Taste of the Top End

Welcome to the Northern Territory's unhurried capital, Darwin. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with rich Aboriginal connections to country as well as strong Asian influences in its cuisine, thanks to its close proximity to Asia. Spend a balmy night at the buzzing night markets, see crocodiles up close, or slow things down with a cruise on the harbour.

Join a city sights tour for the perfect introduction to Darwin, with expert commentary by a local guide. Learn about Darwin's role in WWII at the aviation museum and see a B-52 Bomber, one of 19 aircrafts on display. There is also time available to explore the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, whose collections encompass Aboriginal art, visual arts, and Northern Territory history and natural sciences. See the lush Botanic Gardens, one of the few gardens that has marine and estuarine plants naturally in its grounds.

With beautiful views of the Top End city, there is no better way to experience Darwin’s renowned sunsets than on board the Charles Darwin. Enjoy a Territory-style dinner with fresh seafood and local produce. This two and a half hour cruise is the perfect way to experience Darwin’s world-famous sunsets.

Swim in Litchfield National Park's most beautiful waterfalls and visit historic sacred sites for the Wagait people, the park's traditional owners. In this spectacular one day adventure, you will view Florance Falls from above, before making your way down to take a swim in the plunge pool. You will then journey to Tolmer Falls, where there is an opportunity to capture the rare ghost and orange horseshoe bats. Lunch will be enjoyed at the Litchfield Cafe, followed by a swim at Wangi Falls, a thundering segmented waterfall. At Strauss Airstrip immerse yourself in history before continuing on to view the epic works of termites at the Magnetic Termite Mounds, some of which stand up to two metres tall.

The Waterfront Precinct is Darwin's entertainment and dining hub, located within close proximity from Smith Street Mall and the Esplanade. Swim in the man-made (and protected) recreational beach, or take a plunge in the popular Wave Lagoon. This attraction rolls out 10 different wave patterns every 20 minutes, startling with gentle swells before increasing to waves up to 1.2 metres high. There are plenty of sun loungers and shady areas to hang out, or continue to explore the many eateries and bars surrounding the waterfront. Stokes Hill Wharf is a short walk away, and offers plenty of alfresco eateries and entertainment.

Darwin Gourmet Tours guides you to the best of Darwin’s food scene with an escorted four hour easy walking tour. Enjoy a welcome drink at your first restaurant as chefs and staff present tasting plates (degustation) with an emphasis on local produce and Aboriginal bush foods. The rotating roster of restaurants includes Hanuman, Phat Mango, Aboriginal Bush Traders, PepperBerry Restaurant at the Hilton, Little Miss Korea, Moorish, Ruby, Char, Snapper Rocks, Roma Bar, Chow, Bannsang and other top dining places. Stop in at a non-profit Aboriginal-owned art gallery and store between restaurants. Coffee, tea and standard soft drinks are included. During the short walks between venues, your guide will also show you cultural and historic landmarks and bring Darwin’s vibrant street artworks to life.

Head to the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets on a Thursday or Sunday evening, to browse a wide selection of local and handmade goods or taste some of the best food in the city. With over 200 stallholders, the Mindil Markets is a cultural melting pot which is bound to satisfying your appetite. Try grilled crocodile or a buffalo burger, then sit on the foreshore of Mindil Beach and witness one of the most stunning sunsets you have ever seen.