Best Things To Do In Darwin
1. Get up close and personal with crocodiles
Crocodiles are quite an icon of the Northern Territory – when you hear about people (Prince Harry, for example!) wrestling crocodiles, NT is the first place that would come to mind for most Australians, as well as anyone who remembers Crocodile Dundee.
Because of the high prevalence of crocodiles in the waters around Darwin, there are even beaches that aren’t safe to swim in, and checking those waters for a croc to wrestle might win you a Darwin Award (for silly ways to die; named after the famed anthropologist, not the Australian city!)
However, there are several places where you can enjoy getting up close and personal with these magnificent reptiles, minus the risk to life and limb.
Crocosaurus Cove offers the fearsome Cage of Death experience, where the only thing keeping you from becoming crocodile food is the cage you’re inside of as it is lowered into croc-infested waters; a video of the Cage posted to the Unilad Facebook page has been viewed over 30 million times since being posted in October 2016, to the excitement of the friendly staff at Croc Cove.
There’s also Crocodylus Park, which was founded by a crocodile biologist.
It’s a bit more on the family-friendly and a bit less on the terrifying side; however, it’s an excellent spot to get to know Darwin’s favourite massive reptile, with over a thousand crocs in the Park.
There’s also excellent informative resources on crocodiles and the many other inhabitants of the Park, from endangered iguanas to friendly, cuddly meerkats.
Source — Thecrazytourist.com
2. Tiwi Islands Tours
The Tiwi Islands sit about 50 miles off the north coast of Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory, and the chain is made up of 11 individual isles. The largest is Melville – the second largest island in Australia behind Tasmania – and Bathurst, the fifth largest of Australia’s islands.
It is believed that this string of islands has been inhabited for the past 7,000 years by the Tiwi people, which led to them being named an Aboriginal Reserve in 1912. Like at Arnhem Land, another Aboriginal Reserve, visiting these islands requires an invitation or an escort, as well as a permit. The islands are governed mostly by the Tiwi Aboriginal Land Trust and the Tiwi Land Council.
The island communities are renowned for their art, particularly for their wood carvings of birds. Fabric creations are also common and made in a similar fashion to Indonesian batik prints.
The wilderness of the Tiwi Islands is not to be outdone by that on the Northern Territory mainland -- Melville Island is particularly known for its swimming holes at Taracumbie and Tomorapi Falls, and the islands are full of charming secluded waterfalls and dense rainforest areas.
Source — Viator.com
3. Mary River Wetlands Cruise from Darwin
Within minutes of Darwin, pristine wetlands teaming with wildlife can be found. Discover the secrets of the Top End on a 1-day tour to the Corroboree Billabong with visits to the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, the magical ‘Window of the Wetlands’ and a relaxing afternoon Mary River Wetlands cruise.
Travellers will set out from Darwin at 9am to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve and see what was once a rice-growing project in the 1950s now transformed into a haven for local and migratory birds. You will also have the opportunity to capture some amazing photos of the Sacred Lotus and Native Lilies here.
The interactive displays at the ‘Window of the Wetlands’ Visitor Centre provide insight into the ecological process and seasonal changes of the wetlands and a view of the Adelaide River floodplains that should not be missed on the way to the Corroboree Billabong.
Once you’ve arrived at Corroboree Billabong it’s time for a picturesque 2.5-hour scenic cruise but keeps the eyes peeled for the birds and saltwater crocodiles that cruise beside the vessel or bask in the sun on the banks of the billabong.
The Mary River Wetlands is home to the largest concentration of crocodiles in the world and this is your chance to see them up close. During the cruise enjoy a picnic lunch and a private moment to embrace the tranquility of your surrounds. As the cruise comes to an end your tour guide will deliver you back to Darwin accommodation around 5pm. This is a day out for the whole family with tours available daily between May and October.
What To Bring
- Hat
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Tour voucher
Source — Experienceoz.com.au
4. George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
Spread over 42 lush hectares, the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens makes for a relaxing day out when visiting the Northern Territory. Showcasing an impressive display of plants not just from Australia, but also tropical destinations around the world. Highlights include Darwin’s largest ornamental fountain, a beautiful waterfall deep in the rainforest, and a sensory garden. You can browse the art gallery in the Eco House, take a free guided walking tour, and even enjoy a BBQ right on the lawns.
The wildlife
There’s more than just the flora to enjoy at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, the array of wildlife is fun to spot too. There’s the resident rufous owl in the rainforest, the five-metre snake in the raintree, and chooks in the Snakebean Community Garden. And, if bird spotting is your thing, you’ll enjoy ticking off the species you see from the garden’s bird list.
Walking trails
There are several themed walking trails you can follow at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. The Cycad Walk takes you past 11 species, both exotic and from Australia. The Larrakia Coastal Walk starts at Mindil Beach, passing through natural mangroves and up to Bullocky Point. The Aboriginal Plant Walk journeys along the Tiwi Wet Forest and Woodland Areas, displaying plants that can be used for bush tucker and medicinal purposes. And the Tree Walk explains the different varieties you’ll spot along the way.
Source — Bigbustours.com
5. Learn about Darwin’s World War II History
During World War Two (WWII), Darwin became the first mainland site in Australia to come under direct attack from the enemy when it was the target of more than 64 Japanese air raids, causing huge devastation and many civilian casualties.
The Top End played a key strategic role in the defence of Northern Australia and much of its unique military heritage is well preserved. Gun emplacements, oil storage tunnels, bunkers, military airstrips, and lookout posts are scattered in and around the city. Most are easily accessible and many are free of charge. Visitors are encouraged to explore this fascinating and often overlooked chapter in Australia’s history.
A national day of observance, now officially named Bombing of Darwin Day, is commemorated annually with a City of Darwin community event at the Darwin Cenotaph on the 19th of February. Many additional commemorative services take place across the Top End on or around this day, attracting visitors and locals who wish to acknowledge the sacrifice of those who lost their lives, and the courage of all who served in the defence of the Top End.
Must do:
Take a journey back in time on a specialised WWII tour with Bombing of Darwin WWII Heritage Tour, the Tour Tub, AAT Kings, Sea Darwin, Darwin Explorer, The Darwin History and Wartime Experience and Walk Darwin.
Source — Tourismtopend.com.au
6. Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard a Traditional Ketch
Ride into the sunset and enjoy tropical breezes during this Darwin dinner cruise aboard a traditional fishing ketch. Enjoy freshly shucked Coffin Bay oysters or sink your teeth into succulent Northern Territory Banana prawns followed by your choice of fresh-caught fish or Scotch fillet steak in a 4-course meal provided by the onboard chef. Drinks are available for purchase at the bar or bring your own.
Board a traditional fishing ketch at Stokes Hill Wharf and set out on your Darwin sunset dinner cruise. Enjoy a 4-course dinner, served at a shaded outdoor table in the intimate setting of this smaller sailing vessel.
Cast your gaze over the coastline while your expert crew shares informative commentary as you sail along Darwin's coast. Be sure to keep your camera on hand to capture the tropical colors of a classic Top End sunset. To start dinner you are served a selection of tasty homemade dips and delectable seafood appetizers.
Choose from banana prawns, Coffin Bay oysters, or hot-smoked Spanish mackerel—the boat’s signature dish. Select the fresh catch of the day or rib-eye beef steak (Scotch fillet) for your main course, accompanied by a selection of fresh salad and bread. Espresso or tea accompanies a fresh fruit platter for dessert.
Enjoy beverages purchased from the bar on board, or feel free to bring your own; the crew will provide you with glasses and ice at no extra cost. After you’ve had your fill of amazing food and sunset views, your Darwin cruise ends at the wharf.
Source — Viator.com
7. Magnetic Termite Mounds
In the heart of the Litchfield National Park in Darwin, there is a surreal sight to behold. Towering mounds jut skywards among the lush vegetation, carving quirky silhouettes against the skyline. But these aren’t your average rock formations. These are actually termite mounds that have been lovingly made using the saliva, sand, and faeces of the bugs themselves.
Forming one of the park’s most impressive sights, the Cathedral Termite Mounds stand about four metres high (some surpass that and grow on to be eight metres high or more), which is considerably taller than the two-metre Magnetic Termite Mounds that also dot the area, and can be around 100 years old. They’re unique to the northern parts of Australia, particularly in the Litchfield National Park, which lies 120km south of bustling Darwin.
While wandering through the forest canopies and the sun blushed scenery of the park, you’ll stumble across an open swathe of land peppered with these magnificent mounds. Boasting thin edges that point north to south and broad backs facing east to west, they minimise their exposure to the sun in order to keep the resident termites cool inside.
Source — Darwintour.com.au
8. Douglas Hot Springs
The Douglas Daly Tourist Park is a pet-friendly park for travellers looking for a relaxed and quiet place to stay, midway between Darwin and Katherine. The tourist park is the only park in the Douglas Daly area that offers camping, caravanning and cabin accommodation.
If you like bush camping with all the facilities, then this is the perfect spot to base yourself for a week as the owners Brad and Kathy Hogan are happily offering FRC Premium members, a stay for 7 nights pay for 6 nights discount to give you time to get back to nature and explore this serene and picturesque place they call home. The Douglas Daly area is famous for its fishing, hot springs, gorges and a large variety of birds and wildlife, making it a photographer and nature lovers paradise.
The park is suitable for tents through to caravans and motorhomes, with numerous powered and unpowered sites, including 5 km of riverfront bush camping, suitable for FSCV or those happy to take a short drive to the amenities at the park. Sites are large, grassy and offer ample shade with many sites within close proximity to the exceptionally clean amenity blocks, swimming pool, spa, and the parks onsite licensed bar and restaurant.
One of the reasons locals and travellers highly recommend this magnificent place is not only what the park has to offer but the delicious and very affordable meals in the park's restaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are available including a large selection of delicious burgers. A kiosk/café has takeaway food, ice, milk and much more for your convenience. Pop into the restaurant on a Thursday morning where guests can also enjoy a free coffee with scones, jam, and cream.
On hot days, cool off in the park's shaded swimming pool with its very own waterfall and spa or grab a nice cool drink at the bar. A pool table and a TV are provided for guests so you can sit back, relax and catch up on all the latest news. Brad and Kathy and their friendly staff look forward to welcoming you back to nature.
Source — Freerangecamping.com.au
9. Tali Wiru
Imagine eating dinner high up on a sand dune, and sipping champagne while the sun sets over Uluru. Unlike the cheaper Sounds of Silence buffet dinner (A$195), the new Tali Wiru open-air dining experience is an intimate affair with no more than 20 guests, who are served canapés followed by a gourmet four-course meal with matched premium Australian wines.
The diverse menu has a focus on indigenous ingredients, and dishes might include native thyme and garlic grilled wagyu fillet, wattleseed-rubbed kangaroo carpaccio, and bunya nut and shallot-crusted polenta with bush yoghurt foam. As dinner concludes, guests gather around a campfire with cognac and hot chocolate and listen to an indigenous story-teller.
Source — Telegraph.co.uk
10. The Lagoon
The Lagoon is located on the waterfront right next to the wave pool. Darwin city Lagoon is the only place where it is really safe to swim in the ocean in Darwin. It is a small bay that has a net surrounding it to prevent stingers and crocodiles from entering the area.
Of course, there is always a small risk when swimming at the lagoon. The best way to avoid this is to only swim from the months from May to October when the Irukandji Jellyfish is rare in Darwin’s waters.
Unfortunately, the lagoon is very still water and usually quite warm. Don’t go to the Lagoon if you’re expecting a refreshing swim. If you are after a refreshing swim then pay the entrance fee and go to the neighboring wave pool (more on that below.)
Source — Destinationlesstravel.com
Comments
Post a Comment