How to keep the family happy on a holiday in the Top End

Jennifer Ennion Jennifer Ennion
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Take the kids wild swimming, croc-spotting and waterfall chasing with our guide to the best of the Top End for families.

There are a tonne of activities to do in the NT’s Top End, so it’s important to have a plan before you arrive. To help make things easier, here’s our seven- to 14-day itinerary for families on a self-drive holiday.

Darwin – Days 1 & 2

Start your visit to Darwin with a trip to the popular Crocosaurus Cove. The Cage of Death – Australia’s only ‘crocodile dive’ – is bound to get the adrenaline pumping, with parents and kids aged 15 and older able to descend into a pool with a saltie. If you have younger children, there’s still plenty of things to do, including holding a baby croc. Meantime, if your stay includes a Thursday or Sunday, take the kids to the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Operating during the dry season (April–Oct), arrive when the markets open at 4pm to avoid the crowds and sample plenty of Asian cuisine.

Don’t miss: Finishing your night with mango, coconut or dragon fruit sorbet on the beach.

Darwin to Litchfield National Park – Day 3

120 kilometres

You could spend days exploring the delights of Litchfield National Park but if you only have a week, the two highlights are spring-fed Florence Falls and Wangi Falls. Florence is a good spot to start as it gets busy and is relatively small. It’s also easy to reach via a staircase from a car park.

Wangi Falls is much larger and although it, too, gets busy there is a lot more room for floating around. There are campsites within strolling distance of Florence, but if your family doesn’t camp, book a room in nearby Batchelor.

Don’t miss: Buley Rockhole, if you can squeeze in one more natural attraction. The rock hole is a series of tiered pools, with the shallow top pool great for toddlers and the lower, deeper pools fun for teens.

Litchfield to Mataranka – Day 4

422 kilometres

Hit the road early so you arrive in Elsey National Park with plenty of time, ready for a dip in the relaxing Mataranka Thermal Pool . In the dry season (winter), the place can get crowded with grey nomads but it’s still a great spot for families, with the water temperature around 34 degrees.

Follow the path through towering palms until you reach the spring with its clear, aqua water (entry is free). Camp in the park or stay at Mataranka Homestead.

Don’t miss: Bitter Springs (two kilometres away from Mataranka town), where the current will whisk you down the impossibly blue creek to a timber walkway that takes you back to the starting point. It’s like a lagoon ride at a theme park, only natural.

Mataranka to Katherine, via Cutta Cutta Caves – Day 5

106 kilometres

Around 15 metres below the earth are Cutta Cutta Caves, formed millions of years ago. Located in a 1499-hectare nature park of the same name, the caves are open year-round but can close due to weather conditions. Follow the Tropical Woodland walk, which takes around 20 minutes (return). Keep your eyes peeled for the rare orange horseshoe bat and blind shrimps. Yep, you heard right.

Don’t miss: An hour-long guided tour of the caves with Nitmiluk Tours.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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Katherine to Darwin – Day 6

316 kilometres

Stock up on healthy car snacks in Katherine before you hit the road for the drive back to Darwin. Once you reach the city, call into Leanyer Recreation Park, which has free entry.

Families can easily pass a few hours here, with toddlers enjoying the splash area, mini waterslides and playground, older kids flying down the bigger slides and hitting up the skate park, and parents soaking in the lagoon-style pool. You can picnic here or buy an easy lunch from the kiosk.

Darwin – Day 7

Round out your Top End trip by spending a morning or afternoon at Darwin Wave Lagoon. Parents will be transported back to their youth as they splash about in rings and push the kids on bodyboards at this fantastic attraction (children under three are free). Afterwards, let teenagers test their balance on the inflatable obstacle course in the Recreation Lagoon, while little ones enjoy the nearby playground.

Darwin Harbor, Northern Territory, Australia.
Beautiful sunset at Darwin Harbour, Northern Territory, Australia.

Don’t miss: An ice cream under the palms on the foreshore or a seafood lunch at Stokes Hill Wharf, within strolling distance.

If you have 14 days…

Add these destinations to your itinerary.

Darwin to Cooinda Lodge, Kakadu National Park – Day 8

305 kilometres

A trip to the Top End wouldn’t be the same without calling into UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, which is surprisingly child-friendly. Hit the road early and enter Kakadu via the sealed Kakadu Highway.

Your first stop should be Bowali Visitor Centre, where you can get a lay of the land and talk to the park rangers about what waterholes and roads are open. Then you’ll want to check into Cooinda Lodge and Campground, where you can while away the rest of the day swimming in two resort pools and enjoying the playground.

Don’t miss: a night off cooking with a meal of barramundi, pizza or fish ‘n’ chips at Cooinda’s Barra Bistro.

Cooinda Lodge to Maguk (Kakadu) – Day 9

62 kilometres (approx. one hour, one way)

Don’t underestimate Kakadu – there’s a lot to see and the driving distances are considerable. Instead of trying to squeeze in too much and exhausting the entire family, pick a few of the main attractions and pace your days out. One of the best places to take children of any age is Maguk Waterfall . It’s about an hour’s drive along a 4WD-only dirt road and then a 2km (return) walk to the swimming hole and waterfall.

Don’t miss: A tour with Yellow Water Cruises on Yellow Water Billabong and South Alligator River. There are tours from sunrise to sunset and you’re guaranteed to see crocodiles.

Cooinda Lodge to Jim Jim Falls (Kakadu) – Day 10

42 kilometres (approx. one hour, one way, depending on road conditions)

This is one older kids and parents will especially appreciate, although it’s doable for little ones, too, just expect the hike to take longer and that you may need to carry them for part or all of it, depending on their age. But it would be a shame to skip Jim Jim Falls . It is one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Australia, with a 900-metre monsoon forest walk over tree roots and large boulders leading to an amphitheatre of towering stone walls and two natural pools. This is a dry season (May–October) excursion. If you visit during the wet season, ask the rangers at Bowali Visitor Centre which waterfalls are accessible by foot.

Jim Jim Waterfall, Kakadu, Northern Territory.
Jim Jim Waterfall, Kakadu.

Don’t miss: Swimming to the small sandy cove around the corner of the main beach at Jim Jim.

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Cooinda Lodge to Berry Springs – Day 11

293 kilometres

Say goodbye to Kakadu National Park and make your way to Territory Wildlife Park, about an hour from Darwin. Check out the nocturnal house, where you can meet rare and endangered native animals, as well as the aquarium, home to crocodiles, turtles and barramundi. There are also aviaries and a bird show.

Don’t Miss: The wildlife park is next to Berry Springs Nature Park , a fantastic natural waterhole families will love. Pack a pool noodle and a picnic, and spend a couple of hours here.

Berry Springs to Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours, Adelaide River – Day 12

43 kilometres

Before arriving back into Darwin, join a tour of Adelaide River wetlands , on the Aboriginal-owned and operated Limilngan-Wulna Land. The majority of Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours operate from the Adelaide River and guests learn about didgeridoo playing, spear making and basket weaving. You can also sign up for guided walks and talks. Stay overnight in nearby Humpty Doo.

Berry Springs - Northern Territory.
Berry Springs – Northern Territory, Australia.

Don’t miss: The two-hour daily Aboriginal Cultural Tour, available May–October. Children aged under five are free when on self-driving trips.

Humpty Doo to Darwin – Days 13 & 14

38 kilometres

As you make your way back to the capital, stop into Darwin Aviation Museum , where you can introduce the children, young and old, to the city’s fascinating history. They’ll learn about the bombing of 1942 and see plenty of cool aircraft on display.

It’s also worth spending your final days getting up close to the NT’s most famous reptile – the crocodile – at Crocodylus Park and Zoo, about 15 minutes from the CBD. It’s a great place to expand everyone’s understanding of crocs, with hundreds of hatchlings and adults at the zoo.

Don’t miss: One of the daily croc feeding tours and the chance to hold a baby croc.

*If you don’t want to drive, you can piece together a few tours, including Kakadu Tourism Adventure Tours’ Spirit of Kakadu adventure (suitable for children eight and over).

For more information on things to do in the Top End, visit the official Northern Territory website at northernterritory.com

Jennifer Ennion
Jennifer Ennion is a freelance travel and ski journalist who loves encouraging people to spend more time outdoors. From snorkelling with belugas in sub-Arctic Canada to hiking the Himalayas, Jennifer is constantly searching for stories that inspire readers to push their boundaries.
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8 experiences to restart and inspire your senses for 2026

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
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    Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

    If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

    As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

    1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

    Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory
    Watch the stars come out over five courses.

    Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

    It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

    Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

    2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

    Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience
    Learn stories of the Red Centre at Karrke. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ 75vibes)

    The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

    On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

    3. Kungkas Can Cook

    Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap
    Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

    The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

    Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

    4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

    woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)
    See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

    Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

    Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

    5. Pudakul

    Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours
    Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

    Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

    This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

    6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

    Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise
    Spot the wildlife of the billabong. (Image: Tourism & Events NT)

    Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

    Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

    7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

    artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin
    Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

    A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

    Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

    8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

    woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls)
    Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

    There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

    On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

    Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.