 Visit Darwin and the Top End of the NT
One of the last truely genuine outback regions, the Top End of Australia's Northern Territory is one of awesome grandeur, Aboriginal culture, towing escarpments, waterfalls, and famous National Parks. Camping, trekking, fishing and diving, four wheel drive safaris are all very popular activities in this region.
Your first stop and point of entry into this region is the Northern Territory's capital city Darwin. Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin is a city of relaxed lifestyle, a fantastic mix of cultural character, mystery and beauty. With its close proximity to South East Asia, Darwin is well-influenced by Australia's northern neighbours. There are more than 50 different cultures that live harmoniously in Darwin. So if your after excitement and unique attractions, a classic relaxed tropical atmosphere, or maybe even a bit of both, Darwin is your first stop.
 With Darwin as your base the rest of the Top End is readily accessible.The Tiwi Islands to the North, Litchfield National Park and the Katherine region to the south. The east of Darwin you can explore the Mary River region and Kakadu National Park. Further east you can explore Arnhem Land and the Gove Peninsula.
The Tiwi Islands, Bathurst and Melville, are abundant in arts and crafts, and the colourful culture of the Tiwi people. It is necessary to join an organised one or two-day tour should you decide to include a visit to the Tiwi Islands. Once there you will be able to share with the Tiwi people their religion, culture and art. Experience dense rainforest, secluded waterfalls with the larger of the islands, Melville, boasts swimming holes, including those at Tomorapi and Taracumbie Falls.
 South of Darwin is Litchfield National Park and the magnificent Katherine region boasting the world renowned Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park. Further exploring the Katherine region you will find such treasures as Boroloola, Roper River, Mataranka, Victoria River, the Daly Region and many other locations that will truly amaze you.
Litchfield National Park is a favourite area among outdoor lovers, with the park comprising 1500 sq kms of largely untouched landscape including monsoonal rainforests, Tabletop Range, Escarpment, large groves of cycads, spring-fed creeks and historic tin mines. Major attractions for visitors are the group of spring-fed waterfalls: Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, Sandy Creek Falls and Buley Rockhole.
 East of the city discover the untouched wetlands of the Mary River Region with their amazing array of birds and wildlife and one of Australia's greatest treasures, the World Heritage listed, Kakadu National Park.
Kakadu National Park is one of the Nation's most prized cultural and ecological treasures. This World Heritage listed park is complex in its bio diversity and cultural heritage and is often best explored with an expert guide. The stone tools, shelters, grindstones and ochre indicate that Aboriginal people have lived in the surrounding area now defined by the National Park for over 50,000 years.
 Mary River National Park, many believe that the vast wetlands of this National Park are the most beautiful in the Top End. These wetlands are the home of the biggest barramundi and the largest crocodiles. Lagoons, canals and billabongs make up the waterways of the wetlands of the Mary River, which runs north and south of the Arnhem Highway. The Mary River is an angler's dream. Check out the fishing spots at Shady Camp and Corroboree Billabong where you can hire a houseboat. The Billabongs, paperbark forests and monsoon forests support breeding populations of brolgas, egrets, black-necked storks, sea eagles, magpie geese and many more bird species.
 Travelling further east you can explore the untamed beauty of Arnhem Land, or experience the Gove Peninsula's water wonderland - sailing, game-fishing or scuba diving.
Arnhem Land is a culturally strong, remote, and pristine environment. Yolngu (Aboriginal) people solely own Arnhem Land and have lived in this region for at least 60,000 years with recognised land and marine estates.
East Arnhem Land is one of the last wilderness areas on earth, yet all services can be found in the town of Nhulunbuy, located on the Gove Peninsula. The Gove Peninsula is scenic with long white sandy beaches, azure waters and green vegetation. This is where the Gulf of Carpentaria meets the Arafura Sea and the temperature ranges between 28C and 30C with plenty of cool breezes.
Gove is said to offer some of the best sport fishing in the world. Fishing charters are available to suit your individual needs, from half day, overnight to extended island safaris.
 Boat hire for a self-guided trip is also possible. The crystal clear waters are also excellent for scuba diving and snorkelling.
IMPORTANT: To visit the recreation beach and river areas, a Visitors Permit is required. Severe penalties apply for moving throughout the region without a permit and visitors are asked to respect the wishes of the Traditional Owners in this regard.
The number of vehicles travelling through Arnhem Land is restricted. It is therefore necessary to apply for a permit well in advance of your visit. The area is accessible only by air charter or boat during the Wet Seasong.
All images are © Northern Territory Tourist Commission
Disclaimer: The information contained about this region is provided as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, Break Loose Publishing disclaim any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. For our complete Disclaimer please follow the link at the foot of the page.
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