Walking & hiking in the Northern Territory

Appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the NT’s wilderness by exploring it on two feet. With countless opportunities ranging from 30-minute nature trails to epic week-long hikes, you’ll find some of the best bushwalks in the country.

From the vast Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk national parks in the north to Arnhem Land, the West MacDonnell Ranges and the iconic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, there’s no end to the choices on offer. Explore the never-ending variation in landscapes, from the rocky chasms and lush oasis-like vegetation of the Red Centre to the tropics and wetlands of the Top End.

North & central

Start your adventure in the north. Choose from 25 bushwalking trails in the World Heritage-listed Kakadu, walk the Jatbula Trail to Edith Falls, or discover the waterholes of Litchfield National Park.

Central Australia has some wonderful trails that range from short and sweet to strenuous, including one of the most famous day walks in the country – the 9.4km base walk around Uluru. Meanwhile, the world-famous Larapinta Trail, a 223km bushwalking track that runs through the MacDonnell Ranges, was voted by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 20 treks.

Lead the way

There are countless companies in the Northern Territory who arrange organised hikes of varying lengths and difficulties. To make the most out of your walk, arrange an Aboriginal guide, who can provide local knowledge and give insights into the history and traditions of the region.

Prepare yourself

Bushwalking trails are generally well marked, so those who prefer walking on their own just need to strap on a pair of sturdy boots and be on their way. Be sure to bring adequate supplies such as plenty of water, energy food, basic medical equipment, compass, map and a whistle in case you get lost.