Darwin History and Wartime Experience Tour

Darwin , Australia

Darwin History and Wartime Experience Tour

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(144 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Looking to see Darwin differently? Explore Darwin and its rich wartime history with a guided tour from the back of a WW2 truck! On this 90-minute experience, you'll pass many of the city's most important historical sites, including Government House, the East Point gun battery and military precinct, the 1934 QANTAS hangar, Stokes Hill oil storage tanks and tunnels, Fort Hill Wharf, and Darwin Harbor. Your guide will tell you about the history of Darwin from the early explorers to the WW2 bombing of the city by the Japanese, and will recount the Cyclone Tracy in 1974 and more. An optional stop can be made at the East Point Military Museum (entry fee not included). Choose from four departure times when you book. Tour vehicle can carry a maximum of 18 people per tour.

Available options

Darwin History and Wartime Experience Tour

Option 1: 80 - 90 minute tour of Darwin highlighting Darwin's prewar, wartime, and post-war history. Tour is conducted in a WW II vintage army truck. Option to hop on and hop off at Defense of Darwin Experience

What's included

Professional driver/guide

Live commentary on board

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Sit back enjoy, listen to, learn about and relive Darwin's History. With an emphasis on Darwin's WW2 history we also cover the early explorers and post war Darwin - such as Cyclone Tracy. Our tour is carried out in what we believe is the only WW2 vehicle operating commercially in Australia. Learn about and relive the history complete with music from the '40's, speeches from Prime Ministers and Presidents from the era. Do Darwin Differently!

What's not included

Entrance fee to Military Museum: Children (5 - 15) $10; Adults $20; Seniors $15: Children<5 - free

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

37 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

107 reviews

5★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise at time of booking if you intend to hop off at the museum so arrangements can be made to pick you up on the subsequent bus.

Wheelchair accessible - if assistance is required, passenger must provide their own carer--clients must be able to manage a flight of 5 steps in order to be seated.

Tours Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

A seniors card or proof of age may be required in order to obtain the concessional ticket price.

A small amount of walking is involved. Those disembarking at the museum can wander around the shaded outdoor grounds of the "old" museum if desired.

Alcohol and cigarettes are prohibited on board the vehicle

Personal food and drinks are allowed on board

Child booster seats will fit in the vehicle, however, customers must provide their own booster seats.

Must be able to ascend and descend 5 steps

Meeting point

Corner Smith and Bennett streets outside the Visitor Information Centre (Tourist Information)
I have a desk under a marquis on the lawn outside.

Important notes

• If you have not already done so, please advise the supplier if you intend to hop off at the museum so arrangements can be made to pick you up on the subsequent bus.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Tour subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• Wheelchair accessible - if assistance is required, passenger must provide their own carer--clients must be able to manage a flight of 4 steps in order to be seated.
• A seniors card or proof of age may be required in order to obtain the concessional ticket price.
• A small amount of walking is involved. Those disembarking at the museum can wander around the shaded outdoor grounds of the "old" museum if desired.
• Alcohol and cigarettes are prohibited on board the vehicle
• Personal food and drinks are allowed on board
• Child booster seats will fit in the vehicle, however, customers must provide their own booster seats.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

About Darwin

Darwin is the capital of Australia's Northern Territory, known for its unique blend of multiculturalism, stunning natural beauty, and rich Indigenous heritage. The city offers a gateway to the Outback, World Heritage-listed national parks, and a vibrant tropical lifestyle.

Top Attractions

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

Showcases the natural and cultural history of the Northern Territory, including Indigenous art and the story of Cyclone Tracy.

Museum 2-3 hours AUD 10-20

Darwin Waterfront Precinct

A lively area with a wave pool, restaurants, and bars, offering a great place to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

Entertainment Half day Free (activities may have separate costs)

Litchfield National Park

A stunning national park featuring waterfalls, termite mounds, and scenic walking trails.

Nature Full day AUD 10 entry fee

Crocosaurus Cove

A unique wildlife park offering close encounters with crocodiles, including the famous 'Cage of Death' experience.

Adventure 2-3 hours AUD 20-40

Mindil Beach Sunset Market

A vibrant market offering local food, crafts, and live music, set against the backdrop of stunning sunset views.

Cultural Evening Free entry, food and crafts for purchase

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mango Chicken

A tropical dish featuring grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy mango sauce.

Main Course Contains poultry and dairy

Barramundi

A local fish, often grilled or fried, with a delicate flavor.

Main Course Gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be prepared to be nut-free

Kangaroo

A lean and flavorful meat, often grilled or served in stews.

Main Course Gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be prepared to be nut-free

Pineapple and Lime Smoothie

A refreshing blend of tropical fruits, perfect for the hot climate.

Drink Vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in Litchfield National Park Boat tours in Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) Crocodile encounters at Crocosaurus Cove Sunset cruises on Darwin Harbour Spa treatments at luxury resorts Beach relaxation at Casuarina Beach Visiting Indigenous art galleries Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The dry season offers ideal weather for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the natural attractions.

20-32°C 68-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Indigenous languages, Asian languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

GMT+9:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Darwin is generally safe for travelers, but caution should be exercised in certain areas and situations.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of crocodiles and other wildlife
• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

Darwin International Airport • 13 km from city center

By bus

Darwin Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with services running frequently during the day.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Parap Fannie Bay Nightcliff

Day trips

Litchfield National Park

100 km from Darwin • Full day

A stunning national park featuring waterfalls, termite mounds, and scenic walking trails.

Kakadu National Park

250 km from Darwin • Full day or overnight

A World Heritage-listed national park offering stunning landscapes, Indigenous rock art, and diverse wildlife.

Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge)

300 km from Darwin • Full day or overnight

A stunning gorge system offering breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities.

Festivals

Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair • August Darwin Festival • August Mindil Beach Sunset Market • May to October (Thursday and Sunday evenings)

Pro tips

Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather and outdoor activities
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting Indigenous sites and communities
Be cautious of wildlife, especially crocodiles, and follow safety guidelines
Use public transport or walk to minimize your environmental impact