Top End Top Ten

Australia’s Top End in the Northern Territory is a land of rich red earth, canyons, endless floodplains, fascinating culture and compelling wildlife – where the traditional owners of this area have survived for over 50,000 years.

The indigenous people know every nuance of their land, its changing seasons, its hazards and its many rewards and provisions. Skills have been passed down from generation to generation in a region where traditions remain strong today. Meanwhile, wildlife lovers can marvel at the wealth of birdlife, cruise in search of crocodiles and enjoy the quintessentially Australian sight of wallabies bounding across the landscape. As the sun sets, the red rock escarpments and gorges glow a warm and vivid red, perhaps revealing the true heart of Australia.

Here are our top 10 highlights of this fascinating region:

1. Yellow Water Billabong

2. Arnhem Land

This vast wilderness area is home to the Yolngu people, traditional owners of this land for over 60,000 years. Permits are required to enter Arnhem Land and explore its wealth of ancient rock art and spectacular landscapes, in the company of indigenous guides.

3. Katherine Gorge

4. Darwin

Darwin is the gateway to the Top End and boasts a fascinating history reflected in its museums and art galleries. Relax at the vibrant Waterfront Precinct’s wave lagoon or bars and don’t miss the Mindil Beach Sunset Market which takes place every Thursday and Sunday.

5. Indigenous Rock Art

6. Crocodile Country

Freshwater and estuarine (saltwater) crocs can be found in rivers and wetlands throughout the Top End; Mary River hosts the highest population of crocodiles in Australia. These prehistoric looking creatures are best seen from the safety of a cruise boat.

7. Aerial Views of Kakadu

8. The Ghan

All aboard the legendary Ghan for an unforgettable rail journey across Australia. From Darwin journey through spectacular Top End landscapes, with time available to cruise Katherine Gorge or fly over Kakadu, before continuing south to the Red Centre and beyond.

Take the journey: The Ghan Expedition

9. Mary River

10. Termite Mounds

It may not seem like an obvious candidate for a Top 10, but termite mounds are surprisingly fascinating and are an ubiquitous part of the landscape here. Visit Litchfield National Park to see both magnetic mounds, which point north-south, and cathedral mounds, which stand up to 4 metres high.