What is Darwin Australia known for?

The famous Darwin city is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, jam-packed with incredible wonders including both Kakadu and Litchfield National Park. But apart from the outer areas, what makes Darwin so special?

Learn about the area before grabbing a plane ticket for your next Aussie holiday!

It’s History

• Aboriginal History

  The traditional owners of the Darwin region are the Larakia people, one of the many Aboriginal communities within the country. For 65, 000 years, the Larakia people have held a strong connection with the land and its wildlife. When the first European first invaded the land, the Larrakia people provided them with food, offering them welcoming wishes. The Europeans soon started forming a settlement, introducing the Larrakia people into their way of life, where the Aboriginal people lived in or around the town. Eventually, however, they were forced out to outer camp areas. Here they endured horrific treatment and were forced off their land. Despite this tragic past, the Larrakia people still remain a strong community.

• European History

  As Darwin was located in quite a remote area, settlements did not begin until well after the country’s development.  The name ‘Darwin’ came from John Clements Wickham, the captain of the first ship to arrive at Darwin. He originally named the area Port Darwin, after the former shipmate Charles Darwin, who had sailed on the ship’s previous voyage, until it was shortened in 1911.

• Bombing of Darwin

  Darwin faced tragic loss in 1942 when Japanese warplanes bombed the city during World War II.

  The Fleet who led the attack was the same as those responsible for the famous Pearl Harbour bombing. This catastrophic event killed 235 people with a further 300 to 400 injured, including both soldiers and civilians. This is still listed as one of the most disastrous attacks on Australia during the war.

It’s Wildlife

Darwin is known for its avid wildlife nestled in and out of the city. With lush national parks such as Litchfield only a short drive away, seeing the Aussie wildlife up close and personal is quite easy. One of the most popular attractions in Darwin is the Jumping Crocodile which includes a cruise along the large Adelaide river that is inhabited by a bucket load of crocs. Make sure to bring your camera as these creatures are well worth the photo opp.

Related article: What is the History of Darwin?

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.