Singaporeans enjoy a good getaway, and while Sydney and Melbourne often steal the spotlight, there’s a whole other side of Australia waiting to be explored. Up north, Darwin and the Northern Territory serve up a wild mix of adventure, stunning nature, and yummy eats – minus the usual tourist crowds.
If you’re looking for an escape that’s equal parts thrilling and scenic, here are some things to do in Darwin and the Northern Territory you must add to your itinerary.
The current exchange rate is AUD$1.20 = S$1 as of 4th April 2025.
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Surprise, surprise – getting to Darwin is way easier than you’d think. Singapore Airlines offers direct flights that take just about 4 hours and 50 minutes, which is even shorter than flying from SG to Japan or Korea. And if that’s not enough proof that Darwin is on the rise as a travel hotspot, Qantas Airways has jumped on the bandwagon with daily flights since 30th March 2025 – after an 18-year hiatus.
You’ll land at Darwin International Airport, and from there, road trips are the way to go if you’re keen to explore the Northern Territory’s epic landscapes. Alternatively, hop on domestic flights or guided tours to reach places like Alice Springs and Uluru.
If you think you’re super brave, just wait till you come face-to-face with saltwater crocodiles. Fun fact: about 100,000 wild saltwater crocodiles live in the Northern Territory, a number more than anywhere else in the world.
Unlike spotting crocs from a distance at Sungei Buloh, here in the Northern Territory, you’ll get up close in the safest yet most thrilling ways.
Image credit: @joanmkato via Instagram
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, head to Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, where you can plunge into the Cage of Death (from AUD$195) – a see-through enclosure that drops you right into a croc’s territory. You’ll be just millimetres away from massive crocs for 15 minutes, watching as they eye you like their next meal – but don’t worry, they’re well-fed. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a story you’ll want to tell all your friends back home.
Find out more about Crocosaurus Cove.
Image credit: @jumpingcrocodilecruises via Instagram
Or, hop on a Jumping Crocodile Cruise (from AUD$42.18) along the Adelaide River where you’ll witness these beasts launch themselves out of the water to snatch food right before your eyes. It’s a sight that’ll make you appreciate the safety of your boat.
Find out more about the Jumping Crocodile Cruise.
Image credit: @_cktravels via Instagram
Just a short 1.5-hour drive from Darwin is Litchfield National Park, 1 of the 2 stunning national parks flanking the city. This place is straight out of a nature lover’s dream, with breathtaking waterfalls, towering termite mounds, and scenic walking tracks that’ll have you stopping every few minutes for photos.
You’ll be spoilt for choice with waterfalls here – there are the Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Tolmer Falls. But Wangi Falls is the crowd favourite, thanks to its twin waterfalls that flow into a massive swimming hole, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Beyond jumping into pools, it’s also your chance to go camping under the stars. Book yourself a caravan and experience the outdoor lifestyle in a way you simply can’t in Singapore.
Dining with a view in the Northern Territory is an experience that’s a lot more than just snagging a window seat at a restaurant in MBS. Instead, you’ll get to experience a sunset dinner cruise through Nitmiluk Gorge.
Before the feast begins, you’ll cruise through the first 2 gorges, hopping off for a short 400m walk to admire ancient Jawoyn rock art, estimated to be 8,000 to 10,000 years old. Your guide will share stories about Jawoyn culture, local wildlife, and the history of Nitmiluk.
Image credit: @nitmiluktours via Instagram
Back on the boat, chefs will prepare a 3-course meal featuring fresh, local Aussie produce, paired with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
The 3.5-hour experience reopens in June 2025, with tickets starting from AUD$189 for kids aged 6 to 15 and AUD$250 for adults. Just remember to wear comfy shoes, as the walk between gorges includes steps and uneven ground.
Find out more about the sunset dinner cruise.
Image credit: @darwin.waterfront via Instagram
Family-friendly and thrilling don’t usually go hand in hand, but at Darwin Waterfront, you’ll get to enjoy the best of both worlds.
The Wave Lagoon is a public swimming pool featuring 10 different wave patterns, a shallow play area for kids, and loungers for when you just want to chill. Admission is free for kids under 3 years old, AUD$6 for those under 15 years old, and AUD$8 for individuals over 15 years of age. There’s also the Family admission at AUD$25, which covers 2 adults and 3 children.
If you’re angling for a catch, Stokes Hill Wharf has a dedicated fishing platform with 15 artificial reefs, designed to attract all sorts of marine life. Even if you’re not into fishing, the wharf is a great place to take in the ocean views or capture lots of pics during golden hour.
Image credit: @darwin.waterfront via Instagram
And when your tummy rumbles after all the fun you’ve had, you’ll find a line of alfresco eateries serving up everything from fresh seafood to Aussie classics. Grab a meal or just kick back with a drink while taking in the waterfront vibes.
Image credit: @darwin.waterfront via Instagram
Adventurers can take things up a notch with the Die Another Day jetski tour (from AUD$199) that lets you speed through the harbour. And if you’re up for something truly unforgettable, try the Helicopter Pub Crawl (from AUD$950) – where you’ll bar-hop by chopper. It doesn’t get cooler than that.
Find out more about the jetski tour and helicopter bar-hopping experiences.
Image credit: Deckchair Cinema via Google Maps
Deckchair Cinema is where you can watch films under the open sky. Set by the water, this outdoor cinema offers a relaxed, no-fuss vibe that’s perfect for chilling out after a day of exploring Darwin.
Operated by the Darwin Film Society, the movies here are usually indie gems or international films that aren’t available to local audiences. So, this means lounging in deck chairs with a drink in hand while watching films you won’t find at your typical movie theatre.
Tickets start from AUD$19 for adults and AUD$10 for children aged 5 to 15 years old. Admission is free for kids below 5.
Find out more about Deckchair Cinema.
If you’re into history, culture, and the outdoors, the Territory Art Trails at Kakadu is the ultimate adventure. You’ll walk through one of the oldest living landscapes in the world while discovering Aboriginal rock art that’s over 20,000 years old.
Image credit: Tourism NT
Highlights include the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site, where the 1.5km walk takes you around ancient paintings that tell stories of creation, culture, and tradition. These rock paintings offer a unique glimpse into the local Aboriginal communities’ history and beliefs.
It’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and truly understand the land and its people in a way that will stay with you long after you leave.
Find out more about the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site.
Image credit: Tourism NT
Another must-see is the Warradjan Cultural Centre, just a short distance from Cooinda Lodge. It’s where you can dive deeper into the area’s history and culture, with authentic Aboriginal arts and crafts on display. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop, where you might even catch artisans creating these beautiful pieces right in front of you.
Find out more about Warradjan Cultural Centre.
Image credit: Tourism NT
Katherine Hot Springs is the place to be if you’re looking for a family-friendly oasis where you can unwind and connect with nature. The warm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for a dip, but there’s more to do here.
Image credit: Tourism NT
The springs are surrounded by scenic walking tracks, so you can stretch your legs and explore the surroundings before or after your soak. Pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic at the dedicated spots where you’ll be treated to stunning views of greenery and the peaceful sounds of nature.
Find out more about Katherine Hot Springs.
Think of these street markets like our local pasar malams, but with even more variety and a laid-back vibe. The climate’s a total win – humidity levels are lower, so you can enjoy all the eats without breaking a sweat like back home in SG. There’s a mix of local produce, unique arts and crafts, and delicious food from all over the world.
The Mindil Beach Sunset Market is one to add to your must-visit list – it’s just a 6-minute drive from Darwin’s city centre. Take note that it’s only open every Thursday and Sunday evening, from 4pm to 9pm, from April through to October.
Besides shopping, you get a front-row seat to stunning sunsets by the west-facing beach.
Image credit: Ronny Susanto via Google Maps
If you’re craving a taste of home, Mary’s Laksa at Parap Village Markets is a must-try. It’s been hailed as “one of Darwin’s best laksas.” But here’s where it gets interesting – the city has fully embraced the dish with all sorts of creative spins, with an annual Laksa Festival where it sees dishes from laksa burgers and laksa pizza to laksa ice cream and even laksa cocktails – if you can imagine that.
On top of satisfying your taste buds, Parap Village Markets has also been making some sustainable moves. They’ve banned single-use plastics and are encouraging everyone to bring their own reusable cutlery – so you can feel good about munching on your laksa while doing your part for the planet.
This Aussie destination has all the thrills, nature, and food you can handle – without the long haul. So, next time you’re planning a getaway, ditch the usual spots and give Darwin and the Northern Territory a shot.
To sweeten the deal, Qantas Airways now offers direct flights there with attractive fares. Book your tickets now, and fly direct with Qantas from Singapore to Darwin.
This post was brought to you by Tourism Northern Territory.
Cover image adapted from: Tourism NT, @darwin.waterfront via Instagram
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