Darwin & Beyond: The Top End Road Trip
The Northern Territory is a place that captures the imagination, where red dirt meets turquoise seas, and ancient landscapes stretch endlessly beneath big tropical skies. A road trip through the Top End isn’t just a holiday, it’s an adventure filled with waterfalls, wildlife, culture, and those unforgettable sunsets that only the Territory can deliver.
Whether you start in Darwin or finish there, this journey is all about slowing down, exploring wide-open spaces, and connecting with the heart of Australia.
Darwin: The Tropical Capital
Start your journey in Darwin, the beating heart of the Top End. This relaxed, multicultural city is famous for its open-air lifestyle, warm weather, and vibrant food scene.
Stroll along the Darwin Waterfront, swim in the wave lagoon, or sip a cold drink as the sun dips over the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. Don’t miss Crocosaurus Cove, home to some of the Territory’s most famous salties (and if you dare, try the Cage of Death experience!).
Stay: Make your base at the Hilton Garden Inn Darwin, one of Travel Auctions’ most popular NT stays. Perfectly positioned on the Esplanade, it’s ideal for exploring the city while enjoying resort-style relaxation and comfort.
Litchfield National Park: Nature’s Playground
Just 90 minutes south of Darwin lies Litchfield National Park, a local favourite and a must-do for any road-tripper. Swim beneath cascading waterfalls at Florence Falls and Wangi Falls, wander through lush monsoon forests alive with birdlife, and don't miss the large termite mounds that stand like natural sculptures across the savanna.
Stay nearby: Discover Discovery Parks Darwin, the closest caravan park to Darwin City. A short drive to attractions like the Darwin Waterfront, Kakadu National Park, and Litchfield National Park, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
Katherine: Where the Outback Meets the River
Continue south to Katherine, where the tropics meet the outback. The town sits on the doorstep of Nitmiluk National Park, home to the world-famous Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, a collection of 13 dramatic sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River.
Cruise, paddle or take a helicopter flight over this awe-inspiring landscape. Afterwards, unwind in the Katherine Hot Springs, a turquoise oasis shaded by palms.
Stay: Discovery Parks Katherine is located 6 km from town and close to Nitmiluk Gorge. Experience the perfect blend of outback and tropics, with stunning gorges, misty waterfalls, thermal springs and ancient cultures in this breathtaking region.
Kakadu & Beyond: Ancient Land, Timeless Stories
No Top End road trip is complete without Kakadu National Park, just a few hours east of Darwin. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonderland is home to rugged escarpments, pristine wetlands, and some of the world’s oldest Aboriginal rock art. At Ubirr and Nourlangie, gaze upon stories painted thousands of years ago, then climb to the lookout for sweeping views across the floodplains, especially magical at sunset.
The best areas to stay in Kakadu are Jabiru for a central base with amenities, Cooinda for a lodge-style experience near Yellow Water, and Mardukal or other campgrounds for a more immersive, nature-focused stay. Your choice depends on your itinerary and priority for convenience. Stay tuned to Travel Auctions for future Kakadu packages!
Don’t Miss Out on Alice Springs & Surrounds
The home of the Red Centre is calling! From desert sunsets and star-filled skies to natural wonders like Uluru, Kings Canyon and the MacDonnell Ranges, don't forget to include Alice Springs for your next outback escape. We’ve got a range of Travel Auctions packages up for grabs in and around Alice Springs, from comfortable cabin stays to powered sites for caravanners chasing the open road.
Why Travel Auctions Loves the NT
The Northern Territory is filled with experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else. From Darwin’s tropical coast to the wild heart of Kakadu, it truly is a spectacular destination, one that needs to be explored in detail!
At Travel Auctions, we’re proud to connect Aussie travellers with authentic Territory stays, where your dollar supports local businesses and your memories last a lifetime.
So pack the car, cue your road-trip playlist, and get ready to discover Darwin & Beyond, the Top End adventure that will stay with you forever.
Explore all NT auctions now at travelauctions.com.au
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