Image adapted from: Tourism Northern Territory, @ausoutbacknt, @harrison.geoff, and @_anniethompson
Not all of us have the luxury of time on our side. While a few months is needed for an ideal #wanderlust voyage, we all still have adult responsibilities to get back to. If you’re short on time, a road trip around Australia’s Northern Territory makes for a memorable holiday.
The Northern Territory might be vastly underexplored but its scenic landscape is perfect for those looking for a nature-bound getaway. One easy way to explore its undiscovered sights? A 6D5N road trip itinerary that includes everything from safari glamping to waterfall plunge pools. Here’s everything Jetabout Holidays offers within a convenient 5-night getaway:
Cascading waterfalls are a sight of beauty but they’re even more stunning up close – when you’re soaking in the cool waters of a plunge pool. Litchfield National Parks has plenty of swimming spots, but the most Instagrammable ones would be Wangi Falls and Buley Rockhole.
Image credit: @honeymoon_seeker
Both are relatively easy to get to: the former can be reached via a 3KM loop trail and the latter’s just a stroll from the carpark.
Image credit: Jensen Chua Photography
When “roughing it out” looks like this, you know that Wildman Wilderness Lodge’s idea of safari life comes fully loaded with all the bells and whistles. Choose between luxurious cabins or safari tents – they all come equipped with a Queen-sized bed, hardwood floors, and even an ensuite bathroom.
The lodge is set in somewhat ulu wetlands but it’s perfectly tranquil and you’ll occasionally spot wildlife.
Image credit: Jensen Chua Photography
While there’s already plenty of natural beauty to soak in, the Lodge also has an infinity-edged swimming pool – ideal if you’re there during a sweltering summer. There’s even a campfire for toasted marshmallows and several uplifting rounds of Kumbaya.
Picturesque sunsets aren’t regular sightings in our little red dot, but they certainly appear to be at Kakadu National Park. It almost looks as if the sky’s on fire with vibrant hues of reds and oranges all around. A trek to the top isn’t too tricky either – it’s a moderately steep 250m trek up for a panoramic sunset view.
You can also try the 1KM walking trek that’ll bring you past Ubirr, one of the Park’s Aboriginal rock art galleries. Plenty of culture and heritage to take in here: the intricate etchings of Ubirr’s rock art are age-old with some even featuring extinct animals.
Image credit: Jensen Chua Photography
Crocodiles often get a bad rep: their strong jaws and pincer-sharp teeth are reasons enough. But over at Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise, you can see these powerful reptiles from mere metres away. There’ll be an experienced handler on set to feed them buffalo meat, so you’ll get the chance to watch them lunge out of the water.
Not to worry – you’ll be sitting safely behind railings
Image credit: Jensen Chua Photography
Much like famed crocodile hunter Steve Irwin, you’ll be sure to gasp a shocked “Crikey!” when you see these wild crocs in action.
A flock of white cockatoos
Image credit: Jensen Chua Photography
When all the birds we see in Singapore are regular mynahs and pigeons, it’s unlikely that any of us are avid birdwatchers. But this early morning wildlife boat cruise by Yellow Water Cruises is rife with colourful birdlife. From swooping raptors to floating water ducks, your head will be swivelling from left to right to take it all in.
Image credit: @victoriapitophotography
But this cruise through the wetlands isn’t just about the birdlife – their pink sunrise is also one to marvel at. The first cruise sets off at 6.45AM daily. As for other wildlife sightings, you might even spot crocodiles lurking by the river banks.
Image credit: @visitkatherine
For some of the Northern Territory’s most spectacular scenery, the Nit Nit Dreaming 2 Gorge Boat Tour is an absolute must on your checklist of things to do – it brings you right through the gorges of Nitmiluk National Park. There’ll be a cruise guide onboard to answer any questions you have about these rock formations, where you can find out about their importance in Aboriginal history.
Image credit: Tourism Northern Territory
It’s a 2-hour cruise but you’ll be fascinated by the changing landscapes and picturesque views. There’s also an easy 500m trek midway through so be sure to wear suitable footwear.
Image credit: @breakfastinmelbourne
A dinner cruise certainly sounds idyllic, especially when you’re admiring the Darwin sunset. Even better when there’s a spread of fresh seafood included, with freshly-shucked oysters, smoked mackerel, and banana prawns.
Image credit: Jensen Chua Photography
This sunset cruise by Cape Adieu Harbour Cruises also lets you choose your own mains – either the fish of the day or a Scotch fillet steak.
Image credit: Jetabout Holidays
From safari glamping to panoramic sunset views, the Northern Territory is filled with undiscovered sights. While it seems intimidating to explore a new country, it’s hassle-free with Jetabout Holidays travel-friendly packages – their 6D5N road trip itinerary comes fully planned with car rental and flights all booked ahead of time. The tour package includes:
This post was brought to you by Jetabout Holidays & Tourism Northern Territory.
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