DARWIN DISCOVERY JUNE 2024

After breakfast, we are joined by a local guide for a sightseeing tour of Darwin. The present city centre was established in 1869 and contains most of its remaining historic buildings such as the Old Police Station, the Old Court House and Government House. From here, we visit Darwin’s cultural institution, the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). Set in a tropical garden at Bullocky Point, the MAGNT has a variety of collections that highlight the region’s art, culture, and history. One of the more popular and powerful exhibitions tells the story of Cyclone Tracy and how it changed, not just the urban landscape, but the lives of Darwin residents. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Late afternoon we are off to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market – it is a major social event and this fabulous local market offers over 200 stalls with nearly 60 food stalls from more than 30 different countries. With the multi-cultural background of Darwin, we are sure to be tempted by some delicious food and smells as we explore the market! Dinner is at our own expense this evening. At a pre-arranged time, we transfer back to the hotel.

We head to the beautiful Litchfield National Park. With untouched rainforests, stunning waterfalls, swimming hole and magnificent scenery, Litchfield has gained the reputation as the jewel of the Northern Territory’s crown. There are plenty of great photo opportunities as we stop to see the magnetic anthills and see the cascading Florence Falls. For anyone looking for a swim – take a dip in the Wangi Falls plunge pool.

We are heading out of Darwin today to Corroboree Billabong which is part of the Mary River Wetlands, and home to the largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world. Definitely not a spot for swimming however we do enjoy a cruise on the wetlands viewing plenty of crocodiles plus a huge variety of birds and other local wildlife in their natural environment. The boat design allows you to get up close to the animals with plenty of opportunities to take amazing pictures as we cruise around this nature lover’s paradise. Lunch is included today returning to Darwin with the evening at leisure.

Today will be an interesting day filled the history and the part Darwin played in World War II. We head to Stokes Hill Wharf to visit the Bombing of Darwin tourist facility and the Royal Flying Doctor Service – two iconic stories in one iconic location! From here we visit the fascinating Oil Storage Tunnels which were built during WWII by the Civil Construction Corps. This unique tourist attraction located in the Darwin Wharf Precinct on Kitchener Drive was reopened in 1992 to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin. Located beneath the cliffs of Darwin city, these tunnels are easily accessible to everyone and feature a photographic display of Darwin during WWII including photographs of the brave men and women who served in the protection of our country. Before leaving the area we have time at the popular dining spot of the Darwin Waterfront, where there are many lunch venues to choose from. This afternoon we head to industrial Winnellie and the Australian Aviation Heritage Centre. Here there is an impressive collection of the Territory’s aviation history. A massive B52 Bomber dwarfs other exhibits, including Mirage and Sabre jets, a Spitfire replica, Wessex and Huey Cobra helicopters. Other exhibits include engines and armament as well as many photographs of Darwin at war, pioneer flights and record breakers. This evening we experience the famous Darwin sunset onboard the Spirit of Darwin. Cruise the tranquil harbour waters while enjoying dinner as the sun sets on the horizon. Don’t worry about a thing as our transfer coach will get us there and back with ease.

Following breakfast, we are transferred to the airport for our flight home. Upon arrival in Perth, your driver will be waiting to take you home.