Check out the Hottest 100 things to do in the Northern Territory! Get ready to embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Northern Territory. From heart-pounding adventures that will leave you breathless to serene experiences that will soothe your soul, we present to you the hottest 100 things to do in the NT’s Top End and Red Centre. So, unleash your wanderlust, and prepare for an epic countdown that will ignite your passion for exploration like never before.
NT's Hottest 100! - Check out #1 to #35 below - to view #36 to #100 click here.
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Image Credit: Mark Fitz & Tourism NT
#1. Uluru & Kata-Tjuta National Park
Arguably one of the best places located in the heart of Australia, Uluru & Kata-Tjuta National Park is home to famous Uluru & the 32 weathered rock domes known as Kata-Tjuta or the Olgas. Anangu welcome you to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a living cultural landscape where earth and memories exist as one. More than just a photo opportunity, the iconic rock formations hide ancient wisdom and diverse plant and animal life. Look closer to discover an awe-inspiring environment where Tjukurpa whispers the creation stories. From self-guided walking trails, sunset & sunrise tours, ranger guided activities, rock art, bird watching & segway or cycling tours, exploring the ancient surrounds and natural wonders of Uluru & Kata-Tjuta National Park will leave you in awe of this beautiful place we call home.
#2. Scenic flight over Kakadu National Park
Take to the air and witness the magic of Kakadu National Park. The complexity of this diverse landscape becomes a simple delight of colour and life as you fly over world-famous wetlands, mighty floodplains, and on to the ancient sandstone plateaus of Arnhem Land. Helicopter and fixed-wing flights operate in both wet and dry seasons, departing from both Darwin and within Kakadu (Cooinda and Jabiru).
Image Credit: Jewels Lynch & Tourism NT
#3. Kings Canyon Rim Walk
The iconic hike to the top of Kings Canyon is known as the spellbinding Rim Walk. The Rim Walk will take you on a 6-kilometre circuit transcending down into the Garden of Eden and back to the top to wonder at the 360 views. Depending on what pace you take to absorb the humbling scenery, the walk can take around 3-4 hours. The start of the walk is the most difficult, with around 500 steep steps to climb – once you are up there it will be one of the most magical experiences of your life. After you take in the views from the top of the stairs, continue your journey through Priscilla’s Crack made famous by the classic Australian movie Priscilla Queen of the Desert and to the first lookout across the canyon.
Image Credit: Shaana McNaught & Tourism NT
#4. Darwin Harbour Sunset Dinner Cruise
With beautiful views of the Top End city, there is no better way to experience Darwin’s renowned sunsets than aboard a magical sunset dinner cruise. Enjoy a Territory-style dinner with fresh seafood and local produce. Take in the foreshore sights and listen to informative commentary on the harbour's interesting history, including an insight into Cyclone Tracy, WWII and Darwin's natural history.
Image Credit: Darwin Harbour Cruises
#5. Litchfield National Park’s Waterfalls
Indulge in a day of swimming, picnicking, exploring & diving into the best waterfalls & rockpools within Litchfield National Park. Arguably one of the best-known swimming spots in the Top End, Wangi Falls is renowned for its pristine beauty and size. Two waterfalls cascade over the rocks down to the pool below, surrounded by a lush monsoon rainforest and various walking that let you experience the stunning panoramic views at various lookout points from the top. Another firm favourite for locals and tourists alike, Florence Falls offers a tranquil, picturesque setting nestled amongst a tropical rainforest. A smaller and more intimate swim than Wangi Falls, you can relax on the ample rock seating in the shallow area to the sound of the cascading waterfalls. Florence Falls is open all year round! And don’t miss Buley Rockhole as well for a picturesque swim spot!
Image Credit: Dan Moore
#6. Ubirr, Kakadu National Park
Kakadu’s rock art is world class and a major reason why the area is World Heritage listed. Ubirr (pronounced oo-bir, with a short ‘oo’) is home to some of the most famous rock art in Kakadu and is an area steeped in Aboriginal culture and tradition. What makes Ubirr particularly awe inspiring is the view from the look out which will take your breath away. Ubirr is located approximately 40 kms from the township of Jabiru and will no doubt leave a lasting impression etched in your memory for years to come.
Image Credit: Johan Lolo and Tourism NT
#7. Ellery Creek
Ellery Creek is one of the most popular waterholes to visit in the Red Centre for not only its unique setting between two towering red cliffs, carved by thousands of years of floods, but also for a fantastic outback camping, hiking, and swimming experience. Thousands of years of massive floods have carved out this waterhole, which is recognised as an internationally significant geological site. Perhaps take the 3-kilometre Dolomite Circuit to see the surrounding formations.
Image Credit: Tourism NT
#8. Field of Light by Bruce Munro
Running indefinitely in Uluru, Field of Light covers the overwhelming size of more than seven football fields and includes over 50,000 spindles of light set on swaying stems creating a never-before-seen fantasy garden. Known for his immersive, site-specific installations that use light to evoke an emotional response in an often-outdoor environment, Bruce Munro’s Field of Light certainly doesn’t disappoint. As the lights gently progress through a symphony of desert-inspired colours including traditional ochre, deep violet, bold blue and a gentle white, you experience the Australian outback and Uluru in, quite literally, a whole new light. This impressive light show mirrors the brilliant sky of stars that hang overhead, immersing you in a completely new world. If you want to enhance your Field of Light experience, there are plenty of options for you to pick from. Upgrade to the Field of Light Star Pass for a prelude of drinks and outback canapes at an exclusive dune top as your host gives further insight into the installations. For the early birds, there is also the option to visit the installation in the morning and witness it in combination with a stunning Uluru sunrise tour.
Image Credit: Tourism NT
#9. Valley of the Winds Walk
Get away from everything and enter another world at the Valley of the Winds. The views from this challenging walk are breathtaking and well worth the effort. The Valley of the Winds walk will enable you to immerse yourself amongst Kata Tjuta’s domes. It also features unparalleled views of the spectacular Mars-like landscape surrounding Kata Tjuta from two lookout points along the track. This walk is classed as Grade 4. It is steep, rocky, and difficult in places, so please be careful and take your time.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Salty Aura
#10. Nabil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise (Nitmiluk Gorge)
Sit back and relax on this Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise as the tranquil surroundings transport you into a spiritual world of the Jawoyn culture and history. Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge, changing colour with the setting sun. Enjoy a three-course candlelight dinner, featuring fresh, local Australian produce cooked on board, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
Image Credit: Tourism NT
#11. Sounds of Silence Dinner Experience
Entered into the Australian Tourism Hall of Fame, Sounds of Silence offers the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours. Get ready to be serenaded by the mesmerising sounds of the didgeridoo as you enjoy drinks and canapes on the viewing platform with majestic Uluru and Kata Tjuta in the distance as your backdrop. Make your way through the red sand to your table under the outback evening sky as you are served a 3-course native-inspired buffet dinner. One of the highlights for many is the Star Talk, held between the main and dessert course, as you are taken on a passionate, informative & interactive journey through the stars and visible planets with a resident star talker.
Image Credit: Helen Orr & Tourism NT
#12. The Ghan
The Northern Territory’s vast and diverse landscapes are a big part of what makes it so remarkable. Whether it’s the dry, red ochre colours of the Red Centre or the lush green tropics of the Top End, the iconic Ghan journey showcases this transformation in the best way it can – traversing right through the middle. View the changing scenes through the train’s panoramic windows all while enjoying first-class service, all-inclusive dining, fine wines, private accommodations and immersive Off Train Experiences. Not to mention that comforting, unique camaraderie that comes with extended, classic train journeys.
Image Credit: Journey Beyond Rail
#13. Glen Helen Gorge
Glen Helen is yet another beautiful outback gorge in the West MacDonnell Ranges, often considered to be one of the most picturesque in the country. Glen Helen campground offers a comfortable camping experience where you can enjoy a cooling dip in the mirror-like water while surrounded by the beauty of the rugged sandstone walls, the local wildlife, and views of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Top it off with a cosy campfire under a starry night sky.
Image Credit: Salty Aura & Tourism NT
#14. Yellow Water Billabong Cruise
Weave your way through the mighty river systems of Kakadu National Park and discover an ancient landscape constantly changing with the seasons with an iconic Yellow Water Billabong cruise. Located at the end of Jim Jim Creek, Yellow Water Billabong is Kakadu’s most famous wetland. Enjoy the relaxing journey by boat to witness egrets, sea eagles, and azure kingfishers sharing the paperbark forests and freshwater mangroves with buffalo, wild horses, and the mighty saltwater crocodile. This is home to one of the most spectacular sunsets in the NT.
Image Credit: Mark Cherubino & Tourism NT
#15. Ormiston Gorge
Located 135 kilometres west of Alice Springs in the West MacDonnell National Park, Ormiston Gorge is the outback’s answer to the beach with sandy banks and the quintessentially Aussie towering gum trees surrounding the still gorge waters. Located in West MacDonnell National Park, the gorge also contains an interesting variety of native flora and fauna and the Ormiston Pound Walk for a circuit trail exploration of the area. You can explore the area further with the Ormiston Pound Walk - a three-to-four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre to cross the rocky slopes and the flat floor of the pound and back along the gorge via the main waterhole.
Image Credit: Luke Riddle + Jess Caldwell & Tourism NT
#16. Stokes Hill Wharf
If you don’t have Stokes Hill Wharf on your list of things to do whilst in Darwin, then you need to add it! Soak up the historic wharf which offers a relaxed & friendly atmosphere in seaside alfresco eateries or casual restaurants which all specialise in fresh local seafood and steak. Enjoy panoramic views and stunning sunsets over Darwin Harbour year-round with family or friends or visit the award-winning Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility which is located at Stokes Hill Wharf. You can also take a ride on the Skyline Ferris Wheel for incredible views of Darwin or enjoy a round of mini golf. There is plenty to see & do at Stokes Hill Wharf all year round!
Image Credit: Tourism NT
#17. Tali Wiru
Tali Wiru, meaning 'beautiful dune' in local Anangu language, encapsulates the magic of fine dining under the Southern Desert sky. This is the ultimate culinary experience for those who love the finer things in life and exquisite cuisine. Instead of walls, this open-air restaurant has magnificent views of Uluru and the distant domes of Kata Tjuta, and for unique ambiance there's the stillness of the desert at night. The contrast between the spectacular natural setting and the world-class gastronomic adventure on your plate is simply awe-inspiring. Every course of this exclusive four-course dinner is infused with ancient native ingredients. Each dish is constructed to respect and put a spotlight on the quality and attributes of each ingredient and bring them together in harmony. This is so much more than a dining experience; it's a moment in time remembered forever.
Image Credit: Tourism NT
#18. Parrtjima Festival
If you happen to be in the Red Centre during April*, then you won’t want to miss Parrtjima (pronounced par-chee-ma) – A Festival in Light, held annually in Alice Springs. It’s fast gaining traction, being the only light festival of its kind, showcasing one of the oldest continuous Indigenous cultures on earth through the latest technology, whilst celebrating the world-class beauty and culture of our country in the heart of Australia. The festival sees artworks from the Arrernte people, as well as pieces from across the Central Desert region and associated parts of the Northern Territory, illuminated in a variety of ways. Be sure to save the date for Parrtjima 2024! The festival is due to kick off next year from 12 – 21 April in Alice Springs.
Image Credit: Tourism NT
#19. Uluru Sunset Camel Experience
Experience the nomadic spirit as you leisurely wander through the stunning red desert landscape atop one of the world's earliest modes of transportation – the camel. See Uluru in a different way by embarking on a camel ride; it’s a quintessential Central Australian adventure that you'll cherish forever. You’ll start at the Uluru Camel Farm where you’ll be paired up with a camel who will be your guide for your sunset journey… in a way. You’ll travel with a guides who will share commentary on the way, take photos of you and your new friend as the sun sets. As the sun sets, marvel at the breathtaking transformation of the desert hues - it the perfect end to your day of exploration in Uluru.
Image Credit: Uluru Camel Tours & Tourism NT
#20. Heli Fishing
If you’re a fisho, this is the ultimate fishing adventure! Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Top End from a vantage point like never before! Escape the hustle and bustle of the crowds and venture to remote fishing spots by helicopter, where you can seek out the mighty barramundi and immerse yourself in the stunning pristine landscape of either Litchfield National Park or the Tiwi Islands.
Image Credit: Sean Scott & Tourism NT
#21. Wintjiri Wiru
Experience the captivating Wintjiri Wiru show, which has been illuminating Uluru's night sky since May 2023. This show features 1000 state-of-the-art drones and lasers that tell the ancient Mala story of the local Anangu people. Wintjiri Wiru, which means "beautiful view out to the horizon" in Pitjantjatjara language, is a unique journey through Anangu culture. You will be treated to an exclusively designed narrated light and sound display in an open-air desert theatre. This innovative use of technology brings ancient storytelling to life, depicting a chapter of the Mala story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru. With two shows each night, this is the world's first regular performance of an Indigenous story using lights, lasers, projection, and drone technology on such a large scale.
Image Credit: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia | Acknowledgment - As custodians of the land, Anangu hold the Mala story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru. To share their story, RAMUS designed and produced an artistic platform using drones, light and sound to create an immersive storytelling experience.
#22. Jet-ski around Darwin Harbour
It's time to explore Darwin a little differently and add some fun to your perspective! Experience the ultimate adventure by joining a guided jet-ski tour that takes you through some of the most gorgeous coastal locations around Darwin. Have fun doing donuts and zipping around the harbour – what an adrenaline rush! Not only will you witness magnificent marine life, but you'll also get to drift over the famous WW2 wrecks while your knowledgeable guide shares some intriguing history about what lies beneath the beautiful waters.
Image Credit: 00Seven Adventures
#23. Katherine Outback Experience
Have you heard of the multi-award-winning Katherine Outback Experience? The Katherine Outback Experience will give you a glimpse into life in the Australian Outback through real horse training and working dog demonstrations, whilst being entertained by Tom Curtain, who entwines this with live music and humorous bush tales. If you have ever wondered how a horse is broken in or how a dog is trained to round up cattle – then this is the place for you!
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Helen Orr
#24. Territory Day
Every year on the 1st of July, Territorians come together to officially celebrate everything we love about the NT! The NT comes alive with fireworks, concerts & community events as Territorians celebrate the day the NT was granted self-governance from the Commonwealth Government in 1978. Mark it in your calendars for 2024!
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Helen Orr
#25. Mataranka Hot Pools & Bitter Springs
Located in Elsey National Park, the turquoise waters of Mataranka Hot Pools & Bitter Springs are a firm favourite for locals & tourists. Set amongst palms and tropical woodlands in Elsey National Park, these spring-fed thermal pools are an ideal place to relax and unwind after a long drive, or while exploring the national park. There is also a short 500m loop walk available at Bitter Springs for those wanting to explore on foot.
Image Credit: Natalie Sum & Tourism NT
#26. Dark Skies Festival – Earth Sanctuary
Experience magic under the stars with Earth Sanctuary’s Dark Skies Festival. Central Australia’s Dark Skies Festival is a nine-night celebration of humanity’s connection to the Night Sky. Held in a region that boasts some of the darkest skies in the world and hosted by a team with over 21 years of experience, the Dark Skies Festival explores the wonderful and ancient stories played out in the night sky. This unique and specialised event has limited tickets and brings together the best astronomical experiences formulated over decades of Outback celestial observations. Dates for 2023 are yet to be released.
Image Credit: Plenty of Dust (left) & Shaana McNaught (right)
#27. Tiwi Island Retreat
Need an escape to an island paradise? Look no further than Tiwi Island Retreat! Set amongst a pristine marine sanctuary, Tiwi Island Retreat is one of Australia’s premier barefoot luxury destinations. Hidden away on the western edge of Bathurst Island, the Retreat offers a spectacular view of the exclusive beachfront location and provides the perfect base to enjoy the Retreat’s package options that include world-class fishing adventures, private waterfalls accessible by helicopter, Indigenous cultural tours, buggy tours along the beach, fresh seafood, bonfires and unique wildlife encounters. You’ll never forget a stay here!
Image Credit: Elise Cook (left) & Shaana McNaught (right)
#28. Maguk, Kakadu National Park
Located an hour’s drive south of Cooinda, Maguk is accessed from a 14km four-wheel drive track off the Kakadu Highway, followed by a 1km walk through monsoon forests, crossing Barramundi Creek. Maguk is famous for its pristine natural waterfall and plunge pool at the base of steep gorge walls. You can spot the spangled drongos and rainbow pitas in the rainforest, swim with the black bream in the plunge pool and marvel at the majestic endemic Anbinik trees along the rocky slopes.
Image Credit: Salty Wings (left) & Shaana McNaught (right)
#29. Darwin Airboat Tours
Ready to experience adventure in the Top End? Venture aboard a custom-built V8 airboat with Darwin Airboat Tours, that’ll take you on a 45-minute adventure across Darwin Harbour and towards the city’s scenic mangroves. Get your adrenaline pumping with an airboat fast lap whilst immersing yourself in the local landscape, home to abundant birdlife, crustaceans, fish & reptiles. This is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Darwin!
Image Credit: Matt Wright Tours
#30. Alice Springs Beanie Festival
Ever heard of beanies in Alice Springs? Now you have! Originally created to showcase and sell beanies made by Aboriginal women in remote communities way back in 1997, the Alice Springs Beanie Festival has grown to become a celebration of Aboriginal women’s textile arts and culture, as well as creativity and skill. With the focus on encouraging community participation and further reconciliation between the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, this unique festival aims to bring everyone together over artistically crafted, handmade beanies. This festival will be held 21-24 June 2024.
#31. Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
One of the most popular and well-known markets for tourists and locals is the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, which is held every Thursday and Sunday between April and October. Mindil Beach Sunset Markets offer a buzzing atmosphere with local entertainment, delicious food and many unique local trader stalls. Each week, thousands of people flock to the markets, which offer a diverse, multicultural array of food and live entertainment. Grab dinner from one of the many food vendors (find the ones with a line as that will give you a good idea of what’s delicious and will be worth the wait), find a spot in the sand as you marvel at the striking display of reds, pinks and oranges lighting up the sky as the sun sets.
Image Credit: Helen Orr & Tourism NT
#32. Kings Creek Station Buggy Tour
Experience the vast and stunning landscape of Kings Creek Station on the buggy tour adventure. Feel the wind on your face as you drive along the private bush trails taking in incredible scenery, such as the George Gill Ranges. Learn the rich history and culture of the station with a local guide and snap plenty of photos along the way. Choose from morning or afternoon tours with tea, lamingtons, and damper or an adults-only sunset tour with canapes and champagne. Perfect for groups of friends, family, or colleagues.
#33. Jumping Croc Cruise – Adelaide River
Witness the power and agility of crocodiles in their natural habitat on a spectacular jumping crocodile cruise. The friendly crew will guide you through Adelaide River, where you can see crocs of different sizes leaping out of the water. Don't miss out on this exhilarating, photographer's dream! The Australian saltwater crocodile was once on the brink of extinction but is now a protected species with thriving populations in the Northern Territory. The cruises depart from the Arnhem Highway, only an hour's drive from Darwin, with four daily departures at 9am, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. Complimentary tea and coffee are available upon arrival, and guests are welcome to bring their own lunch and enjoy a picnic by the beautiful Adelaide River.
Image Credit: Shaana McNaught & Tourism NT
#34. Darwin Museum & Art Gallery
Located in Darwin, the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) boasts world-renowned artistic, cultural, and scientific collections. A great way to spend some time – it’s also an opportunity to cool down on a warm day! MAGNT offers a diverse range of exhibitions, including curated displays from its own collection and traveling exhibits from around the country. It’s also a great day out with the family, with a variety of public programs such as workshops and activities for kids.
Image Credit: Tourism Australia & Tourism NT
#35. Desert Mob
Celebrating culture, diversity & innovative art, Desert Mob is a vibrant statement of contemporary cultural expression and power. This year’s event runs from 8 September – 22 October 2023 and has been co-curated by Art Centres, Hetti Perkins and Aspen Beattie. The exhibition brings together hundreds of new works by new, emerging, and established artists. Desert Mob Marketplace is a buzzing art market, bringing together many works from Aboriginal-owned art centres across Central Australia. Find something special and meet the artists who create them! Experience a full program of presentations, artist talks, performances, demonstrations, workshops, tours and numerous satellite exhibitions and events.
Image Credit: Tourism Australia & Tourism NT
NT's Hottest 100! - to view #36 to #100 click here.
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