Darwin tours

Things to do in Darwin

Darwin is the vibrant epicentre of Australia’s Top End, where diverse cultures and natural beauty coexist in an intriguing mix. The city’s lively markets and the breathtaking sunsets over the Timor Sea offer a feast for the senses. A guided tour of Darwin is an adventure in contrasts. As you wander through the bustling Mindil Beach markets, the tropical sun adds warmth to the vibrant atmosphere. Your guide knows the perfect spots for a food and wine tour, where you can savour the unique taste of freshly caught barramundi. Bypassing the crowded queues, you delve into the rich narratives of the city’s multicultural past and present. Experiencing Darwin with a local offers a perspective that’s both personal and profound. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Darwin. Explore Darwin your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Darwin tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Darwin for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Cruise the Adelaide River to watch saltwater crocodiles launch from the water, with a guide explaining croc behaviour and safety. Pair it with birdwatching at Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, where you can scan the wetlands for jabirus, egrets, and magpie geese. Day trip tours: Head to Litchfield National Park for swims at Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole, with your guide checking conditions and timing stops to dodge the crowds. Prefer culture and big landscapes? A long but rewarding day to Kakadu can include Ubirr rock art and a Yellow Water billabong cruise. Hiking tours: Stretch your legs on Litchfield’s short circuits to Wangi and Tolmer Falls, or stick closer to town on the WWII and mangrove trails in Charles Darwin National Park. Your guide will plan early starts, bring plenty of water, and pick routes suited to the heat and your pace. Darwin isn’t very walkable for major sights, and public buses are limited. For comfort in the tropical heat and to reach parks easily, you can book chauffeured tours or ask your local guide about tours with private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Darwin inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Embark on a private walking tour of Darwin and explore its distinctive neighborhoods with a local guide. A local's perspective adds depth to your exploration. - Waterfront Precinct: This lively area is perfect for families and groups, with its wave pool, lagoon, and a variety of eateries. It's a great spot to enjoy the tropical climate and waterfront views. - Mindil Beach: Known for its famous sunset markets, this neighborhood is a must-visit for cultural tourists. Enjoy local food stalls, crafts, and live entertainment, all against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. - Parap: A vibrant neighborhood, Parap is popular among foodies and art enthusiasts. The Parap Village Markets are a highlight, offering local delicacies and handcrafted goods. - Fannie Bay: This area is ideal for those interested in history and outdoor activities, featuring the Fannie Bay Gaol Museum and East Point Reserve. It's a blend of history and natural beauty. Day trip ideas from Darwin From Darwin, you can reach waterfalls, wetlands, and island art centres on simple day trips, so your tour can mix swimming holes, wildlife, and culture without leaving the city behind for the night. Litchfield National Park: Swim at Florence Falls or Buley Rockholes, see the giant termite mounds, and walk short tracks to shaded pools; it fits anyone who wants clear water, easy walks, and a full nature day with low drive time. Adelaide River and Fogg Dam: Watch saltwater crocodiles from a boat and scan the wetlands for jabirus and egrets; great for wildlife photography and close-up Top End nature, and your tour can time the cruise and birding stops for the best light. Tiwi Islands: A ferry ride north brings you to community art centres and screen-print studios, with time to learn about local stories and buy art direct; ideal if you care about Indigenous art and want a day that is more cultural than hiking. Mary River wetlands and Corroboree Billabong: Cruise past lotus-covered channels with crocs on the banks and big flocks of birds overhead; good for nature lovers who want long, quiet water time, and your tour can choose sunrise or late afternoon for cooler hours. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Darwin most travellers miss.