Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia,

Darwin Region Overview

Darwin, the remotest city in Australia is located at the top of 'The Top End' and is the only true tropical capital city in Australia.

The city has had a tough history. It was destroyed by heavy bombing in World War II and devastated again by the infamous tropical cyclone Tracy in 1974.

However, the city is tough and resilient and has been rebuilt bigger and better than before. Darwin attracts substantial numbers of tourists as it is a fascinating city (unlike any in the world) with a beautiful harbour, marina complexes and a diverse lively character.

It is a perfect base to explore The Top End (as the tip of the Northern Territory is known) and the Kakadu National Park.

To accommodate the visitors there are ample facilities and places to stay. The SKYCITY Darwin is a welcome addition and includes accommodation, restaurants, casinos, night clubs, exhibition and convention centres, live music venue and bars. However, as the tourist season is protracted (due to The Wet Season) accommodation can get booked out so it is wise to plan ahead.

Two Distinct Seasons

Darwin and 'The Top End' of Australia enjoys year round sunshine, however, there are two distinct seasons -'The Wet' and 'The Dry'.

The Wet Season is from November to April and monthly rainfall can be very heavy at over 400mm.

The dry season is from May to October and monthly rainfall can be less than 1mm. To enjoy the tropical climate it is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes and light casual clothing during the day.

Aquascene

Darwin's most popular tourist attractions is Aquascene which is located at the end of The Esplanade in Doctors Gully.

This is a unique experience where hundreds of fish come in shore to be hand fed by visitors wading knee high in the water.

Many species of fish take part in the feeding frenzy including catfish, bream, Milkfish and mullet. The more cautious Barramundi do get close enough to touch. Aquascene is open between August and December and feeding times vary. .

The Mindil Beach Market

Darwin has the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Market which is held in the dry season from May to October in an idyllic beach side setting under a canopy of vine trees and coconut palms.

Over 200 stall holders originating from over 20 countries prepare exotic food so one can indulge in Asian, Greek, Italian, European or South American food. Or perhaps sample crocodile, buffalo, barramundi and tropical fruits and desserts.

As well as the food you will find colourful arts and crafts, buskers, street entertainers, masseurs, fortune tellers, local produce and goods.

The market operates each Thursday evening (and on a smaller scale on Sunday mornings) throughout the dry season from May to October and is a must if you are visiting Darwin

Vast Distances

Throughout the Northern Territory, distances between townships or settlements can be great and there are vast tracts of largely un populated land which may require permission from Aboriginal Land Authorities to access.

Travel through the Northern Territory should be treated with the utmost respect.

Careful preparation must be made if you are thinking of venturing out alone as people have been known to succumb to the conditions in just a few hours.

In addition, during the monsoon season, some roads throughout the 'Top End are often made unpassable by flooding.