Northern Territory
Discover the Northern Territory where rugged beauty meets rich culture. From the fiery glow of Uluru at sunrise to the lush waterfalls of Kakadu, this is Australia at its wildest and most soulful. Explore ancient landscapes, Aboriginal art, and vibrant markets, or hit the road for unforgettable adventures. The best time to visit? May to October for clear skies and cooler days, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. Stay in Darwin for tropical vibes, Alice Springs for desert charm, or choose eco lodges in Kakadu for nature at your doorstep. Wherever you go, the Northern Territory promises wonder, connection, and a true taste of the outback.
Darwin
From tropical sunsets and crocodile encounters to vibrant markets and national park escapes, Darwin is Australia’s northern gem with a wild heart.
Stroll the Darwin Waterfront Precinct for wave pools, beachside dining, and laid-back vibes, or catch a movie under the stars at Deckchair Cinema. Dive into culture at the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and explore the city’s WWII history at the Bombing of Darwin experience on Stokes Hill Wharf. Darwin is the perfect gateway to the Top End’s wild landscapes, with Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks just a short drive away, offering easy access to some of Australia’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Kings Canyon
From towering sandstone cliffs and sacred Aboriginal sites to lush waterholes and epic rim walks, Kings Canyon is Australia’s outback marvel with a dramatic edge.
Trek the legendary Rim Walk for panoramic views and surreal formations like the Lost City and Garden of Eden. Join a cultural tour with Traditional Custodians to learn about bush medicine and Dreamtime stories in Watarrka National Park. Cool off beneath ghost gums at Kathleen Springs or take in the desert beauty from a scenic helicopter flight. As the sun sets, watch the canyon walls glow crimson before stargazing under the clearest skies in the country. With Uluru and Kata Tjuta just a road trip away, Kings Canyon is well-connected to the Red Centre’s spiritual grandeur.
Alice Springs
From fiery desert sunrises and ancient rock formations to Aboriginal art trails and outback adventures, Alice Springs is Australia’s Red Centre gem with a soul steeped in story.
Wander the Todd Mall for quirky cafés, local galleries, and laid-back charm, or float above the desert in a hot air balloon at dawn. Dive into culture at the Araluen Arts Centre and trace Dreamtime legends at the Alice Springs Desert Park. Meet thorny devils and perentie lizards at the Reptile Centre, then cool off in the tranquil waterholes of Simpsons Gap or Ellery Creek Big Hole. With Uluru, Kings Canyon, and the MacDonnell Ranges just a scenic drive away, Alice Springs is your launchpad to the heart of Australia’s timeless outback.
Iconic Australia: Famous Cities & Red Centre Explorer
Explore the best of Australia as you combine the magic of the Outback, discovering Uluru and Kings Canyon, with the iconic cities of Sydney and Melbourne.
Start in Sydney, taking a guided tour to familiarise yourself with this stunning city and a ferry to the beautiful Manly beach. Then fly to the Red Centre and spend the next few days under the stars, re-connecting with nature as you camp in the Outback. Finally, Melbourne awaits as you return to the hustle and bustle of the city, exploring Melbourne's laneways and coffee shops.
See & Do
Witness the Magic of Uluru & Kata Tjuta
Uluru and Kata Tjuta are two of Australia’s most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks, rising from the vast desert of the Red Centre. Uluru’s sheer presence is humbling, especially at sunrise and sunset when its sandstone surface glows in shifting shades of orange and crimson. Walking the base reveals ancient rock art and sacred sites, while guided tours offer insight into Anangu culture and Dreamtime stories. Nearby, the domed formations of Kata Tjuta provide dramatic views and rewarding hikes through Walpa Gorge and the Valley of the Winds, making this region a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.
Explore Kakadu National Park
Kakadu is a World Heritage-listed national park that captures the essence of the Northern Territory’s wild beauty and cultural depth. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometers, it’s a land of wetlands, escarpments, and ancient rock shelters. A cruise through Yellow Water Billabong reveals crocodiles, jabirus, and lush floodplains, while hikes to Jim Jim and Twin Falls offer dramatic scenery and refreshing swims. Ubirr and Nourlangie showcase some of the oldest rock art in the world, telling stories that stretch back tens of thousands of years. Whether you’re camping under the stars or staying in a lodge, Kakadu offers a rare blend of adventure, reflection, and connection to Country.
Cruise Katherine Gorge
Nitmiluk National Park, near the town of Katherine, is home to thirteen majestic sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River. A boat cruise or kayak journey through the gorge reveals towering cliffs, tranquil waters, and ancient Aboriginal rock art etched into the stone. The Jawoyn people’s stories and traditions are woven into the landscape, adding cultural depth to the natural beauty. Hiking trails lead to panoramic lookouts and secluded swimming holes, and sunrise or sunset adds a magical glow to the canyon walls. It’s one of the Territory’s most scenic and peaceful experiences, perfect for those seeking both adventure and serenity.
Food & Drink in Northern Territory
The Northern Territory’s food scene is bold and rooted in native ingredients, multicultural flavors, and a deep connection to the land. Expect grilled barramundi, wild-caught mud crab, and crocodile skewers, alongside kangaroo fillet and bush tomato relish. Sweet treats like Kakadu plum jam and quandong desserts add a tropical twist, while drinks—especially bush-inspired cocktails and craft beers—are refreshingly inventive. Meals are best enjoyed slowly: at a sunset market in Darwin, a starlit dinner near Uluru, or a riverside café in Katherine.
Northern Territory Weather
Average monthly temperature in Northern Territory (°C)
- Jan 33°C
- Feb 32°C
- Mar 31°C
- Apr 28°C
- May 23°C
- Jun 19°C
- Jul 20°C
- Aug 22°C
- Sep 27°C
- Oct 31°C
- Nov 33°C
- Dec 33°C
Travel guide
- Best time to visit: Year round destination
- Average flight time: 24 Hours
- Most suited for: Everyone
- Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
- Time Difference: +9 to 10 hours
Get in touch and book your perfect holiday with Hays Travel
With so much choice out there, stop the endless searching - our experts at Hays Travel will find the perfect holiday for you. Speak with an expert now, find a branch near you, search online for great deals, or enquire today to start planning your dream getaway.
Call our experts
Contact the Hays Travel holiday experts today for personalised advice and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.
Enquire today
Submit an enquiry today and one of our experienced Hays Travel holiday experts will get back to you as soon as possible.
Visit us in branch
Visit the Hays Travel holiday experts in branch today for personalised advice, inspiration, and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.