Northern Territory

With the World Heritage listed national parks Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta, a strong presence of Aboriginal culture, & diverse flora and fauna including the popular saltwater crocodile, the Northern Territory will ensure that by the end of each day you are ready to sit back and relax while watching one of their amazing sunsets.

The burnt red earth of the outback, magnetic attraction of Kakadu and Uluru and the Aboriginal culture, make the NT a must-see destination.

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Quick Facts

 Category Details
 PopulationThe population of the Northern Territory is around 200,000. Darwin: 100,000, Alice Springs, 27,000.
 Climate
  • The Northern Territory has two very distinctive climate zones. The northern region starts the year with warm, tropical rain then moves to warm and sunny days and cool nights mid-year. The end of the year is pre-monsoonal season, which produces amazing lightning storms.
  • Central Australia is semi-arid and experiences Australia’s four typical seasons: summer, autumn, winter and spring. The monsoon rains do not extend this far south so the weather is quite different to the Top End in that there is no tropical rainy season.
 Cultural MixAbout one quarter of the Territory's multicultural population is Aboriginal. Darwin is considered Australia’s most culturally diverse city with more than 50 nationalities making up its population.
 Famous ForWorld Heritage listed national parks Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta, an Aboriginal culture that’s thought to be 50,000 years old, diverse flora and fauna - from the lotus lily to the saltwater crocodile, barramundi fishing, amazing sunsets and tropical lightning displays in the northern region, outback beauty and adventure in Central Australia.
 TransportDarwin has an international airport and there are domestic airports at Alice Springs, Uluru/Ayers Rock, Katherine and Tennant Creek. The Ghan train links Darwin with Adelaide and stops at Alice Springs and Katherine en route. Darwin is a major cruise port destination. The main towns also offer most transport options: taxis, buses, private hire cars, limousines, light plane charters and coaches and visitors can hire a car in the main towns.
 Travel Tips
  • Road trains are prevalent on Territory roads - huge trucks that can be the length of 10 cars. Allow at least one kilometre of clear road ahead before overtaking, taking care not to veer off the road.
  • Stock and wildlife - Many sealed and unsealed roads in the Northern Territory are unfenced, so beware of stock and wildlife. These can include birds, cattle, kangaroos and camels. Wildlife is most active early in the morning and late at night, so driving during these times should be avoided.
  • Floods – in the Territory’s northern regions, flooding is common at certain times of year. Do not attempt to cross flooded bridges or causeways unless absolutely sure of the depth and any road damage.
  • Safe Swimming - Swimming in Territory beaches, billabongs and rivers is not recommended due to the presence of crocodiles and Box Jellyfish. This is generally sign-posted, but if you’re not sure, don’t swim.
  • Fatigue – The Territory is a big place, and driving long distances can cause fatigue - one of the most common causes of serious accidents. Stop and rest for 15 minutes at least every two hours when driving.
  • Weather – it can be very warm in the Territory and it’s important to drink plenty of water (at least eight glasses a day, more if active), wear a hat and sunscreen.
  • Speed limits – In the Northern Territory there is no speed limit on most open roads, however travellers should drive at a speed that suits the road, vehicle, weather condition and their driving experience.
 The People

Artists
The NT boasts many, many famous Aboriginal artists who sell their work to collectors all over the world, including Albert Namatjira (deceased), Robert Puruntatameri (pottery), John Martin Tipungwuti (scultpure), Jean Babtiste Apuatimi (painting/ screenprinting) and  Nina Puruntatameri (painting).

Musicians
The NT has produced some exceptional musicians,  including Sophie Koh, Jessica Mauboy, Shellie Morris, Yothu Yindi, Djalu Gurruwiwi (didgeridoo) and Sara Storer.

Actors
Well known actors coming out of the NT include Tom E Lewis, David Gulpilil and Fiona O’Loughlin (comedian).

Writers
Well recognized writers from the NT include, Sara Henderson (deceased), Marlee Ranacher, and Tom Cole.

Chefs
Jimmy Shu is a renowned chef and owner of the Hanuman restaurants in both Darwin and Alice Springs.

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Related Information
Itineraries – Britz The Red Centre
See the Outback’s rich history for yourself over a 7-day trip that takes in historic Alice Springs, spectacular Katherine Gorge, Litchfield National Park and the Northern Territory’s coastal capital of Darwin.
State Highlights – Northern Territory
The mystical Aboriginal culture makes the Northern Territory a most unique destination. This is the real Australia in all its raw, unspoilt majesty.
Australian Tourism Offices
Head to the Britz Base for links to Australia’s official State Tourism websites for details on local events, attractions and must-see’s.
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