hero media

Virgin Australia just dropped $145 flights to the NT – but you’ve only got 1 week to book

Credit: Tourism & Events NT / Safari Global

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
Winter got you down? Virgin Australia might just have the cure, and it costs less than your weekly grocery shop.

Virgin Australia has launched a flash sale to the Northern Territory with one-way fares starting from a jaw-dropping $145, giving Australians the perfect excuse to trade grey skies for red dirt and hot springs.

The deal, in a nutshell

Nitmiluk Gorge Boat Cruise
Virgin Australia has launched a flash sale to the Northern Territory. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT / Roady Travel / Nitmiluk Tours)

From 12.01am AEST Monday 22 June to 11.59pm AEST Sunday 28 June 2026, Virgin Australia is offering heavily discounted one-way economy fares to the Top End – but only if you move fast, because these prices are gone the moment they sell out.

Here’s where the real bargains are hiding:

  • Adelaide to/from Alice Springs – from $145
  • Melbourne to/from Darwin – from $159
  • Brisbane to/from Darwin – from $165
  • Perth to/from Darwin – from $185
  • Sydney to/from Darwin – from $239

That last one is especially exciting timing-wise – the sale lands alongside the debut of Virgin Australia’s inaugural Sydney to Darwin route, opening up a fresh, direct way for the harbour city to escape into the Top End.

Travel dates run from 29 July 2026 through to 24 March 2027, so there’s plenty of runway to plan an escape that actually fits your calendar – whether that’s a spontaneous winter dash or an autumn 2027 adventure.

Why now is the time to go

Exploring the West MacDonnell Ranges
Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges. (Credit: Tourism Australia / Nicholas Kavo)

This isn’t just a random discount – it’s timed to coincide with some of the NT’s biggest drawcards on the calendar.

Head to Darwin in August and you’ll land in the middle of Darwin Festival, with more than 400 performances. Pair that with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, the National Indigenous Fashion Awards and Country to Couture, and you’ve got one of the richest cultural calendars in the country happening right when fares are at their lowest.

Prefer the desert to the tropics? The Red Centre brings its own headline acts, including Red CentreNATS and Desert Mob in September/October.

And then there’s the everyday stuff: soaking in the hot springs at Katherine (one of our 100 Best Aussie Towns) while the rest of the country shivers, or watching summer colour wash over the West MacDonnell Ranges.

“There has never been a better time to book a trip and discover the Territory’s incredible landscapes, culture and adventure," Virgin Australia chief marketing and customer operations officer Libby Minogue said.

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

AI Prompt

The fine print

East Woody Beach, Nhulunbuy
Nhulunbuy is the gateway to East Arnhem Land. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT / Safari Global)

A few things worth knowing before you sprint to checkout:

  • The $145 fare is specifically the Adelaide to Alice Springs Economy Choice fare; other routes are based on Economy Lite.
  • Economy Lite fares don’t include seat selection or checked baggage – so factor that into your total cost.
  • Fares are subject to availability and blackout periods apply.
  • A payment surcharge may be added depending on how you pay.

Bottom line

Florence Falls, Litchfield
Float at Florence Falls. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT / Safari Global)

If a winter circuit-breaker has been on your mind, this is about as good as Top End fares get. With the sale window closing Sunday 28 June – and historically, flash sales like this tend to sell out their cheapest seats fast – the move is simple: pick your dates, pick your destination, and book before the window shuts.

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
View profile and articles
The Aussie landmark crowned the world’s most ‘worth it’ destination
Red Centre

The Aussie landmark crowned the world’s most ‘worth it’ destination

The road there may be rugged, but this ancient outback wonder is officially worth the effort.

Read more
field of light uluru
NT

7 best towns in the Northern Territory to visit now

These towns have officially been ranked the best in the NT. And they leave a mark on all who visit.

Read more
helicopter ride over kakadu only in the nt
NT

Untouched wilderness & unexpected pub crawls: 8 experiences you’ll only find in the NT

The Northern Territory isn’t just different – it’s a whole new world. From the friendly locals and varied landscapes to its cultural layers, there’s nowhere else in Australia quite like it.

Read more
Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk
Uluru

The world’s oldest walk just launched in Australia, and we tested it out

Australian Traveller was part of the first group to join the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk, which delivers an experience like no other.

Read more
hero media

8 experiences to restart and inspire your senses for 2026

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
    Continue
    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.