Australia’s spectacular Northern Territory is an ancient land filled with a wealth of distinct contrasts - from the wetlands of the tropical Top End to the vast desert outback of the Red Centre. It covers almost twenty percent of the country yet is home to just one percent of the entire Australian population. For this very reason it remains one of the country’s most unspoiled outposts, rich in wildlife and housing over 90 National Parks and Reserves within its borders. It retains the romanticism of the frontier lands - a unique. For this very reason it remains one of the country’s most unspoiled outposts, rich in wildlife and housing over 90 National Parks and Reserves within its borders. It retains the romanticism of the frontier lands - a unique, extensive, untamed province whose inhabitants withstand and even relish the extremes of climate, distance and isolation that are the norm in the outback.

The region also boasts a fascinating cultural heritage and there's no question that the presence of the Aboriginals (who own almost 50% of all Northern Territory land) adds an undeniable sense of mysticism to the spectacular scenery. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Red Centre, Australia’s desert heart, where you can join the Aboriginal guides from Anangu tours for a valuable insight into their ancient culture. Here also stands the country’s most recognized icon - Ayers Rock / Uluru. The sheer size of this 600 million year old monolith is enough to take the breath away from even the most world-weary of travellers! Mt Olga / Kata Tjuta is equally awe-inspiring as are the ancient natural wonders of Kings Canyon, Palm Valley and the East and West MacDonnell Ranges whose many gorges and waterholes provide a welcome respite from the heat. The town of Alice Springs (a much more recent addition to the landscape) is also well worth a visit. A thriving outback community, Alice’s attractions include the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the School of the Air and the Desert Park wildlife sanctuary, all of which provide an interesting insight into the unique lifestyle of those who inhabit the outback.

In complete contrast, the scenery of the Top End is a kaleidoscope of colour made up of lush monsoon rainforest, wetlands and clear, blue skies. Darwin, the Territory’s vibrant multi-cultural capital, is the gateway to the renowned World Heritage-listed Kakadu and also Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks (Katherine Gorge) where you can not only explore spectacular landscapes but you can also see some of Australia’s most renowned Aboriginal rock art. Whatever your interests, there’s little doubt that this spectacular red and green contrasting scenery offers a taste of the 'Real Australia'.