Youth experiences - Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is a haven for young travellers who enjoy their freedom, have a sense of adventure and want to experience one of the oldest living cultures on earth.
There aren’t many places in the world where you can fish in tropical waters, kayak through magnificent gorges, dive into crystal clear waterholes, explore desert terrain, marvel at indigenous art, and trek, walk, ride or drive through some of Australia’s most diverse landscapes.
Backpackers usually come to the NT from all over the world seeking adventure first. It’s only after experiencing the relaxed, outdoor lifestyle that many decide to stay and work.
Crocosaurus Cove, Darwin City, Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is divided into two diverse landscapes, the tropical Top End and the iconic Red Centre.
The Top End is best introduced by Darwin, a tropical paradise and gateway to nature’s playground. From Darwin, visit Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks to see ancient Aboriginal rock art, thundering waterfalls, crystal clear swimming holes, crocodiles and other wildlife. Katherine is also just a 3 hour drive from Darwin and famous for the stunning Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park.
The Red Centre is where to go to feel and experience the real outback. Alice Springs is the basecamp for adventure - with waterholes, biking and hiking trails, wildlife centres and 4WD tracks. Lace-up the hiking boots in Kings Canyon and discover the spectacular views of Watarrka National Park. Conclude the Red Centreadventure in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Watch the sunrise over Kata Tjuta, hire a bike and explore the 10km base of Uluru, or see it from high above on a skydive!
Highlights
Melaleuca on Mitchell, Darwin, Northern Territory
There’s a huge range of accommodation options in the Northern Territory from trendy backpacker hostels to eco-retreats, fishing lodges, safari ‘glamps,’ and five-star hotels.
If planning to go bush and spot wildlife, hike, paddle, pedal, or to just take in the natural environment, stop at quality tourist parks to pitch a tent, park the van or enjoy the facilities of a self-contained cabin.
Highlights
Driving the Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is renowned for its perpetual sunshine, spirit of adventure, diverse landscapes, active social scene, rich culture and legendary laid-back lifestyle.
With a constant celebration of life outdoors, locals and travellers alike lap up the open-air cinemas, vibrant markets, quirky festivals, alfresco pubs, world-class walking trails and epic road-trips.
Camp near a billabong, picnic on a mile-long beach, ride a camel through the outback, go off-road four wheel driving, fish for a famous barramundi, visit a working cattle station, swim under a pummelling waterfall, trek through the savannah, cruise through a vast wetland, canoe up a river or enjoy an Aussie BBQ with friends.
The Territory is also home to an eclectic mix of cultures whose outdoor lifestyle is complemented by a colourful calendar of art and cultural events.
Highlights
Mindi Markets, Darwin, Northern Territory
Considered a hot destination to work, play and party, there are heaps of hostels and bars to meet fellow travellers and lifelong friends – from Darwin’s buzzing Mitchell and Smith Streets and vibrant market scene, through to the quirky bars in Alice Springs and outback pubs in between.
The Northern Territory is ‘Festival Territory’ and the winter months especially are an exciting time of year for festivals and events. The weather sets the perfect stage for a calendar serving up sporting events, theatre, cabaret, dance, live music, art and cultural experiences.
Highlights
Destination Highlights
Accommodation
Local Immersion
Nightlife