Northern Territory is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Northern Territory?
A typical traveler spends $4,376 (AU$6,689) per day on a trip to Northern Territory. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Northern Territory based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $893 (AU$1,365) on meals
- $694 (AU$1,061) on local transportation
- $4,975 (AU$7,604) on hotels
A one-week trip to Northern Territory for two people costs, on average, $61,269 (AU$93,646). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$30,635
AU$46,823
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$61,269
AU$93,646
-
One Month
Per person
$131,291
AU$200,670
-
One Week
For a couple
$61,269
AU$93,646
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$122,539
AU$187,292
-
One Month
For a couple
$262,583
AU$401,340
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Northern Territory cost?
A one week trip to Northern Territory usually costs around $30,635 (AU$46,823) for one person and $61,269 (AU$93,646) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Northern Territory on average costs around $61,269 (AU$93,646) for one person and $122,539 (AU$187,292) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Northern Territory will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Northern Territory on average costs around $131,291 (AU$200,670) for one person and $262,583 (AU$401,340) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Northern Territory expensive to visit?
In Northern Territory, budget travelers spend $1,164 (AU$1,790) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $4,349 (AU$6,689) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $19,074 (AU$29,333) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Northern Territory.
Northern Territory is a smaller destination that charms visitors with a variety of travel styles, expenditure habits, and budgetary considerations. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.
Northern Territory can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like looking for discounts and coupons.
Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Northern Territory is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in the Pacific for its travel costs. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Northern Territory.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Northern Territory Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Northern Territory?
The average Northern Territory trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Northern Territory travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Northern Territory cost?
Northern Territory on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$640
(AU$979)
|
$2,487
(AU$3,802)
|
$11,280
(AU$17,240)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$146
(AU$224)
|
$694
(AU$1,061)
|
$3,619
(AU$5,532)
|
|
Food2
|
$264
(AU$404)
|
$893
(AU$1,365)
|
$3,549
(AU$5,424)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$203
(AU$310)
|
$811
(AU$1,240)
|
$3,769
(AU$5,760)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$59-177
(AU$90-271)
|
$203-610
(AU$311-932)
|
$823-2,470
(AU$1,258-3,775)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to keep realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many people think they can visit Northern Territory cheaply, but most travelers aren't comfortable with an extreme "shoestring" budget. Consider what you truly enjoy on vacation. Do you prefer resorts, vacation homes, or hostels? Is experiencing attractions and dining important to you? Your budget and itinerary will depend on your answers to these questions.
Who are Budget Travelers?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $1,164 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, dine at well-known restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most travelers to Northern Territory will be eager to explore the key attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come with a cost. Therefore, it's reasonable to anticipate that your daily budget will be around $4,349 per person, per day.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If you're looking for a high-end escape with every amenity and high-quality service, be prepared for daily expenses around $19,074. Staying in upscale hotels, enjoying meals at award-winning restaurants, indulging in lavish excursions, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the destination will entail a more premium price tag.
Accommodation Budget in Northern Territory
Hotel prices in Northern Territory can vary significantly. Some hotels charge much higher rates but also offer more luxury and better amenities. During peak season, these prices rise even more. In the off-season, the average room costs around $, while in peak season it jumps to an average of $. Budget accommodations range from $ to $, but hostels are usually cheaper, especially in dorm rooms. Save money by traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, or by booking in advance and watching for deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Northern Territory for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $4,975 (AU$7,604). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $2,487 (AU$3,802) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Northern Territory? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
If you plan your trip outside of and during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better accommodation rates and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Northern Territory
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $694 (AU$1,061) per person, per day, on local transportation in Northern Territory. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Northern Territory is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$694
AU$1,061
Traveling around the Northern Territory can be a challenge, as it's so expansive. There are flights available through the region, and a consistently running train. The Ghan train runs from south to north with stops to major cities along the way.
The most convenient and scenic way to experience the outback, however, is to drive through it. There are five themed drives to take on – the Explorer's Way, Savannah Way, Red Centre Way, Binns Track and Nature's Way. Each has their own story and adventure. If you are going to drive, know you won't miss much with 96% of the Northern Territory's accessible by sealed roads.
If you're planning to drive, ensure that your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) Coach Transfer for $171 details
- Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Alice Springs Coach Transfer for $171 details
- Private Transfer from Darwin Cruise Port to Darwin Airport (DRW) for $87 details
How much does it cost to go to Northern Territory? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Northern Territory will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Northern Territory
Food is a major reason many people explore new destinations, so don't skip the chance to try local delicacies.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Northern Territory can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Northern Territory is $893 (AU$1,365) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$893
AU$1,365
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Northern Territory is around $887 (AU$1365) per person, with previous travelers spending from $263 to $3527. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Northern Territory are as follows:
- Breakfast: $89 to $266
- Lunch: $133 to $355
- Dinner: $266 to $621
- Coffee: $71
- Fast Food or Street Food: $133
Naturally, many of the Northern Territory's eateries can be found outdoors. It's always recommended to try the local flavors, but in particular you don't want to miss Cullen Bay's seafood selections or the pub grub in Fannie Bay. If you are planning on braving some camping and hiking in the outback, you'll want to be sure to grab some of the exotic produce and treats found at the many markets in town.
Another can't miss treat is the Aboriginal bush tucker. Used for tens of thousands of years by the natives, this bus tucker is a mixture of plants and animals used in a variety of ways to be sure to extract the best nutritional and medicinal values. Give it a try and see if it helps you tackle the outback better.
Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.
Pack a water bottle to avoid buying drinks on the go. Plus, it's beneficial for the planet.
When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Northern Territory. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge 3.5-Hour Sunset Dinner Boat Tour for $173 details
- Sunset 3-Hour Cruise from Darwin with Dinner and Sparkling Wine for $113 details
- Mt Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock Resort inc Dinner for $258 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Northern Territory
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Northern Territory typically cost an average of $811 (AU$1,240) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$811
AU$1,240
A trip to the Northern Territory should really begin in the capital city of Darwin. There is so much history in this region, including the Fannie Bay Gaol. As Darwin's major prison for nearly 100 years, this jail certainly has plenty of stories to tell tourists.
The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is the perfect attraction for a traveler looking to absorb the area's art, history and culture. You'll especially see a large collection of Aboriginal art and material crafts.
And, of course, everyone comes to this area to see the exquisite nature. With 52 national parks and reservations, the Northern Territory is a goldmine for people eager to see rare species of wildlife. Set against the most stunning backdrop, animal watching has never felt so exciting.
If you can think of an adventure, you can do it in the Northern Territory. This is the perfect place to do that one thing you've always dreamed of. Take a balloon ride over the sunrise on the outback. Swim in the pristine pools of Berry Springs. Explore the rocky red heart of Australia on one of the many bushwalks. Soar overhead the gorges and valleys in a helicopter ride. Canoeing, camping, four-wheel driving, even camel rides are all options – usually available out of Darwin.
Whether you want simply stroll and search for wallabies, or take your adrenaline to the max, it's possible in the Northern Territory.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Northern Territory. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Historical Alice Tour for $123 details
- Litchfield Premium Day Tour, 10 guests only, lunch included for $185 details
- East MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group for $134 details
Nightlife Budget in Northern Territory
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $406 (AU$621) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Northern Territory per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$406
AU$621
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 14, 2025
Traveling in Northern Territory
Karlu Karlu - Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve, Northern Territory, Australia
For the chance to see nature at its grandest, put Australia's Northern Territory at the top of your list. The federal territory covering much of central Australia is what most people picture when they imagine an adventure n Australia. It's the real outback.
While this state contains some of the most breathtaking flora and fauna, it's also home to a rather posh capital. The city of Darwin is tropical, small and quite diverse. There are at least 50 different nationalities making up Darwin's 110,000 population.
With the largest Aboriginal population, this region is perfect for immersing yourself in the 40,000-year-old culture. Visit one of their villages and witness their expert skills at basket weaving, spear fishing and story telling.
When making the decision to travel to Australia, keep in mind that their seasons are the opposite of North America. While the climate tends to stay pretty mild all yearlong, don't be surprised to see that they are experiencing their wintertime when we are ready to lay by the pool all day.
Regions
This territory is comprised of four different regions. In the north you have the Top End region, which serves as home to the capital city of Darwin and the Kakadu National Park. The Victoria River Region is a vast area full of adventure, history and nature. The Barkly Tableland is rather sparse but includes Tennant Creek and the Devils Marbles. The southernmost region lies in the heart of central Australia. The Red Center is the real outback – home to Alice Springs, Uluru National Park, and other Australian icons.
Related:
Looking for a party? Find a hostel in Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, or along the Gold Coast.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.