From camel rides, to jumping crocs, spectacular birdlife and bouncing kangaroos plus a vast array of rich marine life, the Northern Territory is an animal lover's dream!
The intriguing animals that live in the Northern Territory are one of the region's main draw-cards, and there are plenty of amazing opportunities to see these critters in their native environment.
Here are four reasons why animal lovers (and everyone else) should venture to the NT!
1. Hop on a Camel Ride
For those who want to experience one of the NT's famous camel rides, The Red Centre provides the best opportunity to ride through the West MacDonnell Ranges - either during the day or as you watch a beautiful sunset.
Starting from the Pyndan Camel Tracks, you will be guided through the White Gums Station to enjoy panoramic outback views and get up close to the spectacular MacDonnell Ranges. Also, there is no better place to see kangaroos and other local species than from the top of a camel as you travel!
You will also be visiting the 'Camel Lounge’, where you will have the chance to learn more about these cute creatures, shop for souvenirs, and you can learn about Central Australia's camel heritage and camel farm life from friendly cameleers.
2. Witness Jumping Crocs and Feed Them
Feel like the ultimate NT sunset experience? Then hop on this tour from Darwin to Litchfield National Park, complete with jumping crocodiles! Crikey!
This tour gives you the chance to explore the incredible natural beauty of Litchfield National Park, come face to face with a giant saltwater croc and swim in spectacular waterfalls.
Want to get even closer to the NT's crocs? Get up close and personal at Darwin's Crocosaurus Cove!
Explore the world’s biggest collection of Australian reptiles and aquatic creatures, hold a baby croc and enjoy a unique close-up feeding experience with these prehistoric beasts. You can also experience Crocosaurus Cove’s signature experience, the Cage of Death! Australia’s only crocodile dive that plunges you below the water with the crocs themselves.
There’s plenty to check out above the water too! Crocosaurus Cove holds the world’s largest display of Australian reptiles and you’ll get to meet creatures from the Kimberley, Kakadu, and Litchfield areas, as well as those found in the Central Australian Desert. There are also 9 reptile shows daily that will teach you all about the Cove’s inhabitants - so be sure to check it out!
3. See some Sea Turtles
FUN FACT: Darwin is home to adorable sea turtles (and their babies!). During turtle nesting season, Turtle Tracks visits the nesting sea turtles on Njulbitjlk (Bare Sand Island) around sunset where you'll also get to see the egg-laying ritual.
Those who take this trip late in the season may even have the opportunity to watch the release of newborn turtles from their habitat beneath the warm sand.
4. Discover a Diverse Range of Wildlife
This Top End Wildlife and Nature Tour allows you to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the NT's animals and environments.
From visiting Fogg Dam’s Conservation Reserve which boats over 230 species of birds (as well as one of the largest snake populations in Australia) to visiting Corroboree Billabong for an immersive wildlife cruise to the Mary River, you'll get the opportunity to see an abundance of native wildlife in their natural environment.
After the cruise, savour a fresh homemade lunch by the billabong before taking a journey to the coast where you'll discover nurseries home to local favourites such as mud crabs, prawns and Barramundi.
The tours run from 6am to 5pm daily.
