Remote and wild, Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory is the gateway to the rugged outback and the spectacular Litchfield and Kakadu National parks.
Darwin is known for its distinct climate of wet and dry seasons and is the entry point to some of the most diverse wildlife and natural landscapes in Australia. The smallest of all Australia’s capital cities, with a population of just 140,000 residents, it is also the northernmost capital city in the country.
It’s history is almost as wild as its landscape – from bombings during World War II to the natural disaster of Cyclone Tracy, local museums and monuments recognise the turbulent past.
The best season to visit is the dry season, from May to August, where the humidity drops, rain is minimal and the sun is out.
Consider a visit to Darwin a tropical adventure where culture, nature, and foodie finds combine for a unique ‘top end’ experience.
Things to see and do in Darwin
Crocosaurus Cove
Set in the centre of the Darwin CBD is a dedicated crocodile experience which offers visitors the chance to get extremely close to the pre-historic, apex predator.
Visitors can choose a self-guided experience and see salt water crocodiles of all ages and sizes. A VIP guided tour gets visitors closer with the opportunity to feed and hold a crocodile.
The most intimate experience on offer is the incredible ‘Cage of Death’ where up to two people climb into a thick perspex tube and swim with a mature male crocodile.
Crocosaurus Cove: 58 Mitchell St, Darwin.
Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT)
This museum and art gallery combines two attractions under the one roof, and entry is free.
There are multiple galleries to visit and learn about the history of the Northern Territory. One of the feature exhibits tells the story about Cyclone Tracy which struck Darwin on Christmas Eve in 1975. Another must-see is the famous story of Sweetheart, a massive 17-foot crocodile captured in 1979.
Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT): 19 Conacher St, The Gardens, Darwin.
Croc Bus
About an hour from Darwin, the family-owned Croc Bus is a half-day adventure to experience nature and spot crocodiles in the Adelaide River.
The tour offers various hotel pick-ups in Darwin and owner Jake and the team warmly welcome all guests aboard the bus.
A quick rest stop is included at Humptydoo to meet the 10-metre-tall boxing croc, one of Australia’s iconic ‘big things’.
Arriving at the Adelaide River, guests will take a cruise where more than 1500 saltwater crocodiles live.
Captain Dylan feeds some of the resident crocs and it’s amazing to see their power as they rise out of the water and jump up to catch the meat.
The tour returns to Darwin but not before a stop at Fogg Dam, a nature reserve home to many birds and the odd croc too!
The Crocbus: pick up in Darwin CBD.
Deckchair Cinema
Darwin’s open-air, deckchair cinema is nestled among lush tropical gardens on the Darwin harbour.
Arrive early to enjoy some food before the show begins and take in the harbour view from the deck.
Drinks and locally made movie snacks are available at the bar. Reusable plastic cups are offered and so is insect repellent. Seats are not allocated and the rules are simple: if a seat has a cushion on it, it’s taken.
As the sun dips below the horizon and the light fades, the movie begins. There is a free shuttle that runs from the Darwin Waterfront to the Deckchair Cinema and it is walking distance from the city centre.
Deckchair Cinema: Jervois Rd, Darwin.
Where to eat and drink in Darwin
Snapper Rocks
Just across from the Darwin Waterfront wave pool sits Snapper Rocks, an award-winning indoor/outdoor eatery.
The menu features local seafood dishes including salt and pepper crocodile and gives diners the option of light meals, share plates and large meals.
The vibe here is chilled and relaxed and the perfect place for sundowners.
Snapper Rocks: 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin.
Charlie’s of Darwin
This hidden bar has a tropical plantation vibe with subdued lighting, leather lounges and a wide wooden bar.
The cocktails incorporate local ingredients and some include gin which is made on the premises. The alfresco terrace area looks out over Raintree Park and is a great place to enjoy drinks and food from the à la carte menu, including tastes of the Territory.
Charlie’s of Darwin: 56 Smith St, Darwin.
Little Miss Korea
This little laneway find has an industrial feel with its concrete floors and graffitied walls. A great little Korean menu is accompanied by a unique cocktail and drinks list.
Grab a light lunch or visit in the evening and share the dishes among friends. This little area is excellent for food and bar hopping, with a few others nearby including Babylon Bar and The Last Supper Pizzeria.
Little Miss Korea: Austin Lane (aka: graffiti laneway), Darwin.
Where to stay in Darwin
Travelodge Darwin
The 4-star Travelodge Darwin is located on the edge of the city, perfectly positioned for a city holiday.
Hotel rooms are spacious and light with comfortable beds and crisp linens. Bathrooms are fitted with plenty of fluffy towels and amenities.
There is a large pool area surrounded by palm trees and there are lots of sun lounges for relaxing.
Walking distance to the CBD and attractions and a short drive to the airport, hotel guests can enjoy a quality stay here.
Travelodge Darwin: 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin.
Getting to Darwin
Darwin International Airport is serviced by several domestic and regional airlines. Flights are available from most of Australia’s capital cities.
If driving, there are various ways to enter Darwin. Those travelling from Queensland should take the Overlander’s Way or Barkly Highway from Mt Isa. For entry from Western Australia, take the Savannah Way route. The drive from South Australia is said to be especially scenic – take the Explorer’s way via Coober Pedy, past the major towns of Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Katherine before arriving in Darwin.
Darwin is also accessible via train, on The Ghan. Considered Australia’s most adventurous rail journey, the trip will take you from Adelaide to Darwin via Alice Springs. Many off-train adventures are included such as stops at Alice Springs and Katherine.
Disclaimer: The writer was a guest of Crocosaurus Cove. All other parts of the trip were at the writer’s own expense.
