The Territory’s top end is steamy, tropical and has some of Australia’s most spectacular untamed wilderness. Darwin has a fantastic multi-cultural feel, with many excellent ethnic restaurants, outdoor markets, even an outdoor cinema as well as a laid back, relaxed atmosphere. Take a cruise on the harbour, feed the fish at Aquascene or visit the Darwin Wharf Precinct. Accommodation to suit all budgets is available as well as tours to many of the Territory’s major attractions like Arnhemland, Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks.
The outback meets the tropics at Katherine, about 300 kilometres south of Darwin. The township is situated on the banks of the Katherine River, which flows down from the world-renowned Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park). Other must see places to visit are Knotts Crossing, Cutta Cutta Caves, Natural Hot springs and Manyallaluk Aboriginal Community. The Katherine Museum (located on the way to Katherine Gorge) has a fantastic display and information on the regions history. From here you can head out to Gregory National Park and on into Western Australia or follow the Stuart highway south into Central Australia.
Day trips from Katherine can be taken north to Pine Creek or south to Mataranka. Pine Creek has a strong gold mining heritage, with original buildings dating back to the 1800s, while Mataranka is famous for its tropical thermal pool and nearby Elsey National Park.Further north, the Daly River region is another spot popular for fishing and camping travellers with hot springs, gorges and rivers.
The remote Gulf region, east of Katherine, is perfect for adventurous anglers who enjoy fishing in remote rivers.
The Top End…catch a barra, see a croc!