The NT is having its time in the spotlight – and we’ll show you why!

Feb 10, 2026

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The Northern Territory is experiencing a surge of global attention, with leading international travel publications naming it among the world’s most compelling destinations for 2026.

A person with a blue cap and orange backpack stands on rocky terrain, overlooking a vast green landscape—perfect for Walking Tours—dotted with bushes, trees, and distant hills beneath a clear blue sky. Life's an adventure in sights like these.

From the tropical landscapes of the Top End to the spiritual heart of the Red Centre, the Territory is being celebrated for its extraordinary natural beauty and deeply immersive cultural experiences.

Three hikers from Life's An Adventure walk along a rocky, uneven trail surrounded by sparse trees and shrubs under a blue sky, with hills and rock formations visible in the distance.

In January 2026, The New York Times ranked the Top End 14th in its prestigious 52 Places to Go in 2026 list, placing it ahead of renowned destinations such as Los Angeles and Nagasaki.

Two people wearing wide-brimmed hats and backpacks smile and give thumbs-up gestures while enjoying their guided walking holiday on a rocky hillside. The background showcases a scenic view of greenery and distant hills in the Northern Territory under a partly cloudy sky.

The feature highlighted the reopening of Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park, alongside the region’s ancient Aboriginal rock art and vast, untamed wilderness.

A serene river scene at sunset, with vibrant pink and orange clouds reflecting on the calm water. Green foliage lines the riverbanks, adding to the tranquil atmosphere that Kakadu Walking Holidays promises to capture as you explore these untouched landscapes.

Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park was recognised in National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026, applauding new Anangu-led experiences, including the Uluru Kata Tjuta Signature Walk. Condé Nast Traveller also named Uluru and Darwin among its top places to visit, praising immersive light-and-sound experiences and Darwin’s vibrant arts and events scene.

kakadu

BBC Travel further reinforced the Territory’s status by including Uluru in its 2026 travel list, confirming the Northern Territory as a standout global destination.

A group of five hikers stands on a rocky trail, reminiscent of the Larapinta Trail Walk, against a backdrop of rugged cliffs. They are dressed in casual hiking attire, and some hold walking sticks. The red and orange hues of the rocks create a vibrant, natural landscape.

If you are curious to discover what all the excitement is about, there is no better way than joining one of our pack-free guided walking experiences. From late May to August, the Northern Territory offers a perfect escape from winter, with reliably warm days, clear blue skies and comfortable walking conditions.

Two hikers rest among the rocks and trees along the Larapinta Walk Trail, overlooking a vast mountain range under a clear blue sky. Their backpacks lie nearby as the landscape stretches with rugged, sunlit peaks in the distance.

In the south, enjoy pack-free walking in the iconic Larapinta region near Alice Springs, renowned for its dramatic gorges, tranquil waterholes and striking mountain ranges. For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, our exclusive tour includes a two-night stay in remote Arnhem Land, home to the world’s largest and most spectacular collection of rock art.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Kimberley Walk in Western Australia. Gaze upon a scenic view of rugged mountain ranges with reddish-brown peaks beneath a clear blue sky, while the foreground showcases a flat, grassy landscape dotted with small shrubs and trees—perfect for walking holidays in WA.

Our journeys also explore the dramatic escarpments of Kakadu National Park, with the option to extend your adventure to Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge). With an exceptional network of trails and landscapes, the Northern Territory is a destination that rewards exploration at every step.