Mindil Beach Market. Photograph supplied courtesy of the Northen Territory Tourist Commission

Darwin is the capital city and is situated in the Top End. With a host of entertainment options including outdoor markets, pubs/bars, shops and restaurants, it is the gateway to the attractions of the Top End, and is probably one of the few places in the world with a bar named after a crocodile. It also has an interesting and varied history and culture which can be discovered at the Darwin Museum – along with a very vivid representation of the experience of living through a cyclone (there was a cyclone in the region back in 1974).

Around Darwin and in various other locations in the territory are natural outdoor springs where you can enjoy the luxury of soaking in warm water for as long as you want – you will never face the problem of the water going cold. Mataranka boasts Australia’s largest ‘bath tub’, the Mataranka Thermal Pool. Surrounded by beautiful palms and paperbark trees, it is a very relaxing experience.

Within two hours drive of Darwin is Litchfield National Park, a popular area offering multiple walks, swimming holes, picnic areas and other natural attractions. There are also camping grounds so you can enjoy a longer stay and explore the whole park.

The Northern Territory is also known for the beauty of Kakadu National Park. Covering almost 200,000 square kilometres (making it about the same size as Denmark or Ireland), this park is world famous for the almost unbelievable beauty of its scenery, and the rich diversity of wildlife it supports. Part of the park is closed during the wet season but even at this time it is an area that you will want to allow yourself some time to explore.

Heading down towards Central Australia you pass through Katherine, gateway to Katherine Gorge, a spectacular setting featuring a large river with rugged cliff walls on each side. You can walk alongside the river and enjoy the diverse plant and wildlife that abounds, or hop in a canoe to enjoy the views from the river itself.

Uluru or Ayres Rock. Photograph supplied courtesy of the Northen Territory Tourist Commission

In the Red Centre the main town is Alice Springs which is the portal to the unique scenery of Central Australia. Surrounded by the red desert sand the city is an oasis in the middle, offering a wide range of shops and accommodation. There are a wide range of tour operators based in Alice Springs offering access to the natural wonders in the area. These include Uluru (Ayers Rock) which is world-famous, for its size and majesty; and the spectacular Olgas and Kings Canyon, both of which offer landscapes which you will not want to miss. This area is owned by Indigenous Australians and provides a unique insight into their culture. There is a resort in the Ayers Rock area giving you the option to stay there and spend more time exploring the many attractions.

There are also a variety of other spectacular landscapes that are accessible from Alice Springs. The town itself offers a variety of attractions for exploration, such as the Desert Park which shows visitors the relationship between the land, animals and humans of desert Australia in a unique and interesting setting.