The Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is Australia’s outback, with iconic red desert land and rich, textured history.

The realm of backpackers and camper vans, it is a unique area with countless once in a lifetime of experiences scattered within. Otherworldly landscapes such as sprawling wetlands, thundering waterfalls, and the red sand stretching the area.

How big is the Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is the third largest state/territory in Australia, a whopping 1,420,970 kilometres square. It is so big, that if it was its own country, it would rank the 20th biggest in the entire world. Despite its size, it is the least populated area out of the 8 states and territories of Australia’s mainland. The population includes a large number of aboriginal descendants. These descendants were enabled traditional ownership of vacant Crown land in the 1970s, making up of about 40 percent of the entire Northern Territory.

What you can do in the Northern Territory

• Uluru

  Sitting snug in the heart of the Red Centre of Australia, Uluru, is one of the most recognisable natural landmarks in the world. It is a large red rock formation, guesstimating to be around 550 million years old. A World Heritage-listed attraction, with an incredible history and a rich spiritual significance for the Indigenous community. It is a living, breathing entity, and is a dwelling area for the Aboriginal ancestors.

  Its sheer grandiosity draws thousands of tourists in year-round. Climbing Uluru was once a common occurrence, but the Anangu law and culture states this is wrong. Today it is illegal to climb Uluru . Nowadays, walking around the base is the greatest way to experience this remarkable icon. Visiting during sunset or sunrise is lets you see the vibrant colours change from oranges to pink to earthy red as the sun sets/rises.

• Kakadu

  No trip to the Outback is complete without a trek through the Kakadu National Park. It is Australia’s biggest national park, around to be half the size of Switzerland. Bursting with a spectacular selection of native flora and fauna, and clutching an array of unique scenes, Kakadu National Park is ideal for travellers on the hunt for a hike, or just looking to gape at some of Australia’s best-loved landscapes. The most noteworthy attractions include Twin Falls, Nourlangie Rock Art and the Gunlom Falls.

• Litchfield National Park

  Rich in history, culture, and wildlife, the Litchfield National Park is a sprawling scenery with the finest variety of native plant and animal species that roam free in their natural habitats. Refresh from the Aussie heat as you plunge into the many waterfalls and swimming spots sparkling the area.

• Jumping Crocodile Cruise

  See the ancient beasts of Australia and discover the Salt Water Crocodiles. They are the largest living reptiles in the world, growing to up to five to seven metres long. Spot the kings of the river as you voyage down in one of the Jumping crocodile cruises. Simply sit and wait as your guide hangs a tasty croc treat over the boat’s fence. Watch these massive creatures leap from the water to snap it up. This is an exhilarating experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Related article: Fun Facts About Kakadu National Park

Cameron Ward

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.