Located off the Timor Sea, Darwin is the capital of Northern Territory. Though it is the smallest of all Australian capitals, it is the largest city in the sparsely populated Northern Territory.
Darwin is not just about the beaches; it has savannah woodlands, rainforests, wetlands and gorges. It is a veritable gateway to the Kakadu National Park and the Nitmiluk National Park that houses the famous Katherine Gorge. It is also a hub to embark on cross-continent journeys like the Ghan, Explorers Highway and Savannah Way.
Places of Interest
Kakadu National Park
Museum and Art Gallery of Northern Territory
Mindil Beach
George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
Skycity Darwin
Territory Wildlife Park
Attractions
Darwin Harbour Sunset Cruises
Crocosaurous Cove Tours
Territory Wildlife Park Expeditions
Mary River Wetlands Cruises
Birdwatching in the Mangroves
Yellow Water Billabong Cruises
Transport
Darwin International Airport is located in Marrara, about 13 km from the CBD, making it a 15-minute drive or so. It has connections to and from all interstate destinations and to may international destinations as well. There are light aircraft services available to take you to smaller destinations within the Northern Territory.
Darwin Airport Shuttle group has a host of operators who run a modern fleet of air-conditioned coaches to transport you to your accommodation.
Darwin has a fantastic public transport system with buses operating on routes that will take you anywhere and everywhere. You could also opt for a taxi or hire a private car or a bike. Walking is also a great way to see the sights and enjoy the city at your own pace.
Environment
Darwin Harbour is one of the top ten coastal hotspots in Australia with a range of mangroves species, sea grass, dugongs and dolphins. The city experiences heavy monsoons, with lightning and cyclones at times. But the dry season boasts blue skies, gentle breezes and picturesque shorelines.
The Darwin City Council is committed to monitoring public access to foreshores, implementing soil erosion control measures and ensuring that new developments have minimum impact on the foreshores.
There is also a strong initiative to maintain parks, plant native trees and encourage land rehabilitation and revegetation. This is to ensure that Darwin’s flora and fauna are still around for future generations.
Demographics
Darwin is probably Australia’s most cosmopolitan and multi-cultural city, with a population comprising people from over 60 nationalities and 70 ethnic backgrounds.
The Northern Territory is home to Australia’s largest population of Aboriginal people and the greater Darwin is the ancestral home of the Larrakia people, who are still active members of the community.