Backpackers, tourists and influencers are set to be charged to go to some of Australia’s most Instagrammable hotspots.

It will now cost money to enter certain areas within the Northern Territory of the country.

So anyone wanting to explore the natural beauty of the area – from swimming spots to parks – will have to factor those extra fees into their stay.

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The pay-to-visit system will require all tourists from another Australian state or international visitors to buy a Park Pass from April 2023.

The day pass will cost $25AUD for a family (that’s £13.86) while a week will set you back $75AUD (£41.59).

There’s also an open pass on offer for $150 (£83.15).

The pass will be required to enter any one of 50 Northern Territory parks, reserves and protected areas.

There are 85 such zones in the region meaning you’ll need the pass to access most of them.

If you’re camping or hiking you’ll need to have a pass – and it’s not included in the price of pitches or parking.

People who live in the area won’t have to pay to go swimming in the various reserves or to enjoy camping, hiking and other outdoor pursuits.

But, not everyone in the territory is happy with the new imposed charge.

Dalabon man Manuel Pamkal, who shares his Indigenous culture and art with tourists, told the ABC: “It’s not fair. When families come it costs them lots of money.

“We all know that fuel prices have gone up, food, and they are already paying money for camping. I think swimming should be free.”

The money from the Parks Pass will reportedly go towards modernising and improving the reserves.

The Northern Territory Government also states that Traditional Owners will get a share of the revenue.

Traditional land and sea ownership is based on customary law and is passed down through generations within aboriginal groups.

Parks and Wildlife Executive Director Sally Egan said: “Our parks and reserves contribute greatly to our wonderful lifestyle and economy.

“Revenue from fees will be invested back into the protection, maintenance and safety of our parks and the creation of new visitor experiences.

“These charges mean our parks and reserves are maintained and developed for generations to come so Territorians and visitors can continue to enjoy the amazing landscapes and native wildlife.”

Some of the most popular places affected by the pass include Edith Falls, Litchfield and Mataranka hot springs.

Edith Falls in Nitmiluk National Park is a gorgeous group of cascading waterfalls and pools where many tourists choose to swim after bushwalking or hiking the local area.

There are over 12,000 photo on Instagram with the hashtag Edith Falls – proving its a popular spot for snaps.

Influencers grab fantastic shots while floating in the pools, walking along the red cliffs nearby or staring out at the natural water features.

There are two camping options that give great access to Edith Falls from Leliyn including Sweetwater Pool campsite.

Meanwhile, Litchfield National Park is filled with gorgeous waterfalls, pristine pools and vine forests.

Impressive termite mounds make the area seem otherworldly.

Cabin, camping and caravan sites are all available nearby and you can drive through the park.

The Mataranka hot springs will also be affected by the charge – they’re based in a small town just south of Katherine.

The hot springs feature sandy bottoms and warm, thermal waters that you can swim in.

The thermal pools and swimming holes are surrounded by lush palm forest making it tranquil and serene

Over 3,000 people on Instagram have taken stunning shots at the thermal pools showing them swimming through the turquoise water.

Would you pay to go swimming outside? Tell us in the comments…

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