The Tiwi Islands, located off the coast of Northern Territory, offer a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience for travelers. The islands are known for their thriving Aboriginal arts culture, excellent fishing opportunities, and diverse coastal landscapes. Almost 90% of the residents are of Aboriginal descent, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating local culture through guided tours and visits to attractions such as Tiwi Design, Patakijiyali Museum, and Tiwi Island Retreat.
To reach the Tiwi Islands, visitors can catch a charter plane from Darwin International Airport or take a ferry from Darwin, with the ferry ride taking approximately 2.5 hours each way. The islands are serviced by three airports, so the choice of flight should be based on the specific island being visited.
One of the major attractions on Bathurst Island, the largest of the Tiwi Islands, is Wurrumiyanga. This area is home to various cultural and historical sites such as Tiwi Designs, Bima Wear, Ngaruwanajirri, and the Patakijiyali Museum. Additionally, the islands offer world-class fishing experiences, with options for bluewater, reef, and estuary fishing in the pristine island environment.
Visitors to the Tiwi Islands are required to obtain a permit, as the islands are privately owned. The Tiwi Land Council permit system allows regulated access to the islands in accordance with the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976. Permit protocols are in place to ensure that visitors' activities respect Tiwi property, privacy, cultural beliefs, and practices.