Guide to Darwin & Surrounds Northern Territory Australia

Darwin (see video below – 5:05), the Northern Territory’s vibrant capital city, enjoys a relaxed tropical lifestyle. This multicultural destination is closer to Jakarta than it is to Canberra, and is strongly influenced by its Asian neighbours.

The people of Darwin enjoy a laidback lifestyle, enhanced by the warm tropical climate. The city is green and lush with palms and the perfume of frangipanis.

Darwin is a great base from which to explore the surrounding region and the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, which is located 250 kilometres from Darwin.

Try a delicious jackfruit curry, sip a fresh mango smoothie, or sample some crocodile jerky at one of Darwin’s bustling weekend markets. Regular markets are located throughout the city, but the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are perhaps the best known. There are performances of local music, stalls selling local handicrafts, and an irresistible mix of international flavours set against the backdrop of a spectacular Northern Territory sunset.

Local restaurants also offer delicious cuisine – sit back and enjoy local favourites, like succulent mud crabs or barramundi. Fishing for ‘barra’ is a fantastic way to get acquainted with Darwin Harbour. Alternatively, board a sunset cruise and drift by the scenic foreshore.

There are many attractions within easy reach. Browse the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, where you can explore the effects of Cyclone Tracy or view Sweetheart the crocodile, hand-feed barramundi at Aquascene in Doctors Gully, see hundreds of crocodiles at Crocodylus Park, or stroll along the historic city walk to see many of Darwin’s historically significant sites.

Catch The Ghan, Australia’s great southern railway from Adelaide to Darwin and experience the great outback.