Northern Territory Itinerary: 7-Day Road Trip Exploring the Top End
Have you always dreamed of the ultimate Australian road trip? If chasing crimson sunsets, spotting crocodiles (from a safe distance), discovering ancient Indigenous rock art and swimming under waterfalls sounds like your idea of a cracker holiday, then my Northern Territory itinerary is exactly what you need.
This 7-day road trip through Australia’s Top End takes you from Darwin’s buzzy food & art scene to the ancient beauty of Kakadu National Park and the natural rock pools of Litchfield.
I’ve carefully designed this itinerary to hit all the highlights, with just the right balance of adventurous activities in the wild and plenty of time to relax and take it all in.
You’ll meet salties, float in spring-fed pools, feast on native ingredients and leave with memories (and postcard-worthy photos) that will last a lifetime. There’s something for everyone that’ll have you head over heels for Australia’s tropical north; it’s truly love at first sight.
For more tips, planning tools and inspiration, check out northernterritory.com for everything you need to map out your ultimate Top End road trip.
Thank you for your support
Please note: while this article contains sponsored content, all words and opinions are my own. This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase something I’ve recommended, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support and I hope this guide helps you ♡
Key Info
When to visit
June – September
Best time to visit: sunny skies, low humidity & swim-perfect temps
(17–30°C / 62–86°F)
CURRENCY
💵 1 AUD ≈ £0.47 GBP / $0.65 USD
MUST-DO ACTIVITIES
Darwin Sunset Cruise with Dinner & Bottomless Bubbles
Jumping Crocodile Cruise
Darwin Jet Ski Tour
Kakadu Yellow Water Cruise
HOW TO GET AROUND
Renting a car is best to easily explore the Top End! Use Discover Cars to book your rental.
If you can’t drive, multi-day tours & day tours are available from Darwin.
my top hotel picks
Cooinda Lodge Kakadu
Mindil Beach Resort
Adina Hotel Darwin Waterfront
Finniss River Lodge
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile
Best Time to Visit the Northern Territory
Timing is everything when planning a trip to the Top End. The Northern Territory has two distinct seasons: the Dry (May to October) and the Wet (November to April). You and I both know that you’ll want to aim for the Dry.
The best months to visit the Northern Territory are June, July, August & September.
During these months, you’ll get blue skies, low humidity, and cooler evenings, which is perfect Northern Territory road trip weather.
It’s also when most waterfalls and swimming spots are open, and you can actually do all the things on this itinerary without battling flash floods or being eaten alive by mozzies (that being said, always pack a bottle of bug spray!).
While it is true that a visit during the months of June, July, and August falls during winter in Australia, you won’t get anything close to snow in the Top End. Average daytime temperatures sit around 30°C (86°F) with low humidity, and nights dip to a pleasant 17°C (62°F).
I visited in June, and the temperature was perfect! It was warm enough to swim and wear shorts all day, but cool enough to sleep without needing to blast the air con.
Travelling in the shoulder months (late April or early November) can be a great shout if you want to skip the peak crowds and snag cheaper rates. Please double-check the Kakadu Access Report online before you go, as many areas close during the Wet season for safety and cultural reasons.
How to get around the Northern Territory
Note: before I jump into this itinerary, it’s worth pointing out that for this Northern Territory road trip, you will need a car (obviously). So it’s best to sort out your rental car BEFORE you fly into Darwin.
I recommend using Discover Cars to book your car rental in the Northern Territory. I always get the best deal on car rentals on their website as they compare hundreds of providers and give you the best price available.
However, if you don’t drive, the good news is that this itinerary is still mostly possible. Darwin is highly walkable thanks to its flat layout, and there’s solid public transport available, as well as Uber for longer trips across the city.
To easily explore Kakadu National Park without a car, I recommend booking either this 3-Day or 5-Day 4WD camping tour – both will visit the majority of the places featured in my itinerary.
Multi-day Tours from Darwin
If you’d rather spend the full week sleeping at a comfy hotel in Darwin, then there is a range of day tours from Darwin you can book in order to see the best of the Top End.
Day Tours from Darwin
Northern Territory 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Darwin
Welcome to the Top End! Darwin might be small by capital city standards, but it more than holds its own when it comes to culture, creativity and character.
Growing up in Australia, Darwin had always been a bit of a mystery to me. I somehow managed to never make it this far north, which now feels borderline criminal considering the sheer beauty and depth this place has to offer.
With balmy weather year-round, incredible Indigenous-led experiences, and a fast-growing foodie scene, Darwin is the perfect jumping-off point for your Northern Territory road trip.
Depending on your arrival time and how cooked you’re feeling after your journey, you’ll either be fighting off jet lag or raring to go, so feel free to take today at your own pace (You’ll be back in Darwin on Day 7 for another round anyway).
But if you are ready to crack on, here’s how I recommend spending your first day in Darwin, starting, naturally, with a proper Aussie breakfast.
Breakfast at Aboriginal Bush Traders
Begin your morning with a native-flavoured breakfast at Aboriginal Bush Traders, a not-for-profit café and gallery that showcases Indigenous food, art, and products.
I ordered their ABT Breakfast Plate, which is overflowing with yummy treats: a bush-spiced egg and bacon pie, granola with native fruits, yoghurt, and a protein ball dusted in lemon myrtle. The plate also comes with fresh juice and a coffee for $40 AUD (£19) in total.
After you eat, take some time to browse their on-site gallery and shop; it’s easily the best spot in Darwin for authentic and ethical souvenirs.
There’s bush-dyed silks, hand-printed textiles and native botanical skincare. It’s a beautiful way to support local Aboriginal artists while picking up something truly special for yourself or your loved ones back home.
Darwin Street Art Festival
Next, walk through the laneways of Darwin’s CBD, where more than 100 murals from the annual Darwin Street Art Festival (DSAF) bring the city’s walls to life.
The festival runs for three weeks each May and June, featuring workshops, events, and live mural painting throughout the city. You can check out the full schedule and a map where all murals are located at darwinstreetartfestival.com.au
With augmented reality features via the DSAF app (download here), many murals move or play sound when you scan a QR code located next to each piece.
My favourite artwork was by local Darwin artist, Hafleg; his spray-painted turtle became animated through the app, flapping its fins and swimming overhead.
Head to Austin Lane, Shadforth Lane and West Lane for the highest concentration of large-scale pieces. From tropical wildlife to portraits of Indigenous leaders, each mural tells a story that goes far beyond paint. Be sure to keep your eyes up as you roam, as you’re never more than a few steps from another mind-blowing explosion of colour.
You can either do a self-guided tour or book this amazing 3‑Hour Darwin Food & Art Tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll tour the best murals, hear the stories behind them, and taste your way through 12 native-inspired dishes and drinks along the way. It’s the best way to spend an afternoon sampling the best of Darwin’s street art and food scene.
Lunch at Snapper Rocks
Head down to Snapper Rocks in the Darwin Waterfront Precinct for lunch. This breezy spot nails that relaxed Northern Territory vibe with fresh seafood and ice-cold cocktails.
I ordered the Salt & Pepper Crocodile (yep, crocodile!), served with miso, cabbage slaw and a punchy aioli. It was surprisingly tender and very delicious, somewhere between chicken and pork in texture and taste.
If you’re not game to try the croc (and trust me, you’re missing out!), then I recommend ordering their refreshingly zesty Local Snapper Ceviche or Gulf Of Carpentaria Bugs drenched in garlic butter.
Afternoon Swim in the City
Just around the corner from Snapper Rocks, you’ll find two of Darwin’s best spots for cooling off: the Darwin Wave Lagoon and the Recreation Lagoon.
Entry to the Wave Lagoon is $8 AUD (£3.80) for adults and $5 AUD (£2.40) for kids, giving you access to a safe, croc and sting-free wave pool with gentle swells that roll in every few minutes.
Right next door, the Recreation Lagoon is a free, filtered seawater swimming area surrounded by a man-made beach. Many tourists don’t realise you can’t just dive into any beach around Darwin (thanks to the resident crocodiles), but locals know these two spots are the go-to places for a safe swim.
Champagne Sunset Cruise on Darwin Harbour
There’s no better way to end your first day in Darwin than by sailing straight into a Top End sunset. Hop aboard Sundancer, a 50-foot luxury catamaran, for Sail Darwin’s 3-Hour Sunset Cruise, departing from Stokes Hill Wharf at 5 pm on most evenings.
Over the next few hours, you’ll drift across Darwin Harbour under full sail. The bubbles were endless, and the rotating plates of snacks (the barramundi sliders were my fave!) just kept coming.
If you’re lucky enough to catch a clear evening, the sunset is next level. Once darkness sets in, don’t be surprised if a mini dance floor takes over the deck once you and the rest of the punters are a bit sloshed.
The cruise costs $169 AUD (£80), which is incredible value considering all food and drink are included. Be sure to book this activity in advance as it’s very popular.
Where to Stay in Darwin
After your cruise, it’s time to kick back and settle into your first night in Darwin. For a gorgeous beachfront stay, check into Mindil Beach Casino Resort, complete with a newly renovated lagoon pool and rooms starting from $245 AUD (£117) per night.
Prefer something central and laid-back? Adina Apartment Hotel in the Waterfront Precinct is a great alternative, with studios from $274 AUD (£131) that include kitchenettes. You’ll find more info on both in my Where to Stay section of this guide. Either way, get a good night’s rest, because tomorrow your road trip into Kakadu begins.
Day 2: Crocs, Culture & the Road to Kakadu
Kakadu National Park is where Australia reveals some of its oldest and most awe-inspiring stories. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometres (yep, that’s half the size of Switzerland), it’s the country’s second largest national park and one of its most culturally significant.
With over 65,000 years of continuous Aboriginal connection, this region is a living, breathing gallery of ancient art, sacred sites and thriving ecosystems.
After fuelling up in Darwin, it’s time to head out into croc country… but not before coming face-to-face with a few of the locals.
TIP: Before hitting the road, download an offline map of Kakadu National Park using the MAPS.ME app. Even with a reliable eSIM, reception can be patchy once you're out there. It’s also worth stocking up on snacks (a road trip essential) in Darwin, too.
Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise
The drive from Darwin to your first stop in Kakadu takes about three hours, but it’s worth breaking up the journey with a stop along the way to do this unmissable activity: the Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise.
This Indigenous-owned operation is situated along the Adelaide River, home to one of the world’s highest concentrations of saltwater crocodiles. Watch in awe as enormous crocs launch themselves vertically out of the water, lured by buffalo meat dangling from the side of the boat.
These prehistoric beasts can grow over six metres long and weigh upwards of a tonne. There are more than 100,000 crocs in the NT, so this is one of the safest (and most thrilling) ways to meet them up close.
The tour operates daily at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., with each cruise lasting one hour. I recommend booking the 9:00 a.m. session and allowing around 1 to 1.5 hours to drive from Darwin.
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to join the queue – this gives you the best chance of snagging a front-row seat for the best views on the boat.
Tickets cost $50 AUD (£24) for adults and $35 AUD (£16.75) for kids, with profits supporting local Aboriginal communities.
Arriving in Kakadu National Park
From the riverbanks, it’s another two-hour drive to Kakadu National Park, and you’ll want to make your way towards the town of Jabiru. Before entering Kakadu, you’ll need to purchase a park pass. You can purchase this online at parksaustralia.gov.au
Prices vary by season: during the peak dry season (15 May – 31 October), tickets are $40 AUD (£19) per adult, while in the off-peak period (1 November – 14 May), they’re $25 AUD (£12). Family passes cost $100 AUD (£48) in peak season and $65 AUD (£31) during off-peak.
The 7-day pass includes access to all the major sites, visitor centres, and ranger-guided activities. Funds from your pass help support the park’s Traditional Owners and ongoing conservation efforts.
TIP: Check the official Kakadu Access Report at kakadu.gov.au/access – it provides up-to-date info on road closures, site access, and seasonal alerts so you can plan around flooded areas or temporarily unavailable attractions.
Before heading further into the park, it’s worth popping into the Bowali Visitor Centre in Jabiru. The exhibitions here offer a great intro to Kakadu’s flora, fauna and cultural significance.
The staff here are experts and are more than happy to help you plan your visit in Kakadu, plus there is WiFi available here in case you’ve already lost 5G and need a moment to get online.
Check-in: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
When it comes to accommodation options in Jabiru, it’s slim pickings, which means there’s really only one obvious choice for your first overnight stay in Kakadu National Park.
Welcome to Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel. True to its name, this iconic hotel is shaped like a crocodile, with guest rooms forming the flanks, a restaurant in the snout, and a central pool right in the heart of the croc.
While the interiors lean a little retro, rooms are clean, spacious and air-conditioned (a must!). Its central location makes it the ideal base for nearby attractions like Mamukala Wetlands, Cahills Crossing, and Ubirr. Plus, how often do you get to sleep inside a reptile?
Rooms at Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel start from $179 AUD (£85) per night.
There are a few smaller lodges and caravan sites in Jabiru if you’re after something simpler or more budget-friendly. However, if you want to avoid shared bathrooms (not my vibe either), then Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is your best option.
Take a few hours to relax after your drive, have lunch at the on-site Manjmukmuk Restaurant and take a dip in the large outdoor pool.
Rock Art and Sunset at Ubirr
Come late afternoon, make your way to Ubirr – one of the most significant rock art sites in the world. It’s a 30-minute drive from Jabiru.
When you arrive, park and begin the 1km circular walking trail that takes you past centuries-old paintings created by the Bininj people, including intricate, x-ray-style depictions of fish, turtles, and even the now-extinct Tasmanian tiger.
These are some of Australia’s oldest and best-preserved Aboriginal rock art galleries, some dating back over 20,000 years. These artworks don’t just tell stories; they carry wisdom, laws, and cultural knowledge passed down through generations.
Be sure to climb up to Nadab Lookout in time for sunset. From the top, the view stretches across the floodplain, glowing gold and green as the sun dips low.
NOTE: most sites in Kakadu close by 7 pm, so it’s best to head back before dark and before the gate to the car park is locked. When driving in the evening, please be extra cautious, as water buffalo, wild pigs, and other wildlife often wander onto the roads, and visibility can drop quickly. Always stay alert and take it slow.
Day 3: Rock Art & Rock Pools in Kakadu
By day three, your shoes are covered in red dust and your camera roll is bursting with hundreds (okay, probably thousands) of photos. At this point, you’re well on your way to falling completely in love with Kakadu. I personally was head over heels within 24 hours.
Today’s pace is a little slower, giving you time to unwind in various swimming holes, waterfalls and enjoying some of the best sunset views in the country.
Most visitors to Kakadu will make a beeline for the headliners: Jim Jim Falls, Maguk Falls and Motor Car Falls. But unfortunately, when I visited, heavy rains in the weeks prior had closed them all.
We had high hopes for Gunlom Falls, which reopened in July 2025 after a six-year closure, but sadly, we missed this by just a few weeks during our June visit.
Remember to check the Kakadu Access Report at kakadu.gov.au/access to easily see what sites are open with daily updates. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that when you visit, you’ll have better luck than I.
Best swimming spots in Kakadu
I’ve included a summary of each of the most popular swimming holes in Kakadu below. For today’s itinerary, I recommend visiting one or two of these places in the morning.
Jim Jim Falls
A 140–200 m gorge waterfall that roars in the wet season, Jim Jim is an iconic Kakadu experience, you’ll feel tiny standing at the bottom with an inviting plunge pool before you.
Walk: ~2 km return from car park, allow 45 minutes to 1 hour each way.
Difficulty: Moderate – requires some rock scrambling, bouldering and balance.
Tourism NT Tourism NT/@aswewander
Maguk Falls (Barramundi Gorge)
Hidden in a lush monsoon valley, this charming waterfall flows even during the dry season. It’s a more intimate spot than Jim Jim and with gorgeous clear water.
Walk: ~2 km return from car park, allow 45 minutes to 1 hour each way.
Difficulty: Moderate – some creek crossings + rock scrambling.
Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter & Hayley Anderson
Gunlom Falls (Waterfall Creek Falls)
This waterfall isn’t just a plunge pool, it’s got a natural infinity pool sitting atop a cliff with jaw-dropping views. Gunlom Falls is absolutely worth the climb to the top, however the lower pool is dreamy too.
Walk: Lower pool: ~100 m flat walk, ~5 minutes.
Upper pool: ~1 km steep climb, allow 30–40 minutes each way.
Difficulty: Easy for lower pool, moderate to difficult for upper pool.
Tourism NT/Jewels Lynch
Tourism NT/Geoffrey Reid
Motor Car Falls
Kakadu’s lesser-visited gem, this waterfall sits at the end of a beautiful 7.5 km return hike that meanders through woodland and monsoon forest.
Walk: 7.5 km return (3.8 km one-way) via Yurmikmik walk trails.
Difficulty: Moderate – mostly flat with some creek crossings.
Car park location on Gimbat, check at Bowali Visitor Centre to verify which roads are open during your visit.
Tourism NT/Helen Orr
Alternative Activity
If most of the waterfalls are closed during your visit to Kakadu, don’t fear, I’ve got the perfect alternative for you. Consider this scenic 60-minute flight over Kakadu from Jabiru (conveniently close to your hotel). During the flight, you’ll enjoy epic aerial views over the park, flying over Arnhem Plateau, Jim Jim and Twin Falls.
Check into Cooinda Lodge
Depending which waterfall you visit, it’ll be a 1-2 hour drive to Cooinda Lodge, your next home base in Kakadu. There’s something here for every kind of traveller, with accommodation options ranging from air-conditioned lodge rooms to safari-style Outback Retreat tents.
I had the pleasure of staying in one of the luxurious safari-style Yellow Water Villas. These glamping tents are more like a mini apartment! Surrounded by a canopy of trees, these villas offer a private escape, complete with your own verandah featuring a deep, freestanding bathtub.
The rooms are beautifully decorated, featuring artwork and textiles by local Bininj artists. With a huge king-sized bed and two day beds, the Yellow Water Villas can comfortably sleep a family of four.
On-site, you’ll find not one but two swimming pools, Barra Bar & Bistro for casual dining, and if you want something fancier, there’s the beautifully revamped Mimi’s Restaurant doing a more elevated take on local ingredients.
Oh, and there’s even a servo on-site, so you can top up your tank before the next day’s adventures. As well as a general store for when you need to stock up on more snacks.
Cooinda’s central location makes it ideal for exploring key sites in southern Kakadu, like Jim Jim Falls, Motor Car Falls and Nanguluwurr Art Site (your next stop). Rooms at Cooinda Lodge start from $159 AUD (£76) per night.
For a more budget-friendly option, check out the campsite adjacent to Cooinda Lodge. At Yellow Water Campground, there is a range of powered and unpowered sites, plus pop-up tents are available to rent if you aren’t travelling with any camping swag.
Sites cost between $24–$100 AUD (£12-£48) per night, depending on the season you visit. All campers have access to the facilities & swimming pool at Cooinda Lodge.
Nanguluwurr Art Site
Spend your afternoon exploring Kakadu’s history at the Nanguluwurr Rock Art Site, about a 30-minute drive from Cooinda Lodge. This cultural gallery is located on the northern side of Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), To get there, drive to this free car park.
When you arrive, there is a signposted 3.4km walking loop which leads through peaceful savanna woodland to a sandstone shelter covered in ancient rock art, some believed to be over 10,000 years old.
You’ll see everything from traditional hand stencils to intricate spirit figures and even images from first contact with European explorers.
It’s a quieter, more intimate spot than Ubirr, and there’s a stillness here that’s hard to put into words, though I know you’ll feel the same energy as I did when you visit this ancient site.
Nawurlandja Lookout
After touring Nanguluwurr Art Site , drive 5 minutes to this carpark and head up to Nawurlandja Lookout in time for golden hour. The short but steep climb is a bit of a thigh-burner, but trust me, the payoff is absolutely unreal.
Once at the top, you’ll be mesmerised by the panoramic views over Anbangbang Billabong and the ancient escarpments of Burrungkuy (Nourlangie Rock).
The rock glows orange as the sun dips behind the Arnhem Land escarpment, and my jaw stayed permanently dropped as the sky was splashed with pale pinks and purples.
Please note: alcohol is not permitted at most cultural sites in Kakadu National Park, so don’t pack any tinnies with you. And to be completely honest, the magic of this location is best experienced sober, in my opinion. Bring water, mozzie spray, a small towel to sit on, and just take it all in.
Day 4: Yellow Water Cruise & Finniss River
Yellow Water Sunrise Cruise
Get up close and personal with the wildlife of the world-famous Yellow Water Billabong. On this 2-hour Yellow Water Sunrise Cruise, you’ll float along the South Alligator River, as an experienced certified guide points out all the local flora & fauna.
As the sun began to rise, painting the billabong in streaks of orange and gold, we drifted along the water while spotting water buffalo, crocs out for their morning swim, and more birds than I could name. Jacanas, jabirus, kites, kingfishers and thousands of whistling ducks that covered the riverbanks in a fuzzy feathered.
Transfers to this activity are available from Cooinda Lodge, so rolling out of bed, into a van and onto the boat is blissfully easy. The dry season mornings can be freezing, so be sure to wear layers to protect yourself from the nippy breeze. It’s 100% worth the early wake-up call.
The cruise departs four times each day. Golden hours cruises cost $130 AUD (£62) while cruises that run between 9 am – 4.30 pm cost $105 AUD (£50).
Choose Your Own Adventure
After the cruise, you’ve got two options. The first: stick around Kakadu for another night at Cooinda Lodge and tick off more waterfalls (assuming the access report is in your favour).
You’ll have time to visit sites like Jim Jim Falls or Motor Car Falls if they’re open, or just unwind by the pool with a cold beer.
The second option is for those who want a taste of authentic outback luxury: head to Finniss River Lodge. Sure, it’s not the cheapest night of the trip by any standards, but this is a truly unique experience where you can stay at a premium five-star lodge on a 50,000-acre working cattle station.
As you keep reading, you’ll learn why Finniss River Lodge is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an unforgettable immersion into the heart of the Top End.
And even if an overnight stay isn’t in the cards, day trips to Finniss River Lodge, including lunch, tours, and airboat rides, can be booked separately (more on that below).
Finniss River Lodge
To get here, you’ll need to (sadly) exit Kakadu National Park and drive 4 hours east. You’ll know you’re close to Finniss River Lodge when the dusty highway turns into manicured trees, and you suddenly feel like you’ve stumbled into the NT’s best-kept secret.
This place is fancy, but not in a stiff white-collared shirt way, think refined outback luxury, where flannel shirts and Akubras are right at home.
There are only six rooms, so the service is ultra-personal. Within ten minutes of arriving, you’ll have a drink in one hand, a cold towel in the other, and be on first-name terms with everyone, including the charming manager Chase and her friendly team.
Also, it’s worth noting that all meals at Finiss River Lodge are included within your room rate, and the food here is on another level – the best I had during my time in the Northern Territory! Highlights include buttery caramelised scallops and perfectly crisp barramundi.
Between meals, there’s serious fun to be had! There are two complimentary guided experiences for guests to enjoy each day, and we were lucky to have the legend Pete as our guide (his nickname is “Fingers” and it won’t take you long to realise why) for the duration of our stay.
After settling into the property, kick things off with an airboat tour. Unlike this morning’s peaceful sunrise cruise, this boat ride turned into a full-throttle, scream-inducing blast across the floodplains with cheeky Pete behind the wheel.
One minute you’re gliding past lilies, the next you’re skimming the surface at speed while crocodiles eyeball you from the reeds. This tour will be personalised to your liking, so you can crawl at a snail’s pace through the water if you prefer, but where’s the fun in that?
Cows & Canapés
I won’t lie, when I saw the name of this activity, “Cows & Canapés”, on our personalised itinerary, I thought it was somewhat of an innuendo. But no, it’s literally what it says on the tin: cows and canapés – and it’s bloody fantastic.
Stay with me here: you hop in a buggy, roll through open paddocks at golden hour, meet Brahman cows with names like Wardy and Duncan (who both love cuddles by the way), and snack on locally made canapés while sipping bubbles. It’s ridiculously heartwarming, and you won’t experience anything like this elsewhere in Australia.
If an overnight stay at Finiss River Lodge isn’t in the cards, you can still get a taste of everything with their Long Lunch Package. For $330, you’ll enjoy round-trip transfers, a welcome cocktail, canapés, a three-course meal, and four hours of unlimited drinks.
Optional extras, such as a scenic helicopter flight or an airboat adventure, can be added on. Spend your afternoon lounging by the infinity pool, taking in the sunlit floodplains, and experiencing the signature luxury that sets Finniss apart… all without booking a full night.
Day 5: Termite Mounds & Berry Springs
Sunrise Surprise Breakfast
If you’re waking up this morning at Finniss River Lodge (lucky you!), you’re in for a sunrise treat that’s equal parts surreal and spectacular.
After an early wake-up call, our guide Pete was ready and waiting with the buggy, whisking us across the property while joking that we’d soon be foraging for our breakfast. I was oddly up for the challenge, but thankfully, a beautifully set breakfast table was already waiting for us in an open field, with the talented chef putting the final touches on an epic morning feast.
The spread was next-level: poached eggs, crispy halloumi, and a dreamy roasted pumpkin concoction – but it was the setting that truly stole the show.
We were surrounded by magnetic termite mounds, those weirdly geometric towers made from dirt, termite spit and poop (the holy trinity of Outback architecture). It’s wild to think such tiny creatures are capable of building structures twice my height. The Northern Territory never fails to surprise.
Berry Springs
Before heading back to Darwin, where you’ll be staying for the final stretch of your trip, swing by Berry Springs Nature Park. It’s about an hour’s drive from Finniss River Lodge or a 3-hour drive if you decide to spend the previous night in Kakadu.
Once part of a World War II rest area for troops stationed in the NT, today it’s a lush little oasis where you can float in clear, spring-fed pools surrounded by pandanus trees and vines. There’s a shallow pool perfect for paddling, as well as a deeper section for proper swimming.
The water is at a pleasantly warmer temperature than the rock pools in Kakadu. Please remember to check for seasonal closures before your visit, as the park occasionally closes due to water quality issues or crocodile management.
The park and picnic areas are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. There are public toilets, picnic areas and BBQs, so make sure to pack a lunch with you. There is a small kiosk selling drinks, snacks and pool noodles.
Back to Darwin
From Berry Springs, it’s a cruisy 40-minute drive back to Darwin. Settle in for a few nights at your accommodation (my top two picks are Mindil Beach Resort and Adina Apartment Hotel – check my Where to Stay guide for the full lowdown).
If you’ve arrived back in time for sunset, head up to Zen Rooftop Bar for cocktails with a view, then stroll over to Moorish Café for a dinner of Spanish tapas with a North African twist.
Day 6: Day trip to Litchfield National Park
Forget what you’ve heard: Litchfield National Park isn’t just Kakadu’s little cousin. It’s a full-on showstopper in its own right, and only an hour’s drive south of Darwin.
Known for being easily accessible, beautiful and brimming with crystal-clear swimming spots, it’s a place that turns even the most indoorsy types into waterfall-chasing adventurers.
Traditional Owners have cared for this land for generations; therefore, we are very fortunate to have access to this incredible part of the country. So, please remember to tread lightly, respect all signage, and leave no trace behind as you explore.
Note: To access Litchfield National Park, you will need to purchase a park pass online before your visit at parkbookings.nt.gov.au. Day passes cost $10 AUD (£4.70) per adult, or $25 AUD (£11.90) for a family.
You could easily spend a few days across Litchfield National Park; however, here are my top picks for must-see spots as part of a day trip from Darwin.
Wangi Falls
First stop: Wangi Falls, where two streams converge to form a large natural pool surrounded by a tropical rainforest. It’s easy to see why this spot is so popular: the water is calm, cool and shaded, making it the ultimate wild swimming situation.
You can walk up to the top of the falls for views, but honestly, floating in the pool with the sun on your face might win out, and to be honest, I was happy to give my quads a bit of a break after all the climbing in Kakadu. With a little café and proper loos nearby, it’s also one of the more comfy spots in the park to post up for a while.
Tolmer Falls
The next stop is Tolmer Falls. Swimming isn’t allowed here, but the views are just spectacular, so it’s still worth making a stop here, especially as it’s only a 10-minute drive from Wangi Falls.
A quick 5-minute walk from the car park gets you to a viewing platform suspended over a narrow gorge and sheer drop into a pristine pool below.
If you listen closely over the roar of the water, you might just hear the chatter of thousands of orange leaf-nosed bats that call the cave below home.
Florence Falls
From Tolmer Falls, drive 20 minutes along Litchfield Park Road and you’ll arrive at our next stop: Florence Falls. Be warned, there is a deep staircase descent to get to this spot, so it’s not as easy to get to as the aforementioned falls.
If you’re up for the challenge (and honestly, it’s easier than it looks), then you’ll be rewarded with twin falls crashing into a shady, swim-perfect pool.
It’s less busy than Wangi Falls (no doubt because of the climb involved), so it has a bit of that secret-spot feel, even though it’s marked on every map.
Buley Rockhole
Spend the afternoon at Buley Rockhole. From Florence Falls, you can do a 1.5-hour / 3.2 km walking trail that follows Florence Creek. Alternatively, you can be a lazy bastard like me and just drive 5 minutes between each spot.
At Buley, you’ll find a string of little rock pools cascade one into the next, each with different vibes: some deep and cool, others shallow and warm, some filled with toddlers splashing around in shallow streams and others occupied with 20-year-old somethings doing back flips into the water.
It’s the perfect place to alternate between soaking and sunbathing on flat rock ledges. This place gets busy, but if one pool is packed, just simply move along to the next.
Magnetic Termite Mounds
On your way in or out, don’t skip the magnetic termite mounds found across Litchfield National Park. These tombstone-shaped structures are perfectly aligned north to south, built with bug-level architectural genius.
Head to this location (10-minute drive from Florence Falls) to see one of the biggest mounds in the park, towering at over 5 metres high. There is also a short boardwalk where you can view an open field dotted with these eerie mounds.
Day 7: Darwin Delights & One Last Sunset
Your Northern Territory adventure wraps up back where it all began in Darwin. After days of dusty roads, waterfalls, wildlife and wide-open spaces, today is all about easing back into city life without losing that Top End energy. From garden walks and croc encounters to beach markets and farewell sunsets, it’s the perfect way to spend your final day in the NT.
Botanic Gardens & Breakfast at Eva’s Café
There are few better ways to start the day than a quiet stroll through the George Brown Botanic Gardens. Sprawling across 42 hectares, this 130-year-old oasis is just minutes from the city centre.
Throughout the gardens, you’ll spot a wide range of Australian native plants like boab trees, cycads and ghost gums, as well as numerous tropical species, orchid displays and seasonal blooms that thrive in the Northern Territory’s unique climate.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like bush chooks (scrubfowl) and, if you’re lucky, you may come across a Rufous owl in the rainforest.
The gardens are open daily from 7 am. If you’re an early riser like me, you’ll enjoy the grounds mostly to yourself, bar the occasional pooch and its human on their morning walk.
Entry to the botanic gardens is free, which means you can save your coins and treat yourself to a coffee and a treat at Eva’s Café.
This cosy eatery is located in a heritage-listed building near the Gardens Road entrance. Deffo order their Fruit Toast, it’s anything but basic: thick-cut, fluffy raisin toast, topped with a generous smothering of wattleseed mascarpone cream, mango purée, strawberries and a sprinkle of crumbed pistachio. YUM.
Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
Next, head over to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT), a striking waterfront venue featuring a diverse range of ongoing exhibitions and seasonal collections to explore.
I found the permanent Cyclone Tracy exhibition deeply moving. It’s immersive, emotional, and gives a powerful sense of the devastation the storm left behind.
We also checked out Unruly Days: Territory life 1911–1921, a fascinating glimpse into the Northern Territory’s wild early years under Commonwealth Rule, and the Colin Jack-Hinton Maritime Gallery, which features an impressive collection of traditional boats and canoes.
We were a week early to see the newest instalment at MAGNT, which showcases works from the finalists of the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA). This is on display until January 2026.
Photo Credit: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia
Photo Credit: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia
During your visit, make sure to say hi to Sweetheart, a massive (and slightly infamous) crocodile preserved in all his toothy glory.
Entry to MAGNT is free (another win for Darwin visitors) and is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.
Lunch at Darwin Sailing Club
Right on the water with boats bobbing lazily in the background, the Darwin Sailing Club is the perfect spot for a lazy, long lunch.
Order a cold beer or G&T, grab a table under the shade of the palm trees, and dig into a plate of beer-battered barra and chips.
I personally made my way through 1/2 a kilo of chilled Australian King Prawns and half a dozen Kilpatrick South Australian Oysters. I’m not joking, nothing can come between me and my obsession of fresh seafood.
Photo credit: Tourism NT/Kane Chenoweth
Crocosaurus Cove
Just in case you haven’t seen enough crocs on your trip thus far, Crocosaurus Cove is your final chance. You won’t have to venture far, though; this place is located right in the city and is home to some of the biggest salties.
Here you can watch the feeding shows, visit the baby crocs in the nursery, or, if you’re feeling brave (because I certainly wasn’t!), book the Cage of Death experience. This is Australia’s only crocodile dive, a thrilling (and totally safe btw) face-to-face swim with a giant croc.
Photo Credit: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia
I was happy to watch the braver souls than me get lowered into the water from the sidelines. With 11 sessions each day, you’ll be able to watch the experience during your visit or try it for yourself if you’re feeling game.
Entry to Crocosaurus Cove is $40 AUD (£19) for adults and $25 AUD (£12) for children.
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
Time your visit to the Northern Territory just right, and your last evening will land on a Mindil Beach Sunset Market night (every Thursday and Sunday).
This Darwin institution brings together everything great about the Top End: food stalls slinging laksa, satay and smoothies; handmade crafts; live music; and a friendly crowd of both locals and tourists.
Grab a bite from Calamari King (get the salt and pepper squid) and make your way down to the sand. As the sun begins its final dip into the Arafura Sea, people gather down on the beach to watch the golden orb disappear behind the horizon.
And when it did, the crowds broke out in a round of applause. I clapped too. Not because I had to (because trust me, I normally wouldn’t), but because it genuinely felt like the only proper response after a perfect week exploring the Top End.
Where to stay in the Northern Territory
When planning a Northern Territory adventure, accommodation options can be a little more limited the further you head into the wild.
But don’t worry, there are some real gems along the way, from luxurious stays with infinity pools to budget-friendly lodges with amazing amenities.
Here’s where I stayed and what I’d recommend for each stop on your Top End road trip:
Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront
This is a solid all-rounder! Adina Apartment Hotel offers a central location, sea views, and the holy grail of travel perks: studio rooms with kitchenettes and a washing machine/dryer combo.
Perfect for your road trip or if you’re visiting after a long stint away. You’ll be a short walk from great restaurants, the Darwin Wave Pool and Stokes Hill Wharf.
SWIMMING POOL
BEACHFRONT LOCATION
FULL KITCHEN APARTMENTS
rooms from £130/NIGHT
Mindil Beach Casino Resort Darwin
If you’re after a splash of luxury, this five-star resort sits right on the Arafura Sea, with tropical gardens, an infinity pool and a swim-up bar in the lagoon area.
Treat yourself to one of the Superior Lagoon Pool Rooms at Mindil Beach Resort with direct access to the water; you won’t regret it!
two SWIMMING POOLs
BEACHFRONT LOCATION
7 restaurants & bars
rooms from £117/NIGHT
Tourism NT/Nick Pincott
Cooinda Lodge Kakadu
There’s something here for every kind of traveller at Cooinda Lodge, with accommodation options ranging from air-conditioned lodge rooms to luxury safari-style Yellow Water Villas.
On site, there are two swimming pools, two restaurants, a petrol station and a general store. There’s a great campground here too, which is ideal if you’re travelling on a tighter budget.
two SWIMMING POOLs
GREAT LOCATION
2 restaurants & bars
rooms from £76/NIGHT
Photo credit: Tourism NT/Kakadu Tourism Cooinda Lodge, Kakadu
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Yes, the hotel is literally shaped like a crocodile. Yes, it’s iconic.
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is based in Jabiru, it’s a convenient spot for seeing Ubirr at sunset and visiting nearby art sites.
Interiors are simple but comfy, and the pool is a lifesaver after a day in the heat.
two SWIMMING POOLs
Close to Ubirr
restaurants & bar
rooms from £85/NIGHT
Photo credit: Tourism NT/Salty Wings
Photo credit: Tourism NT/Kakadu Tourism Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Finniss River Lodge
The luxury lodge sits on a working 50,000-acre cattle station and feels completely off-grid (in the ideal way).
This place is definitely a splurge, but it’s also an unforgettable experience. Each stay at Finniss River Lodge includes unique guided tours on the property, featuring airboat cruises and sunset buggy rides accompanied by canapés and bubbles.
And the food? Genuinely, the best I had in the Northern Territory.
INFINITY POOL
ALL INClUSIVE
Google Map of Northern Territory
Here’s a Google Map of all the places in the Northern Territory mentioned in this post, I’ve grouped them by each day of the itinerary so you can easily navigate and plan your trip.
