Northern Territory

Share

Welcome to the Northern Territory, a vast and vibrant region at the heart of Australia's Outback. The Territory spans six stunning regions — the tropics of Darwin, Kakadu National Park and Katherine, the yellow plains of Tennant Creek, the desert landscapes of Alice Springs and the world-renowned Uluru. Located in the central and northern regions of Australia, the Northern Territory is an ideal destination for those seeking an Australian campervan holiday off the beaten path. 

Why visit this region? Well, aside from the above, the Northern Territory is renowned for its significant Aboriginal heritage, hosting some of the oldest Indigenous cultures and artefacts in the world. Northern Territory attractions span everything from Crocodile encounters to exploring the wild, rugged landscapes of the largest national park in Australia with Kakadu tours from Darwin. While this northern region experiences a tumultuous wet season (November-April), the dry season (May to October) provides pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, clear skies and open roads — perfect for an Australian campervan holiday adventure.

 

Oysters Family at the beach Salad

Join thousands of RV travellers


Sign up for our Go By Camper newsletter to receive inspirational travel content and awesome deals, and we'll send you a copy of our Ultimate RV guide!

maui is committed to protecting your privacy and information security. Your information will be used in accordance with any application privacy law, our internal policies, and our Privacy Policy, and will be held securely.

Thanks

Please confirm subscription in your email.

Why Explore the Northern Territory by Campervan

When it comes to delving deep into the heart of Australia’s Outback, nothing matches the freedom and flexibility offered by a maui campervan. On an Australian campervan holiday, every stop holds a new adventure. The Northern Territory’s expansive landscapes, from its desolate deserts to its teeming tidal flats, are best experienced at your own pace, making spontaneous detours and stops to fully appreciate the raw beauty of this remote state.

Travelling by campervan not only provides unmatched access to secluded spots and Northern Territory attractions but also ensures you have all the comforts of home (including plentiful water and refrigerated food!), no matter how remote the location. This method of travel is particularly suited to the Northern Territory, as the majority of Northern Territory attractions and activities are spread out and the beauty of the region unfolds over vast distances. What’s more, the flexibility to move with the weather and chase the sunrise or sunset adds another layer of magic to your Australian campervan holiday, enhancing your connection to this timeless land. Embrace the spirit of exploration that the Northern Territory is famous for, with the added comfort and convenience of your home on wheels.

Things to Do in the Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is brimming with activities. Whether you're a history enthusiast eager to explore ancient Aboriginal art sites like those in Kakadu National Park, or a nature lover looking to immerse yourself in the biodiverse environments of the MacDonnell Ranges, there's no shortage of things to do in the Northern Territory. For those who revel in urban experiences, there are also plenty of things to do in Darwin, including markets, museums, and waterfront dining. This brief overview barely scratches the surface; for more comprehensive guides, be sure to explore our detailed articles below:

Popular Northern Territory Road Trips & Itineraries

The Northern Territory, nestled in the heart of Australia, is bordered by Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland. This central location makes it an ideal starting point for an epic northern Australian campervan holiday. Accessible via major flights into Darwin or Alice Springs, it serves as a gateway to some of Australia's most iconic road trips. Popular routes include the journey from Darwin to the breathtaking Kakadu National Park or the adventurous drive across the Tanami Desert to Western Australia. These routes showcase the diversity and vastness of the Australian landscape, making them must-experience itineraries for any road tripper.

 

Great Savings on Your Northern Territory Road Trip

Our fully self-contained motorhomes have everything you need for unscripted, Outback Australian campervan holiday experience. Holiday here this year and experience a motorhome holiday with your nearest and dearest across the diverse landscapes of the Northern Territory. Check out our incredible offers below to find how much you can save when you grab a motorhome from our dedicated branches in Darwin or Alice Springs. So you can experience more for less and make lasting memories in the heart of Australia!

maui Northern Territory Campervan Branches

Our Alice Springs Branch

The colourful city of Darwin is the perfect place to begin your Australian campervan holiday adventure through the Northern Territory. Home to a slow pace of life in a balmy tropical climate, as well as an abundance of incredible natural wonders, Darwin has something for every kind of traveller. Best of all, you can easily start your motorhome adventure in Darwin from the Darwin maui branch. From here, you can easily access the stunning landscapes of Litchfield National Park or embark on a longer journey to the remote beauty of Arnhem Land and beyond.

Katherine5.jpg

Our Darwin Branch

The Outback capital of Alice Springs is the perfect destination to experience the quintessential Australian spirit on an Australian campervan holiday. From the ancient desert it sits upon to the strong Aboriginal culture woven into all aspects of life, there's no doubt that Alice Springs is the beating heart of the iconic Red Centre. The Alice Springs maui branch is the perfect starting point for exploring the famed Uluru, the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges, or to travel deeply and connect with the remote Outback’s spirit and heritage. 

Helpful Tips For Visiting NT

Before you set off on your Northern Territory adventure, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Australian campervan holiday. From understanding the unique climate to packing smartly, and exploring iconic Northern Territory attractions to finding the best campervan stops, we've got you covered. Get ready for an unforgettable campervan holiday in Australia with these handy guidelines.

The Northern Territory features two distinct climates: the tropical Top End, which includes Darwin, and the semi-arid Central Australia, home to Alice Springs and Uluru. Regardless of where you choose to wander, the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is cooler and less humid, ideal for road trips and outdoor activities. Visiting during the off-peak, wet season, means fewer crowds but more unpredictable weather, with potential road closures due to flooding. This variation greatly influences the type of experience you can expect, so plan accordingly for your Australian campervan holiday.

When packing for the Northern Territory, consider both the climate and the activities you plan to enjoy. Essential items include sturdy walking shoes for exploring places like Kakadu National Park or Litchfield National Park, lightweight clothing that offers sun protection, and a broad-brimmed hat. Don't forget to equip your campervan with useful add-ons like extra water containers for remote travels. For a more detailed packing list, check out the full guide to what to pack for a motorhome trip.

The Northern Territory is rich with natural wonders, iconic Northern Territory attractions and day trips. Here’s a deeper look into some of the most iconic places you can explore on an Australian campervan holiday through the Northern Territory:

 

  • Uluru: Often considered the spiritual heart of Australia, Uluru (sometimes mis-named as Ayers Rock) is a massive sandstone monolith in the southern part of the Northern Territory. No visit to the region is complete without witnessing the spectacular change of colors at sunrise and sunset. There are also several walking tracks around Uluru, cultural tours, and the nearby Kata Tjuta formations, which are equally majestic.

 

  • Kakadu National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest national park in Australia and a haven for nature lovers visiting the Northern Territory. Kakadu is known for its biodiversity, including a vast array of bird species, and significant Aboriginal rock art sites that are thousands of years old. The park offers numerous walking trails, waterfalls, and billabongs where you can take a refreshing dip. Seasonal cruises on the Yellow Water Billabong provide opportunities to spot crocodiles and other wildlife.

 

  • Litchfield National Park: Just a short drive from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls and clear plunge pools. It’s an ideal spot for a day trip from Darwin, offering easy walking trails leading to breathtaking views, swimming opportunities, and picnic areas. Highlights include Buley Rockhole, Florence Falls, and the giant termite mounds nearby.

 

  • Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge): Located near the town of Katherine, about three hours from Darwin, this park features a series of dramatic sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River. Visitors can explore the gorges by canoe or boat or take scenic flights to appreciate their grandeur from above. The park also offers excellent hiking trails and the chance to learn about the indigenous Jawoyn people's culture and history.

The Northern Territory boasts a variety of campervan-friendly accommodations. Below are a few of our top pick for each region. Each option provides excellent facilities and a comfortable base from which to explore the vast landscapes of the Northern Territory. 

 

 

 

 

For a more rustic experience, the Boab Caravan Park in Katherine offers a charming stay. 

Northern Territory Travel Tips & Inspiration

Motorhome Hire Australia

International Numbers