Lateritic plains dominate the Darwin region, and because of their accessibility are the habitat most commonly seen. The vegetation is mainly savanna woodlands and forests usually with Eucalyptus miniata and E. tetrodonta as the overstorey. Nevertheless, a wide range of plant species, many of which are deciduous occur on these plains.

Vast wetlands have formed in the lower reaches of the major rivers of the region. Many of these wetlands have formed on clay soils deposited during the rise in sea-levels after the end of the last ice-age. The vegetation is dominated by sedges and grasses such as native rice. Paperbark forests fringe many of the wetlands. These wetlands are famous for their large populations of waterbirds including Magpie geese, but also support a number of native rodents and reptiles.

The floodplains were formed from estuarine clays deposited in river valleys following the rise in sea level after the end of the last ice age. During the dry season these areas are dominated by grass lands and rivers. After the monsoonal wet season, these vast areas are flooded under metres of water. After the rain stops the vast quantities of water running off the floodplains and mixing with the salt water produce supurb conditions for barramundi fishing.

The sandstone of the Arnhemland plateau forms rugged landscapes bounded by extensive escarpments. The vegetation includes heathlands and spinifex on the shallow sandy soils of the exposed plateau tops. The vertebrate fauna of this habitat is diverse and includes such species as the Oenpelli Python and the Black Wallaroo.

Dramatic gorges dissect the sandstone plateau and provide a number of spectacular waterfalls. These areas support monsoon forests which are sheltered in the gorges and protected from fire.

Monsoon forests that grow in rocky areas typically consist of deciduous species while those growing in sheltered gorges and along streams are often more diverse and contain evergreen trees. During the hot dry season these cool shaded forests provide welcoming relief to animals and tourists alike.