If you’re a Working Holiday Maker (WHM) exploring Australia, the Northern Territory offers something entirely unique. It’s where remote beauty, Indigenous culture, adventure, and raw natural wonders come together to give you a travel experience unlike anywhere else in the country.
This Northern Territory travel guide delivers everything you need to know—from where to go and what to do, to how to save money and find work while respecting one of the world’s oldest living cultures.
Pro Tip: Book all your Northern Territory experiences through Backpacker Deals and get up to 10% cashback on every booking. That’s serious savings for Working Holiday Makers and backpackers planning the ultimate adventure.
Why the Northern Territory Should Be First on Your Working Holiday Bucket List
The Northern Territory isn’t just another dot on the map—it’s an adventure playground full of red desert sands, hidden waterfalls, and once-in-a-lifetime cultural experiences. There’s a thrill that comes from sleeping under the stars in the outback, swimming in ancient gorges, and seeing rock art older than the pyramids.
Here’s why this part of Australia should be first on your list:
- It’s one of the most culturally rich regions in the country, with Indigenous-led experiences that are immersive and authentic.
- Tourism and seasonal work is easier to find, especially during peak months when visitor numbers rise.
- Free and budget-friendly nature escapes are everywhere—meaning you can explore epic landscapes without draining your bank account.
- Cashback on every booking through Backpacker Deals helps WHMs extend their adventures even further.
- It’s the perfect place to escape the ordinary and chase experiences most travellers miss.
Darwin: The Tropical Hub of the Northern Territory
Darwin is more than just the capital—it’s the tropical launchpad into your Northern Territory adventure. Small enough to walk, rich enough to explore, Darwin delivers a blend of laid-back charm, urban culture, and wild beauty.
What to Expect in Darwin:
- A lively backpacker scene with social hostels, rooftop bars, and food trucks
- Outdoor adventures ranging from harbour cruises to jet ski tours
- Free swimming spots, wildlife parks, and art trails
- A base for nearby excursions to Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks
Don’t Miss:
- Darwin Waterfront Lagoon – a safe and scenic spot to cool off for free
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory – features stunning Indigenous art
- Mindil Beach Sunset Market – food, fire twirlers, and crafts by the sea
Top Budget-Friendly Tour in Darwin
Golden Eye Sunset Jet Ski Tour
Ride across Darwin Harbour at sunset with panoramic ocean views and an adrenaline hit like no other.
Kakadu National Park: Epic Nature and Aboriginal Rock Art
Kakadu is wild, vast, and bursting with life and legend. This UNESCO-listed national park is co-managed by its Traditional Owners, the Bininj and Mungguy people, and showcases both jaw-dropping landscapes and sacred rock art that speaks to over 65,000 years of history.
Why Visit Kakadu:
- Rock art galleries at Ubirr and Nourlangie are among the oldest on Earth
- Spot crocodiles and birdlife on Yellow Water Billabong
- Hike to stunning waterfalls like Jim Jim and Twin Falls
- Learn directly from Indigenous guides during cultural tours
Top Budget-Friendly Tour in Kakadu
Kakadu & Litchfield 3-Day 4WD Expedition
Includes rock art tours, croc-spotting, waterfall hikes, and nights under the stars.
Remember to book through Backpacker Deals to earn 10% cashback on every booking!
Litchfield National Park: The Northern Territory’s Waterfall Playground
Litchfield is a backpacker favourite for good reason. Located just 90 minutes from Darwin, the park is a natural water wonderland dotted with plunge pools, magnetic termite mounds, and monsoon forest walks.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Florence Falls – twin waterfalls cascading into a deep swimming hole
- Buley Rockhole – a series of crystal-clear pools perfect for cooling off
- Wangi Falls – complete with a grassy picnic area and viewing platform
- Giant Magnetic Termite Mounds – weird, wonderful, and photogenic
Top Budget-Friendly Tour in Litchfield
Litchfield National Park Day Tour
Includes visits to natural plunge pools and roaring waterfalls with an option to add-on a croc-cruise.
Photo: Tourism NT/@_aswewander
Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park): Where Water Meets Sandstone
Katherine Gorge, or Nitmiluk, is a striking system of 13 gorges carved through ancient sandstone by the Katherine River. The area is managed by the Jawoyn people and holds deep cultural meaning, with ancient rock art and ceremonial sites hidden along the cliffs and riverbanks.
Why You Should Go:
- Canoe or cruise through soaring gorges
- Swim in thermal springs just outside the main town
- Learn Jawoyn stories that give rich meaning to the surrounding land
- Hike to secluded lookouts with breathtaking views
Top Budget-Friendly Tour in Katherine (Nitmiluk) Gorge
Nitmiluk Gorge Boat Tour
Cruise along Nitmiluk, exploring two of the gorges, on this insta-worthy experience.
Alice Springs: A Quirky Gateway to the Red Centre
Alice Springs is your gateway to the outback and a cultural centre with strong Indigenous roots, vibrant street life, and Aboriginal art.
What to Do in Alice Springs:
- Hike the Larapinta Trail for multi-day desert adventures
- Explore Alice Springs Desert Park to understand desert ecosystems
- Stroll through local galleries featuring breathtaking Aboriginal artwork
- Visit the Olive Pink Botanic Garden for a slice of green amid the red dust
Uluru and Surrounds: The Heartbeat of the Northern Territory
No Northern Territory travel guide is complete without Uluru. Towering out of the desert like a giant heartbeat, this sacred monolith is the cultural and spiritual centre of the Anangu people.
The nearby Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Kings Canyon complete this trio of iconic Red Centre destinations. These aren’t just rocks—they’re powerful places full of stories, energy, and deep connection.
What to Do in Uluru:
- Walk the Uluru Base Track at sunrise or sunset
- Explore Kata Tjuta’s Valley of the Winds Walk
- Join an Anangu-led cultural experience to learn the meaning behind the landmarks
- Visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to deepen your understanding
Top Budget-Friendly Tour in Uluru
4-Day 3-Night Rock The Centre Uluru Camping Tour
Explore all the hot spots of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and sleep under the stars of the outback sky!
Hot tip: Don't forget to book with Backpacker Deals for 10% cashback on every booking.
Must-See Culturally Significant Landmarks in the Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is home to some of the most culturally significant landmarks in Australia, each offering a powerful connection to the land’s Traditional Owners and their enduring stories. These places are more than scenic—they’re sacred. Visiting them as a Working Holiday Maker isn’t just about ticking off must-see spots; it’s about understanding the deep cultural roots that shape the Territory’s identity. Below are some of the most meaningful sites you can explore, along with insights into why they matter.
Uluru (Anangu Country)
A sacred site and spiritual beacon for the Anangu people. Every rock feature has meaning, shaped by ancestral stories. Climbing is no longer allowed—respecting the site means walking around it, not on it.
Kakadu Rock Art Sites (Bininj/Mungguy Country)
Sites like Ubirr and Nourlangie contain stories painted into stone, some over 20,000 years old. These paintings teach hunting lessons, spiritual beliefs, and laws still relevant today.
Nitmiluk Gorge (Jawoyn Country)
The soaring cliffs and winding rivers of Nitmiluk are tied to Jawoyn creation stories. Cultural boat cruises and rock art tours share this connection with visitors.
Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles (Warumungu, Kaytetye, Alyawarre and Warlpiri Country)
These rounded boulders scattered across the desert are believed to be the eggs of the Rainbow Serpent. Visitors are welcome to view and photograph, but it’s important to stay on marked paths and avoid climbing or touching sacred stones.
How to Travel the Northern Territory on a Budget
Travelling the Northern Territory doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a bit of strategy and flexibility, you can stretch your funds while soaking up every drop of adventure. Here’s how you can explore smarter:
- Campervans: Rent a camper with mates to save on both transport and accommodation
- Group Tours: Bundle your travel into multi-day guided tours that include food, guides, and campsites
- Facebook & hostel message boards: Look for rideshares and travel buddies
- Stock up before heading remote: Buy groceries in Darwin or Alice to avoid inflated prices in rural towns
Where to Find Work in the Northern Territory as a Working Holiday Maker
Finding work as a WHM in the Northern Territory can be easier than in other parts of Australia—if you know where to look.
Where to Go:
- Darwin: Tons of jobs in hospitality and tourism, especially during the dry season
- Katherine: Mango and citrus farms are usually hiring from September to January
- Alice Springs: Look for roles in hostels, cafes, and tour companies
- Remote roadhouses: These outback pit stops often provide food and board in exchange for bar, kitchen, or maintenance work
How to Find It:
- Check Backpacker Job Boards, Gumtree Jobs, and backpacker and WHM-specific Facebook groups
- Ask hostels and tourism centres for job leads—many have local connections
- Keep your resume short, clear, and printed—some employers still prefer in-person visits
Essential Packing Tips for Your Northern Territory Adventure
- Fly net hat – keeps bugs away, especially in summer
- Reusable water bottle – dehydration is no joke out here
- Sunscreen and repellent – double duty for sun and insects
- Dry bag for electronics – it can get humid, wet, and wild
- Good hiking boots – for trails, gorges, and red-dirt roads
Backpacker-Friendly Food Tips in the Northern Territory
Eating well without spending big is all part of the WHM journey. The Northern Territory offers local produce, budget eats, and communal cooking opportunities that help keep your wallet happy and your belly full.
Here’s how to eat affordably while travelling:
- Parap Village Markets (Saturdays, Darwin) – epic laksa, fresh juices, and local flavours
- Nightcliff Markets (Sundays, Nightcliff) – street eats, music, and handmade treats
- Mindil Beach Sunset Market (Thurs & Sun, May–Oct, Darwin) – sunset views, food trucks, and lively atmosphere
- Cook in hostel kitchens – buy groceries with new mates and split the cost
- Pub meal deals – many have weekly specials for WHMs and backpackers
- Hostel BBQ nights – affordable meals and a great way to meet other travellers
Cultural Respect, Sustainability, and Etiquette for the Northern Territory
Travelling through the Northern Territory means walking through ancient and living cultures. It’s vital to understand how to be a respectful, responsible visitor while preserving the environment and connecting meaningfully with Traditional Owners.
Respect First Nations Culture
The Northern Territory is home to many Aboriginal nations whose traditions, stories, and lands are sacred. Respect means more than politeness—it means knowing what’s appropriate.
- Don’t take photos of sacred sites. These places are not tourist attractions—they're sacred spaces where spirits reside. Photography can be seen as a form of cultural theft.
- Ask before entering Aboriginal land—some areas require permits.
- Support Indigenous-owned businesses and tours.
Sustainability Tips for Travelling
Keeping the Territory wild means minimizing your impact.
- Use reusable containers and bottles—reduce waste in remote areas
- Stick to marked trails—protect fragile landscapes
- Pack out what you pack in—especially at campsites and national parks
Backpacker Etiquette in the Northern Territory
Being a good traveller helps everyone enjoy the journey.
- Respect others’ quiet time at hostels and campsites
- Don’t hog communal kitchens or showers
- Leave common areas clean and tidy - a bit of respect goes a long way in shared kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges.
Conclusion: Let This Northern Territory Travel Guide Be Your Roadmap
This Northern Territory travel guide gives you the tools to explore Australia’s most untamed, sacred, and spectacular region—without blowing your budget or missing the deeper meaning. Whether you're canyon crawling, croc-spotting, or connecting with Traditional Owners, this is one road trip you’ll never forget.
Pro Tip: Book all your Northern Territory experiences through Backpacker Deals and get up to 10% cashback on every booking. That’s real savings for more adventures, more stories, and more red-dirt memories.
