5 reasons why you should make the Northern Territory your next holiday destination
It can be easy to overlook the natural beauty in your own backyard, and the natural wonders that are hidden in the Northern Territory seem to be no exception.
With the Northern Territory being six times the size of Britain, it’s the perfect way to explore the “real outback” that people from overseas seems to think Australia is.
Scroll through the gallery to see the five reasons you should add the NT to your travel list.
1. Gaze in awe at Uluru at sunset
It’s been said that one of the best times to see the huge monolith that is Uluru is at sunset. This is because as the sun hits Uluru on its way down, it changes the colour of the rock from a red to a burnt orange and finally to a deep purple as the light fades.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the sunset, whether it be over a gourmet dinner, via camel or even on the back of a Harley Davidson motorcycle.
2. Escape the heat in the swimming holes of the West MacDonnell Ranges
The West MacDonnell Ranges near Alice Springs have pockets of watering holes that allow you to escape the heat. There’s plenty to choose from, including Glen Helen Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Orminston Gorge or Redbank Gorge.
If you don’t feel like cooling off, you’re able to explore the desert country and see sights such as Simpsons Gap, which is home to a colony of rock wallabies. It’s the perfect day trip.
3. See crocodiles up close at the Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin
The Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin brings together some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in Australia and you get to see them up close and personal. The cove almost occupies an entire city block and allows guests to see crocodiles from three months to 80 years old in purpose designed displays that can be viewed from three levels.
If you’re feeling incredibly brave, you can head into the “Cage of Death” which lowers you into the same enclosure as some of the largest saltwater crocodiles on the planet for a unique 15 minute face-to-face encounter.
4. Relax at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are a drawcard during the Top End’s dry season of May through to October. On Thursdays and Sundays, wander around some 60 food stalls that serve food from every corner of the Earth, including paella with freshly caught mussels or a fresh mango smoothie.
Eat on the beach and watch the sun dive into the ocean right in front of your eyes. It’s the perfect way to relax in Darwin.
5. Swim under waterfalls at Litchfield National Park
What could be a more perfect way to end your trip by spending a day swimming under waterfalls at Litchfield National Park? The national park is just 1.5 hours away from Darwin, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favourite of the locals.
Relax under the impressive double cascades of Wangi and Florence Falls or soak in the rock pools at Buley Rockhole.