“The world’s greatest migration" is happening right now on Christmas Island. Discover how to witness it.
Christmas Island is a wonder at any time of year; it’s one of Australia’s most remote and beautiful territories, yet many Australians remain unaware of it. But once a year in the wet season of October/November – and in fact, right now – the pristine beaches, remote dirt roads, green jungle floors and even purpose-built wildlife bridges are covered in a sea of vibrant red crabs on their annual migration.
Adult crabs make their way to the ocean to mate. (Image: Christmas Island Tourism Association)
And when we say a sea, we mean it. Right now, estimates of up to one hundred million red crabs are making their way from their usual home (eating leaf litter from the rainforest floor) to descend upon the island’s beaches. Why? It’s breeding season.
Several weeks later, tiny offspring reverse the trip. (Image: Christmas Island Tourism Association)
Once described by Sir David Attenborough as “the world’s greatest migration", the Christmas Island crab migration phenomenon takes these crustaceans a week or so of travel time before they can mate. About two to four weeks later, their teeny tiny offspring (we’re talking about five millimetres wide) make the reverse trip to join the adult crabs back inland.
How to see it
Bikes are best during the red crab migration. (Image: Kirsty Faulkner)
Besides watching the iconic Attenborough documentary, travellers can reach Christmas Island by taking an almost four-hour flight from Perth. All major towns in Australia fly to Perth.
Upon arrival, you can hire a car from the Christmas Island Visitor Centre , with 4WD recommended. Although during the red crab migration, many roads remain closed and riding a bicycle or walking is the best way to get around.
Once there, it won’t be difficult to spot the heaving red carpet of crabs, but several tours offer a private charter that includes food and a front-row seat to the red crab migration with an expert tour guide providing more context and insight.
Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.
AI Prompt
What else to do on Christmas Island
Time your trip for the red crab migration, but stay for the rest of Christmas Island’s natural wonders. (Image: Justin Gilligan)
Almost two-thirds of the island is a national park, offering lush rainforest, quiet beaches and an eclectic mix of flora and fauna on land and in the surrounding ocean.
Some of the world’s rarest birds call Christmas Island home. Join a tour to see the nesting grounds of red-footed and brown boobies, and more. Grab a snorkel and dive into deep-blue ocean drop-offs, where peaceful whale shark giants are often found. Or, pick a secret swimming spot from several deserted grotto pools or spectacular rainforest waterfalls.
Thanks to a unique mix of cultures on the island, the cuisine here is an equally eclectic mix of Malay, Singaporean, Australian and Chinese.
Kassia Byrnes is the Native Content Editor for Australian Traveller and International Traveller. She's come a long way since writing in her diary about family trips to Grandma's. After graduating a BA of Communication from University of Technology Sydney, she has been writing about her travels (and more) professionally for over 10 years for titles like AWOL, News.com.au, Pedestrian.TV, Body + Soul and Punkee. She's addicted to travel but has a terrible sense of direction, so you can usually find her getting lost somewhere new around the world. Luckily, she loves to explore and have new adventures – whether that’s exploring the backstreets, bungee jumping off a bridge or hiking for days. You can follow her adventures on Instagram @probably_kassia.
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
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
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
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)
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
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
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
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)
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.
