Katherine Gorge © NT Tourist Commission
A slice through the centre of Australia, the Northern Territory
contains the 'Red Centre' of the country with its rugged bush,
ancient Aboriginal cultures and amazing plant and wildlife. The
abundant wide open space is the 'Outback' of Australia. The
Northern Territory is twice the size of California, but is
inhabited by fewer than 200,000 people. It draws tourists, however,
because it forms the backdrop for adventure on a grand scale -
hot-air ballooning, bushwalking, four-wheel drive safaris, camel
rides, all of it accessible from good roads and from bases with
quality accommodation.
From Darwin, the capital of Northern Australia in the far north,
down to the mysterious Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the pioneering town
of Alice Springs in the south, the Northern Territory is a land of
contrasts. Here you will meet some of Australia's most colourful
characters and experience deserts, islands and beaches, wetlands
teeming with birds and crocodiles, shining rivers and ancient
Aboriginal sites.
Travellers should be aware that especially during the summer
months (usually between October and May) the shallow coastal waters
of northern Australia become infested with marine stingers,
commonly known as box jellyfish, whose sting is highly dangerous
and can be deadly. Many beaches offer protected swimming with
stinger nets in place, or enclosed tidal pools, and surf lifesavers
may warn people off infested beaches. Swimmers may also wear a
lycra 'stinger suit' as protection.
