Car & Van Hire - Darwin

With its tropical climate and year-round warmth, Darwin often attracts visitors from other parts of Australia in search of sunshine. With a car rental in Darwin, you can join these sun-seekers and enjoy some tropical fun. There are family-oriented attractions like the Wave Lagoon, an enormous wave pool on the Darwin Waterfront, and calmer sights like the city's incredible Botanic Gardens, which have a dazzling array of flowers and plants.

The Northern Territory is known for its crocodiles, famous across Australia as the country's most dangerous. Some of the city's beaches are not safe for swimmers, as wild crocs can be found lurking in the water. Those who want to learn more about reptiles in a controlled environment have a couple of choices. Crocodylus Park is a family-oriented sanctuary where you can marvel at the mighty crocs as well as see some cuter specimens, such as wallabies. Thrill-seekers can go to Crocosaurus Cove instead, a welfare-focused aquarium that boasts Australia's only crocodile diving experience.

For beautiful nature, it's hard to beat the Tiwi Islands. Home to the Tiwi people, these stunning islands have a number of unique species of birds and reptiles, including sea turtles. The Tiwi community organise cultural and wildlife tours, which will allow you to see this pristine, unspoiled environment at its best.

Want to get away from it all? Head to the Douglas Hot Springs. This natural attraction is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the thermal waters. There are pools of varying temperatures. Some are ideal for swimming, while others are uncomfortably hot, so always dip a toe in first! While you soak up the atmosphere, don't miss the chance to spot some wildlife. Over 100 native bird species live in the area, and the aptly-named Butterfly Gorge comes alive with colourful insects.

Darwin is proud of its cosmopolitan heritage. The Chinese Temple and Museum Chung Wah is a great place to learn the history of the Northern Territory's Chinese community. The temple, which was built in the late 19th century, is still in use for daily worship. Darwin's multicultural atmosphere can also be seen at the Sunset Markets. This foodie's paradise is inspired by the night markets you'll find in many Asian cities, with street food from around the world on offer. Find the markets at Mindil Beach, which is also a top attraction in its own right.

To learn more about Australia's indigenous culture, visit Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours. Located outside the city, these family-friendly tours welcome visitors who are curious about Aboriginal art and culture and offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's ancient traditions.

There are no toll roads in Darwin, and the city is very easy to get around by car. You will need to pay a fee for on-street parking from 08:00-17:00 from Monday to Friday. It is free outside these times.

If you are leaving Darwin, be aware that there are no speed limits in the Northern Territory outside towns and cities. This policy is unique to the Northern Territory; in other parts of Australia, speed limits are standard. When driving in the NT outback, it is best to use a 4WD. Many of the area's most beautiful sites can only be reached by unsealed roads.

Watch out for "road trains", the enormous trucks and trailers that run long-distance routes across the Australian outback. These are the largest and heaviest vehicles of their kind in the world and can intimidate unsuspecting drivers. With your car or van rental in Darwin, you should prepare yourself for these behemoths. Keep a safe distance, slow down and allow them to pass. Watch out for gravel and dust. If you are trying to overtake a road train, exercise caution, as these are extremely long vehicles.

Plan your journeys carefully before setting out, looking out for petrol stations and other amenities. In this part of Australia, it is common to go extremely long distances between towns. Always bring plenty of water and provisions with you. Be prepared to lose your mobile phone signal when you are outside towns and cities. Many national parks do not have good mobile coverage. You should carry a paper map with you as a precaution.

Animals are a major hazard on rural Australian roads. Kangaroos are a danger throughout the country. They are largely nocturnal animals and are one of the most common causes of road accidents. It is best to avoid driving at night unless you are in a town or city. By day, watch out for free-roaming cattle and sheep. Farms in the Northern Territory are often unfenced, and animals will often cross roads.

Darwin's wet season lasts from November to April. During this time, heavy rains are common and can cause flooding. Pay close attention to local weather alerts, and do not take any unnecessary risks.