Things to do in Darwin over 5 days

Day 1 - Welcome to Darwin !


Morning

Start your day by fuelling up at one of Darwin's fantastic cafes. We recommend checking out popular local spots including Rays, Sweet Brew, Nightcliff Foreshore Cafe, Laneway, or Ruby G's.


Afternoon

Next, take a dive into Darwin's culture and history by stopping by the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). MAGNT features an impressive collection of internationally renowned art, cultural and scientific displays, that tell the unique stories and traditions of the Northern Territory. If you'd like to learn more about Darwin's history, don't miss the chance to visit the Darwin Military Museum, where you can learn about the city's military past and its significance during World War II.

Evening
As the sun starts to set, head down to the Ski Club - a favourite spot for Darwin locals. Grab a cold beer and a meal, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the ocean. Alternatively, consider embarking on a sunset cruise along Darwin's picturesque harbour. You'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the coastline and Darwin's skyline, with champagne in hand. We recommend Sail Darwin for sunset cruises.


Photo Credits: Darwin Harbour Cruises

Day 2- Nature & wildlife in the city


Morning

Visit George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens for a calming walk among the native plants. You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast at Eva's, a welcoming local café situated in the garden. They have a lovely outdoor area with fans, where you can savor a great coffee and tasty treats. While you're there, explore the gardens further and check out the souvenir shop, which offers books, artistic postcards, locally-made items, and unique artworks.

Afternoon

Explore Crocosaurus Cove, to get up close with some of Australia's incredible reptiles, including crocodiles. It's the perfect family activity you'll not only witness these incredible creatures but also learn about their behaviors, habitats, and the importance of their conservation.

Evening
In the evening, head to the Darwin Waterfront where you can make the most of Darwin's hot weather. The Darwin Waterfront is a lively hub of restaurants, shops and green space. Catch a wave in the Wave Pool or relax on a lounge chair before having dinner at one of the various restaurants surrounding the Lagoon.


Photo Credits: Tourism NT/Nick Pincott

Day 3- Adventuring down the track


Morning

Time to head down the track see more of the Top End. Start your day with the famous Jumping Crocodile Cruise on Adelaide River, just a 50 minute drive south of Darwin. We recommend booking the 9am cruise to make the most of the day. Led by knowledgable local guides, cruise along the Adelaide River as powerful crocodiles launch themselves out of the water to snatch their prey, showing off their agility and raw power. The cruise also gives you the chance to get up close with other iconic Territory wildlife, including Water Buffalo and a variety of bird species.


Afternoon

After all the thrilling crocodile-spotting adventures, consider heading to Berry Springs and its clear, spring-fed pools surrounded by lush vegetation. It's the perfect place to swim and relax, especially on a hot afternoon.

Evening
After a busy day of exploring, you'll be ready to refuel.  Make a stop to the Berry Springs Tavern for a typical Top End pub feed. Alternatively, you could head back into town and grab some takeaway to enjoy on the Nightcliff Foreshore or at East Point Reserve where you can relish the beautiful sunset views.


Photo Credits: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Day 4 - Litchfield National Park


Morning

Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Wangi Falls. Here, you can take a refreshing swim in the large plunge pool or opt for a leisurely walk around the area. From Wangi Falls, a short drive will take you to Tolmer Falls, where you can enjoy stunning views from the viewing platform. For lunch, there are several picnic and barbecue areas within the park. Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole offer great facilities for a relaxed midday meal.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, continue your exploration by returning to Florence Falls. The large plunge pool invites you for another refreshing swim, or you can choose to take a walk to the viewing platform. If time allows, consider embarking on the Florence Creek Walk to discover more of the natural beauty in the area. As you drive through the park, be sure to make pit stops to admire the enormous termite mounds, such as the Magnetic and Cathedral Termite Mounds, which are remarkable natural features in the park.

Evening
For a picturesque end to your day, head back to Wangi Falls in the late afternoon. The falls offer a serene setting to watch the sun as it sets over Litchfield National Park.

As evening approaches, it's time to start your journey back to Darwin. This will allow you to return to the city in time for dinner or any other evening plans.



Photo Credits: Tourism NT/Riana Crehan/Tourism Australia

Day 5 - Kakadu National Park


Morning

To make the most of your day, begin with an early start from Darwin, as the park is approximately a 2 to 2.5-hour drive away. Commence your morning at the Bowali Visitor Centre, an informative gateway to Kakadu. Here, you can gather essential information about the park, its cultural significance, and the range of activities and trails available.

From the visitor centre, venture to the Nourlangie Rock Art Site, renowned for its ancient Aboriginal rock art and shelters. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the indigenous culture and the deep history of the region.

After your morning explorations, take a break for lunch, whether it's a leisurely picnic at a designated area within the park or a meal at one of the nearby cafes.


Afternoon

In the afternoon, embark on the iconic Yellow Water Cruise, one of Kakadu's must-see experiences. This guided cruise takes you through the serene waters of the Yellow Water Billabong, offering incredible opportunities to spot crocodiles, abundant birdlife, and other wildlife. The wetlands take on a special beauty in the late afternoon light. Following the cruise, journey to Maguk, also known as Barramundi Gorge. A short hike leads you to a secluded natural pool where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. The surrounding gorge is framed by dramatic cliffs, providing a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.

Evening
As evening approaches, you have the option to stay overnight in Kakadu, as there are great accommodation options in the area. Cooinda Lodge is ideally situated within the park and offers various accommodation choices, including campsites and bungalows, as well as a cafe/restaurant where you can refuel. If you're up for it, you can also drive back to Darwin and go to the Darwin Sailing Club to catch a breathtaking sunset, enjoy some tasty food, and chat about the fantastic five days you've had!

 


Photo Credits: Tourism NT/Kate Flowers

Now that you have a better idea of what you can do in Darwin over a few days, you can start planning your next trip in the Top End!

With so many activities to explore in Darwin and its surroundings, you won't run out of things to do.

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