Best Darwin Tours Australia

Have you booked your flight to Darwin and now wondering which tours to take? You have come to the right place as we have visited Darwin on many occasions and have compiled an extensive guide of the best Darwin tours.

Get ready to experience a variety of exciting and memorable Darwin day trips in and around the city or further afield. Spend some quality time with a bunch of lively crocodiles, learn about Darwin’s World War II history, try your hand at the best fishing in Australia or uncover the natural wonders and indigenous heritage of the Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks.

So come along with us as we show you the best Darwin tours of the Northern Territory.

Where is Darwin?

Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory, the most northerly and one of the remotest capital cities in Australia. The “Top End” as the Northern Territory is sometimes known is home to untouched ancient landscapes and waterways that retain their natural splendour and support an abundance of wildlife.

**Darwin Australia map

Best time to visit Darwin

Darwin has a hot tropical climate with the weather being divided into two seasons, the Wet & Dry season. When planning your trip, it is important to realise that some of the attractions and tours from Darwin are seasonal and may close during wet season.

The best time to visit is in the Dry season between May to October, this is the regions high season and one of the most popular times to visit. At this time of year, you will be greeted with plenty of sunshine and cooler weather which can range from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius or 72 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

During Wet season, the weather gets steamier and afternoon thunderstorms are a common occurrence. Many people take advantage of these quieter months, and it is a good time to visit for the budget conscious. Just keep in mind that your favourite tour may not be running and that it is going to be wet.

The Wet season is a fabulous time to visit if you are an angler wanting to fish for Barramundi. During the Wet season, the rivers swell and it’s the time to try your luck at catching the Million Dollar Fish which is Australia’s richest fishing competition and runs from October to March.

If you are looking for a place to your stay during your visit our accommodation guide has you covered.

Mary River Wetland Cruise

While visiting Darwin we had the pleasure of taking a Mary River Wetland Cruise to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve and Corroboree Billabong. We had an incredible day, saw a large array of wildlife and came away with so many magical memories.

The air was filled with excitement as we kept our eyes peeled for saltwater crocodiles which were almost invisible and would suddenly appear out of nowhere. We spotted a large variety of birds including storks, jabiru, brolga, eagles and many more.

Cruising on the billabong we marvelled at the breathtaking beauty of the wetlands as we passed an assortment of ecosystems from grassy banks to pandanus groves, bushland and in some parts the water was covered with the pretty blooms of sacred lotus flowers and native lilies.

We had an unforgettable day on this outstanding crocodile tours Darwin.

Top day trips from Darwin

In this article we give a good variety of Darwin tours of the city and surrounding region. Darwin has a fascinating heritage and WWII history, is a culinary paradise and has some of the best fishing in Australia.

One of the most popular Darwin tours is a day trip to the pristine beauty of the Kakadu National Park. There are a wide variety of Darwin to Kakadu tours to choose from and they include day trips and multi day Kakadu tours from Darwin.

These much sort after day tours from Darwin to Kakadu National Park are snapped up quickly so it is important to book well ahead of travel.

Ultimate Darwin Tours

We begin with a range of ultimate Darwin tours to put on your wish list. These tours are filled with excitement and adventure, giving a unique snapshot into a day in the life of the Northern Territory. These unforgettable Darwin tours will have you reminiscing for years.

Kakadu Yellow Waters & Katherine Gorge Helicopter Scenic Tour

If you have the money to spend, this dynamic flight and helicopter tour of the Nitmiluk and Kakadu National Parks should be on the top of your list of places to visit in the Northern Territory.

This incredible journey takes you on a flight from Darwin to Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk Gorge) where you will find yourself winding your way through thirteen spectacular gorges on a scenic helicopter tour.

Then it is time to fly to Kakadu National Park to enjoy a Yellow Waters cruise where you will find a place of natural beauty, an abundance of wildlife and discover the cultural heritage of the region.

Heli Pub Crawl of 4 Pubs

Looking for a tour with a difference? The Heli Pub Crawl will have you flying to four remote Northern Territory pubs including the Crab Claw Island Resort, the Darwin River Tavern, Goat Island Lodge and the Noonamah Tavern.

This is the perfect way to see breathtaking panoramas while enjoying the outback character of these four Northern Territory pubs.

HeliFish Tours from Darwin

Heli fishing Darwin would have to be the king of fishing charters Darwin. The coastal waters of the Top End are a fisherman’s paradise and home to the famous barramundi and other popular species of fish including mangrove jack, and salmon.

This would have to be one of the most unique fishing trips Darwin as you can watch shoals of fish from the air. Fishing equipment is included so you don’t have to bring anything from home except hat and sunscreen, just cast your line and wait for the bites.

If you are looking for the best barramundi fishing charters Darwin this would have to be it as it also takes you on a scenic flight over Litchfield National Park.

Mary River Wetlands Helicopter and Airboat Adventure from Darwin

Experience the beauty of the Mary River Wetlands by combining two thrilling adventures, a helicopter tour and thrilling airboat ride.

This tour gives a bird’s eye view of the wetlands as you take a scenic flight to Corroboree Billabong. From there get ready for an airboat adventure as you take a safari cruise on the floodplains of the Mary River Wetlands. Here you may get to spot an interesting mix of native wildlife including crocodiles, brolgas, sea eagles, wallabies and buffalo.

Kakadu day trips from Darwin

There are a variety of Kakadu day tours that offer different experiences and aspects of this remarkable biodiverse nature reserve. Each provide their own unique viewpoint and it comes down to personal choice to which one you choose.

Kakadu, Nourlangie and Yellow Waters Tour from Darwin

Kakadu is Australia’s largest national park and home to an ancient cultural heritage and one of the largest concentrations of wildlife and birdlife in Australia.

This exciting full-day tour will have you spotting crocodiles on a Yellow Water billabong cruise, admiring ancient Aboriginal art at Nourlangie Rock and learning more about indigenous history at the Warradjan Aboriginal Centre.

Kakadu Full-Day Tour from Darwin with Lunch

Explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed park on this extensive day tour. Take in spectacular views from Nadab lookout and discover ancient rock art at Ubirr Rock.

Cruise with an Aboriginal guide on a Guluyambi cultural cruise of the East Alligator River and see the dramatic scenery of Arnhem Land.

Darwin to Kakadu Day Trip by Air Including Yellow Water Cruise

If you are travelling on a tight timeframe this may be the tour for you. Get ready for an action filled day which starts with a scenic flight with stunning aerial views over Kakadu National Park.

Take a Yellow Water River cruise and get ready to spot a rich assortment of wildlife before visiting an Aboriginal cultural centre to learn about the history and culture of the indigenous people of the region.

2 day Kakadu tours from Darwin

The 2 Day Kakadu National Park Cultural and Wildlife Tour takes you on a journey through the grandeur and biodiversity of this unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This overnight trip takes you croc and birdlife spotting on a cruise of the Alligator River and Yellow Water Billabong wetlands. Visit an Arnhem Land community and learn about indigenous traditions and culture before setting off to discover the ancient rock art at Ubirr with an Aboriginal guide.

3 day Kakadu tours from Darwin

The 3 Day Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land Explorer Tour takes you on a 4WD tour of Kakadu and Arnhem Land.

Here you will discover the diverse scenery and wildlife of Kakadu National Park with a cruise down the East Alligator River and Yellow Water billabong wetlands.

Delve into indigenous history and heritage with bush survival techniques and learn the intriguing stories behind the ancient rock art.

7 day Kakadu tours from Darwin

The 7 Days Darwin, Kakadu National Park and Katherine Gorge Tour covers some of the Northern Territory’s most iconic attractions.

Get a true taste of what the Northern Territory is really like as you spend 7 days exploring Darwin city sites, the spectacular beauty of the Katherine (Nitmiluk) Gorge, Kakadu National Park, take a Guluyambi Cruise on the East Alligator River, visit Litchfield National Park and so much more.

Litchfield National Park Tours from Darwin

Taking a tour from Darwin to Litchfield National Park is another great way to encounter the magnificence of the Northern Territory landscape.

Although Litchfield National Park is smaller than Kakadu it is easier to access as it is just 90 minutes from Darwin. The park is home to scenic walking trails, unspoiled waterholes and picturesque waterfalls.

Litchfield National Park and Jumping Crocodile Cruise

Take a private Jumping Crocs Cruise on the Adelaide River and marvel at the power of these prehistoric creatures. Get back to nature with a visit to the Wangi and Florence Waterfalls and swim in the pristine Buley rock holes. Get that perfect holiday snap next to the giant magnetic cathedral termite mounds.

Litchfield National Park Day Tour from Darwin

This tour takes you to the ancient rock formations, waterfalls and monsoon forests of the Litchfield National Park.

Discover Aboriginal legends while enjoying a scenic landscape of natural swimming holes, gigantic termite mounds and refresh under waterfalls that cascade into crystal clear rock pools.

City tour of Darwin

When considering a Darwin tour, you have a lot of choices and which you take will depend on whether you want a relaxing holiday or one full of activities and adventure. Here are our top picks for city tours Darwin.

The Hop On Hop Off Bus Darwin

One of the best ways to tour Darwin is to take a Hop On Hop Off Bus tour. During this tour you have the choice of a 24 or 48 hour bus pass which takes you to a good selection of famous Darwin landmarks.

Places visited may include:

• The Smith Street Mall
• Doctors Gully
• Crocosaurus Cove
• Cullen Bay Jetty
• The SKYCITY Casino
• Mindil Beach Sunset Market
• George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
• The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• Darwin Military Museum
• Parap, a vibrant suburb of Darwin
• Darwin Waterfront Precinct

Darwin Heritage Walk

One of the best ways to experience the true character of a city is to take to the streets and explore on foot. This Darwin walking tour is the perfect introduction into the history and culture of this fascinating city which has withstood the ravages of war and Cyclone Tracy.

Darwin World War II Reflections Walking Tour

The bombing of Darwin during WWII is a significant part of the city’s history. This tour will have you stepping back in time to the 19^th of February 1942 when 242 Japanese aircraft attacked Darwin in two separate raids bringing WWII to Australian shores.

Gourmet Dinner Tours in Darwin

Darwin is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in the city’s food scene. One of the top ways to sample these delights is to take Darwin gourmet tours.

This dinner tasting tour takes you to some of Darwin’s top restaurants where you will enjoy gourmet tasting plates and a variety of foodie experiences which may even include Aboriginal bush tucker.

Darwin Crocodile Tour – Crocosaurus Cove

Although there are several Darwin crocodile tours you will find that Crocosaurus Cove is the only crocodile attraction within the city. A visit to Crocosaurus Cove is ideal for anyone on a tight timeframe wanting to learn more about saltwater crocodiles without leaving town.

Highlights include:

• Meet the Reptiles
• Hold a Baby Crocodile
• Fish Feeding
• Reptile Feeding and Presentation
• Fish Feeding
• Turtle Feed and Presentation
• Nocturnal Reptile Feeding
• Fishing for Crocs

Darwin Jet Ski Tours

If you are looking for adventure a jet ski tour Darwin might be right up your alley. Have an action packed jet ski ride on a Golden Eye Sunset Jet Skiing tour exploring the scenic coastline, the iconic Mindil Beach Casino, spot marine life and bask in a glorious Northern Territory sunset as you glide along the coastline.

Darwin Cruises

Darwin has a fantastic range of cruises around the harbour and beyond. Whether you want to enjoy a sunset dinner cruise, Darwin fishing tours, scenic river, island or crocodile cruises there are plenty to choose from and here are just some of the exciting options available.

Sunset Harbour Cruise Darwin

This Darwin sunset sail gives two choices you can either enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise or add on a delicious buffet dinner which includes locally caught seafood.

Explore the harbour and pass such landmarks as Stokes Hill Wharf, the Esplanade, Larrakeyah Naval barracks, Cullen Bay, and Fannie Bay. Unwind with a drink and learn the history of Darwin in air-conditioned comfort or if you’d rather head outside onto the Sun Deck, the perfect place to see the sky turn gold and watch the sun set over the water.

Darwin Harbour Sightseeing Cruise

Set sail aboard his comfortable catamaran and enjoy tranquil views of Darwin Harbour. The live commentary tells the story of a variety of well-loved local landmarks such as Bicentennial Park, Lameroo Beach and Larrakeyah Barracks.

Learn about the city’s WWII history as you pass near the USS Peary and see the final resting place of the other military vessels sunk during the bombing of Darwin.

Bombing of Darwin World War II Tour with Harbour Cruise

This popular tour is one of the best ways to explore the World War II sites of Darwin. The tour takes you to the War Memorial, Military Museum and the East Point Military Precinct. After visiting the Museum take to the harbour on a small-boat cruise of the WWII wreck sites of the Japanese air raids of 1942.

Tiwi Islands Cultural Experience Including Ferry

To truly immerse yourself in Australian Aboriginal culture, make sure not to miss taking Tiwi Island tours from Darwin.

Take a ferry ride to Bathurst Island and meet members of the local Tiwi community. Here you will learn about the day to day life and ancient customs, try traditional bush tucker and witness tribal rituals on this fascinating day tour.

Top End Safari Camp Day Tour

This is one of the bestselling Darwin airboat tours and likely to sell out fast. If you are looking for the ultimate Top End adventure this is the tour for you! Not only do you get to enjoy an exciting airboat ride, but also a scenic helicopter flight and boat cruise of Sweets Lagoon Billabong.

Enjoy a gourmet barbeque meal, experience spectacular local wildlife, come face to face with a wild saltwater crocodile in a croc safe pool and fall in love with the landscapes of the Litchfield region.

Darwin City Sights and Jumping Crocodile Cruise

One of the best ways to see the sights is to combine a jumping crocodile cruise Darwin city sights trip together and this is just what this tour does.

The jumping croc tour Darwin takes you to many historic sites around the city. Visit the Chinese Temple and Darwin Aviation Museum before heading 60 kms down the track to Adelaide River.

As you cruise the Adelaide River you will be excited to see the famous jumping crocodiles as they launch themselves out of the water. You will learn more about these wetland ecosystems at the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre and Fogg Dam Nature Reserve.

*This is probably the most sort after croc tours Darwin so booking early is essential.

Fishing Charters Darwin

If you are looking for one of the top fishing tours Darwin has to offer you can’t go past the Multiday Barramundi and Bluewater Fishing Safaris.

This tour is every keen fisherman’s dream and will take you fishing in a range of localities including remote freshwater billabongs, rivers and reefs.

Included in this tour:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Resort Accommodation
• Fishing Gear
• Resort Diner
• Local guide
• Hotel pickup & drop-off

Darwin to Katherine Gorge Tours – Nitmiluk Gorge Tours

After Kakadu National Park a trip to the town of Katherine to see the scenic Katherine Gorge is high on the list of must do Darwin day tours. This tour leaves from Darwin and includes a cruise of the stunning Katherine Gorge which is also known as the Nitmiluk Gorge.

Here you will learn about the fascinating indigenous culture and history of the Nitmiluk Gorge and see the wildlife that call these gorges home. We visited Katherine Gorge on our road trip to Perth and can highly recommend visiting.

Last words on Best Darwin Tours Australia

We hope this guide on the best Darwin tours in Australia has helped you get a good idea of the selection of Darwin tours available. There are many more, but these are our favourite choices and I’m sure they will be yours too.

Darwin and the Top End of the Northern Territory would have to be one of the most fascinating places in Australia, a place to discover the beauty of the outback and see that these vast empty spaces aren’t as empty as first thought.

A visit to the Northern Territory is an adventure and we hope to see you here soon. Have you visited the Northern Territory? What Darwin tours did you take? Feel free to leave a comment as we would love to hear from you.

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