Things to Do in Darwin

Tours, day trips, and activities in Darwin

Located in Larrakia Country, Darwin is a thriving tropical city surrounded by endless natural beauty, making it the perfect place for anyone with a curious mind and an adventurous spirit. With so much to see and do in this spectacular location, any trip to Darwin is sure to be an incredible journey you’ll no doubt cherish for years to come. 

 

At Backpacker Deals, we’re committed to ensuring you have the experience possible during your time in this thriving capital city. That’s why we’ve compiled an extensive list of things to do in Darwin so you can appreciate everything that makes Australia’s Top End so unique. 

 

Take a look through our full list of tours and activities below and make your trip to Darwin your best adventure yet with Backpacker Deals!
 

Top Tours & Activities in Darwin

All Activities in Darwin

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More Activities in Darwin

Whether you’re looking for fascinating wildlife tours and exciting outdoor activities or action-packed day trips and thrilling adventure tours, Darwin has various tourist attractions for you to choose from. Explore Darwin City with tours across its most renowned historical sites, spend the day relaxing with a cruise along the harbour, or venture out of the capital and reconnect with nature. Whatever your preference may be, Backpacker Deals is sure to have the perfect tours for you. Check out our extensive list of tour categories and explore the best of Darwin, from its bustling centre to the national parks beyond.


Our Team’s Top Picks for Darwin

If you need a little help planning your next visit to Darwin, our Australian team can help. As a seasoned group of travellers, we know all the best tours in and around Darwin and can provide all the vacation ideas and local information you need. Check out our top picks below and book your next adventure online with Backpacker Deals today!

Cultural Tours:

Home to one of the oldest civilisations on earth, Darwin has many different cultural tours for you to discover. Sample traditional cuisines on an Indigenous food tour, experience the Tiwi Islands’ rich lifestyle with an insightful day trip, or travel to Arnhem Land from Darwin for an unforgettable introduction to Indigenous culture. 

Cruising & Sailing Activities:

Located close to the city, Darwin Harbour is the ideal place for anyone looking to spend an afternoon out on the water. This calm body of water serves as the traditional waterways of the Larrakia people and boasts a rich history and spectacular views. Set sail on a sunset cruise, enjoy a glass of champagne and a bite to eat on the water, and take in the awe-inspiring scenery around you. 

Wildlife Trips from Darwin:

Surrounded by rich natural landscapes and located just over an hour away from the famous Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, Darwin is every nature lover’s dream. Hop on one of the many day tours out to these lush green wonderlands and experience the diverse wildlife, beautiful waterfalls, and incredible rainforests they have to offer. 

Crocosaurus Cove Day Trips:

If you’re looking for Darwin’s best family activities to keep your young ones entertained, you won’t want to miss out on Crocosaurus Cove! This unique wildlife attraction is located in the heart of Darwin City and offers visitors a close look at Australia’s legendary saltwater crocs. Snap up the chance to feed these giant creatures, take hold of the opportunity to handle a baby croc, or dive headfirst into a thrilling experience in the famed Cage of Death. 

Multi-Day Tours from Darwin:

Explore all the highlights of the Northern Territory with multi-day tours from the city centre to the many stunning locations that lie beyond. Departing Darwin, these tour packages will take you to some of the Top End’s most enchanting locations, including Litchfield, Kakadu, Katherine, and beyond. From week-long walking tours and overnight camping trips to weekend outback adventures and much more, there’s endless beauty to discover and countless wonders to see.

Guided Historical Tours:

Hear all about the elaborate military history of Darwin with trips to some of its most historic WWII locations and museums. With so many fascinating stories to uncover, this city is every history buff’s dream. Learn about the bombing of Darwin aboard an informative harbour cruise, uncover the city’s military history at the defence museum, and tour some of Darwin’s most significant WWII locations.

Local Sightseeing & City Tours:

Discover the many wonders of Darwin with sightseeing tours and guided adventures through the city. Wander through the botanic gardens, visit the charming museum and art gallery, and unearth the hidden gems within Darwin City as your guide leads you through its most iconic sights.

Top Bucket List Activities to Do in Darwin in 2024

1. Jumping Crocodile Tour

Get up close and personal with the NT’s formidable saltwater crocodiles and allow these prehistoric predators to wow you with this thrilling cruise. Trust us; this is one Darwin tour you won’t want to miss out on!

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2. Champagne Sunset Sail

Treat yourself to a little luxury, enjoy a delectable dinner, and sip a crisp glass of bubbly out on the water. This champagne sunset cruise along Darwin Harbour is the perfect way to spend an evening relaxing in style.

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3. Tiwi Islands Cultural Tour

Visit the beautiful Tiwi Islands and immerse yourself in its strong Aboriginal culture, warm community spirit, and wonderful island lifestyle. With unique traditional ceremonies, vibrant art displays, and delectable local cuisines, this cultural tour has it all.

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4. Crocosaurus Cove Cage of Death

The Cage of Death is the ultimate thrill-seeking adventure! In a purpose-built enclosure, you’ll dangle above fearsome saltwater crocodiles before plunging into the waters below for a close-up encounter with these incredible creatures.

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5. Darwin City Explorer Tour

Enjoy a guided tour across the city of Darwin. This experience will take you to see some of Darwin’s best tourist attractions, including the botanical gardens, the Darwin Military Museum, Fannie Bay Gaol, and more.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Darwin?

The best time of year to visit Darwin is during the dry season, which generally runs from May to October. 

 

This season is a popular time for various local festivals and events, and the weather is generally warm and sunny with low humidity and minimal rainfall. This makes it the ideal time for visitors looking to enjoy the city life and explore the Top End’s many outdoor activities. 
 

Despite what you may have heard, there are a few beaches in Darwin that you can swim at. However, visitors should be aware that saltwater crocodiles and box jellyfish are both known to frequent these waters at certain times during the year. As such, it’s vital that you always read any relevant safety signs, swim between the red and yellow flags, and listen to any directions from lifeguards patrolling the area. 

 

If you’re keen for a swim but less keen on the creatures you may be sharing your space with, we totally get it, and there is a solution! Darwin’s Recreation Lagoon is a man-made beach with a specially designed seawall made to keep out any unwanted sea creatures, including salties and stingers. This beach is patrolled by lifeguards and has all the amenities you might need for a pleasant day by the sea, making it popular with tourists and locals alike.
 

It depends! It’s not super necessary to have a car when visiting Darwin City, as the centre is pretty compact and walkable, with a number of public transport options available. However, if you plan to explore places beyond the city limits, such as Litchfield and Kakadu, having a car can greatly enhance your experience. 

 

If you’re considering getting a car for your trip to Darwin, Backpacker Deals can help. Check out our car hire service page for more information and allow our team to help you plan your next Darwin adventure with ease. 
 

If you’re looking to stick to the city, three days should be just the right amount of time to explore all the highlights. However, with so many other things to do around Darwin, we’d recommend staying at least a week so you can explore all the other attractions in Australia’s Top End!