The simple answer is yes, Darwin is a safe place to visit. However, like any other town, it has its risks and dangers. By simply learning these dangers before travelling, you can easily avoid any unlucky incidents during your holiday.
Dangerous Animals
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Crocodiles
By far the most dangerous species in Darwin is the Australia Saltwater Crocodile. Despite being the biggest reptiles in the entire world, these massive creatures can easily sneak up on you. They are sneaky, fast, and strong enough to hold on tight once they have you. Unfortunately for us humans, we are on the menu. We become easy targets when swimming or simply hanging out by a body of water. Darwin locals are very aware of these dangers, but tourists can come without any knowledge prior, not realising the significance of the issue. This has resulted in many travellers entering unsafe waters or getting too close to crocodiles. Nowadays, Darwin has very strict guidelines, with large warning signs and information brochures shown to visitors regularly. Once you are aware of the safe swimming spots, you can go ahead and enjoy the waters and holiday without a worry!
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Jellyfish
During the months of November to May, Darwin’s beaches and shallow shores become covered with poisonous jellyfish. Box Jellyfish are most common jellyfish around, averaging around 38 centimetres long, with tentacles extending up to a whopping 3 meters. Despite their beauty, these jellyfish are not very friendly, with their stings causing agonisingly painful whip-like marks that have at times lead to deaths. To avoid them, wear jellyfish protection gear when entering waters, or avoid beaches in general and opt for natural rivers or waterfalls instead.
Heat
If you aren’t used to thick humidity and scorching heat, Darwin might be a shock to you. With sweltering sunny days along with thick and sticky air, the heat can easily beat you if you aren’t careful. So, making sure you dress accordingly, stay hydrated, and refuel for energy throughout your journey can help you immensely.
Natural Disasters
Darwin, is nestled within the top end of the Northern Territory, has instead of the typical four seasons of Summer, Autumn, Winter, and Spring has only two. With the tropical climate having either a wet or dry season. Between November and April is Darwin’s wet season and can include monsoonal storms and sometimes even cyclones. The dry season is around May to October and Darwin becomes a dry and hot region, causes bushfires to pop up in the thick bushland.
Related article: Can you swim in Darwin?
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.