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Guide to Arnhem Land

Welcome
Getting to Arnhem Land
When to visit

Arnhem Land is a vast, unspoiled wilderness area with deep ties to Australia’s Aboriginal peoples.

Arnhem Land is wild, spiritual and diverse. There are rugged coastlines, remote islands, lush rainforests, towering escarpments and savanna woodlands. A trip here will ignite your curiosity as you get to know the Traditional Custodians of Arnhem Land – the Yolngu people – on fishing expeditions, outback safaris and cultural tours.

The best way to experience Arnhem Land is on a multi-day guided tour. Your tour guide will have local knowledge of the region, and will ensure you have the necessary permits to explore this protected area. Visit the Northern Land Council for more information on permits.

Given Arnhem Land’s remote location, your tour may depart from a more accessible location such as Darwin or Jabiru in Kakadu National Park. Speak with your tour provider for details on your departure point.

Arnhem Land experiences a wet season and a dry season. For enjoyable weather with less humidity, visit during the dry season. If you're an adventurous traveller, consider visiting during the wet season, when nature is in full force and tropical storms move in. While some tours operate year-round, many close during the wet season.

High season: Dry season (April to October)
Low season: Wet season (November to March)

Top things to do in Arnhem Land

Dhipirri Barra and Sportfishing Lodge, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Enjoy some of the world’s best fishing

Arnhem Land is regarded as one of the world’s great fishing destinations. Fishing experiences here are remote and exciting, not to mention the beautiful surroundings. To fish legally, you’ll need to book with one of these accredited operators.

Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris, Mount Borradaile, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia

Have an immersive cultural experience

Cultural immersion is one of Arnhem Land’s main drawcards, and several tours will help you discover the rich Aboriginal cultures of the region through bush tucker, traditional ceremonies and immersive multi-day tours. Explore cultural experiences.

Venture North Australia, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia

Admire ancient rock art

Arnhem Land is home to rock art that dates back 20,000 years. To see this ancient art is to see a glimpse of the past. Take a tour with a local guide to hear the Dreamtime stories come to life alongside the scattered paintings. Learn more.

Garma, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory © Yothu Yindi Foundation

Attend a festival of Yolngu culture

Listen up for the yidaki (didgeridoo) call announcing the start of Garma Festival each August. This festival is the largest and most vibrant annual celebration of Yolngu culture, buzzing with storytelling, dance and song. Check it out.

Lord’s Kakadu and Arnhemland Safaris, Injalak Arts and Craft, Gunbalanya, Northern Territory © Lord’s Kakadu and Arnhemland Safaris

Browse First Nations artwork

Art plays an important role in First Nations storytelling. In Arnhem Land, you’ll find milkwood carvings, bark paintings, woven baskets and more that each have a unique story to share. Start your Aboriginal art journey at Injalak Arts.

Venture North Cobourg Coastal Camp tent, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory © Venture North

Stay in outback accommodation

Sleeping under the outback sky is something every nature-lover should experience. From fishing camps to eco-tents, your Arnhem Land accommodation will have you surrounded by incredible nature and wildlife. Browse accommodation options.