Northern Territory Weather in April

Average sea temperatures

The average sea temperatures in April in the Top End are still around 30°C | 86°F. Even though the weather now allows for a swim, the ocean’s not always safe. Dangerous box jellyfish enjoy the warm water and salties (saltwater crocodiles) like to hang out on the water’s edge. Be aware of these dangers before jumping in the water. If you’re keen on a swim, you might be better off hopping into one of the artificial public lagoon pools.

Red Centre Weather in April

Autumn and especially April is one of the best times to visit the Red Centre. The daytime temperatures in Alice Springs and Uluru are warm. At night, it gets cool enough to sleep well without the temperatures dropping too much. Chances of rain are low in the desert already but drop even further compared to the ‘rainier’ summer days (November - March). 

Average temperature in Northern Territory

Average sunshine hours

Thanks to its location in the desert, the Red Centre enjoys 9 - 10 sunshine hours per day nearly year-round. The average sunshine hours in the Top End in April are around 9 hours thanks to the beginning of Dry Season.

Average rainfall 

Best things to do in Northern Territory in April

As the Northern Territory heads into the cooler and dryer months, the locals come out to play and when they do, you’re guaranteed heaps of fun. But the Northern Territory has a lot to offer, even if you don’t visit during an event. 

Visit National Parks

Darwin is flanked by two National Parks. Mary River NP is popular with bird watchers and for wildlife cruises. The park has the largest population of salties (saltwater crocodiles) in the Northern Territory and you can watch them from safe viewing platforms or on a guided tour. 

Litchfield National Park is famous for its serene water holes and outer-worldly termite mounds. Both national parks are only about 2 hours from Darwin. 

Visit the Royal Flying Doctors

Darwin’s Royal Flying Doctors Tourist Facility is an award-winning interactive museum. Walk through one of their airplanes and touch the doctors’ equipment. Learn how the doctors travel around the outback, providing crucial medical support for the remote Australian stations (farms). Hear about the bombing of Darwin Harbour during WWII from veterans and step back in time to the event using a VR headset. 

Parrtjima - A Festival in Light

Parrtjima is an extraordinary 10-night festival in the stunning Red Centre. It’s the only authentic aboriginal light festival of its kind. The event takes place in April at Alice Springs Desert Park and features light installations, artworks, performances, interactive workshops, music, film and talks. Although the event is free, it’s advised you register for the event. 

Find more info about Parrtjima here

Marvel at the Uluru Field of Light

What was originally meant to be a temporary art installation proved so popular it’s now a permanent fixture. Walk through a sea of thousands of pulsating light spheres while the stars and milky way twinkle almost as brightly. Depending on your preference, you can book the sunrise or the sunset session. The award-winning ‘Sounds of Silence’ Dinner is an experience not to be missed. Eat canapes and listen to the sound of the didgeridoo while the sun sets and then enjoy a 3-course meal while 50 000 glass spheres gently come to life. 

Recommended Northern Territory Itinerary in April

Are you feeling inspired to plan your visit to the Northern Territory? The best way to get started is to browse through our Northern Territory road trips, a collection of ideas and itineraries. Ranging from just a few days to four weeks, we know you’ll find exactly the holiday that suits you. If you have any questions or would like a bespoke itinerary, our team of specialists are happy to help you out!