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Tiwi Island Adventures: A Guide To The Best Tiwi Island Tour

With its amazing beaches, stunning water holes, prime fishing spots, and immersive cultural tours, a Tiwi Island adventure is one of the best tours to take in the Northern Territory. Our Tiwi Island Retreat offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and allows you to dive into the tranquillity of island living. If you’re looking for the perfect summer getaway, our Tiwi Island Adventure is where it’s at!

If it’s your first time going on a Tiwi Island tour in Darwin, here’s everything you need to know to make your adventure action-packed and enjoyable.

How to get to the Tiwi Islands

To get to the Tiwi Islands , you can either fly via charter plane from the Darwin International Airport or go by ferry. Choose how to get to the Tiwi Islands from the following options:

• Darwin International Airport to Bathurst Island Airport (BRT)
• Darwin International Airport to Snake Bay Airport (located on Melville Island)
• Darwin International Airport to Garden Point Airport (located on Melville Island)
• Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal to Wurrumiyanga (located on Bathurst Island)

If it’s your favourite time visiting the Tiwi Islands, you will require a permit before entry. If you’re not travelling with a tour, you will need to get a permit yourself, which you can apply for here . Most visitors go to the islands during the dry season, which is between June to September – which helps you to avoid rain during your stay.

How much does a Tiwi Island Retreat cost?

Whether you’re looking for a more luxurious stay in our glamping tents, or something simple but still cosy like our ocean rooms, we can help you choose the right Tiwi Island accommodation that’s right for your budget.

For a more detailed breakdown of the Tiwi Island retreat cost , you can find out more details about our rates on our retreat page. We offer a range of deals for solo travellers as well as vacationing families for each of our lodging types. We also have inclusive room rates for two, three, and four-night stays so you can stay and explore the Tiwi Islands for as long as you wish.

What is there to do during a Tiwi Island tour in Darwin?

There are lots of fun and exciting adventures to explore in the Tiwi Islands .Get the full island experience by signing up for any number of these activities:

Speed away on our picnic buggy tour

Explore the beautiful 5 Mile Beach on a fun buggy ride! Marvel at the vast expanse of the beach and stop for a picnic and some fishing as you watch that breathtaking sunset while laying on the sands.

Catch fish from estuaries and blue water fishing spots

Take a helicopter flight to the ranku swimming hole.

Enjoy a scenic helicopter ride overlooking the beautiful island as our pilot takes you to the Ranku waterhole. Swim, eat, take pictures, and soak in the beautiful waters of this secluded pocket of tranquillity within the island.

Learn more about arts and culture from the best Tiwi Island cultural tour

Learn more about the locals and their art through our Tiwi By Design Cultural Tour and the Jilamara Fine Art Experience. Gain an appreciation for Aboriginal art and culture by getting a firsthand look at their work and way of life.

With so many new things to experience on the Tiwi Islands in the Northern Territory, your visit to Darwin would be incomplete without a trip to these idyllic Islands! If you want to learn more about the Tiwi Island Retreat experience, visit our website at Matt Wright Wild Territory for more info. Click here to enquire!

We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present, and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation; we are proud to work closely with the traditional owners of the Northern Territory and to honour their land and culture in everything we do.

Matt Wright

Matt Wright's unique outback lifestyle and knowledge of helicopters, boats and airboats has led him to develop some of the most unique tourism experiences in the world, in Matt’s Wild Territory series

Help & Info

(08) 8983 4017

[email protected]

Tiwi Island Tours from Darwin

Visit the ‘island of smiles’ on your next adventure, get back to nature on the tiwi islands.

Just 80-kilometres north of Darwin sits the Tiwi Islands or what it’s better known as, ‘the Island of Smiles’. Take a short trip across the water from Darwin and visit this unique haven on your next top-end holiday. The Tiwi Islands consists of two main islands, Bathurst and Melville. These islands are made up of mostly Aboriginal descendants; therefore, the islands are famous for celebrating and supporting the local Indigenous traditional lifestyle. With coastal landscapes, breath-taking sunsets, and many cultural and wildlife tours, the Tiwi Islands will have you become one with nature in no time. Spend your time fishing, canoeing, swimming or relaxing on the beach in this destination like no other. With a strong Aboriginal art scene and a love of football and tradition, a visit to the Tiwi Islands will have you connecting with the locals and exploring a rich history and culture. Consider adding a Tiwi Island day trip to your next Northern Territory holiday and discover why these stunning islands are known as ‘the Island of Smiles’.

View our Tiwi Island holiday and tour packages

Darwin, Kakadu & Katherine Gorge

Nsw & act.

Physical rating:

Tour duration:.

Delve into Darwin and the Northern Territory’s epic top end onthis 8 day journey of discovery. From the rich indigenous culture of the TiwiIslands to a breathtaking scenic flight over Arnhem Land, we have everythingcovered. Marvel at the termite mounds in Litchfield National Park, enjoy aguided tour of the Aboriginal rock art site of Burrungkuy and cruise the YellowWater Billabong in Kakadu. We experience the Tom Curtain’s Katherine Outbackshow followed by a magic sunset cruise along the Katherine River. We bidfarewell with a finale dinner at Seafood on Cullen.

Expand your cultural knowledge

Start your holiday with a Tiwi Island tour and learn about a modern-day Aboriginal community, including their art, bush tucker and history. There are a number of tour options available, including ‘Tiwi Tours’ hosted by local art centre, Tiwi Designs.

A Tiwi Island Tour is also a great cultural activity, and  includes a ferry from Darwin to Bathurst Island followed by a traditional welcome ceremony with morning tea. You’ll visit the local museum and old mission precinct and then return to Tiwi Designs for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll take part in an art session with a local artist and get to take home your own art piece. Learn more about Tiwi culture by witnessing a smoking ceremony and learning how the local Tiwi women weave baskets and paint.

Stay a while

After a Tiwi Island Tour, pop into the Tiwi Design Aboriginal Corporation located on Bathurst Island. This centre was established to promote, preserve and enrich Tiwi culture. Here you’ll find a diverse variety of artwork ranging from ironwood carvings, ceramic, bronze and glass sculptures to ochre paintings, screen printed fabrics and limited edition prints.

If a day tour isn’t enough, consider staying on a Tiwi Island overnight tour to relax and unplug in a seriously remote location. Make the most of your Northern Territory holiday by adding the Tiwi Islands to your destination list because it’s just a hop, skip and a jump from Darwin.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit the tiwi islands.

The best time to visit the islands is during the dry season, between the months of May and September. If you’re a lover of football, make sure to book your trip in March, so you don’t miss the massive Footy Grand Final and Art Show.

Can you go fishing in the Tiwi Islands?

If you’re looking for a more fun in the sun activity, the Tiwi Islands have a huge fishing culture. Rent a boat for the day or stay at one of the many camping sites and start your fishing exposition. Common catches include barramundi, Spanish mackerel, tuna, coral trout, jewfish, mangrove jack and golden snapper.

Where are the Tiwi Islands and how do I get there?

The Tiwi Islands are known as a tropical paradise just sitting at the top of the Northern Territory. They consist of two main islands, Bathurst and Melville, along with several smaller islands. The Tiwi Islands are known for their rich Indigenous culture, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife.

To get to the Tiwi Islands, you typically need to take a flight from Darwin to either Bathurst or Melville Islands. The flight duration is relatively short, usually around 30-40 minutes.

Can you swim at Tiwi Islands?

Swimming at the Tiwi Islands is generally not recommended due to the presence of dangerous marine creatures such as crocodiles and box jellyfish. However, you can enjoy the beach view and swim safely in designated areas such as hotel pools or specially designated safe zones. Always follow local advice and guidelines to ensure your safety when near the water.

Can you drink alcohol on Tiwi islands?

Drinking alcohol on the Tiwi Islands is regulated, and there are specific restrictions. The sale and consumption of alcohol are controlled, and permits may be required. Visitors should be aware of local laws and regulations regarding alcohol to ensure compliance.

Can you stay overnight on Tiwi Islands?

Yes, you can stay overnight on the Tiwi Islands. There are a few accommodation options available, including the Tiwi Islands Retreat and other comfortable guesthouses and lodges. These accommodations often provide a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the islands' natural beauty. Staying overnight gives you the opportunity to explore the islands more thoroughly and participate in activities such as fishing, cultural tours, and art gallery visits.

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Northern Territory

From soul-stirring sunrises over the ochre sands of the Red Centre against a glittering canopy of stars, through to the Top End's pristine waterfalls and wildlife rich-wetlands, the Northern Territory captivates with untamed natural splendour and spiritual allure. Indulge in the flavours of Aussie bush tucker and contemplate a different world and time in the warm glow of sunset to the tunes of the didgeridoo, timeless Dreamtime landscapes and stories that tell tale of an indigenous culture's ancient connection with the immortal Outback – this is Australia at its most magical, alluring and profound.

From the captivating Kakadu National Park to Katherine Gorge to the Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory tours around Australia’s Top End and Red Centre will take you through some of the most beautiful locations this region has on offer while allowing you to have an amazing experience, immersing yourself in the rich history and First Nations culture brought to life by ancient rock art created by the traditional owners of the land.

AAT Kings Northern Territory tours are an excellent way to enjoy a true Australian outback experience while travelling in comfort. There's nothing quite like watching the setting sun behind the termite mounds of  Litchfield National Park or sampling local Indigenous flavours at an exclusive BBQ dinner, the only evening dining experience inside Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

MUST SEE DESTINATIONS

Maruku Arts Dot Art Experience

Uluru-kata tjuta national park.

Dive Into Culture joining a local Anangu Aboriginal artist and interpreter to discover Western Desert Art at Maruku Arts Dot Art Experience. After traveling to and being inspired by the desert beauty, you’ll learn about traditional art, ancient symbols, tools, and Pitjantjatjara (a local language spoken by Anangu) from indigenous artists.  Through this insider introduction to Anangu culture and the meanings of the dot art, you’ll learn more about their traditional and contemporary life in a fun and colorful way. Then it’s time to apply your knowledge and give it a try as you paint your own piece of Australian aboriginal art. Hearing others’ stories and telling your own by creating a personalized memento to take home is a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on your Australia tour. Feel good knowing that you’re also contributing to Maruku’s mission to keep culture alive and accessible for future generations of artists as well as support artists living in remote communities of Anangu lands.

• Australian Highlights 13 Day Guided Holiday | Melbourne to Sydney
• Uluru Aboriginal Art & Cultural Experience Half Day Tour | Uluru return
• Highlights of Australia & New Zealand 22 Day Guided Holiday | Melbourne to Christchurch

Alice Springs Desert Park

At the base of the West MacDonnell Ranges, become immersed in the diversity of life in the desert with an Indigenous guide. Learn how Aboriginal culture, plants and animals thrive in the desert, and how the park contributes to the conservation of flora and fauna.

• Outback Adventure 15 Day Guided Holiday | Adelaide to Darwin
• Outback Safari 11 Day Guided Holiday | Uluru to Darwin

Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural Experience

Board the Tiwi Mantawi in Darwin and arrive at the idyllic Tiwi Islands, a modern-day Aboriginal community. Discover the traditional art of the Tiwi Museum, spend time learning to weave and paint with the Tiwi Ladies, and witness a traditional smoking ceremony. 

• Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural Tour Full Day Tour | Darwin return
• Kakadu & Tiwi Islands Explorer 3 Day Short Break | Darwin return

Top Didj Aboriginal Cultural Experience

Guests get to interact with Top End Aboriginal artist Manuel Pamkal at Top Didj. Not only to they get to hear, but they also get to ask questions about aboriginal culture whilst being educated on the significance of his painting style, weapons used and how he lived off the land.

The highlight of the Cultural Experience and what sets it apart from other indigenous cultural experiences, is the painting style which is demonstrated by an aboriginal artist.

What better way to explore a key part of Australia's outback than with one of its custodians who share a special connection with the land? Guests gain an insider's perspective of the area and have an opportunity to get stuck in and practice some of their local traditions, e.g. playing a didjeridoo and throwing a spear.

Arnhemlander Cultural & Heritage Tour

Arnhem land & north kakadu.

Owned and managed by the Traditional Owners of the clan estates it visits, experience an immersive cultural and heritage tour into Arnhem Land and Northern Kakadu. Meet Aboriginal artists, learn painting and weaving techniques and take in the world-famous scenery.

• Kakadu & Arnhem Land Explorer 3 Day Short Break | Darwin return
• Kakadu & Arnhem Land 2 Day Short Break | Darwin return

Guluyambi Cultural Cruise

East alligator river.

Owned and operated by the Djabulukgu Association, the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise takes you along the scenically spectacular East Alligator River. An Aboriginal guide shares insight into culture, local mythology, the river’s abundant food chain and bush survival skills. 

• Kakadu & East Alligator River 2 Day Short Break | Darwin return

Yellow Water Billabong Cruise

The Indigenous-owned Yellow Water Cruises offers the ultimate discovery of the natural paradise of Kakadu. Regarded as one of Australia’s best wildlife viewing experiences, discover colourful birdlife and saltwater crocodiles and the dramatic scenery of the ever-changing landscape.  

• Kakadu, Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge & Tiwi Islands Explorer 4 Day Short Break | Darwin return
• Tropical Top End 4 Day Short Break | Darwin return
• Kakadu National Park Explorer Full Day Tour | Darwin return

Nitmiluk Cruise

Nitmiluk (katherine) gorge.

Explore the natural beauty of Nitmiluk National Park on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience a riverboat cruise along Katherine Gorge. You’ll wind through this gorge carved through ancient sandstone alongside steep cliff walls, watching for lush rainforest gullies in giant cracks, and maybe a freshwater crocodile or two on the banks. To get a closer look at the gorge walls, you’ll dock and get out to walk the trails admiring the indigenous rock art. Uncover the past as you trace your hands along the rock, learning about the local culture through your indigenous guide’s expertise of the traditional Jawoyn landowners, their stories of how the gorge was formed, and about how the Jawoyn people live and work today. Your exploration continues as a second boat arrives to take you to the even bigger cliffs of the deep river gorge—a dramatic finish to an experience of stunning scenery and stories on your Australia tour. 

• Top End Highlights 6 Day Guided Holiday | Darwin return
• Kakadu’s Ancient Secrets 6 Day Inspiring Journey | Darwin return
• Nitmiluk Gorge & Edith Falls Full Day Tour | Darwin return
• Northern Territory Dreaming 12 Day Inspiring Journey | Darwin to Alice Springs

Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours

100% Aboriginal owned and operated family business, Pudakul offers cultural and nature-based experiences cultural experiences from the Adelaide River Flood Plains on Aboriginal owned Limilngan-Wulna Land. Engage with local Aboriginal people, the environment and wildlife, learn basket weaving, dilly bag making and the techniques used in the process. Learn to throw a spear, play the didgeridoo and clapsticks then learn about local bush food and medicine.

• Northern Territory Explorer 11 Day Guided Holiday | Darwin to Uluru

Karrke Aboriginal Experience

Central australia.

Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience and Tours is an authentic aboriginal cultural experience on areas of importance in their cultural knowledge on bush tucker and bush medicines used for spiritual and healing and a lot more, as used by the Luritja and Pertame (Southern Aranda) people and this helps with knowledge being passed on.

• Outback Contrasts 6 Day Inspiring Journey | Alice Springs return

Uluru National Park

Help protect the highlights of Australia's wilderness through your bucket list visit to Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll encounter the iconic Uluru, or ‘The Rock,’ half a billion years old, standing 348 meters high and taller than the Eiffel Tower. View the impressive site over an intimate, classic Uluru sundowner: nibbles and sparkling wine amidst the red dirt and blowing spinifex grasses. Relax, toes in the sand, watching the Outback sky light up Uluru in shades of red, yellow, and purple as the sun sets. In the vast dessert, you'll experience your own mesmerizing, magical connection to the land that has brought its own meaning and been the home to the Anangu people for generations. 

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