The Best Kept Secrets of the Northern Territory

If you’re heading to Australia’s Northern Territory, you’ve probably already planned to see the famous sights. Arriving in capital city Darwin, most travellers tour the Top End region seeing Kakadu National Park, Katherine Gorge, and Litchfield National Park, before heading deep into the red centre to visit Alice Springs and Uluru. Nothing should keep you from doing the same; these are astounding, iconic attractions not to be missed.

But the Northern Territory is big – almost six times the size of the entire UK. If you have a little more time to spend here, it’s worth tracking down some of the lesser-known, but no less brilliant places to visit.

Davenport Ranges National Park

Located on the way from Darwin down to Alice Springs, Davenport Ranges is often missed due to people taking a flight or being in too much of a hurry. That’s a shame, because it’s a fine example of rugged outback beauty, with plenty of Indigenous sites to explore and unique Australian wildlife to spot. If you’re driving, it’s a great place to camp and spend the night gazing at the stars, away from any light pollution.

Bitter Springs

The size and heat of the Northern Territory means frequent rest stops are a must. Where better than spring-fed thermal pools where the water is always 34 degrees Celsius? Bitter Springs, south of Katherine, feels like an oasis in the outback, its crystal clear waters offering the perfect spot to relax and unwind before the next leg of your big adventure.

Groote Eylandt

Most visitors to the Northern Territory stay inland, and don’t even know about the islands that dot the coastline. ‘Big Island’, off the eastern coast, is arguably the pick of the bunch. Think white sand beaches, warm turquoise ocean, and mysterious wildlife. Lounge on the beach, visit fascinating rock art sites, and do a spot of fishing. Bliss.
northern territory coast island

Garma Festival, Arnhem Land

Australia’s largest Indigenous festival is hosted every year in August by the Yolngu people in north-east Arnhem Land. There’s always a busy program of events, workshops, and traditional ceremonies, allowing visitors to camp out and have fun as well as learn about the lives and culture of Australia’s Indigenous people.

Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)

A visit to Uluru in the red centre of the country is basically a pilgrimage for any visitor to Australia, but close by you’ll find Kata Tjuta, a similarly striking, significantly lesser-known sight. Only twenty miles west of Uluru, its domed rock formation offers great walks and a fantastic alternative spot to settle down and watch the colours of the rock change at sunset.

Here’s a guided tour to catch Kata Tjuta at Sunrise (which is beautiful) and see the Valley of Wind too.

FAQ’s

Davenport Ranges National Park: What sets it apart from other destinations in the Northern Territory?

Davenport Ranges offers a rugged outback experience with Indigenous sites and unique wildlife, providing a distinct contrast to popular destinations like Kakadu and Uluru.

Camping at Bitter Springs: What makes it a must-visit rest stop in the Northern Territory?

Bitter Springs offers camping facilities, and its spring-fed thermal pools, maintaining a constant 34 degrees Celsius, provide a rejuvenating oasis in the outback—ideal for relaxation during your journey.

Groote Eylandt: Why is it a hidden gem along the Northern Territory coastline?

Often overlooked, Groote Eylandt boasts white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and mysterious wildlife. It’s a tranquil island paradise offering a different experience from the mainland’s inland attractions.

Garma Festival in Arnhem Land: What is its cultural significance?

The Garma Festival, hosted by the Yolngu people, is Australia’s largest Indigenous festival. It features traditional ceremonies, workshops, and events, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Australia’s Indigenous people.

Exploring Kata Tjuta alongside Uluru: Why should visitors consider it in the red centre?

While Uluru is a pilgrimage site, Kata Tjuta, just twenty miles west, offers a similarly striking landscape with domed rock formations. It provides an alternative spot for breathtaking walks and sunset views, complementing the iconic Uluru experience.