Katherine

Winding your way down the Katherine River on a relaxing cruise, you’ll feel a tangible connection to the dramatic, ancient scenery around every bend. As you venture into the gorge, the landscape tells stories of geological upheaval over the centuries and the effects of fast-running water and the erosion it causes. The views of the sheer gorge walls just keep getting better and better.

You will hear the characteristic shrill of the cicada reverberating across the cliff faces as your expert guide navigates you through the swirling waters of the First and Second Gorge.

The gorge walls, etched by time and the elements, are home to myriad plant and animal life, much of which is unique to this area, all playing a role in the lives of the Traditional Owners. The commentary explains the significance of Nitmiluk to the Indigenous Jawoyn people and the many stories that celebrate their spiritual connection to the gorge.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate level mobility – Approx. 2 km of walking over rocky paths. Guests required to board and disembark boat unassisted. A modified experience is available for guests with low mobility. Guests are strongly encouraged to dress for the weather conditions. Enclosed sturdy shoes are required. Sunscreen, a hat, trousers and long sleeves are highly recommended.

There are plenty of fascinating Indigenous rock art sites across the Top End, but few are accessible or as powerful as at Nitmuluk Gorge.

On this relaxed cruise experience, your guide will share some of the ancient secrets of the region, as you drift down the First Gorge, witnessing the awe-inspiring sandstone cliffs that tower above the water.

Listen to Dreamtime stories about the creation and learn about the gorge’s significance in the lives of the Traditional Owners, the Jawoyn people.

We’ll stop for a short walk to the top of the First Gorge to visit the stunning Indigenous rock art site, where artwork remains visible despite thousands of years exposed to the elements. These works are evidence of the existence of the Jawoyn culture in the area during the last Ice Age.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate level mobility – Approx. 2 km of walking and 28 steps to climb. Guests required to board and disembark boat unassisted. Guests are strongly encouraged to dress for the weather conditions. Enclosed sturdy shoes are required. Sunscreen, a hat, trousers and long sleeves are highly recommended.

Take to the skies to fully appreciate the scope of Nitmiluk Gorge and all of its unique formations. From above, in all its majesty, it is clear why this is considered to be one of the Northern Territory’s most spectacular sights.

Your 20 minute helicopter flight will take you over all 13 gorges and venture deep into Nitmiluk National Park. The remote waterfalls and rockpools you will see along the way are simply breathtaking.

Your expert guides will reveal the story of Bula, the most important figure in Jawoyn Dreaming stories. Legend has it that Bula and his two wives hunted across this land and transformed the landscape.

Back on the ground, head over to the Top Didj Aboriginal Art Gallery. Holding a portfolio of artists from the region, the gallery reflects the cultural diversity and influences of the Jawoyn, Warlpiri and Dalabon Aborigines, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

To avoid disappointment, we highly recommend guests pre-book this tour. For more information on how to pre-book, please contact our travel centre on 1800 703 357 or contact your travel agent.

If you choose this experience, you will not be able to participate in the included Off Train Experiences.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate level mobility – Guests required to board and disembark aircraft unassisted. Weight restrictions apply – the maximum weight of any individual cannot exceed 130kg. Guests are strongly encouraged to dress for the weather conditions. Enclosed sturdy shoes are required. Sunscreen, a hat, trousers and long sleeves are highly recommended.

PLEASE NOTE: This tour is subject to availability and conditions; all optional upgrade experiences are non- refundable.