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Darwin · Northern territory · Australia

Full-Day Nitmiluk National Park Tour with Katherine Gorge & Hot Springs

Starting From From $433.29 per person Current Project Expedition rate
12 Hours 3.82 / 5 0 reviews Easy activity level Small Group Single Day Tour Operated by Sacred Owl Tours
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The Experience

What your day looks like

This 13-hour expedition to Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine is a curated balance of cultural storytelling and natural rejuvenation. Departing from Darwin, the journey centers on the ancestral lands of the Jawoyn people, where the sheer sandstone walls of Katherine Gorge provide a dramatic backdrop for understanding Indigenous history and the intricate river systems of the Top End. The itinerary seamlessly transitions from a guided cultural cruise through ancient gorge systems to a restorative afternoon at local thermal springs or waterfalls. By adapting to the Northern Territory's distinct seasonal shifts, this journey provides a mechanical necessity for safety—utilizing the Katherine Hot Springs during the dry season and pivoting to Leliyn (Edith Falls) during the monsoon months to account for rising river levels and wildlife movement.

At a Glance

The experience, in brief

  • Unforgettable Journey To Nitmiluk National Park
  • Indigenous Two Gorge Boat Cruise Experience
  • Adventure And Serenity In Dramatic Gorges
  • Relaxing Swim At Katherine Hot Springs Or Leliyn Falls
Detailed Itinerary

The journey, in full

Morning: The Heart of Jawoyn Country Katherine Gorge 2-Gorge Cruise: Board a vessel for a cultural and natural exploration of the first two gorges. Led by local Aboriginal guides, this cruise involves disembarking for a 400m scenic walk to access the second gorge, a sacred landscape filled with traditional stories. Nitmiluk Cultural Centre: Visit this hub for deep insights into the heritage of the Jawoyn people, their kinship systems, and their enduring spiritual connection to the river. Afternoon: Exploration & Relaxation Gorge Vistas: Following a fresh lunch at the on-site café, choose your pace: a 900m uphill hike to a panoramic lookout over the gorge system, or a tranquil stroll along the riverfront trail. Thermal Soak (May–Oct): Unwind at the Katherine Hot Springs, a series of natural, spring-fed thermal pools surrounded by lush tropical greenery. Leliyn / Edith Falls (Nov–Apr): During the summer months, the itinerary shifts to these iconic falls. Please note that while the falls are a stunning sight, swimming is strictly seasonal and subject to closure due to flood risks or crocodile safety.

Your Itinerary

Your day, step by step

Day 1

Darwin

Eco Tour at Nitmiluk National Park.

Continued

Darwin

Boating.

Continued

Darwin

Cultural Immersion.

Continued

Darwin

Hiking.

Continued

Darwin

Hot Springs.

Continued

Darwin

Swimming at Edith Falls.

Before You Go

What to know before booking

Included

Visit Nitmiluk Cultural Centre Free time for hiking or relaxing Intimate micro group tour experience 2-Gorge Cultural Cruise with expert Indigenous guides Swim at Katherine Hot Springs or Leliyn Falls (seasonal) Return transport from Darwin (6 hours total driving)

Not Included

Tips & Gratuities

What to Bring

Sunscreen Water bottle Insect Repellent Camera Hat Sunglasses Comfortable shoes Comfortable clothes Cash for personal use Travel pillow to rest on the way to and from Katherine Guests are required to bring their own medication A jacket for the cooler months (May to August)

Meeting & Pickup

Meeting point at 6 Benett Street, Darwin, NT, 0800. Pickup Locations: Darwin Port for Cruise Passengers Mindal Beach Casino Resort - Mindil Beach Casino Resort, Gilruth Avenue, Darwin City NT, Australia (10 Minutes before) Vibe Waterfront Hotel Darwin - Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Kitchener Drive, Darwin City NT, Australia (5 Minutes before) Double Tree By Hilton - Darwin Esplanade - DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade Darwin, Esplanade, Darwin City NT, Australia (0 Minutes before)

Languages Offered

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Before Booking

Preferred Language

Planning Notes

Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business

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