5 Awesome Things To Do In Darwin
Darwin is the most northerly capital city in Australia, and it’s also one of the most interesting. Located just a short flight from popular Southeast Asian travel destinations, Darwin is often used as a hub for more exotic international adventures. But those who are quick to use the city as a brief stopping point are missing out on one of Australia’s most unique and culture-filled cities. These five awesome things you can do in Darwin will put this Northern Territory city on your bucket list and encourage you to stay a while longer during transit.
Get Up Close and Personal with Crocodiles
Here’s a safe way to get close to saltwater crocodiles when visiting Darwin. Visit Crocosaurus Cove, where you can cage swim with the predatory creatures without putting yourself at risk. Or, hop aboard a jumping crocodile cruise, where you’ll see crocs breach the water to snap at buffalo meat hanging from hooks. These tours take place along the Mary River, just 100 kilometres north of the city, and they’re worth the journey for any croc enthusiast.
Discover True Aboriginal Heritage
You’ll learn about Australia’s Aboriginal heritage in many parts of the country, but there’s arguably no better place to experience true Aboriginal culture than in Darwin. The Aboriginals of the Larrakia language group were the first to inhabit this area, and you can discover the region’s unique Aboriginal heritage at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, the Mbantua Gallery Darwin, and several other local museums and galleries. Those who want to dive deeper into the local culture can embark on one of several indigenous day tours departing from the capital city.
Cool Down in Berry Springs
The winter and spring months in Australia still mean hot temperatures in Darwin. There’s always a place to enjoy a refreshing swim however, and that’s the Berry Springs Nature Park 45 minutes south of Darwin’s centre. This is a must-visit place to experience swimming in waterholes, sunbathing between dips, snorkeling and snapping photos of rare, brightly-colored birds.
Make It a Beach Trip
Mindil Beach combines sand, sea and culture to create a must-visit destination just minutes from the city centre. The Mindil Beach Sunset Market takes place during the dry season (May to October), bringing street performances, crafts and international foods, like Thai papaya salad and Malaysian laksa, to the park behind Mindil Beach. Arrive early to beat the crowds and indulge.
Celebrate Darwin with Those Who Call it Home
Darwin is an Australian hub of culture, sports and festivals, and there’s no denying that the locals know how to party. The winter months feel a lot more like summer in Darwin, with the Desert Harmony Festival, Bamboo Moon, Garma Festival, several outdoor markets, yacht races and countless other events and activities taking place during the dry season. Darwin invites you to take a break from the boredom of winter and see what the Northern Territory is all about.
Originally published at www.flightnetwork.com.au.
