Eating Green Ants: Bucket List Eats
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Introduction to Exotic Dining: Tasting Green Ants in North Queensland
Some of the random things on our bucket list are trying weird and wonderful food types around the word. For me this is particularly challenging as my first bite is with the eye and the site of something squirming, gelatinous or in other ways not looking like something that should go in a mouth is difficult.
So when travelling around the Northern Territory of Australia i didn’t expect (or want) to have the opportunity to forgo the excellent steaks, or seafood Australia has and take a lunch of green ants. But half way round a day trip near Darwin that’s what i found myself doing.
Traveling is all about diving into new experiences, and sometimes, that means literally tasting the wild side of your destination.
In North Queensland, a place as famous for its rugged landscapes as it is for its unique wildlife, there are trips that include jumping crocodiles, 10 foot high termite mounds, crystal clear water holes and billabongs, sunsets and chowing down on a green ant or two.
While the idea might make some squirm, for culinary adventurers and curious foodies, it’s a chance to connect with ancient indigenous traditions and taste something surprisingly different, though for me grabbing a green ant to eat is something i don’t plan on repeating anytime soon.
Tasting Green Ants: A Crunchy Surprise
During a guided tour through the outback surrounding Darwin, I had the chance to sample these tiny local delicacies. Contrary to the popular descriptions that its like a crunchy Lemon flavor ( a lemon drop for those ‘pommies’ reading this), it tasted basically what I imagine an ant is supposed to taste like.
Green ants taste like ants
The green ants were presented as a bush tucker trial, where our guide assured us they were a safe and that green ants were a traditional snack enjoyed by Indigenous Australians for centuries, and dared us to go for it. So i did.
As I hesitantly picked up a green ant, holding it by its slender body, its bright green abdomen gave a little wiggle.
A quick, brave bite, and I was hit with a flavor that was less about the lemon tang and more insect, definitely insect. i survived, i still got my steak, and it wasn’t horrible by any means, just not something i would order off a menu.
I will keep my insect activities to nature parks like Penang’s Entopia rather than the snack bar.
Why Not Just Any Ant Will Do. Don’t rush out and start eating!
While green ants are a go on the “yes, eat this” list, not every insect is up for grabs—especially in Australia, the land renowned for wildlife that seems to have a personal vendetta against humans.
Here, more creatures than not are equipped with some form of natural defense mechanism, many of which can be harmful if ingested.
It’s crucial to explore these unique dining options under the guidance of knowledgeable locals or trained guides. They can point out which ants or other multiple legs creatures won’t send you to an emergency room and provide an authentic experience safely.
Adventures in and Around Darwin
While the culinary adventures in North Queensland can be uniquely thrilling,or not as the case may be, the region offers much more than exotic dining, thankfully, or it would have a pretty dire trip. While we were in the Northern territory we got to tick off more bucket list items, and after watching Rogue ( a Aussie crocodile movie) I had take a trip down the Adelaide river on my bucket list.
If you have seen this movie you will see why it should NOT be an advertisement to do this, but i have always had a fascination with those animals that can eat you, lions, sharks, crocodiles and i found myself in the place where 5 meter crocodiles are considered the small side of average. so why not!
Jumping Crocodiles on the Adelaide River
One of the must-see experiences near Darwin is a cruise on the Adelaide River to witness the famous jumping crocodiles. We did it as part of a larger trip that took in the Lichfield National Park ( you can see a little more on that below, and our article on Jumping Crocodile cruise ideas are linked in the green section right below this.
These saltwater giants leap from the water to snatch offered baits, providing a spectacular display of nature’s raw power, and these are not the little bother versions like in Crocodile Cove, these are huge Saltwater Crocodiles.
It’s a reminder of the primal beauty and of course the danger of the Northern Territory and a real treat for wildlife enthusiasts who want to safely observe these formidable predators from a secure boat.
On our page dedicated to the bucket list idea – Do a Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River, i go into some of the stories of what happens when people do decide to swim here, and how they demonstrated what would happen if you do.
Majestic Termite Mounds of Litchfield National Park
A short drive from Darwin, Litchfield National Park offers breathtaking views and unique geological phenomena, including the incredible termite mounds.
Some of these natural structures are over a century old and reach impressive heights, showcasing the intricate and efficient engineering skills of termites.
The park also features stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear pools, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploration, the guides know which ones are Croc free ( they say) but don’t go for a dip in the river!, or not for very long if you do and not because you choose to keep it brief…
Barbecue on the Beach: Embracing the Aussie Lifestyle
No visit to Darwin would be complete without partaking in a quintessential Australian pastime—a barbecue.
Mindil Beach is a popular spot not just for its beautiful sunset views over the Timor Sea but also for its vibrant beachside market and barbecue areas.
Enjoying fresh grilled shrimp as the sun dips below the horizon is an ideal way to end a day in Darwin, blending delicious food with stunning natural scenery. The day was jam packed with activities and was a great way to tick off multiple items on our bucket list.
Go Fishing In Darwin
When we did this it was not part of the same tour, we booked separately, mainly because i like fishing and my wife is very patient.
However, it turned out to be something we both thoroughly enjoyed not least of all for the thrill of catching a shark! ( yeah i know it was tiny – check out the photo) Obviously as a fisherman catching a shark was on my personal bucket list, though as you can see i didn’t actually get to hold it 😛
But also being able to grill some of the catch (not the shark) on the way back to port. Just with added pepper and lemon and still, to this day, the best fish I have ever tasted !
You can check out our Top Ten things to do in and Around Darwin Here.
Conclusion
Darwin and its surroundings offer a treasure trove of experiences that go well beyond the usual tourist paths. From the thrill of close encounters with wildlife to the tranquility of ancient landscapes, the Northern Territory invites adventurers to dive deep into its wonders.
Whether you’re out in the deep blue catching (tiny) sharks or cruising past prehistoric crocodiles, each moment spent here is sure to be a highlight in your travel memoirs.
Feel free to explore more detailed articles linked within this guide for deeper dives into each activity, ensuring your itinerary is as packed with excitement as it is with information. Safe travels!
