Cheap flights from Sydney (SYD) to Darwin (DRW)

Darwin is a tropical city that offers a relaxed atmosphere, warm weather, and a strong connection to nature. It's renowned for its outdoor lifestyle, night markets, and multicultural food scene. The city is also a gateway to iconic national parks like Kakadu and Litchfield for travellers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Here, visitors can often enjoy beautiful sunsets by the beach, an easy-going pace, and cultural events. With direct flights operating daily from Sydney, getting to Darwin is simple. Therefore, this is a perfect destination for a short break or a longer trip up north.

Which airlines fly direct from Sydney to Darwin?

• Qantas: Offers inclusive service with checked baggage, inflight meals, onboard entertainment, WiFi, USB ports, and the opportunity to earn Traveloka Points with eligible bookings. Seats tend to offer more legroom, making it a more comfortable option for longer domestic routes. The combination of convenience, comfort, and rewards makes it a preferred choice for many travellers.
• Jetstar: A budget-friendly choice. Travellers can customise their fare by adding extras such as checked baggage, seat selection, and snacks. Jetstar also provides in-flight entertainment, though meals are not included. Light refreshments and hot food are available for purchase onboard. Travellers booking through Traveloka can still earn Traveloka Points, which can be used to save on future purchases.

Flights operate multiple times per day, giving travellers flexibility in planning their itinerary. Qantas offers morning and evening departures, while Jetstar typically operates afternoon and evening flights only. 

Flight time from Sydney to Darwin?

Flights take around 4 hours and 25 minutes from Sydney to Darwin. As one of the longest domestic routes in Australia, it allows for a complete change of scenery in a relatively short amount of time. Travellers can expect a smooth and uninterrupted journey when the flight is direct.

Average price of flights between Sydney and Darwin

Fares generally range from AU$150 to AU$400, depending on how far in advance the booking is made and seasonal fluctuations. Peak periods such as school holidays, major events, and the dry season tend to attract higher prices. Booking several weeks ahead is often the best way to secure cheaper fares. Right now, the lowest fare is listed at AU$274 on Traveloka.

Cheapest time to fly to Darwin

The wet season usually offers the lowest fares, from November to April. During this period, Darwin sees fewer visitors due to increased humidity and occasional tropical storms, which means flights and accommodation are typically cheaper. However, the wet season can also be a beautiful time to visit, with lush landscapes and vibrant waterfalls.

May and September present a middle ground with fewer crowds and milder weather. The dry season, which runs from June to August, is Darwin's peak travel time. This is due to its pleasant climate and outdoor festivals, which consequently lead to higher flight prices and accommodation rates.

Where is the airport in Darwin?

Darwin International Airport is 13 km from the central business district (CBD). The drive usually takes about 20–25 minutes. Transport options include taxis, rideshare services, and a scheduled airport shuttle that services major hotels and city stops. Public buses also operate on selected routes, though they may be less convenient for travellers with heavy luggage.

Similar to airport transfers, car rental services are available at the terminal and can also be booked through Traveloka. This is a good option, especially for travellers who wish to explore the region at their own pace. Accommodation options are located in nearby areas such as Darwin CBD (13 km), Parap (10 km) and Nightcliff (8 km), all within a short drive.

Passport requirements for Australians flying to Darwin

As this is a domestic route within Australia, Australian citizens do not require a passport to travel from Sydney to Darwin. However, all travellers must present a valid form of photo identification when checking in and boarding their flight. Accepted forms of ID include a current driver’s licence, a government-issued identity card, or a passport.

Airlines may have slightly different policies, so it's advisable to confirm ID requirements before booking. For young travellers or those without a driver’s licence, other official identification with a photo and date of birth is typically accepted. Keeping your identification easily accessible can help streamline the boarding process.

Time difference between Sydney and Darwin

Darwin operates on Australian Central Standard Time (ACST), which is 30 minutes behind Sydney for most of the year. During daylight saving time in New South Wales, the time gap increases to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Flight arrival times are already adjusted according to this time difference, so there’s no need for manual calculations when booking or planning your itinerary.

Our tips for getting the best price on flights

• Activate Traveloka’s price alert to stay informed about changes in fares, helping you book at the right time.
• Browse our promotions page regularly to find limited-time coupons, seasonal discounts, and exclusive flight offers.
• Book flights as early as possible, particularly ahead of holiday seasons and weekends when demand is higher.
• Choose to travel midweek, as Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have lower fares compared to peak travel days.
• Look for bundle deals that combine flights with accommodation or extras like airport transfers, saving time and money.
• Redeem Traveloka Points from previous bookings to reduce the cost of your next trip.

Why trust Traveloka with your flight booking

• No hidden charges, all fees are clearly shown before you confirm your booking.
• Easily compare flights from multiple airlines in one simple search.
• Flexible payment options, including instalment plans for selected bookings.
• Access exclusive route-specific deals and discounted add-ons through Traveloka.
• Receive instant booking confirmation and digital tickets for convenience.
• Customer service support is available 24/7 to assist with questions or changes.
• Enjoy Traveloka Points, which can be earned and redeemed for future savings.
• Early check-in perks or other extras are sometimes included on select bookings.
• Book hotels and attractions through Traveloka to complete your itinerary in one place.
• Updates and notifications keep you informed about your travel plans at every stage.

With comprehensive options and helpful tools, Traveloka makes planning your journey smooth and affordable. Whether looking for the best fare, the fastest flight or additional flexibility, our platform helps you find what works best for your travel plans.