SURPRISE ME!

Explore and Seek: Must-have Aboriginal Experiences in Northern Territory

Jyotsana Shekhawat

Last updated: Nov 9, 2023

When you drive on the Australian roads of the Northern Territory with your culture-vulture glasses on, you get to know the country more than you realise. And there’s no place better than Northern Territory to pull the car, put on your best shoes and let the trails take you on a time-machine-kind-of ride which introduces you to Australia’s oldest living culture.

Northern Territory, nicknamed as the NT, is the destination-perfect to immerse yourself in the Aussie Aboriginal cultural experiences. From art scenes to the minutest of details – the state has a history cradling in its periphery which wheels 65,000 years back in time. The best retreat as it is, the NT lounges at the top of the continent, keeping the company of subtle blue sky and panoramic views blanketed by native fauna and abundant heritage with multiple Aboriginal communities, dialects, attire and whatnot.

Tap these experiences to interact with the fascinating stories and enriching values connected to indigenous roots.

 

Tour Kakadu National Park

One of two UNESCO World Heritage listed national parks, Kakadu National Park is packed with natural and cultural lenses that give you a peek into the life of Bininj and Mungguy people. The sprawling land of Kakadu is home to 5,000 rock art sites including the main three: Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), Kunwarddewardde lookout, and Abangbang shelter. You’ll also see waterfalls, wetlands and exotic wildlife.

Let the guide take you on a tour of this hotspot and listen to the stories of the ancient life they have to share. Witness the relationships of the people to the land and their beliefs. Don’t forget to include get artsy as you try weaving baskets!

 

Interact with the local Aboriginal people of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, the Anangu people.

Nestled in the heart of the country is Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, the second UNESCO World Heritage listed national park in Australia’ Northern Territory. It is an important site for the Anangu people. Watch the majestic Uluru, a massive sandstone monolith, and Kata Tjuta, a cluster of large rock domes, change colours during sunrise and sunset from ochre to burnished orange and intense red. Dining under the starlit sky and exploring Aboriginal cultural and history through a guided tour are must-do for anyone who visits this iconic destination.

 

Live the Tiwi Way on Tiwi Islands

Tiwi Islands is your doorway to experience the Aboriginal way of living at its rawest – and we promise, it is one-of-a-kind affair. This charming destination is famous for being home to the descendants of the Aboriginal people and walks you through the day-to-day happenings of history and culture. While you are there, don’t miss out on soulful experiences Tiwi has to offer, including an hour or more exploring the art centres, variety of cultural activities, and – food.

 

Embrace the Quiet with Arnhem Land 

Arnhem Land is a remote region embraced by the Arafura Sea and elevated by nature and rare wildlife. This low-key destination is home to Garig Gunak Barlu National Park and Mt. Borradaile, which caters to your adventurous and nature-lover personality. Catch up on the profoundness of history at Injalak Arts Centre. If you are travelling in the month of August, then you must head to the Garma Festival and participate in the art, dance, workshops and a lot of activities that give you a broader perspective of the ancient life.

 

Take Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience Tour

Learn more and more about Australia’s oldest living culture with Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience Tour. This aboriginal-owned tour walks you through the life of Luritja and Partame people. For one hour, you will find yourself learning about the bush medicine, alongside the making of dot painting tools and jewellery making with seeds.
Don’t forget to stretch your trip to witness Kings Canyon with its 300-metre high sandstone walls and tour Warrtaka National Park while you’re there.

 

Explore our handpicked holiday packages for Australia’s Northern Territory NOW.