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Northern Territory

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About Northern Territory

An Australian adventure without a visit to the 'Top End' is a missed opportunity. This is where you'll find the magical red desert of Uluru and the wondrous wetlands of Kadadu National Park. And the best places to stay in the Northern Territory rank among the most relaxing in all of Australia.

Crocodile Dundee, with his broad accent, brown leathery skin, cowboy outfit and big knife is most people's first encounter with the Northern Territory and Hollywood hasn't strayed too far from the truth. The Northern Territory is a bit like the wild west in a stunning, but often unforgiving outback setting, with the added danger of some seriously deadly critters. People are eaten by crocodiles here at a rate of one every few years - unfortunately it's often tourists who don't take the warnings seriously enough and are too tempted by the beauty of the billabongs. Unfortunately you can't swim off many of the beaches, despite their beauty, because of the fear of box jellyfish but there are plenty that are safe.

Our Northern Territory Collections

What Not To Miss

This was the last bit of Australia to be colonised by Europeans and is probably the best place to learn about the Aboriginal culture. Of course it's where you'll find some of Australia's most stunning landscapes, from the biologically diverse flood plains of Kakadu to the hazy escarpments and mangrove swamps in the north to the rugged, sun scorched bush of the Kimberly ranges to the red desert around Alice Springs.

For around 50,000 years Alice Springs has been home to several groups of indigenous Australians and there's still a strong population with a thriving local culture. Despite being the closest town to the world's most famous rock, Alice Springs is still a four-hour drive away from the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where you'll find Uluru, and the less famous, but no less dramatic Kata Tjuta (or the Olgas).

The southern edge of the Northern Territory is also where you'll find the Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent King's Canyon with sheer 300m cliffs offering death defying views.

State capital, Darwin sprawls in its tropical humidity, an extremely laid-back city. Darwin's pace of life abhors unnecessary exertions and you'll soon find yourself falling into step, or stepping inside into the air conditioning. Darwin provides plenty of space for relaxation in the pavement cafes and bars, the fantastically diverse covered markets and in the lush shady, bougainvillea and frangipani scented parks.
Despite being a long way from anywhere, Darwin is a cosmopolitan city, called home by people from around 50 different countries. This adds energy to the feel of the place and Darwin has some fantastic little museums and a surprisingly exuberant arts scene.

    The Hotel Guru's pick of the best places to stay in the Northern Territory includes everything from luxurious hotels to the ultimate glamping experience with stunning views over Uluru.

    For Luxury

    • Skycity Darwin has its own beach, infinity pool and a lagoon pool, so it definitely qualifies as a resort. Luxurious rooms look out over a calm bay or the lush hotel gardens and there's a relaxed, tropical vibe in tune with the location.
    • The Wildman Wilderness Lodge is a collection of fifteen safari tents and ten stand alone cabins in the wildlife haven of the Mary River wetlands. Luxury and fine dining await you after your animal encounters, it's all great value - but very remote. Definitely one of the best places to stay in the Northern Territory if you want off the beaten track.
    • In the heart of the Kakadu National Park you'll find Jabiru, the town in the park and in the heart of town you'll find the Kakadu Crocodile Hotel - a crocodile shaped hotel. Spacious, clean and cool, this hotel will keep you as comfortable as possible while exploring the park.
    • For the ultimate in Top End luxury there's Bamurru Plains, a 'wild bush camp' with just nine stand alone bungalows and all the luxury you can imagine. You're right by the coast and the Mary River wetlands. There is an excellent chance you'll see crocodiles, wild boar, water buffalo and wallabies - and of course an amazing array of birdlife.
    • The luxurious Cicada Lodge offers spacious rooms with amazing views over the Katherine Gorge. It's perfect for those wanting to explore Australia's fauna, with indigenous guides on site for wildlife tours.

    The Red Centre

    • Longitude 131° allows you to stay right by Uluru in what is probably the world's most luxurious tented camp experience. The fifteen tents are tents only so far as they're covered with white sails of tarpaulin, but they're permanent structures with plumbing and cooling systems. As well as catering for your every need, a stay here allows you the optimum amount of time to just gaze on the wonder of this rock rising grandly out of the desert.

    For an Apartment

    • If you'd prefer your own space, don't hesitate to visit our online partner Booking.com for a variety of properties across the region.

    Travel Information

    • Fly to Darwin International Airport, with a range of both domestic and international connections.
    • Catch the Ghan train which travels from the South to the North of the region
    • If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Northern Territory, for prices we recommend our online partner Rentalcars
    • Best time to visit - the dry season from May to October is one of the most popular times to visit the area.

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        Best Hotels in Northern Territory

        • Rydges Darwin Central Darwin 132 rooms from £56

          Local exploring  -  Perfectly located in the heart of the city with easy access to restaurants, malls, and even Charles Darwin National Park
          Restaurant  -  1940s/50s themed restaurant serving traditional Australian fare.
          Local markets  -  Pick up some local produce at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
          Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
          Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

          A smart modern hotel located right in the heart of the city. Chic rooms are simply styled with large sink-into beds and simple wooden furniture. The best have coastal views. On site restaurant for breakfast & dinner. A sleek city base. See More

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        • Argus Hotel Darwin, Northern Territory 102 rooms from £60

          Local exploring  -  A good base from which to explore both the city of Darwin and the natural wonders of the Northern Territories
          Sights nearby  -  Charles Darwin National Park is nearby. Explore Darwin's Botanic Gardens, Wharf Precinct, Bicentennial Park & Mindil Beach
          Local markets  -  Parap, Nightcliff and Mindill Beach Sunset markets take place throughout the week
          Birdwatching  -  Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve is only a 45-minute drive from the hotel
          Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

          Modern hotel located in downtown Darwin with functional and good-value rooms. The central location means the city's beaches, markets and main sites are all easily accessible. The hotel can arrange tours and day trips around the Northern Territories as well as sunset cruises and fishing trips. See More

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        • H on Smith Hotel Darwin (Northern Territory) 186 rooms from £60

          Value chic  -  Stylish contemporary design, with a young and hip feel, offered at very reasonable rates
          Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
          Restaurant  -  Recommended.
          Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

          A hip modern hotel occupying a central position on Smith St. Rooms have clean design with crisp white linen, expansive windows and spacious showers (suites have spa baths). Modern Asian cuisine is served in an open restaurant overlooking the pool. With great rates, this is a perfect city crashpad. See More

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        • Beachlife Apartments Darwin 2 rooms from £53

          City Style  -  The location in the heart of Darwin’s CBD means stunning 360° harbour and city views and easy access to shops, bars and sites
          Families  -  Three large bedrooms and two bathrooms in each apartment make this a perfect family option
          Sights nearby  -  Charles Darwin National Park is a 10 minute drive. Katherine Gorge & East Point Reserve are natural beauty sites near the city
          Sailing  -  3 hour tropical sunset cruise on the magnificent Darwin Harbour can be arranged while Darwin Sailing Club is open to all
          Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

          Boutique 3-bedroom apartments located in central Darwin. Spacious bedrooms, terraces with stunning city views and well-equipped kitchens and laundries in each apartment make this an unbeatable base for families. Bright, large rooms have all contemporary comforts and pool and gym access is included. See More

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        • Wildman Wilderness Lodge Northern Territory 25 rooms from £70

          Cycling
          Views  -  Great views from hotel
          Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
          Birdwatching  -  Good birding near the hotel.
          Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

          Wilderness luxury at its best with ten stand-alone cabins and fifteen safari tents offering comfort and luxury in the heart of the wildlife haven of the Mary River wetlands. Air conditioning, fresh linen and fine dining await after a day taking in the magnificent surrounding scenery and animal life. See More

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        • Kakadu Crocodile Hotel Jabiru, Northern Territory from £74

          Back to Nature  -  Located in the spectacular Kakadu National Park
          Tennis  -  Courts available nearby
          Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
          Outstanding location
          Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled access
          Recommended by  -  Fodors

          This crocodile-shaped hotel does not disappoint. Spacious, clean and cool rooms are complimented by top amenities including a a swimming pool and nearby tennis courts. A stunning location in Kakadu National Park. See More

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        • Skycity Darwin Darwin (49137) 152 rooms from £99

          Swimming Pool  -  Infinity edge pool, plus lagoon swimming pool on the beach
          Spa
          Restaurant  -  Recommended.
          Great walks  -  Good for walkers.
          Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

          With its own private beach area, an infinity and lagoon pool, this is the ultimate chill out resort. Luxurious rooms look out on to the bay and the beachside garden, with the decor matching the tropical location. See More

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        • Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront Darwin 121 rooms from £109

          Families  -  A range of family suites, a large pool, and the option to add roll-away beds make this a great choice for families
          Value chic  -  With chic modern design and a Waterfront Precinct position, you are getting a lot for very low prices
          Restaurant  -  Curve Restaurant & Bar is open all day and offers a varied international style menu
          Swimming Pool  -  Semi-covered outdoor pool
          RestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

          A chic modern hotel located right on Waterfront Precinct offering rooms at very attractive prices. Minimalist bedrooms are all white-on-white with large picture windows and indulgent modern bathrooms. Downstairs is a half-covered pool and a relaxed cafe. An affordable yet stylish stay. See More

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        • Cicada Lodge Northern Territory 18 rooms from £230

          Views  -  Across distinct sandstone country above the gorge
          Birdwatching  -  Over 192 species in region
          Back to Nature
          Outstanding location
          Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
          Recommended by  -  Fodors

          Luxury hotel offering spacious, air conditioned ensuite rooms and a swimming pool with magnificent views across the Katherine gorge. Original work by Australian artists hangs on walls. Take advantage of indigenous guides and wildlife tours to take in this unique landscape. See More

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        • Darwin Waterfront Luxury Suites Darwin 17 rooms from £247

          Families  -  For those travelling with children who would prefer a self-catering option, this is the perfect city base
          City Style  -  Expect chic modern design with fabulous coastal views - both homely and very stylish
          Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
          Parking

          A collection of sleek waterfront apartments perfectly located in the heart of Darwin. Ranging from one-bed to three-beds, this is a great choice for families or groups. With chic minimalist style, fabulous views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern kitchens - this is an idyllic city base. See More

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        • Bamurru Plains Northern Territory 9 rooms from £297

          Restrictions on children  -  Must be over eight years old
          Outstanding location
          Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
          Hideaway  -  Tranquil and intimate.
          Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets
          Recommended by  -  I Escape, Mr & Mrs Smith

          Wild bush luxury comes no better than this, with nine spacious stand alone bungalows privately situated amongst the pandanus vegetation on the edge of the Mary River wetlands. Organic cotton sheets and high pressure showers ensure comfort, and the wildlife spotting opportunities are endless. See More

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        • Longitude 131° Yulara, Northern Territory 15 rooms from £650

          Views  -  Tents look out onto the magnificent Uluru
          Restrictions on children  -  Must be over twelve
          Outstanding location
          Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
          Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews
          Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Mr & Mrs Smith

          With breathtaking views out to the sacred Uluru rock, this is the ultimate glamping experience. Every need is catered for during a stay, with luxurious tents combining style, sophistication and comfort in the most glorious way. Al freso dining is a must. See More

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