Northern Territory Tourist Icons
Many of Australia’s tourism icons are located in the Northern Territory. This region, located in Australia’s far north has a climate that ranges from arid to tropical and the landscape has a variety that attracts tourists from around the world. The city of Darwin is the capital and it lies on the northern coast. It has a varied history that has included heavy bombing from the Japanese during world war two and being almost totally wiped out by cyclone Tracey on Christmas eve in 1974. Darwin accommodation includes everything from excellent backpacker hostels through holiday apartments and top of the range hotels. There is a wide range to choose from, however in Darwin there never seems to be enough so be warned and book early. Darwin is also the main access point for tourists and international tourists will enter the country through Darwin international airport. Most people planning an Australian motor home or campervan holiday can pick up their vehicle in Darwin and roam free from there. Remember, distances in Australia are vast and you must take advice and plan ahead.
Not far from Darwin are two of the Northern Territory’s major tourist icons. Kakadu National park and Litchfield National park are both world renowned for their spectacular scenery. Here high sandstone escarpments drop away onto wide coastal plains that are divided by crocodile-infested rivers and swamps. High waterfalls crash over the escarpments providing spectacular scenery. Rocky outcrops throughout the two parks have many aboriginal rock art galleries and sites like Norlangie Rock in Kakadu are special places to visit. As you travel south you will pass through the town of Katherine and nearby is the spectacular Katherine Gorge. Further to the south the main highway to Alice Springs in central Australia passes through the devils marbles which is a spectacular collection of large boulders. Alice Springs is steeped in Australian history and some of the surrounding ranges create some magnificent scenery.
From Alice Springs it is about a four hour drive to Ayers Rock or Uluru as it is known to the Aboriginal people. The rock itself is a massive land mark and probably the most recognizable geographical icon in the world. Every tourist that visits the country wants to visit here. You can fly in direct, join one of the many organized tours or drive yourself in your motorhome or campervan. Close to Ayres Rock are two other major tourism icons. They are the Olgas and Kings Canyon so try to organize your tour so that these are included. If you are travelling around Australia then a visit to the Northern Territory’s tourist icons is a must.