What To Do in the Northern Territory This Winter
With the Top End enjoying its dry season (think sunny days, mild nights, and almost no rain) and the Red Centre seeing cooler days, the Northern Territory is one of the best places to spend the winter in Australia. Whether it’s enjoying the multicultural atmosphere of Darwin, the natural beauty of the many national parks and landmarks, or embracing the ancient Aboriginal culture of the Traditional Owners, the Northern Territory has an activity for every kind of traveler. These are some of the best things to do there during the winter months—and don’t forget, this region’s winter runs from June to August.
Eat and adventure in Darwin
Soak up the winter sun in the Northern Territory capital.
Known as the most laid-back of all the Australian capital cities, Darwin is a winter hub for sunseekers, adventure lovers, and foodies. The Wave Lagoon at the Darwin Waterfront is the most popular attraction in Darwin, and Stokes Hill Wharf is the starting point for harbor cruises, fishing tours, and jet ski adventures.
With its Asian influence and abundance of fresh seafood and produce, Darwin is also a treat for your tastebuds. Make sure to try mud crab, barramundi, Kakadu plum, lemon myrtle, and even green ants. Winter is also festival time in Darwin, with the Fringe Festival in July and the Darwin Festival in August. Easy day trips from Darwin include the Tiwi Islands, Mary River Wetlands, and Litchfield National Park.
Related: Top National Parks in Darwin
Explore ancient wonders in Kakadu National Park
Discover one of the country’s most precious landscapes.
A couple of hours southeast of Darwin, the UNESCO-listed Kakadu National Park is renowned for both its natural and cultural beauty. Home to the Bininj/Mungguy people for around 65,000 years, Kakadu has more than 5,000 Aboriginal rock art sites.
Cruise on the stunning Yellow Water Billabong to spot crocodiles and migratory birds (the park is home to a third of Australia’s native bird species) that make the wetlands their home as the floodplains recede during the dry season. With wet season road closures common, the drier wintertime is perfect for taking in the wonders of Kakadu.
Embrace Aboriginal culture on Arnhem Land
Take the opportunity to learn about Indigenous life in Australia.
One of the least inhabited regions of the world, Arnhem Land is home to ancient Aboriginal culture, stunning wilderness landscapes, and world-renowned barramundi fishing. Experience the local culture with more than 2,000 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people who gather to share knowledge and culture through music, visual art, storytelling, dance, forums, and workshops at the annual Garma Festival, a celebration of Yolngu life and culture held in remote, northeast Arnhem Land every August.
Related: How To Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders While Traveling in Australia
See the contradictions of the Top End in Katherine
Go where the Outback meets the tropics.
Three hours south of Darwin, Katherine is where the Outback meets the tropics and where the ancient landscape and Aboriginal culture meet modern-day adventurers and cowboys. Take in an Aboriginal cultural experience or an outback show, as well as exploring the Nitmiluk National Park (formerly Katherine Gorge National Park).
The biggest event on the Katherine calendar is the Katherine Show and Rodeo, which happens every July. To experience healing waters, soak in the thermal pools on the banks of the Katherine River or head one hour south to the famous thermal pool at Mataranka.
Make a road trip stopover in Tennant Creek
Break halfway between Alice Springs and Darwin.
Situated right in the middle of the Barkly Tablelands, Tennant Creek is known for its vast cattle stations, gold mining heritage, strong Aboriginal culture, and iconic rock formation Karlu Karlu (Devil’s Marbles Conservation Reserve). There are many sacred sites in the area, and the Nyinkka Nyunyu Culture Centre is an award-winning attraction that showcases the stories and art of the Aboriginal people.
Here, visit the old Overland Telegraph Line, fossick for gold, explore the Davenport Range National Park ... or simply set up camp on one of the many cattle stations and enjoy the Outback in winter.
Immerse yourself in art at Alice Springs
The Red Centre is a must-visit during Australia’s winter.
From the Outback landscapes to the local characters and the world-famous art, Alice Springs is the colorful and vibrant heart of the Red Centre. Enjoy the spectacular views from a hot-air balloon or camel, or take a day trip to the West McDonnell Ranges.
If you’re interested in connecting with the contemporary artworks and traditional stories of one of the world’s oldest living cultures, view the dot paintings of some of Australia’s most famous Aboriginal artists at the many galleries and art centers. The stunning craftwork of the Papunya Tula and Utopia artists is a highlight.
Experience the magic of Uluru
The world’s largest single-rock monolith is in Australia.
At around 550 million years old, the UNESCO-listed Uluru towers over the surrounding landscape and holds special cultural significance for the Traditional Owners, the Anangu people. Hear the sacred creation stories and discover Aboriginal art and culture with a local guide, take a walk around the base at sunrise, and watch the magic as the colors change at sunset. A day trip to Watarrka National Park to visit Kings Canyon is an easy addition to your itinerary.
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