Posted on 03 March, 2023 in Birdwatching, Culture, Environment, Luxury, Katherine, Hiking, Private Charter, Rock Art, Top End Locations, Tours, family, Wildlife, Wet Season, Waterfalls
Nitmiluk National Park (previously known as Katherine Gorge
National Park) is on the lands of the Jawoyn people, who are the traditional
custodians. The park encompasses an area rich in river systems and spectacular
sandstone valleys and comprises an area of over 292 000 hectares. This stunning
landscape is where the Jawoyn people live, work and continue to share their
culture with the community and visitors.Nitmiluk is the Jawoyn name for Katherine Gorge. It’s pronounced ‘Nit-me-look’ and literally means ‘Cicada Place”.Located about 3 hrs south of Darwin, the park has two main
entrance points providing access to the most well-known attractions.
Leliyn (Edith Falls) to the North and Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge) to the South. It is a 90km drive between the two entrances.Leliyn (Edith
Falls) is a vast natural spring-fed pool lined with paper bark trees and
pandanus palms. The area is open for swimming throughout most of the dry season
and is an excellent place to camp or picnic. Swimming at both the upper and lower
pools is possible. Nearby bushwalks take you through various habitats where you
can see a diverse variety of flora and fauna, as well as small rock art
galleries.Further
south, Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge) is a deep gorge created from millions of
years of extreme wet season water flows from the Katherine River. Nitmiluk
Gorge is made up of thirteen gorges. The sheer rock face walls that line the
waterways change with the light, and the sandy beaches and pandanus-lined channels make
it a memorable experience.Venture North offer small group tours to Nitmiluk National Park along with Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Alternatively, we can arrange a private charter to suit individual interests and time frames.With so many ways to experience in the Gorge, here are some tips to make the most of it!Cruise     No visit is
complete without boarding a cruise that takes you down the river, where you can
absorb the area’s sheer beauty. Sunrise or Sunset is a spectacular time to
experience the Gorge. Freshwater crocodiles are frequent inhabitants of the
site, along with an array of endemic Australian mammals and birds.
CanoeAlternatively, go at your own pace and hire a canoe. A slow paddle is a perfect way to immerse
in the natural beauty of Nitmiluk Gorge. Drift through the sandstone cliffs.
Pull up on a sandy beach with a picnic and take in the features of the
environment. Full-day or half-day tours are available.
Scenic FlightAnother
unique way to take in this ancient landscape is by air. A scenic helicopter
flight gives a breathtaking perspective as you can trace the unique gorge
system from the air. This bird’s eye view provides the ideal photography
opportunity.Nitmiluk
Tours operates a variety of tours in the Gorge system. Tours depart from the
Nitmiluk Tours Jetty and can be booked via the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre.
Where to StayBase yourself at Nitmiluk Campground to easily access the main
attraction, Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Choose from powered camping sites or
comfortable one or two-bedroom chalets are also available at Nitmiluk Cabins.Cicada Lodge provides a luxurious alternative. All 18 eco-friendly
air-conditioned rooms have ensuites & private balconies and feature Indigenous artwork from local artists. Relax
by the pool with canapes and drinks at Sunset before dining at the restaurant with dishes combining traditional elements and
flavours from the region.
When
to GoThe most comfortable time to visit Nitmiluk
National Park is from May to September. Although if you can handle some humid
weather, months on either side of this can be just as spectacular (and a little
quieter)There
may be times during the wet season due to flooding that parts of the park
become inaccessible. Check if a park is open via the NT Parks website.
Alternatively, why not take the hassle and stress out of planning, driving, booking tours and accommodation and let us take care of all of that for you in one of our guided tours!Venture
North offer a five-day guided small group tour, including Nitmiluk National Park, Litchfield, Kakadu, and Arnhem Land. We can also create a tailor-made itinerary to cater to
your touring needs. Our private charters operate all year round. For
more information on Nitmiluk National Park or to find out more about our
available tours, please get in touch.Â
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