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Christmas comes early: Northern Territory quarantine-free travel begins 20 December

In great news for those dreaming of a Tropical Summer escape, Monday December 20 will mark a milestone for the Northern Territory with quarantine-free travel set to start for all fully vaccinated Aussies - regardless of hot spot classification.

In great news for those dreaming of a Tropical Summer escape, Monday December 20 will mark a milestone for the Northern Territory with quarantine-free travel set to start for all fully vaccinated Aussies – regardless of hot spot classification.

The Northern Territory will reopen to all fully vaccinated Australians from Monday 20 December.

Tony Quarmby, Executive Director at Tourism NT said, “A holiday in the NT is now very much back on the agenda for all fully vaccinated Aussies and with our NT Summer Sale currently in market, you can save up to $1000 off your trip.

“We know so many people have been eagerly awaiting this opportunity to travel and the promise of wide-open spaces, adventure, culture and an endless summer is a great reason to book a trip to the Territory as soon as you can.” 

Gunlom plunge pool Kakadu
The Gunlom plunge pool

Those who are fully vaccinated and arriving into the Northern Territory from a classified ‘red zone’, by plane or car, will need to return a negative PCR Test 72 hours before arrival and then a rapid antigen test on arrival.

Every single person entering the NT will complete a rapid antigen test on arrival.

The opportunity to now rapidly test people when they arrive into the territory is a game-changer, providing more certainty for bars, restaurant owners and the tourism industry as we hopefully start to head back down a normal tourism path.

The Territory’s own Outback Wrangler Matt Wright said they’re ready and waiting to welcome everyone.

“We’re counting down to welcoming everyone back up to the Territory for a much-needed holiday, and it’s perfect timing with Christmas just around the corner.”

“The tourism industry, in particular, has been hard hit up here and what better gift to give this Christmas than an unforgettable travel experience up in the NT.

“We’ve got some epic tours on offer, whether it’s in the air in a chopper, on the sea in our jetboat, cruising the river systems in our airboat or on land and up close to our monster crocs, there’s a cracking experience for everyone. Get up here and have some fun with us!” 

Darwin Croc Cove
Crocosaurus Cove

The Top End is home to a variety of outstanding attractions including full-flowing waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife in Litchfield, Kakadu and Katherine, cruises along Darwin harbour or down the incredible Nitmiluk Gorge, epic sunsets and spectacular lightning shows.

Meanwhile, the Red Centre is home to waterholes, helicopter rides, hot air balloon experiences, Aboriginal art galleries, Uluru and Kings Canyon. 

Andrea Lehman, General Manager at Outback Ballooning echoed Wright’s sentiments.

“We are incredibly excited to be able to welcome all fully vaccinated travellers back to the Territory.

“After the recent rain in the Red Centre, our waterholes are full and it’s the best time to take advantage of the savings on offer through NT Summer Sale.

“Come and see Alice Springs like you haven’t before – jump on one of our early morning hot air balloon flights and take the opportunity to experience an unforgettable Northern Territory holiday this summer,” Ms Lehman said.

NT Uluru
Uluru. Image: Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter & Hayley Anderson

While Matthew Cameron-Smith, CEO of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia said, “Our team at Ayers Rock Resort is looking forward to welcoming travellers back to Uluṟu to enjoy some of our “Just Wow” moments.”

“Whether that’s viewing the spectacular art on show in our new Gallery of Central Australia, wandering quietly through the Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuṯa, taking in the magic of the Field of Light or dining under the night sky at Sounds of Silence there are so many opportunities to enjoy the spiritual heart of Australia and we can’t wait to share them all,” Mr Cameron-Smith said.

Click here or visit your local travel advisor for the NT Summer Sale.