Katherine

Nitmiluk National Park offers you the chance to step inside a 40,000 year-old art gallery.

Cruising down the Katherine River you will be amazed by the awe-inspiring, sheer sandstone cliffs that climb from the waters edge. Listen to Dreamtime stories about the creation and significance the Gorge played in the lives of its traditional owners, the Jawoyn people.

Enjoy a short stroll to the top of the First Gorge to see examples of rock art painted by the descendants of the Jawoyn people during the ice age.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate – Guests to board and disembark boats unassisted. Approx. 2km of walking over natural paths and rocky terrain.

There is a tangible connection you will feel to the dramatic, ancient scenery unfolding as you wind your way down the Katherine River on a relaxing cruise.

Making this experience even more memorable is the commentary that explains the significance of Nitmiluk to the Indigenous Jawoyn people and the many stories that celebrate their spiritual connection to the gorge.

You’ll hear the characteristic shrill of the cicadas reverberating off the cliff faces as your expert guide navigates you through the swirling waters of the First and Second Gorges. Keep a keen eye out for the many species of wildlife and unique plants that have adapted to this unique environment – your guide will point out what you need to look for.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate – Guests to board and disembark boats unassisted. Approx. 2km of walking over natural paths and rocky terrain.

While science suggests that this stunning landscape was carved over the millennia by the elements, the traditional owners of the land, the Jawoyn people, believe that the Gorge system was created by Bula. The most important figure in Jawoyn dreaming stories, Bula and his two wives, hunted across this land and in doing so he transformed the landscape through his actions.

Take a helicopter flight to fully appreciate the sheer enormity of the river. As you fly over all 13 gorges, see if you can follow the path of Bula as you move through the region as he did. A view from the air is the best way to appreciate the complexity of the system that makes up Nitmiluk Gorge.

As this experience is an optional upgrade, a cost of $250 per person will be payable direct to your Hospitality Attendant. If you choose this experience, you will not be able to participate in the included Off Train Experiences.

Recommended Fitness Level: Low – Guests required to board and disembark helicopter unassisted.

PLEASE NOTE: Weight restrictions of 130kg per person do apply