Top End Treasures

A trip to the Top End is incomplete without a visit to the natural jewel of the region, Kakadu. This, Australia’s largest terrestrial national park, boasts a geographical footprint that’s almost the same size as Slovenia. It hosts all six ecosystems of Northern Australia – from woodlands to wetlands – plus 10,500 species of fauna and 2000 types of plants. En route, take in these additional tropical delights all located a short drive from Darwin.

LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

A favourite among Territory locals, lush Litchfield sits 115 kilometres south of the city. Tour the park’s signature swimming hubs, Buley Rockhole, Wangi and Florence Falls. The latter features plunging waterfalls that drop to a deep pool, walled by tall, fern-lined cliffs. All three spots offer refreshing swims.

MARY RIVER NATIONAL PARK

Closer to Kakadu, the Mary River region, 100 kilometres from Darwin, is known for its wetlands; specifically its birdlife and saltwater crocs that stretch up to six metres long. Spot both animals on a safari cruise along Adelaide River. Here, crocs leap from the water and whistling kites soar through skies above.

KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

Kakadu is especially lauded for its Indigenous art sites, sweeping escarpments and dazzling views over Arnhem Land. Take in the former at Ubirr, where rainbow serpent story sketches rest within the site’s natural galleries. Continue your rock art fix at Nourlangie, home to the most epic escarpment in the park, as well as a chain of ancient art galleries. Stay in a safari tent on the Mary River Wetlands and rise to the sound of the water’s wildlife. At Corroboree Billabong, hop on a wildlife cruise to spot its creatures and explore the floodplains with a local guide. Finally, cool down with a splash at Gunlom Falls, a sacred site that rests at the end of an unsealed road. Here, a waterfall plunges 100 metres through a saddled copper escarpment to reach a base pool encircled by eucalypts. At Gunlom’s upper falls, natural infinity pools reflect clouds, while epic, sprawling views take in the expansive valley below. If the place charms you, you’re not alone. That’s the impression the falls left on Crocodile Dundee’s makers, too – they chose this site as the setting for one of the blockbuster’s first love scenes.