Being the Northern Territory’s unhurried capital, Darwin serves colourful & fun outdoor adventures everywhere you go. You’ll find strong First Nation cultures here, as evidenced by the array of languages spoken in the streets and the vibrant First Nation art that fills the city’s galleries, museums and streetscapes. Being close to Asia, you can find plenty of Asian influenced products. The Darwin region, like much of the Top End, experiences a tropical climate with a wet and dry season. A period known locally as “the build up” leading up to Darwin’s wet season sees temperature and humidity increase. Darwin’s wet season typically arrives in late November to early December and brings with it heavy monsoonal downpours, spectacular lightning displays, and increased cyclone activity. During the dry season, the city has clear skies and mild sea breezes from the harbour.

Also, Darwin is home to some spectacular National Parks where you can book a tour and appreciate the beauty of nature, including Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park and Katherine Gorge.

How far is Darwin city from the airport?

The distance between Darwin City and Darwin Airport (DRW) is 7 km. The best way to get from Darwin City to Darwin Airport (DRW) without a car is to line 10 bus which takes 1h 43m.

What’s the weather like in Darwin?

Darwin in the Top End of the Northern Territory has two distinct seasons, the ‘wet’ and the ‘dry’. Plan ahead with this information on temperature and rainfall.

Do I need any passes or permits to visit Darwin?

Visiting Darwin itself doesn’t require any special passes or permits.

Recreational fishing in most areas does not require a licence.

You will need a permit while on Aboriginal land in areas outside Darwin such as the Tiwi Islands. For more information, check with the Northern Land Council or the Tiwi Land Council, or at the Tourism Top End Visitor Information Centre in Darwin.

When is the best time to visit Darwin?

From May to October, the dry season weather is warm and pleasant with sunny days and cooler nights. Visit during the Dry to explore all of the attractions in the surrounding national parks, and experience the buzz of the sunset markets.

From November to April, the wet season is warm and tropical, with stunning summer thunderstorms. Travel in the Wet to experience flowing waterfalls and smaller crowds.

What day trips can be done from Darwin?

Darwin is the perfect base for day trips to Litchfield National Park, Berry Springs, Adelaide River, Mary River, Lake Bennett and the Tiwi Islands. Popular activities are fishing trips, harbour cruises, scenic flights, cultural experiences, historical tours, walking tracks, and swimming.

What to see and to do at Darwin?

The list include:

• National Parks.
• Sailing & cruising.
• Fishing.
• Crocosaurus Cove.
• Darwin Military Museum.
• Darwin Waterfront.
• Mindil Beach Sunset Market.
• Darwin Waterfront Recreation
• Lagoon.
• Region Guide.
• Deckchair Cinema.
• Royal Flying Doctor Darwin Tourist Facility.
• Food & Drink.

Animals

Wildlife is present despite the effects of urbanization, many species persist. We need to appreciate how special that makes the place we live.

The Northern Territory Government’s Parks and Wildlife Commission is responsible for managing wildlife in the Darwin region. They are also responsible for snake removals.

If you come across any injured or orphaned native wildlife contact Wildcare NT for assistance or your local vet. Wildcare Inc NT is a non-profit organisation run by volunteers, so they may not be able to collect sick or injured wildlife straight away.

Birds

The great thing about birds is you can pretty much find them anywhere in Darwin!

Each species has special adaptations to help them survive in particular habitats, like Darwin’s mangroves, woodland forests, or on our coastal beaches. Darwin is home to a variety of unique birds. Our tropical climate means we get species which only live right here such as the Lemon-bellied Flycatcher and the Crimson Finch. Darwin is so close to Asia we also have cool migratory birds that come and visit during certain months of the year.

Plants

Everyone loves living in our green tropical city, local vegetation plays a big part in making the city so beautiful. To keep our city green we prefer planting locally native plants in all our parks, gardens and roadsides. Check out Gardens for Wildlife program to build and create a wildlife habitat in your garden.

The urban forest including Council owned, private parks and gardens have many benefits encompassing improved air quality, shade, temperature reduction, linking wildlife corridors as well as general aesthetic values.