The Top End

The extreme tropical north of Australia is home to some of the most beautiful national parks.

The extreme north and north-west of the continent can be seen as an extension of the Outback and tropical Outback. The scenery of rivers and waterfalls in the tropical savanah and Aborginal territories is breathtaking. Come and discover this wild and exciting land of Crocodile Dundee!

Darwin, the capital of the north, is young, cosmopolitan, lively and multicultural. It is an excellent starting point for exploring the sublime, yet hostile, Top End. You will certainly see animals, many different birds and, of course, the iconic crocodile in this region.

Discover the protected wildlife parks and wetlands in the area and encouter many different bird species. Be careful and do not swim in undesignated areas as crocodiles are likely to be about. The Top End is also home biggest buffalo herd in the world, with 100 000 heads!

Good national parks to visit include: Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmulk National Parks. Don't miss Katherine Gorge! These parks and others offer good hiking trails for all levels and include: Barrk Sandstone Bushwalk, Jatbula Trail, Ormiston Pound, Trephina Gorge and Valley of the Winds.

You can also discover Aboriginal communities on Tiwi Islands (with an Aboriginal guide and prior authorization) and buy original art and craft work. Another community exists in Arnhem Land in the north-eastern corner of the territory.

The best types of vehicles for this region are 4x4s. But be careful during the wet season, as some routes become completely flooded during monsoons when rivers can rise up to 5m. The best period is from May to October which is the dry period. April can also be nice, as the rain is lessening but the scenery is still green and lush.

 

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