The Top End of Australia has officially earned global recognition, ranking #14 on The New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2026” list. It’s the highest-ranked Australian destination on the list this year, placing the Northern Territory alongside some of the world’s most exciting travel hotspots.
For a region long loved by locals and adventurous travellers, this moment signals something bigger — the Top End is stepping onto the world stage, celebrated for its ancient Indigenous culture, dramatic landscapes and unforgettable outdoor experiences. See why The Top End made The New York Times 2026 Travel Destinations List.
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The New York Times’ Yearly 52 Places List
Each year, The New York Times releases its influential “52 Places to Go” list, spotlighting destinations around the world that reflect how travel is evolving. Rather than focusing only on famous landmarks, the list highlights places offering meaningful experiences, cultural depth, natural beauty and new reasons to visit, from landmark reopenings to community-led tourism and major events.
In the 2026 edition, destinations span every corner of the globe, including Revolutionary America at #1, along with international cities and regions such as Warsaw, Bangkok and emerging and re-imagined travel hotspots. The mix of urban centres, remote regions and culturally significant places reflects a growing interest in travel that goes beyond the usual bucket-list icons.
Australia secured two spots on the 2026 list, showcasing the country’s diversity. The Top End of the Northern Territory ranked #14, making it the highest-placed Australian destination and earning global recognition for its Indigenous culture, national parks and remote landscapes. Melbourne also featured at #49, recognised for its events, food scene and evolving cultural identity.
Why the Top End Made the New York Times 2026 Travel List
For the Top End, being included alongside some of the world’s most talked-about destinations marks a significant moment, one that confirms what many travellers already know: this region offers truly unique experiences on a global scale.
The focus goes beyond scenery, recognising places that offer authentic cultural experiences, natural beauty and meaningful connections to place.
The Top End stood out for its unique blend of:
- World Heritage-listed national parks
- Indigenous-led tourism and cultural experiences
- Remote wilderness and diverse ecosystems
- A growing appreciation for slow, nature-focused travel
This recognition reinforces what many travellers already know — the Top End is unlike anywhere else in Australia, or the world.
What Makes the Top End So Special
Kakadu National Park
One of the Top End’s most iconic destinations, Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vast wetlands, escarpments, wildlife and some of the oldest Aboriginal rock art on Earth. Visitors can explore ancient stories at sites like Ubirr, cruise billabongs filled with birdlife and crocodiles, and experience landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons.
Gunlom Falls Reopening
A key highlight in recent coverage is the reopening of Gunlom Falls, famous for its natural infinity pool overlooking the Arnhem Land escarpment. Its return marks an important moment for both tourism and Indigenous ownership, with Traditional Owners playing a central role in managing and sharing the site.
Darwin and Indigenous Culture
Darwin is more than just a gateway to the Top End’s national parks. The city’s growing cultural scene, multicultural food offering and waterfront lifestyle make it a destination in its own right. With new Indigenous cultural spaces and experiences emerging, visitors are finding more opportunities to learn directly from the region’s Traditional Owners.
Top Things to Do in the Top End
The New York Times recognised the Top End for its powerful mix of ancient Indigenous culture, vast national parks and unforgettable natural experiences — and these are the places that bring that story to life. From World Heritage listed landscapes to easy day trips from Darwin, here’s how to experience the best of the region.
Explore Kakadu National Park
A centrepiece of the Top End’s global recognition, Kakadu National Park is one of Australia’s most significant natural and cultural landscapes. This World Heritage-listed park is home to dramatic escarpments, wetlands teeming with wildlife and thousands of years of Aboriginal rock art.
The NYT highlighted Kakadu for places like Gunlom Falls, which has recently reopened and is famous for its infinity-style plunge pool overlooking the Arnhem Land escarpment. Spending several days here allows you to explore sites like Ubirr, cruise billabongs and better understand the cultural importance of the land through guided experiences.
Read our Kakadu National Park travel guide
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Visit Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge)
South of Darwin, Nitmiluk National Park is another standout Top End experience, known for its towering sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River. The park offers a completely different perspective on the region, with opportunities to kayak through the gorge system, take a scenic cruise or explore on foot.
For experienced walkers, the Jatbula Trail is one of the Northern Territory’s most iconic multi-day hikes, linking Nitmiluk Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls) during the Dry Season.
Plan your visit to Nitmiluk National Park
Cool Off in Litchfield National Park
Just over an hour’s drive from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is a Top End favourite for good reason. With accessible waterfalls, clear swimming holes and impressive termite mounds, it’s one of the easiest ways to experience the region’s natural beauty without venturing too far off-grid.
Litchfield is perfect for a day trip, but staying overnight lets you explore popular spots like Florence Falls and Wangi Falls early or late in the day, when they’re at their best.
Experience Wildlife in and Around Darwin
Darwin plays a key role in the Top End story, acting as both a gateway and a destination in its own right. Wildlife experiences are a big drawcard here, from crocodile cruises on nearby rivers to close-up encounters at attractions like Crocosaurus Cove.
These experiences showcase the Top End’s famous wildlife while emphasising conservation and responsible tourism — another reason the region continues to attract international attention.
Explore the best crocodile tours in Darwin.
Enjoy Local Food, Markets and Culture
Beyond its landscapes, the Top End stood out to the NYT for its living culture — something best experienced through Darwin’s food and markets. The city’s multicultural population has shaped a food scene influenced by Southeast Asia, local traditional foods and tropical produce.
Markets like Parap and Mindil Beach Sunset Market, waterfront dining and local festivals like the Laksa Festival add to Darwin’s laid-back atmosphere and offer a great way to wind down after days spent exploring national parks.
See our guide for the best things to do in Darwin from a local.
Our Favourite Top End Tours
Heli Pub Crawl
6 hours
Darwin, NTExperience the best of the outback on this helicopter tour. Visit iconic watering holes, encounter unique wildlife, and enjoy a cold beer at each pub stop. It’s perfect for groups, so gather your mates for a Top End adventure!
- Stop at 5 pubs
- Schedule: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Approx. 1 hour at each pub
Waterfalls | Paradise – 1 Day Litchfield Regional Tour
10 hoursDarwin, NTExperience the magic of the Top End on this immersive small-group day tour to Litchfield National Park. Wander ancient stone-fringed paths, swim in pristine waterholes beneath cascading waterfalls, and learn about local history, culture, bush foods and medicines from a qualified eco-friendly guide. With homemade catering, flexible itineraries and a relaxed, social vibe, it’s the perfect way to explore the Territory with like-minded travellers.
- Visit multiple waterfalls & swimming spots
- Small group experience
- Includes: pick-up & drop-off, morning & afternoon tea, homemade lunch, snacks and refreshments
4 hoursDarwin, NTEnjoy an unforgettable fishing experience right on Darwin’s doorstep with a half-day charter in Darwin Harbour. Just 15 minutes from the city, this aquatic playground is packed with iconic Top End species. Choose between barramundi fishing on the harbour flats or reef fishing over shallow reefs, using quality light tackle and a variety of lures.
- Choice of barra or reef fishing
- Includes: high-quality fishing gear, esky & ice, complimentary water, experienced guide
- BYO: food, snacks & canned alcohol
Croc N History Explorer Ticket
See the best of Darwin and save with the Croc n History Explorer Pass, combining three of the city’s top attractions in one flexible ticket. Explore iconic wildlife, powerful wartime history and the city’s highlights at your own pace, with each experience redeemable within 30 days of your first visit.
- Includes tickets for RFDS & Bombing of Darwin Tourist Facility, Darwin Hop On Hop Off Bus, and Crocosaurus Cove
Valid for 30 days after from purchase
Being named #14 on The New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2026 marks a defining moment for the Top End, cementing its status as a top destination to visit in 2026. The recognition reflects more than its landscapes alone, highlighting a place where ancient culture, layered history and dramatic environments are inseparable.
As travel trends in 2025 continue to shift towards deeper, more meaningful journeys, the Top End stands out as one of the best places to travel in 2026. For travellers seeking something truly distinctive, this 2026 must-visit region offers experiences that linger long after the journey ends.
*Cover image by @mekong.meg
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Heading to the NT? Here’s What You Need to Get Started
Travel Insurance
Whether you’re from Australia or across the globe, it’s a great idea to get insurance to cover unexpected accidents or medical emergencies. Cover More is our favourite travel insurance provider to give us the peace of mind while heading to the outback.
Flights
For the best deals on flights, we recommend using Trip.com. It’s super easy to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. I always find great options for my trips, and it saves me so much time and money!
Hotels
We always recommend using Booking.com for hotels. They have a variety of accommodation options and great filters to help you find the perfect place for your trip to the NT. With amazing deals, a great loyalty program, and the largest selection of hotels and rentals, it’s our favourite place to book rooms.
Tours
Tours, either multi-day, half-day, or private excursions, are a great way to experience the NT. Viator has a great selection of activities to help you travel the Territory and learn from locals.
Car Rental
If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Territory on your own, we suggest checking out Budget. It’s so easy to compare prices and find the best option from their huge selection of cars. Or try Rentalcars.com to see cars from all rental companies in the NT.
National Parks Pass
If you live outside the NT and plan on visiting national parks, you'll need a Parks pass. Choose from a day pass, a 2-week pass, 12-month pass, or family pass at NT.gov.au. If you're an NT resident be sure you bring your NT driver licence or proof of residency. Note: Park Passes are not accepted at Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Purchase those from Parks Australia.
Sim Card
If you're travelling and need a reliable connection, We'd recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. Choose from data only or cellular connection. It’s super convenient and helps you stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant fees to your wireless provider.
