Darwin Overview

Founded in 1839, Darwin (pop. 110,000) has survived two major disasters, one deliberate (a Japanese bombing sustained during WWII) and one natural (Cyclone Tracy, which struck Christmas Eve 1974). Each time, the resilient city rebounded, and Darwin has evolved into the administrative capital of the NT. Anywhere else in the world it would be just another small city, but Darwin is not anywhere else—it’s the gateway to the splendor of the Top End.

Seasons here are divided only into the wet season (“the Wet”; Nov.-Apr.) and the desert-like dry season (“the Dry”; May-Oct.). While the Wet washes away much of the tourist traffic, Darwin is awash in backpackers and beer during the Dry. Active populations of travelers and migrant workers give Darwin a shot of youthful DNA, and the beachside city boasts an unexpectedly vibrant and lively nightlife scene. Meanwhile, for those looking to explore Top End’s fabulous national parks, Darwin is a natural base camp. Many tour companies operate out of the town, making getting out into the great outdoors easy and economical. Modern Darwin can provide you with whatever you missed while exploring the Outback, be it museums, refined cuisine, or a rip-roaring party.

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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.