Katherine

In Australia's biggest national park you'll find rugged escarpments, lush rainforest and rock art galleries up to 20,000 years old. Learn about Aboriginal culture from traditional owners the Bininj/Mungguy people, take in thundering waterfalls and witness millions of migratory birds among the wetlands. Experience Kakadu's magic in six dramatically different seasons. http://www.australia.com/en/places/darwin-and-surrounds/guide-to-kakadu-national-park.html

Stunning waterfalls, natural pools and a dramatic landscape lure visitors to Litchfield National Park.http://www.australia.com/en/places/darwin-and-surrounds/guide-to-litchfield-national-park.html

Catch a wave at Darwin's coolest Waterfront attraction: the Wave Pool. Here, a palm-fringed swimming pool turns into a tube-riding, boogie-boarding bucket of fun when the siren signals the start of the swell. It is giggles galore in twenty minutes bursts as the waves send inflatable tubes bobbing about and boogie boards riding the crests. The swell here is gentle enough that there's little danger of wiping out (and there are no surfboards allowed) but there are red-and-yellow-clad surf lifeguards at the sidelines to keep everyone safe. In a lull, relax on banana lounges under enormous beach umbrellas, or spread out on the lawn in the shade. There are wading pools and fountains to keep wannabe grommets entertained, and a kiosk to keep the whole family in the supply of ice-creams and drinks. https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/darwin-wave-lagoon

Crocodylus Park is the best place in Australia to come face to face with the largest reptiles on the planet! Built upon 30 years of experience in crocodile research and conservation, Crocodylus Park plays host to over a thousand crocodiles from 30 cm long hatchlings to massive adults measuring over 4.8 m and weighing more than half a ton! http://www.crocodyluspark.com.au/

Crocosaurus Cove, located in the heart of Darwin city, allows visitors a unique, up close and personal view of Australia’s iconic Saltwater Crocodiles. Bringing together some of the largest Saltwater Crocodiles in Australia & boasting the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles, Crocosaurus Cove is a must see attraction when visiting Darwin and the Top End. http://www.crocosauruscove.com/

Amid the breezy dry season air on Thursday and Sunday evenings, Mindil Beach Sunset Market hosts street performers, musicians, craft stalls and a large collection of international food stalls on the stretch of parkland behind Mindil Beach. Arrive early (about 6pm) to beat the crowds. Immerse your tastebuds in Darwin's Asian food culture with a Malaysian laksa, a savoury Japanese pancake or a Thai green papaya salad. For dessert, visit Petra's Raw Cakes and munch on a raw brownie ball, or a slice of lime and macadamia cheesecake. https://www.mindil.com.au/

The Darwin Military Museum is located at East Point adjacent to the Defence of Darwin Experience. The site is within a heritage listed area that contains WWII fortifications. The No.2 gun turret is located within the Military Museum and, along with the No.1 gun turret, is one of the major fortifications at East Point. The Museum aims to collect artefacts from all conflicts where Australian troops were deployed https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/darwin-military-museum

As the sun slowly descended towards the horizon, the sky transformed into a dazzling canvas of orange, pink and purple hues that were reflected on the shimmering sea. The soft crashing of waves accompanied the peaceful setting as I watched the sunset at Tuamese Beach on the border of Indonesia and Timor-Leste. It was a majestic ending to a picturesque day spent at this heavenly location where the beach seemingly stretches on for miles to meet the sea and sky.

The Alice Springs Telegraph Station is a historic museum precinct, presenting the story of the connection of Australia to the rest of the world through Telegraph Communication in 1871. Since being declared protected as a Historical Reserve in 1963, it has become the best preserved Station along the Overland Telegraph Line. Guided tours of the heritage precinct run from March to November at 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm & 3:30pm. Visit the original "Alice Spring" and learn about the origins of the town. Enjoy NT roasted coffee and homemade snacks at the Trail Station Wi-Fi Cafe and browse through the gift and souvenir shop and send a postcard from the towns original red Postbox. https://www.discovercentralaustralia.com/alice-springs-telegraph-station

The most visited landmark in Alice Springs, Anzac Hill is the ideal spot for an overview of the town. The lookout offers a panoramic view of Alice Springs and the beautiful surrounding ranges. The Anzac Hill Memorial was unveiled on 25 April 1934 (Anzac Day) and was originally dedicated to all those members of the armed services who had paid the supreme sacrifice during World War I. It has now become a memorial to all those who have served in the defence of their country during all wars in which Australia has participated. Facing the Gap, interesting and comprehensive interpretative signs border the lookout. These detail some of the local Arrentte people's creation stories, featuring the Yeperenye Caterpillar of the MacDonnell Ranges and Mparntwe (Alice Springs). http://www.discovercentralaustralia.com/anzac-hill

Central Australia's unique natural and geological history is explained at the Museum of Central Australia in Alice Springs. The evolution of the magnificent Central Australian landscape and the fascinating creatures that inhabited it, are described in the exhibitions. See meteorite fragments, fossils and interpretive displays as well as a replica of the ancient Alcoota waterhole. This internationally significant fossil site was home to giant freshwater crocodiles and the largest bird that ever lived. Contemporary Central Australia is explained in a display about the birds, mammals, reptiles and insects you will see as you tour the outback. The Museum of Central Australia also houses the Strehlow Research Centre, an important collection of film, sound, archival records and museum objects relating to Indigenous ceremonial life. The Strehlow Collection was accumulated by the Lutheran Pastor Carl Strehlow and his son Professor TGH Strehlow over two generations of anthropological research with the Aboriginal people of central Australia. http://www.discovercentralaustralia.com/museum-of-central-australia

The Araluen Arts Centre is the focal point of the visual art and performance scene of Central Australia, presenting an annual program of exhibitions, performances, and film. Known as the keeping place of stories, Araluen holds within its spaces some of the most significant works of art in Central Australia and brings to the stage world class performances from around the nation (and at times the world). Literally built around a culturally significant 300 year old corkwood tree that now sits in the centre of the Sculpture Garden, the Araluen Arts Centre is the heart of the Araluen Cultural Precinct, which includes the Galleries and Theatre, the Museum of Central Australia including the Strehlow Research Centre, the Central Australian Aviation Museum, Central Craft, Yaye’s Café, and a host of significant public works of art and Arrernte sacred sites. The Araluen Galleries showcase the Contemporary Aboriginal art movement, particularly of Central Australia and the Western Desert Region as well as significant local contemporary artists. The Araluen Art Collection also includes original artworks by world renowned watercolourist Albert Namatjira. His artistic response to the breathtaking Central Australian landscapes are captured in this rotating collection. https://www.discovercentralaustralia.com/araluen-arts-centre

Alice Springs Desert Park is an inspiring portrayal of Australia's desert environment that effortlessly blends the plants, animals and people of our arid regions. A 'must see' for every visitor to the Red Centre. Walk through three re-created desert habitats and discover how deserts are full of life. Stories of the desert are shared through interpretative displays, cultural presentations and guide activities. Do not miss Nature Theatre with free-flying birds of prey and other animals demonstrate their natural survival skills at the base of the MacDonnell Ranges. Spend some time in the Nocturnal House where you can spot rare or endangered mammals of the desert. Let your eyes adjust to the evening light and enjoy animals in their natural environment including the bilby, mala and thorny devil. At night, spotlight rare and endangered animals on the Nocturnal Tour. With an expert guide step into a predator proof enclosure in the foothills of the ranges and get up close with bilby, mala, echidna, brush tailed bettongs and other animals of the night. http://www.discovercentralaustralia.com/alice-springs-desert-park

The Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs is the home of Brolga and his mob of Kangaroos, as seen on ‘Kangaroo Dundee’ (BBC / Nat Geo documentary). It celebrates the beauty of the Red Kangaroo- an Australian icon. Brolga first established the baby kangaroo rescue centre in Alice Springs in 2005. He then went on to build his own wildlife sanctuary from 2009 to 2011. The Kangaroo Sanctuary’s mission is to educate and encourage people to rescue and care for kangaroos. Brolga has just started building Central Australia’s first wildlife hospital with the help of kind donations and from visitors on tours of the Sanctuary. Donations are welcome to help him continue his dream of completing the hospital and to care for the baby and adult kangaroos living at The Sanctuary. https://www.discovercentralaustralia.com/kangaroo-sanctuary

The Alice Springs Reptile Centre specialises in things that hiss and slither, which are rare, impossible, or undesirable to come across in the wild. Home to over 100 reptiles, the centre displays its inhabitants in recreations of their natural environment. Enter the Gecko Cave to see the different species of this diminutive and shy lizard from around Alice Springs, the Barkly Tablelands and the Top End. View Terry the Saltwater Crocodile through glass underground, that gives you a glimpse into his underwater world offering great photo opportunities. See huge Goannas such as the Perentie as well as the show off Frill-neck Lizards and desert-dwelling Thorny Devils. Handle a Python or see the Lizards being fed. Some of the world's most venomous snakes, including Inland Taipans, Brown Snakes, Death Adders and Mulga (King Brown) snakes are on display safely behind glass. https://www.discovercentralaustralia.com/alice-springs-reptile-centre

This pretty little beach is located a few minutes’ drive from the centre of the historic pearling town and overlooks the stunning turquoise coloured Roebuck Bay. Town Beach is a popular draw-card for holidaying families. Its spectacular calm aqua water makes for perfect photo opportunities. Bring your own picnic and spread out on the grass or on one of the picnic tables or enjoy dishes from the café near the water’s edge. A bonus for parents is the small water playground, ideal for the children to cool down. Town Beach is also a popular gathering point to see the natural attraction of the Staircase to the Moon on certain dates throughout the year. The moon rises above the exposed mudflats creating an optical illusion in the darkened sky of stairs reaching to the moon. The Town Beach Markets often complement this event and provide an opportunity for you to purchase craft items, dinner from the stalls and relax and enjoy the entertainment. https://www.australiasnorthwest.com/business/attractions/town-beach

With 22 kilometres of pristine white sand edged by the stunning turquoise water of the Indian Ocean, Broome’s Cable Beach attracts visitors from around Australia and the world. Bounded by sand dunes and ochre red cliffs, Cable Beach is as nature intended, with the convenience of resorts and caravan parks close by. With months on end of perfect warm weather there is no better place to enjoy a beach holiday. This white sandy beach offers many great beach activities. Uncrowded even in peak season between May and October, you can always find a quiet stretch of sparkling sand to lay down your towel or hire a deckchair and umbrella, and be lulled into relaxation as the waters gently lap the shoreline. Broome has huge tidal movements and visiting the beach at low tide will provide you with a large expanse of sandy beach to enjoy. If you are feeling active, try your hand at swimming, fishing, kayaking, surfing (when the swell is up), a beach stroll along the flat sands, or just relax and soak up some sunshine. https://www.australiasnorthwest.com/business/attractions/cable-beach

Reddell Beach, a favourite beach amongst the Broome locals, with stark contrasts of red pindan bordering the white sandy beach. Examine the unusual rock formations with their intricate erosion patterns along the pristine stretch of beach. The calm refreshing waters are ideal for swimming. This lesser-known Broome beach is accessible along the unsealed Kavite Road which stretches from the Broome Port to Gantheaume Point Lighthouse. Car Park 3 is the usual access point and you need to walk down rugged sand cliffs to reach the stunning red rock formations standing like sculptures opposite the Indian Ocean. https://www.australiasnorthwest.com/business/attractions/reddell-beach

The ancient red rock formations of Kata Tjuta rise from the dusty land to make an incredible sight in Central Australia. Witness the spectacular rocks as they appear to change colour and immerse yourself in the Aboriginal stories of this special place, 500 million years in the making. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is jointly managed by its Anangu traditional owners and Parks Australia. Kata Tjuta is sacred to the Anangu people, who have inhabited the area for more than 22,000 years. The sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta are believed to be about 500 million years old https://www.australia.com/en/places/alice-springs-and-surrounds/guide-to-kata-tjuta.html

The marine park has significant cultural, natural, and socio-economic values to the Australian community. The marine park protects habitat for endangered sawfishes and boosts food supplies for the hundreds of thousands of migratory shorebirds that use the adjacent Eighty Mile Beach, one of the most important shorebird sites in Australia. Natural oyster beds in the area provide crucial seed stock for the pearling industry. The marine park is about halfway between Port Hedland and Broome, adjacent to Western Australia’s Eighty Mile Beach Marine Park. The marine park covers 10,785 square kilometres, with depths from less than 15 metres to 70 metres. Charter fishing and recreational fishing are allowed in the marine park, though most people tend to stay a little closer to shore. https://parksaustralia.gov.au/marine/parks/north-west/eighty-mile-beach/

Nestled high amongst the lush central mountains of Papua, the breathtaking Baliem Valley offers a portal into the unique indigenous tribal culture and unspoiled wilderness of this region. Trekking through picturesque hillside villages dotted with traditional 'honai' huts and sweet potato farms, one encounters the warm and welcoming Dani people in their spectacular highland setting. From witnessing tribal rituals to exploring ancient battle sites, the enchanting Baliem Valley provides adventurous visitors with an unforgettable journey into Papua's mesmerizing heartland. This pristine river valley not only delights but also educates on a way of life stretching back centuries.

Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park is a network of purpose-built, single-track mountain bike trails located in the Herberton Range State Forest. Trails meander through an open forest of gums, bloodwoods, mahoganys, she-oaks, grasstrees and cycads and some of the trails pass former forestry experimental plots of teak, blackbutt and tallowwood trees. https://www.queensland.com/en-au/attraction/atherton-forest-mountain-bike-park

The Crystal Caves will rock your world! One hour from Cairns on the Atherton Tablelands, share one man’s passion for crystals and fossils at the Crystal Caves. Journey through 300m2 of tunnels and grottos that Rene built to feature his million year old natural crystals and prehistoric fossils. Take a self-guided tour and marvel at the interactive displays which allow you to touch and photograph the crystals, you can even crack your own! https://www.queensland.com/en-au/attraction/the-crystal-caves

The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been in operation for over 20 years and is the largest butterfly flight aviary in Australia. More than one million guests have enjoyed the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary since its inception. Come experience why the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been such a long lasting success. The aviary at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been designed to recreate the butterfly's natural tropical habitat. Enjoy the tranquility of the flowing fresh water streams, complete with waterfalls and surrounded by exotic tropical plants and flowers. This is the perfect natural haven for the spectacular butterflies. As you wander along the large paths that snake through the aviary take time to appreciate the vast variety of Lepidoptera (species of butterflies and moths). The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is also home to the world’s largest moth – the Hercules Moth. The Hercules Moth is endemic to Tropical North Queensland Australia and is a majestic creature of the jungle that really has to be seen to be believed! The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is an all weather activity, perfect for rainy days typical of the tropics. For guests that want to gain a greater appreciation for butterflies 30 minute complimentary tours are conducted every 15 minutes, providing visitors with a greater understanding of the butterflies life cycle and behaviour. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/wildlife-parks/australian-butterfly-sanctuary.432.html

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park prides itself on its authenticity. The Tjapukai people inhabited the tropic region that extends from Cairns to Port Douglas and inland to Kuranda. Their name means ‘People of the Rainforest'. The displays and cultural dances within the park portray the Dreamtime through to the present reality of today's Tjapukai people. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/aboriginal-culture/aboriginal-cultural-park-tjapukai.403.html

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway takes you over and through World Heritage Rainforest on a 90 minute experience, allowing time at two rainforest stations, Red Peak and Barron Falls. http://www.australia.com/en-in/places/cairns/top-10-things-to-do.html

Crystal Cascades is one of the secrets of Tropical North Queensland that locals wish they could hide from visitors, accessible only by self drive. It is a secluded freshwater swimming hole, hidden in a tropical rainforest. A series of small waterfalls flow into large pools surrounded by large impressive granite boulders. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/getting-back-to-nature/crystal-cascades.423.html

This popular park features a deep crater lake surrounded by cool lush rainforest. Lake Barrine, part of Crater Lakes National Park, is a maar—a crater lake formed by two massive volcanic explosions. Take the short stroll to the giant bull kauri trees or stretch your legs on the longer 5km track around the lake. Look for rainforest animals, such as the colourful but cryptic Boyd's forest dragon, along the way. Paddle your canoe onto the smooth lake and look for fish, turtles, eels and waterbirds along the shallow, reedy edges. https://www.queensland.com/en-au/attraction/lake-barrine-crater-lakes-national-park

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is an unforgettable 1 hour and 45 minute journey up the tropically clad mountainous range from Cairns City to the eclectic Rainforest Village of Kuranda. The scenic railway journey winds its way through the spectacular World Heritage listed tropical rainforest and Barron Gorge. This memorable scenic train journey showcases the very best that Cairns and Tropical North Queensland has to offer, such as magnificent scenery, lush tropical rainforest, steep ravines and cascading waterfalls and rivers. The Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of Cairns' most popular attractions, and most visitors would not make the journey to visit Cairns and Tropical North Queensland without experiencing this enchanting unforgettable train ride. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/family-attractions/kuranda-scenic-railway.397.html

Cairns Aquarium is showcasing a huge variety of marine life and corals from the waters of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It is located in the heart of the Tropical North Queensland city. The aquarium is also easy walking distance from most hotels, resorts and holiday apartments within the Cairns city. The aquarium support more than 3 million litres of salt, fresh and brackish water that a home to many creatures that are either rarely seen due to their nocturnal habits along with animals that are nowhere else on the planet. You will be able to be up close to rare, endangered, unusual and deadly specimens in the marine displays. There will be more than 15,000 creatures from all of the ecosystems in Tropical North Queensland that are interconnected in the survival of the Great Barrier Reef in themed exhibits such as the Open Ocean, The Great Barrier Reef, River Monsters, Rivers & Streams, Life in the Mangroves, Coral Atoll, Reptiles and Amphibians of the Rainforest, Dangers of the Reef and more. For further education about the Great Barrier Reef there are touch tanks, live diver talks from the deep reef tank and a Turtle Rehabilitation tour and even an opportunity to take a look at the behind the scenes Research Facility. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/explore-great-barrier-reef/cairns-aquarium.543.html

The Josephine waterfalls and swimming hole are ranked amongst some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Tropical North Queensland Australia, and as such have been used in many television commercials. Visitors can swim in the crystal clear waters, and relax on the sandy beach as the gentle breeze rustles leaves high in the overhead rainforest canopy. Josephine Falls is a great place to spend a full day, half-day or just a visit and quick swim with a day tour operator. The public facilities here allow you to set up a barbeque and picnic in the purpose-built facilities and relax in this beautiful rainforest environment with your family and friends for a day. If you are an adventurer and love bushwalking or you are a dedicated a hiker then you may like to choose from a 1.2 km walk to the top waterfalls, a 10 km Bartle Frere hike to Broken Nose (return) or a 15 klm (one way) walk Bartle Frere up to the Atherton Tablelands over the back of the mountain. Josephine Falls is loved by Cairns locals all year round and a definite destination for nature lovers and backpackers alike. When you mingle in the clubs and bars around Cairns city you will hear the backpackers talking about their day’s adventure on the granite rock slides, the deep crystal clear rock pools and the absolute beauty of the place. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/getting-back-to-nature/josephine-falls.416.html

Fitzroy Island is one of the most unspoilt islands adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef. Fitzroy Island National Park is a mountainous rainforest oasis surrounded by fringing reef formations. Enjoy the resort facilities and rainforest walks to white coral beaches and spectacular lookouts. Fitzroy Island also offers a wide range of water sport activities as well as snorkelling, introductory and certified diving and a learn-to-dive school. The island is 339 hectares in size, 324 of which is protected as Fitzroy Island National Park. The island is on the continental shelf and is within sight of the mainland; in fact, it’s a peak in a mountain chain which lies south of Cairns. The reef surrounding Fitzroy Island is a “Fringing Reef”. Fitzroy Island is located on the Inner Barrier of the Central Region of the Great Barrier Reef. It is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. http://www.greatbarrierreef.org/islands/fitzroy-island/

Today Paronella Park remains a unique eco-friendly experience where history and romance are seamlessly fused together. Paronella Park is a magical, unforgettable place nestled amongst heritage gardens and 13 acres of lush Australian rainforest situated on the banks of the crystal clear waters of Mena Creek, south of Innisfail. The ruins of the Spanish Castillo feature prominently on the grounds of Paronella Park, as do several other distinctive structures that were designed and built by the original owner of Paronella Park – Jose Paronella. Visitors can explore the architecturally unique ruins of the Castle and buildings of yesteryear, or wander through the lush gardens and Australian rainforest while being transported to another time and place altogether. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/family-attractions/paronella-park.401.html