Northern Territory borders will officially reopen for domestic travel on 17 July, with iconic destinations including the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park accessible once again to all Australians.

From the Red Centre to the Top End, the Northern Territory is a world-renowned destination overflowing with beautiful outback adventures, an abundance of wildlife, World Heritage-listed National Parks, waterfalls, swimming holes and the world’s oldest living culture.

In the past, many of us have been guilty of opting to take overseas trips, instead of ticking off holiday must-dos here at home. It’s strange, when you consider that one of the most spectacular places in the world just happens to be in our very own backyard.

With the NT is reopening to domestic travellers post-COVID, it has very quickly rocketed back to the top of many home-grown bucket lists, and now is the ideal opportunity to tick it off.

From 17 July, self-quarantine for domestic travellers is no longer required. Being home to many of the country’s bucket list experiences, the Northern Territory is an ideal first port of call for those seeking to sate their wanderlust at home.

Many of the state’s incredible experiences, destinations, attractions and restaurants are set to take centre stage for domestic trips when they reopen this week.

Alongside the state border opening on July 17, some of the NT’s top travel hotspots have also announced reopening plans as travel restrictions ease.

Parks Australia has revealed plans for Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks, that will see visitors being welcomed once again.

Meanwhile, at Uluru‐Kata Tjuta National Park, walking tracks and sunrise and sunset viewing areas will also open. Visitors can take a walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, hike around the base of Uluru or explore Kata Tjuta’s breathtaking views.

Northern Territory Major Events Company has also confirmed that the iconic Parrtjima – A Festival in Light, is set to go ahead over ten nights, from September 11-20 in Alice Springs. The desert art event lights up nearly 2km of the MacDonnell ranges each night with spectacular lighting effects.

Tourism NT anticipates that many first-time visitors will be particularly keen to visit popular NT destinations like Darwin, Alice Springs, Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Kakadu National Park, Kings Canyon, Nitmiluk National Park, Arnhem Land and the Tiwi Islands.

“The Territory is a truly iconic destination; one that’s on the bucket list for many Australians,” said Tourism NT Executive General Manager of Marketing, Tony Quarmby. “For too long Australians have said ‘I’ll go one day’ – well that day has come, there are no excuses left.”

To discover more and plan your trip to the Northern Territory, visit northernterritory.com