Explore the fantastic culture of the Northern Territory

Most know of the Greek myth of the Phoenix, the bird that rises from the ashes of its predecessor. Similar to the bird, one can note the similarities between the legendary bird and the city of Darwin. Being the smallest and wettest city, this is the most northerly of the Australian capital cities. Having been rebuilt a total of four times, the city has faced devastating blows due to the 1897 cyclone, the 1937 cyclone, Japanese air raids during World War II, and Cyclone Tracy in 1974. It is truly a commendable feat to have gone through the worst and still be able to be the prospering capital city of the Northern Territory. Originally inhabited by the Larrakia people, this city is still known as Garramilla to the traditional owners of its land.

The Northern Territory is also home to the ever-famous Kakadu National Park which is a World Heritage Site. In Kakadu you never have to worry about being bored. With the wide variety of activities one can take up, it is truly an epic adventure! Most commonly people hop along for the Yellow Water cruise to capture the postcard shot of the Yellow Water Billabong. This year-round cruise provides a unique and dynamic spectacle across the different seasons. Discover impressive species of birds from jabiru to sea eagles and dancing Broglas. Whistling Ducks and Magpie Geese are in abundance. The Yellow river cruises operate all year round and during the dry season you can explore the billabong on foot. Being onboard is also an easy way to see the park’s wildlife.

The billabong is located near Cooinda which is home to crocodiles, wild horses, buffalo and many other wildlife. Grab amazing views of the wildlife on these cruises. For culture-lovers, the beauty and experience of Kakadu will be a breath-taking and heart-warming one.

Covering almost 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage listing and also Australia’s biggest national park. Find ancient landscapes with spectacular waterfalls, lush rainforests, exotic wildlife and aboriginal rock art. Kakadu is known as the homeland to an indigenous culture that goes far back. Take a tour of the epic outdoor galleries of Nourlangie, Naguluwur and Ubirr where you can find and enjoy a different and special view into Dreamtime creation, stories, and documentation of European contact.

Also undertake activities like the indigenous tour through the National Park. Learn more about the traditional foods, stories, culture and get to hone your basket weaving skills and spot exciting wildlife along the river’s edge. When in Kakadu, check out the Burrunkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site. With a very prevalent spiritual tradition, the paintings can be reached by going for a 1.5 kilometre rock art walk. The two popular Aboriginal rock art galleries are mainly Ubirr and Burrunkay (Nourlangie) rock art.

Be sure to check out Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls; two beautiful waterfalls which will complete your visit to Kakadu. For two waterfalls located nearby geographically, there is a world of differences between the two. The Twin Falls features spectacular flow all throughout the year, over a 220-metre drop onto the beach beneath it whereas the Jim Jim Falls features 150-metre high cliffs surrounded by a beautiful, deep plunge pool which only flows during the wet season.

Learn a lot and discover more from Australia’s biggest national park from rugged escarpments, green rainforests, and jaw-dropping rock art galleries almost 20,000 years. The Northern Territory offers a relaxed and laid-back getaway that is perfect for friends and family. From the wetlands to the amazing wildlife, uncover the beauty of Australia’s spiritual heart.