If you’re someone who loves spending time out and about, Darwin is a perfect place for you to visit. With lush parks, breathtaking landscapes and a diverse wildlife, this tropical city is nature’s haven. Here's a list of the best outdoor experiences in Darwin that you won’t want to miss.
Experience Unforgettable Darwin Cruises
Darwin boasts the signature ‘Top-End’ natural beauty, and it is best experienced on a cruise. Darwin Harbour cruises are incredible at any time of the day, but the Darwin sunset cruises are out of this world! Cruise into a realm of all colours in the golden hour on the stunning Darwin Harbour. It’s easy to see why these cruises are hailed as some of the best things to do in Darwin for all ages!
Darwin Harbour is located right in the heart of the city.
Check Out A Jumping Crocodile Cruise
Darwin is also famous for its saltwater crocodiles, and our crocodile-feeding tours offer a unique chance to see these magnificent prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat. As you cruise down the river, experienced guides will showcase these majestic animals in the wild, answering your questions and allowing you to experience the thrill of being up close to the crocs!
Most tours operate on the Adelaide River, just 65 km (about 1 hour’s drive) from Darwin.
Stroll Through the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
For a quieter outdoor experience, consider visiting the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Perfect for plant enthusiasts, these gardens boast an impressive array of native northern Australian flora alongside tropical species from around the world. A highlight is the exclusive African-Madagascan garden, home to a remarkable collection of Baobab and Boab trees.
The Visitor and Event Centre, a striking tropical structure, offers insights into the Gardens’ natural and cultural history, diverse plant collections and Aboriginal uses of native plants. Don’t miss the multimedia room, which showcases stunning transformation of the Gardens through the seasons. For families, the playground and treehouse provide an engaging space for children to explore and enjoy.
George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens is located just 2 km (a 5-minute drive) from the city centre.
Swim In Litchfield National Park
Darwin is the gateway to the famous Litchfield National Park. Just a walk through this park is an experience in itself. Be sure to come prepared to swim, as the park is home to some of the most spectacular swimming spots. Dive into the refreshing waters of cascading waterfalls like Florence Falls and Wangi Falls, explore stunning creeks and a series of natural rock holes!
Also, do not miss the ancient termite mounds–they’re truly fascinating! Whether you're swimming, hiking, or simply taking in the scenery, Litchfield National Park promises an unforgettable adventure.
Litchfield National Park is located approximately 115 km (1.5 hours) south of the city.
Birdwatching And Fishing At Mary River National Park
Camping, picnicking, and walking—everything feels like an adventure here! If you're a birdwatcher, this national park, located 150 km east of Darwin, is nothing short of paradise. Home to a remarkable variety of bird species, it offers endless opportunities to watch these feathered friends freely.
The park also boasts the largest population of saltwater crocodiles in the Northern Territory! So, keep your “croc-dar” on high alert. Fishing enthusiasts, take note: after the rains, Mary River is one of the best places to reel in barramundi.
Mary River National Park is situated 150 km (about 1.5 hours) east of Darwin.
Explore the walking trails of the Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park)
Katherine Gorge is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Northern Territory. Set within Nitmiluk National Park, the gorge consists of 13 stunning sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River over millions of years.
Hiking here is an unforgettable experience! You’ll find numerous trails catering to all fitness levels, ranging from short, scenic walks to challenging, multi-day treks. Make sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen and sturdy hiking shoes, especially if tackling the longer trails.
Katherine Gorge is situated 320 km (about 3.5 hours) southeast of Darwin.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, Darwin’s great outdoors is where you should be! So, don’t wait! Come, explore one of Australia’s most breathtaking destinations, and make memories for a lifetime!
Experience Unforgettable Darwin Cruises
Darwin boasts the signature ‘Top-End’ natural beauty, and it is best experienced on a cruise. Darwin Harbour cruises are incredible at any time of the day, but the Darwin sunset cruises are out of this world! Cruise into a realm of all colours in the golden hour on the stunning Darwin Harbour. It’s easy to see why these cruises are hailed as some of the best things to do in Darwin for all ages!
Darwin Harbour is located right in the heart of the city.
Check Out A Jumping Crocodile Cruise
Darwin is also famous for its saltwater crocodiles, and our crocodile-feeding tours offer a unique chance to see these magnificent prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat. As you cruise down the river, experienced guides will showcase these majestic animals in the wild, answering your questions and allowing you to experience the thrill of being up close to the crocs!
Most tours operate on the Adelaide River, just 65 km (about 1 hour’s drive) from Darwin.
Stroll Through the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
For a quieter outdoor experience, consider visiting the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Perfect for plant enthusiasts, these gardens boast an impressive array of native northern Australian flora alongside tropical species from around the world. A highlight is the exclusive African-Madagascan garden, home to a remarkable collection of Baobab and Boab trees.
The Visitor and Event Centre, a striking tropical structure, offers insights into the Gardens’ natural and cultural history, diverse plant collections and Aboriginal uses of native plants. Don’t miss the multimedia room, which showcases stunning transformation of the Gardens through the seasons. For families, the playground and treehouse provide an engaging space for children to explore and enjoy.
George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens is located just 2 km (a 5-minute drive) from the city centre.
Swim In Litchfield National Park
Darwin is the gateway to the famous Litchfield National Park. Just a walk through this park is an experience in itself. Be sure to come prepared to swim, as the park is home to some of the most spectacular swimming spots. Dive into the refreshing waters of cascading waterfalls like Florence Falls and Wangi Falls, explore stunning creeks and a series of natural rock holes!
Also, do not miss the ancient termite mounds–they’re truly fascinating! Whether you're swimming, hiking, or simply taking in the scenery, Litchfield National Park promises an unforgettable adventure.
Litchfield National Park is located approximately 115 km (1.5 hours) south of the city.
Birdwatching And Fishing At Mary River National Park
Camping, picnicking, and walking—everything feels like an adventure here! If you're a birdwatcher, this national park, located 150 km east of Darwin, is nothing short of paradise. Home to a remarkable variety of bird species, it offers endless opportunities to watch these feathered friends freely.
The park also boasts the largest population of saltwater crocodiles in the Northern Territory! So, keep your “croc-dar” on high alert. Fishing enthusiasts, take note: after the rains, Mary River is one of the best places to reel in barramundi.
Mary River National Park is situated 150 km (about 1.5 hours) east of Darwin.
Explore the walking trails of the Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park)
Katherine Gorge is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Northern Territory. Set within Nitmiluk National Park, the gorge consists of 13 stunning sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River over millions of years.
Hiking here is an unforgettable experience! You’ll find numerous trails catering to all fitness levels, ranging from short, scenic walks to challenging, multi-day treks. Make sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen and sturdy hiking shoes, especially if tackling the longer trails.
Katherine Gorge is situated 320 km (about 3.5 hours) southeast of Darwin.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, Darwin’s great outdoors is where you should be! So, don’t wait! Come, explore one of Australia’s most breathtaking destinations, and make memories for a lifetime!
