Getting To The Northern Territory
Despite its remote Central Australian location, there are a number of ways to arrive in the Northern Territory including by car, train and air. As the unique landscape is one of the major attractions of the Top End and Red Centre, driving is a popular way to arrive as it also gives you the freedom of your own vehicle to explore this wide brown land. There are a number of major roads and highways which offer easy access to some of the Northern Territory's main towns and landmarks however it is worth noting that some of the more secluded natural attractions require 4WD access and that some roads are closed during the wet season due to flooding. However generally, all roads in and around the Northern Territory are in good condition and are well-signed, meaning you can explore the NT in comfort and convenient along these sealed roads.
Arriving in the Northern Territory by air gives a completely different perspective on this distinctive part of Australia and really allows you to appreciate the sheer size and unique attributes of the landscape. There are two main airports accepting passengers in and out of the Northern Territory, including Darwin International Airport and Ayers Rock Airport. The Darwin International Airport is the busiest serving the Northern Territory and is Australia's tenth busiest airport. Located in Darwin's northern suburbs, is just 13km from the city centre and features a domestic and international terminal as well as a cargo terminal and a number of shops and cafes. The Ayers Rock Airport, sometimes referred to as Connellan Airport, is 463km from Alice Springs and is only a 20 minute drive from Uluru (Ayers Rock) itself.
The Ghan is one of the most iconic ways to get to the Northern Territory and it's certainly one of the most beautiful. This living legend takes you on an unbelievable journey through the heart of the continent, beginning in Adelaide and delivering you in comfort to Alice Springs and Darwin. The ultimate journey of Australia, the train travels 2979km over 47 hours on a transcontinental trip that takes you through the amazing landscapes of the Australian outback. Travel in comfort as you pass spinifex plains, colourful outback landscapes, salt pans, rugged mountains and tropical cities. Offering a fantastic insight into some of the Northern Territory's most popular landmarks and attractions, The Ghan travels past the MacDonnell Ranges and into the Top End before continuing on to the Red Centre where you'll enjoy the opportunity to explore spectacular natural wonders such as Kings Canyon, Palm Valley, Uluru (Ayers Rock), The Olgas (Kata Tjuta), the Katherine Gorge and Alice Springs.
However you choose to arrive in the Northern Territory, getting there is easy thanks to a fantastic range of transport options that are more than just a means to an end. Choose your mode of transport carefully and design your Northern Territory experience around the landscapes and perspectives you wish to explore in Central Australia.