Top Northern Territory Historical Tours

Experience the sunrise over Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) on an early morning tour that helps you beat the heat and the crowds. Before dawn, travel into UNESCO-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and admire the colors of the sunrise over one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Australia's Red Centre. Enjoy an outback picnic breakfast followed by a walking tour of stunning Walpa Gorge. This small-group tour promises a more personalized experience.

See Darwin’s highlights on a handy half-day tour by bus. Learn about Darwin’s World War II history at the Defence of Darwin Experience, with admission to this military heritage site included. Explore the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and stop by the 1934 Qantas Hangar and Darwin Aviation Museum, among other sites on this comprehensive introduction to Darwin. Includes handy hotel transfers; caravan parks cost extra.

Short on time? Marvel over the star attractions of Australia’s Red Centre on a half-day tour from Ayers Rock. Witness the dazzling sunrise over sacred Uluru from the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing platform and learn about the rock’s spiritual importance to the Anangu indigenous people. Then, embark on a guided hike through the red desert of the Walpa Gorge and get up close to the magnificent domed rocks of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas).

Delve into the rich tapestry of Arnhem Land's Aboriginal culture with immersive activities at Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experiences near Katherine. Under the guidance of knowledgeable locals, learn the traditional art of didgeridoo playing, listen to captivating Dreamtime stories, and create a mini Aboriginal painting to take home as a cherished souvenir. Engage with the land and its heritage as you swim in the crystal-clear pools of Edith Falls and explore the serene Southern Rockhole in Nitmiluk National Park. This journey is a unique opportunity to connect deeply with Indigenous culture and gain insights from an award-winning guide, Manuel Pamkal.

Ensure you get the best sunset vista by heading out onto the water on this cruise across Darwin Harbour. Aboard a large, ocean-going catamaran with plenty of deck space, sit under the sails or in the air-conditioned salon and toast the setting sun with a glass of sparkling wine before enjoying a tapas/barbecue dinner while soaking up the views—if you wish, you can bring your own drinks and keep them chilled in the on board coolers.

Explore Kakadu National Park and learn about Australia’s Aboriginal heritage on a full-day tour from Darwin. You'll see the highlights of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed park, including ancient rock art of Ubirr Rock and views from the Nadab lookout. Then take a Guluyambi cultural cruise along the East Alligator River, traveling with an indigenous guide who stops along the way to show you the dramatic landscapes of Arnhem Land. Note: March and April visit the Burrungkuy and Nourlangie Rock galleries and ride the Billabong cruise.

Feel the adrenaline rush of flying over the iconic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge and experience its sheer beauty from above. This is an amazing perspective shift if you've seen the gorge on the water by boat. Taking off from the Nitmiluk Gorge helipad you will fly past the Nitmiluk Visitors Information Centre and camp grounds before entering the mouth of the mighty Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Once over the Gorge we will take you on a birds eye experience over Jedda’s Rock, Butterfly Gorge and Lily Pond before turning homeward above the third Gorge.

Enjoy unbeatable aerial views of Kakadu National park—Australia’s largest national park—on this scenic flight. Take off from Jabiru for a thrilling flight on a light aircraft and soar over natural wonders including The Archway, the Arnhem Land escarpments, East Alligator Valley, the Mikinj Valley Billabongs, and the Magela flood plains. With a guaranteed window seat, you are assured a spectacular view, and live commentary from your pilot will make sure you don’t miss anything.

Immerse yourself into the history of Mparntwe (pronounced m’barn-twa), the Arrernte name of Alice Springs. Learn how it came to be the central hub of the Australian outback by visiting the historical sites that played a big part in the evolution of a town originally called Stuart and its progression to what Alice Springs is today.

Explore the ancient history and modern vibrancy of Darwin on a half-day sightseeing tour. Travel by coach and listen as your local guide shares commentary about the tropical city’s natural and cultural attractions. Delve into Aboriginal art at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and stroll past fragrant orchid blooms at the Botanic Gardens.

Active travelers will enjoy this five-hour Valley of the Winds circuit hike at Kata Tjuta. Get up close to the incredible red rock formations while learning about the natural and cultural history of the area from your guide. Receive personalized attention from your guide on a small-group tour. This is a great way to get active while seeing the sights of Australia’s red center.

Skip the hassle of planning logistics and experience Uluru with a small group, led by a local guide. Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, follow the Mala Walk, and visit ancient rock art sites while learning the powerful stories and traditions of the Anangu people. End the day at the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area, and enjoy an uninterrupted sunset over Uluru with a glass of sparkling wine.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) provides medical services by plane to Australia’s most remote outback areas. With this ticket, visit the RFDS tourist facility in Darwin to learn more about the work of the RFDS team and hear heroic rescue stories, as well as discover stories about the World War II Bombing of Darwin. Enjoy interactive exhibits including a VR presentation and explore inside an RFDS aircraft.

Explore Alice Springs and the East MacDonnell ranges. Visit Anzac Hill, School of Air, Araluen Art Centre, Dr John Flynn's Museum, Emily Gap, Jessie Gap, and more. Discover heroic tales of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Visit Aboriginal spiritual sites before enjoying panoramic views of Alice Springs from Anzac Hill.

A specially tailored tour for those with an interest in World War II, this guided tour takes you back in time to the day in 1942 when the war reached mainland Australia and the city of Darwin was bombed. Your guide shares stories from the fateful day as they lead you on a leisurely walk through the historic quarter of the city, past historic buildings dating from that era and through Darwin's streets and gardens.

Enjoy a small-group tour of majestic Kata Tjuta, one of Australia’s most famous natural wonders. Travel from Ayers Rock Resort in an air-conditioned tour vehicle to Walpa Gorge, part of the Kata Tjuta site within UNESCO-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Learn the natural history and cultural significance of this sacred site and walk through the gorge for an amazing perspective of this key landmark.

Learn about Darwin’s history during World War II, including its bombing, from a local guide with personal connections. Your guide shares family stories from the bombing and takes you to various locations tied to the war, including the Darwin Aviation Museum, which houses aircrafts from multiple wars. Uncover the fascinating history of Darwin in a unique way, with personal attention and flexibility.

Arnhem Land is a vast wilderness area rich in Aboriginal culture—it’s home to the traditional land-owners, the Yolngu, and requires a permit to visit. There's no better way to explore the area than with someone indigenous, and that's exactly what this tour provides. Follow your guide to explore the thousands-of-years-old rock art on Injalak Hill and gain insight into the fascinating legends of the Aboriginals.

Discover the educational innovations of the Alice Springs School of the Air on a guided tour that lasts about one hour. Learn how lessons are provided to students in remote locations across Central Australia, starting in 1951 with radio broadcasts, and now using internet technology. Watch a short film about the school’s history, and observe a live lesson as part of your visit.

Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pick-up before we head into the breathtaking landscapes of Kata Tjuta in Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park. With our expert guide, you’ll uncover the area’s remarkable geology, cultural significance, and ancient history as we approach the striking 36 domes—known as “many heads” in the Pitjantjatjara language—formed over hundreds of millions of years. We then set off on the 5.4 km Valley of the Winds walk, following creek beds and winding through the heart of these towering formations. It’s a truly immersive way to experience the beauty and spirit of this ancient land. After the walk, relax with canapés and Australian wines while taking in a magnificent outback sunset, before returning to your hotel approximately one hour after sunset.

Get an insider’s perspective on the history and culture of Darwin on this walking tour with a local guide. Hear the background stories to the buildings and monuments that you’d miss if you just walked past them alone. There are many opportunities to stop and take pictures of the must-see sights as well as the more peaceful, hidden corners of central Darwin.

Head to Finke Gorge National Park from Alice Springs to explore an Aboriginal community and a beautiful oasis in the outback. Visit the historic town of Hermannsburg with its historic buildings and Aboriginal art gallery before going off-road in a 4WD to tackle the notorious Finke River trail. Highlights include a picnic lunch, Palm Valley, known for its red cabbage palms, and views of the MacDonnell Ranges from Kalarranga Lookout.

Discover the Wild Heart of Kakadu! What makes this tour unique? Discover the highlights of Kakadu in 2 unforgettable days! Cruise Corroboree Billabong, explore Ubirr’s ancient rock art, swim in Maguk and Gunlom Falls, and enjoy exclusive access to Ikoymarrwa. Stay overnight at Mardugal Billabong in a powered safari tent and experience the Top End’s wildlife, culture, and breathtaking landscapes with expert guides. Highlights: • Corroboree Billabong wildlife cruise • Kakadu National Park exploration • Picnic lunch at East Alligator River • Cahill’s Crossing • Ubirr ancient Aboriginal rock art and Dreamtime stories • 360° views over Nardab floodplains and Arnhem Land • Overnight stay at Mardugal Billabong safari camp • Swim at Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) • Gunlom Falls infinity pools (*seasonal) • Ikoymarrwa (Moline Rockhole)