There is nothing quite like just looking up and taking in the cosmos, is there? Seriously, when was the last time you took a second to stand outside in the depth of the night, look up and marvel at the stars? Those moments of quiet and natural beauty can be hard to come by, especially if you’re living and working in the throes of the city.
As you’re planning your next getaway, being able to relax, breathe in and look at the stars — and not worry about that email you have to reply to — is something that could be worth considering, especially if you want to decompress.
Luckily, the Northern Territory is full of ample space and opportunity to do just that. From the centre of Australia to all the way up north, the options for starlit experiences are vast, fulfilling and ready for the taking.
But, as you’re getting the ball rolling on taking that all-too-necessary relaxing time away, we’ve partnered with Flight Centre to help get your itinerary planning started, and get you thinking about those stunning, night-time experiences that you might not know you want, but that you probably need.
Lose Yourself in the Field of Light
Obviously, no list of under-the-stars experiences in the NT or anywhere in Australia would be complete without Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park’s now classic installation — the Field of Light. We’ve all seen the pictures, we’ve all had that supreme jealousy witnessing other people marvel at how eerie and breathtaking one of the largest art installations Australia has ever seen.
But, as you peer up, you’ll see a smattering of glittering stars right above you in abundance, and you’ll be able to take that long-awaited exhale.
See Our Country’s Wildlife Like Never Before
While under the stars experiences can definitely be relaxing, they don’t necessarily have to be. Case in point: nighttime wildlife tours throughout the red centre. Lots of native fauna exist solely in these landscapes and these landscapes only, so it might be a literal once-in-a-lifetime experience to see those nocturnal animals in their natural habitat — head torch and all.
From bilbies to echidnas to beyond, you can walk through Alice Springs Desert Park, for example, and get a safe and up-close look at wildlife like you might never have before.
Or, if that’s a little too immersed in nature for your tastes, you can always hop on a camel for a ride as the sunsets, which you probably can’t do back home.
Cruise Through Darwin Harbour
From the scorching centre to the northern waters, unique experiences by moonlight are not exclusive to Australia’s centre. Darwin has plenty to offer throughout the city, but why not set sail under the stars? A sunset and dinner cruise through Darwin Harbour, with the ability to even book a private charter, is a great way to literally leave your troubles on land. With champagne in hand, good laughs and better food, you can watch the sunset in a way only the top end can provide.
The Northern Territory is just waiting for you to explore it, from the heat and hustle of Darwin to the ochre-coated tranquillity of the nation’s centre. Unlike anywhere else in the country, the Northern Territory is unique in its colour, scenery and, ultimately, its feel. Flight Centre has an array of NT travel packages ready to purchase right now, so why not start browsing for your next chance to unplug and fully take in everything NT has to offer?
The night sky’s the limit.
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