How to get to Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park from Darwin

Darwin to Alice Springs Australia - About Katherine Gorge and Katherine Gorge cruises in Northern Territory Australia.

Nitmiluk (also known as Katherine Gorge) is a 13 gorge system that meanders around the Katherine River in Nitmiluk National Park.

Katherine Gorge - Nitmiluk National Park This 292,800 hectare National Park is owned by the Jawoyn Aboriginal people and jointly managed with the Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory. Some of the Park's features include spectacular dissected sandstone country, broad valleys and numerous, significant cultural sites. The deep gorge carved through ancient sandstone by the Katherine River is the central attraction of the Park.

How to Get There Nitmiluk National Park is located in the Top End of Australia's Northern Territory. The Park has two main points of visitor access. The Park's main entrance is located 30 km northeast of Katherine via a sealed road. Katherine is located 310 km south of Darwin along the Stuart Highway. This road is called gorge road and also we knoew it as Maud Creek Road on occassions.

Leliyn (Edith Falls) on the western side of the Park, is reached by turning off the Stuart Highway 42km north of Katherine then following a sealed road for a further 19km. When to Visit The most comfortable months to visit the Park are from May to September.

The wet season causes flooding of the Katherine River and restrictions on some of the activities available. The access road may be cut off for short periods during peak flooding times. Visitor Facilities The picnic area provides gas barbecues, picnic furniture and toilet facilities.

You may ask - how many gorges in Nitmiluk or your may say how many gorges in Katherine Gorge: Nitmiluk has 13 gorges carved from the ancient sandstone country. Nitmiluk Katherine Gorgeapart from being made up of thirteen gorges, with rapids and falls. Its a a body of water that starts in Kakadu National Park before making its way down to Nitmiluk National Park.

Fact Map PDF

Cruises on the 1st Gorge in Katherine Gorge National Park Australia
Nitmiluk National Park This 292,800 hectare National Park is owned by the Jawoyn Aboriginal people and jointly managed with the Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory. Some of the Park's features include spectacular dissected sandstone country, broad valleys and numerous, significant cultural sites. The deep gorge carved through ancient sandstone by the Katherine River is the central attraction of the Park.

Nitmiluk Tours - Cruises & Helicopter Flights
Cruise Tours Relax as you cruise the waters of the Nitmiluk Gorge and travel back to Australia’s dreamtime. Nitmiluk Tours have a variety of boat cruises to suit everyone, depending on the time you have and the activities you’d like to undertake. All cruises have a cultural aspect, allowing passengers to understand and appreciate more about the areas traditional owners, the Jawoyn people. Please note, cruise departure times and frequency may vary due to seasonality and river conditions. Guests are advised to check cruise departure times before arrival at the Gorge or on booking.

The essential cultural cruise, Nitnit Dreaming incorporates travel along two gorges, where you’ll discover the customs of the traditional land owners, the Jawoyn people. Ideal if you have limited time but want to capture as much of the surrounds as possible. This is the most frequent Nitmiluk Tour cruise and departs four times daily (subject to weather/seasonal conditions). Please note there is a walk of approximately 600m each way. Special wheelchair access is available to the top of the first gorge only. Water and toilet facilities are available on board.
Please note, cruise departure times and frequency may vary due to seasonality and river conditions. Guests are advised to check cruise departure times before arrival at the Gorge or on booking.
http://www.tropicaldarwin.com/Katherine-Nitmiluk-and-Edith-Falls-cruises-and-flights-tours.htm

Jedda's Rock
Travellers can explore and experience the magnificence of the gorges and its surrounds by cruise, helicopter, light plane, foot or river cruise. The short but gratifying river cruise will allow the visitors to pass through a breathtaking sight of the gorges, rock holes and the most popular cliff face, Jedda's Rock. Impressive is the ancient art painted on the surfaces of the rocks as your boat passes. These timeless paintings, which are believed to be 7,000 years of age, represent sacred dreaming for the Jawoyn. Paintings are very delicate so tourists are not permitted touch them, also out of respect.

Walkinin Nitmiluk
Walking from 3klm, 8klm and up to a more challenging 100 kilometre walk abound, to explore the deep rainforest, rocky slopes and steep cliffs. Exploring the place by foot is seen by many as the best way to closely meet and experience the overwhelming wonders of this gorge. To further protect terrain, wildlife and fauna, strict rules are set in place by park management. Returning through the gorge can be undertaken via an alternative route that begins with Smitt's Rock, an ideal place for a soothing swim. Next to the Smitt's Rock are the Lilly Ponds, a beautiful location especially during the wet season, followed by the Butterfly Gorge. After the Butterfly Gorge is the Windolf Walk which is elevated and has brilliant look outs which provide spectacular sights of the Katherine River in its grandeur. It is strongly recommended to not miss out on visiting the Southern Rockhole, a small but lovely beach perfect for a dip to relax any aching muscles and joints.

Waterfalls in Nitmiluk
See the Southern Rockhole, Crystal Falls, Edith Falls and the pristine Nitmiluk National Park

Waterfalls and Springs 100klm south on the Stuart Highway is Elsey National Park
See the Mataranka Springs, Bitter Springs, Mataranka Falls

Nitmiluk Helicopter Tours Rising above the sprawling Nitmiluk National Park will give you an amazing bird’s eye view, unsurpassed and unforgettable. Nitmiluk Tours operate Helicopter flights from the helipad located close to the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre, within the National Park. There are a variety of flights to choose from and all offer magnificent views from the air, including photo and video opportunities of Nitmiluk Gorge, the Arnhem Land escarpment and local wildlife.

Nitmiluk Facilities
Visitor Facilities The picnic area provides gas barbecues, picnic furniture and toilet facilities.


Nitmiluk Chalets

View a map of Nitmiluk National Park on Google

The Campground and Chalets allow visitors to experience the splendors of the National Park up close. The well maintained campground and powered sites are centrally positioned below the escarpment entrance and just 600m to the departure point for boat cruises and canoes. Self contained accommodation is also available. The two bedroom chalets have a lounge and dining area, ensuite and kitchen and a generous balcony where wallabies and other wildlife can be observed wandering freely by. The beautifully landscaped resort style swimming pool is the perfect place to unwind after a day’s exploring and offers a haven for visitors to cool off from the tropical sunshine or just take pleasure in a cool drink or snack poolside. Our Sugar bags bistro overlooking the Katherine River is open for breakfast lunch and dinner.

Room Features: Lounge Dining area Separate shower/toilet Kitchen Facilities Bedroom 1– 1 x Queen bed Bedroom 2- 1 x Dbl & Single bunk bed Balcony Flat Screen Television Telephone/broadband internet Tea and Coffee facilities Refrigerator Fully Air-conditioned

Property Features: Resort Pool Tour Booking Service Complimentary WiFi connection Kiosk Visitor’s Centre Poolside Dining Free BBQs


Tent Village at Nitmiluk: Our Permanent tents are located within the Nitmiluk Campground, a short walk from the Resort Style Pool and amenities block. The Permanent Tents area is shady, fully fenced off from the campground and has its very own fire pit. The tents are unpowered, clean and comfortable. Your package also includes a dinner meal (chefs special), and a pancake breakfast. Nitmiluk Tours also provides complimentary WiFi for throughout the Nitmiluk Campground.

Our Permanent tents are located within the Nitmiluk Campground, a short walk from the Resort Style Pool and amenities block. The Permanent Tents area is shady, fully fenced off from the campground and has its very own fire pit. The tents are unpowered, clean and comfortable. Your package also includes a dinner meal (chefs special), and a pancake breakfast. Nitmiluk Tours also provides complimentary WiFi for throughout the Nitmiluk Campground

Tent Village at Nitmiluk:
Permanent tents (max 2 persons per tent - 2 x single beds)
Additional Info: Solo travellers may be sharing a tent with another person of the same sex, subject to availability. $50.00 cash deposit is required upon check in – per person.

Safari Tents at Nitmiluk:
Safari tents (max 3 persons per tent – 1 x double bed with 1 x single bunk on top)
Additional Info: subject to availability. $50.00 cash deposit is required upon check in – per person.
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Nitmiluk Caravan Park:
Camping and caravanning in Nitmiluk National Park is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in all the region has to offer. There are fully serviced and well maintained caravan and camping grounds at both Nitmiluk Gorge and Leliyn (Edith Falls), ideal places to holiday with family or friends. And with warm weather year round, the resort style pool is the perfect place to unwind after a long days exploring. Other camping opportunities with the National Park are limited, so please seek advice and permits from Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission.

Centrally positioned adjacent to the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge entrance, the Nitmiluk Caravan Park is a welcome respite for weary travellers. The picturesque setting features well grassed, shady sites and is close to the visitor centre, hiking trails, cruise boat and canoe hire areas. The beautifully landscaped resort-style pool offers a haven for visitors to cool off from the tropical sunshine or enjoy refreshments on the deck. The best part is that wallabies and other wildlife wander freely through the grounds, so you really are close to nature.

40 powered sites Laundry facilities Free gas BBQs Ice and LP gas Communal food preparation area and refrigerator Resort style swimming pool Complimentary WiFi for all guests

Leliyn Campground
The Leliyn (Edith Falls) Campground also offers a stunning place to lay your head, with manicured grounds, 51 shady, grassed (unpowered) caravan and camping sites, kiosk and free gas BBQs.

Tent Village at Nitmiluk:
Tent Village Camping doesn’t have to mean completely roughing it. Located within the gorgeous setting of Nitmiluk National Park, Tent Village offers private tent accommodation, already prepared before you arrive, plus dinner at the visitors centre, linen and full use of the caravan park facilities (including hot showers).

The budget-style, 2-person tents are spacious and come with portable lighting and camp beds Camping package includes return transfer to Nitmiluk Gorge from Katherine Town Office.

Public swimming area in Nitmiluk
A public swimming area is provided in the picnic area.

Information on the flora, fauna, geology, walks, activities, and other points of interest can be found in the Nitmiluk Centre at Katherine Gorge.

Nitmiluk Tours - Cruises, Canoe Hire & Helicopter Flights

The launch tour boat jetty and canoe hire are located adjacent to the boat ramp.

First Gorge Duration – Approx 4 hours This option is all about exploring the first gorge at your own pace – you have the freedom to relax and enjoy your beautiful surrounds, with plenty of time to admire the scenery and wildlife, swim, bushwalk or picnic. One or two man canoes can be hired at 8.00am or 12.30pm. Please note: Please ensure you wear a shirt, hat and sunscreen to protect you from the sun. Take along plenty of water and keep personal belongings to a minimum. A small splash proof container for your canoe is available, however it is not waterproof. Deposit: A $50 refundable deposit per canoe is required at the time of booking. This will be refunded in cash at the end of the tour. Caneo Hire on Katherine Gorge

Last update we had: Departure Times: 8am, Apr-Nov, 12 noon return 12:30pm Apr-Nov, 4:30 return Canoes available when weather and river level permits. During Dec-Mar canoe hire does not operate for safety reasons.

Walking in Nitmiluk

Walking Numerous walking tracks offer a variety of experiences from riverbank strolls to spectacular overnight walks.

View a map of Nitmiluk National Park on Google

Overnight walkers are required to book and register with Rangers at the Nitmiluk Centre.

Nitmiluk Art

Jawoyn art Jawoyn art can be seen along the base of the sandstone escarpment in the Gorge system. Other evidence of Jawoyn activities are located throughout the Park.

Nitmiluk Southern Waks and Jatbula Trail

View a map of Nitmiluk National Park on Google

More detailed information about the Southern Walks and the Jatbula Trail is available in the Nitmiluk Centre, from Park information sheets, on the website or by calling Rangers at the Park. Canoeing Canoes can be hired at the Gorge by the hour, half day, full day or overnight. Private canoes can be used in the Gorge.

For your safety, you must register and pay a refundable deposit at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre. A small fee also applies. The upper gorges are accessible to canoes, by carrying them over the rocks separating gorges. Camping There are powered sites at the Gorge or unpowered, sites at Leliyn (Edith Falls). Campsite bookings are required for overnight canoeing and camping as numbers are restricted. A deposit applies to private canoes and bushcamping. Check at the Nitmiluk Centre for the availability of drinking water and location of toilets. Only fuel stoves are permitted.