Arnhem Land Attractions

Arnhem Land is a huge area of Aboriginal territory occupying about 94,000 square kilometres right at the top of the Top End. It stretches from the Kakadu National Park, north to the Arafura Sea and east to the Gulf of Carpentaria. There are only two areas of the region that is accessible to visitors - the Cobourg Peninsula on the western edge of Arnhem Land and the Gove Peninsula at its eastern tip. The Cobourg Peninsula is almost totally given over to the 2200 square km Gurig National Park and is surrounded by the Cobourg Marine Park. It is one of the very best fishing spots in Australia with 250 recorded species including Barramundi and superb reef fish. The peninsula is paradise for light tackle anglers. The marine park is also home to many protected marine species including manta rays, dolphins, dugongs, turtles and crocodiles.

The only sure way to reach Gurig National Park is to take a 220 kilometre charter flight from Darwin. There is a road through from Jabiru in Kakadu, but it is strictly limited to four wheels drives and barely reliable even in the dry season from May to October. Whichever way you travel, you must have a permit to enter the park from the Cobourg Peninsula Sanctuary and Marine Park Board.

The Gove Peninsula is a major bauxite mining area and much more accessible on scheduled flights from Darwin or charter aircraft to the main town, Nhulunbuy (Gove airport). Nhulunbuy is a modern seaside town of about 3500, 15km away from the Nabalco mine. The town is a major centre for Aboriginal art and craft and offers a large range of things to do. Fishing is excellent and the surrounding wetlands teem with bird and animal life, including buffalo, crocodiles and reptiles. Activities include snorkelling and scuba diving, reef walking, scenic flights, and sunset cruises. Spend a whole day with a Yolngu family and learn what traditional Aboriginal culture is about. Take part in daily activities such as food gathering, hunting, cooking and painting. Permits are required if you drive to Nhulunbuy or fly in and want to visit recreational areas around the town. Arnhem Land is remote, sparsely populated, beautiful and quite different to the rest of the territory.

Arnhem Land Guide Flight Over Arnhem Land Beautiful Arnhem Land Water Scene Arnhem Land Wildlife