Where a lot of Australia’s cities are heavily influenced by the European settlement, Darwin is one of the few places in Australia where you can readily see Aboriginal culture. That alone is worth a look.
Australia