There is plenty to see and experience in the Northern Territory without breaking the budget.
From vast national parks to breathtaking sunsets and natural wildlife to match, many of the region’s most memorable experiences don’t have to cost you a small fortune.
Here we break down all the very best nature experiences the Northern Territory has to offer, proving you don’t need to spend big to enjoy your time in the region as a student.
Cool off in a natural swimming hole
WHAT? - Leliyn (Edith) Falls is a must-visit for anyone coming to the Northern Territory.
WHY IT'S SPECIAL - This stunning swimming spot is the perfect way to relax, unwind and soak in the natural wonder of the area. You’ll find a number of waterfalls with pools (an upper and a lower pool) where you can swim and splash around. Pack a picnic or use one of the free barbecues near the car park for a carefree day in the great outdoors.
COST - Entry to the Park costs $10.
GETTING THERE - One of the best ways to get to Nitmiluk National Park is by taking a Greyhound bus. Depending on where you hop on, the bus will take you to the town of Katherine. From here, you can take a taxi to the Park.
Visit the Territory Wildlife Park
WHAT? - Animal lovers, you'll want to visit Territory Wildlife Park.
WHY IT'S SPECIAL - You'll get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most unique and loved birds, reptiles, mammals, sea creatures and even crocodiles. Be sure to check the What’s On page to see what talks and encounters are on offer during your visit.
COST - Entry for students costs $27.50 and allows you full access to the entire park.
GETTING THERE - As the park is a 50km drive from Darwin, it’s worth asking a group of friends if they would also like to go to share the costs of a hire car and petrol.
Explore ancient art at Kakadu National Park
WHAT? - Immerse yourself in ancient Aboriginal culture at Kakadu National Park.
WHY IT'S SPECIAL - Kakadu is home to incredible rock art, some dating back 20,000 years! Wander through the rock art galleries at Ubirr and Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), where you’ll find magnificent paintings of animals, arts, activities and stories, revealing the strong connection between Australia’s First Nations peoples and the land.
COST - Park pass prices vary depending on the season, but are free for Northern Territory residents!
GETTING THERE - Getting to the national park takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes by car from Darwin.
Enjoy the sunset on Mindil Beach
WHAT? - Pack a picnic with your favourite snacks and find a place on the sand to watch the sun go down on Mindil Beach.
WHY IT'S SPECIAL - The striking sunsets in the Northern Territory are not something to be missed as the sky turns a beautiful deep orange, red and purple hue. Once the sun has set, make your way to the nearby Mindil Beach Sunset Markets for dessert and some free entertainment.
COST - Free!
GETTING THERE - Hop on public bus 4 or bus 6 any day of the week.
Chase waterfalls at Litchfield National Park
WHAT? - Need to cool off from the Northern Territory’s hot weather? Litchfield National Park is one of the country's most beloved and famous national parks.
WHY IT'S SPECIAL - Litchfield is home to a number of waterfalls, swimming spots and interesting termite mounds and sandstone pillars. During the peak seasons of May to September, you even have the option to camp in one of the designated campgrounds. It can get very hot so pack plenty of water, sun protection and stay out of the sun during the hottest time of the day.
COST - You will need a Park Pass to enter the park, which will set you back $10.
GETTING THERE - To get to the parks, you can drive (it’s about an hour from Darwin), or if you don’t have a car, there are some bus options.
Take a stroll through the Darwin Botanic Gardens
WHAT? - Just two kilometres from the centre of Darwin, the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens is the perfect way to spend your day.
WHY IT'S SPECIAL - Wander through the gardens and take in all the beautiful Australian and tropical species of plants. There are a number of self-guided walking tours you can choose from, including the Tree Walk, Matboerrma Walk to learn how the local Larrakia people use native plants, the Cycad Walk to view the beautiful local cycad plants, and the Larrakia Coastal Walk that takes you from Mindil Beach to Bullocky Point.
COST - Free!
GETTING THERE - The gardens are an easy bicycle ride or walk from Darwin. Alternatively, city bus 10 stops near the Stuart Hwy/Geranium St corner and city bus 4 stops close to the Gardens Rd entrance.
