Australia’s Top End, from the capital Darwin, across to Kakadu National Park and down to the Katherine area, is a land of unspoiled natural beauty waiting to be explored
Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) is simply enormous. While it may look modest on a map, the NT is almost six times the size of the United Kingdom, and were it considered an independent country, it would be the 20th largest! Traverse this monster section of Australia and you’ll cross from a tropical climate to dry, semi-arid desert. Along the way, you’ll pass through countless towns, sacred Aboriginal land, and thousands of kilometres of red terra firma.
The Northern Territory’s relative remoteness also allows it a degree of exclusivity – only those who journey across Australia can experience its beauty. In other parts of the world, places as stunning as Kakadu National Park would be flooded with tourists, but in the NT, they’re peaceful havens where visitors can connect with nature and bask in the serenity.
Here, 6 different ways to explore Australia’s Top End.
On a Boat
Life in the Top End revolves around water. Its capital is bound by it, dozens of lakes and rivers wind through it and one of the territory’s most spiritual spots, Arnhem Land, is known for its spectacular coastline. What better way to take in the NT’s best sights than by boat?
Those seeking an adrenaline rush should take a boat trip down the Adelaide River. While its surrounds paint a pretty picture, the river’s inhabitants are anything but. The Adelaide River is infamous for its high concentration of saltwater crocodiles – the world’s largest living reptiles – as well as smaller freshwater crocs, flying foxes and bull sharks. Adelaide River Cruises are a family-run tour company in the NT passionate about the local wildlife. Hop on one of their Jumping Crocodile Cruises and get up-close with the ancient creatures as they leap from the water for food.
If close wildlife encounters aren’t your idea of fun, head out on Darwin Harbour for a sunset cruise, complete with dinner and champagne. Sail Darwin has you covered on all fronts, with their 50ft luxury catamaran and seasonal tapas-style menu.

By Train
When it comes to epic train journeys, few compare to the mighty Ghan, which runs a staggering 2979 km from Adelaide, through the rugged MacDonnell Ranges and lush Katherine area to Darwin. Named for the first Afghan cameleers that came to Australia in the 19th century, this treasured train has a fascinating history. It was used to transport army servicemen in World War II and later, to move supplies through the outback to build crucial infrastructure. In 2019, The Ghan is celebrating 90 years of operation and a ride on the luxury locomotive is still as spectacular as ever.
Zigzagging through the centre of the continent, The Ghan showcases remote Australian landscapes otherwise inaccessible to most travellers. From the supreme comfort of your private cabin or in one of three dining carriages, enjoy the colours of the Australian outback whiz by, from dusty ochres to native greens, set against a vibrant blue sky.
