The Best Time to Go to Darwin
Darwin by seasons
Unlike the rest of the Northern Territory, the Top End, which includes Darwin as well as Kakadu and Katherine, has just two seasons, the wet and the dry. While the most popular time to travel is the dry season, it is possible to travel to Darwin at any time of year, it just depends on your interests. To help you decide when to travel to Darwin, we’ve split the year in half:
May to October
Darwin’s dry season brings warm, sunny days with blue skies and temperatures averaging 29°C. Humidity levels are low, making this the ideal time to explore the city and hit the beach. If you’re planning on hiking in the national parks, this is a good time too, as days are not too hot and humid. Nights can be surprisingly cool, so do bring a jacket or jumper.
Go for…
Sunsets: in the dry season, Darwin’s sunsets are nothing short of spectacular. A popular sunset watching spot is the beach, particularly Mindil Beach. Crack open a cool beer and enjoy.
Outdoor markets: Darwin’s outdoor markets are open throughout the dry season, so get down to Mindil Beach and shop ‘til you drop among the curio stalls and tempting food stands.
November to April
The wet season sees increased humidity levels and occasional storms and torrential rains. Temperatures are high – well into the thirties – but if you like the heat there’s nothing to stop you having a blast. The region’s waterfalls will be in full flood, and the landscape turns lush and green, while the storms themselves are pretty impressive too.
Go for…
Wildflowers: the rains bring the Top End landscapes to life, and there’s no better place to see this in action than in Kakadu or Litchfield National Parks, where the wildflowers are in full bloom.
Low prices: as it's also the low season, many hotels and tours slash their prices in the wet season, so if you’re looking for a bargain in the Top End, this is the time to come to Darwin.