Darwin and Kathrine Explorer Including Nitmiluk National Part
Darwin
Immerse yourself in the history of Darwin. From ancient Aboriginal Dreamtime stories and the pioneering spirit of the early settlers, to survival stories of WWII, the bombing of Darwin and Cyclone Tracy. Darwin’s history and heritage is vast, diverse and captivating in every way. There are a great deal of things to do in Australia’s northern capital.
Local markets are a big part of Darwin’s personality.
At the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, sample international cuisine from over 60 food stalls, including Indonesian, Malaysian, Sri Lankan, Turkish, Greek, Cambodian, and Japanese just to name a few.
Known as the laksa capital of Australia, you’ll find plenty of food stalls serving up the spicy noodle soup. If you’re looking for Australian fare, look no further than the local barramundi fish or even a crocodile dish.
Enjoy dinner on the beach as you watch the sun setting into the ocean. Darwin is famous for its spectacular orange sunsets over the Arafura Sea.
After dinner, browse the art and craft stalls, then relax with a local ice-cream or mango smoothie as fire twirlers, musicians and street performers entertain the crowds.
Sense of adventure
Step outside your everyday and open your eyes to adventure.
See prehistoric crocodiles as they launch from the water to catch food on a jumping crocodile cruise. Feel how soft crocodile skin really is as you hold a baby crocodile (with its mouth safely closed).
Take a scenic flight and see waterways winding through wetlands. Savour a sunset as you sail on the sparkling blue waters of the Arafura Sea on a harbour cruise. No matter what your pace, Darwin has something for you.
Dive into the saltwater Recreation Lagoon and frolic under its fountain or just float around awhile.
Wriggle your toes in the sand, and join throngs of others lounging, under trees and shade structure, at what is probably the Top End’s cutest and safest beach. Mesh screens are in place to prevent marine stingers entering the Lagoon, and there is a stinger net providing more protection on the beach side.
For a swim with swell, buy a ticket for the Wave Lagoon, where the siren signals serious fun: twenty-minute bursts of waves perfect for tubing and boogie boarding, for kids of all ages. open 7 days a week.
Sample 7 Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive Darwin and Transfer from the Airport or Train Station to your hotel H on Smith or similar Perfectly positioned amongst the entertainment and dining hub of Darwin’s seafront promenade,
Day 2
Explore Darwin at your Leisure optional ideas
Discover each of Crocosaurus Cove’s 9 interactive shows daily, and learn all about Australia’s incredible wildlife. Watch a huge saltie dine on his lunch during the Big Croc Feed Show, cuddle a snake or lizard during the Meet the Reptiles Show, and feed a feisty juvenile croc from the Fishing for Crocs platform. Then, capture a family photo with Fluffy the baby croc, or go for a dip in the Swim with the Crocs pool.
OrPack a picnic or some meat to barbecue and head to Berry Springs Nature Park, a hugely popular day trip an hour from Darwin. Swim from one pool to the next via a pretty pandanus-lined creek and take your goggles to spot small fish and other aquatic life that live in the clear pools.
Day 3
Darwin at Leisure
Day 4
Depart for Kathrine by Flight, or Transfer and arrive at Cicada lodge.The Jawoyn people invite you to experience the beauty of one of Australia’s most spectacular destinations.
Day 5
This morning we take a tour of Cutta Cutta Caves
Formed millions of years ago the Cutta Cutta Caves system is home to a variety of native wildlife and is rich in Indigenous culture and modern European history.
Tonight embark on your dinner cruise.
Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge, changing colour with the setting sun, and concluding with the shimmering of the stars and the moon. From group celebrations to intimate getaways, the cruise has its own chef and wait staff, so you won’t have to worry about moving from the comfort of your seat as all your food and beverage needs are taken care of. The Tour includes a three course candlelit dinner, featuring fresh, local Australian produce cooked by one of our chefs on board, accompanied by a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
Day 6
Today embark on your self guided canoe tour.On this self-guided canoe adventure you will no doubt be drawn into the lush hanging gardens. This is a fertile section of the gorge with an almost rainforest-like atmosphere. Enjoy the shade and cooling atmosphere from the green foliage.
Or
An intense 3 gorge buzz, a breathtaking 8 gorge flight or an aerial journey over all 13 gorges, there’s a scenic flight to suit everyone’s desires and budget. A scenic flight will give you a great perspective of Nitmiluk Gorge system with spectacular views.
Day 7
Return to Darwin for overnight before returning home
Nitmiluk National Park
This 292,008 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 Nitmiluk Gorge carved through ancient sandstone by the Katherine River is the central attraction of the area, and creates a wonderful ‘natural playground’ for many activities.
For thousands of years Nitmiluk has been the foundation of the Jawoyn Aboriginal people, providing an abundance of water and food, a gallery of art and artefacts and the today it’s a living testament of ancient Aboriginal culture.
Many visitors to the Northern Territory choose to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and culture of Nitmiluk Gorge and National Park
Nitmiluk Cicada Lodge
Cicada Lodge is designed for the sophisticated traveller looking for an authentic Indigenous and
natural Australian “experience-of-a-lifetime,” in the heart of Northern Australia’s timeless north. A
sanctuary of elegant comfort, the Lodge provides a level of excellence in accommodation, service
and dining.
Cicada Lodge features 18 rooms, all of which are air conditioned and feature full length louvered
doors to private balconies. The Lodge’s award-winning restaurant offers a total dining experience.
Our guest services team are on hand to assist with any aspects of your Nitmiluk experience.
Accomodation Choices
Cicada Lodge Lodge Rooms
is designed for the sophisticated traveller looking for an authentic Indigenous and
natural Australian “experience-of-a-lifetime,” in the heart of Northern Australia’s timeless north. A
sanctuary of elegant comfort, the Lodge provides a level of excellence in accommodation, service
and dining.
Cicada Lodge features 18 rooms, all of which are air conditioned and feature full length louvered
doors to private balconies. The Lodge’s award-winning restaurant offers a total dining experience.
Our guest services team are on hand to assist with any aspects of your Nitmiluk experience.
Standard Package Inclusions:
Welcome Drink on arrival Full Breakfast
Sunset Drinks & Canapes In-house Movies
Nitmiluk Cabins
Cabin Facilities:
Air Conditioning Balcony
Cooking Facilities (Stove Top & Microwave) Refrigerator
Tea/ Coffee Making Facilities Free-to-air TV
Bathroom (Shower & toilet) Cutlery & Crockery
The Nitmiluk Cabins – 1 or 2 bedrooms- are centrally positioned below the escarpment
entrance, just 600 metres to the departure point for boat tours, canoes, and several short
circuit walks.
Sit back and relax on your balcony, where wallabies and other wildlife can be observed
wandering freely by, or take pleasure in a cool drink and snack around the resort style
pool, the perfect place to unwind after a day’s exploring.
Nitmiluk campground
allows visitors to experience the splendours of the National Park at your
doorstep. Our fully serviced and well-maintained caravan & camping grounds are centrally
located, with several short walking tracks nearby.
Campground Facilities
Grassed Unpowered Sites 40 Gravelled Powered Sites Toilets & Showers
Resort Style Pool Seasonal Licensed Bistro Coin/Card Laundry Facilities
Communal Camp Kitchen
Take-away Lunch Pack:
Per person inclusions: 1x Sandwich, 1x Bottled Water, 1x
piece of Whole Fruit, 1x Snack item.
Available: Year-round
NOTE: All items will be placed in a box. To be picked up
from the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre
Sandwich Lunch (eat-in):
Per person inclusions: 1x Sandwich, Water/ Cordial/
Tea/ Coffee, seasonal Fruit, Snack item
Available: Year-round
NOTE: All items will be served on platters at the
Nitmiluk Visitors Centre
Half Board – Peak Season:
Per person inclusions: Dinner Meal (Main Course only) &
Full Breakfast
Available: Jun – Sep (inclusive)
NOTE: Dinner to be served at the Jatti Poolside Bistro.
Breakfast available at the Nitmiluk Café.
The opening hours may vary based on operational
demands. Please contact Nitmiluk Visitor Centre to
ensure the availability of dining options.
Half Board – Shoulder/ Wet Season:
Per person inclusions: DIY Dinner Pack & Full Breakfast
Available: Oct – May (inclusive)
NOTE: Dinner meals will need to be cooked by the
guest with accommodation cooking facilities. Breakfast
available at the Nitmiluk Café.
Buffet Lunch:
Consists of a range of Hot and Cold options & Salads.
Tea/ Coffee provided.
Available: Year-round
NOTE: Served at the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre
Buffet Breakfast:
Consists of a range of Hot and Continental options.
Tea/ Coffee provided.
Available: Year-round
NOTE: Served at the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre
Getting There
Fly
Airnorth flies from Darwin to Katherine 3 times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Flight time is around 45mins and costs range from $300 – $500 one way. From Kathrine we can organise a transfer to the property alternative we can organise a private charter to the property
Getting here by car
Nitmiluk National Park is a 3.5hr drive from Darwin. Simply head down the Stuart Highway until you reach Katherine. Heading along Gorge Rd, Nitmiluk National Park is the located 30mins out of Katherine. Let Australia and Beyond Holidays organise a camper or car from Darwin.
From Katherine
The camp is approximately 30km from the town of Katherine via sealed roads
Tours in Nitmiluk
Nitmiluk Gorge is made up of 13 separate Gorges, sculpted from the sandstone over countless
millennia by the Katherine River. You are invited to experience the beauty, history, and culture
of Nitmiluk National Park.
During the tour, our knowledgeable guides will share stories and information on the landscape,
history, and culture of Nitmiluk as you travel up the first 2 – 3 Gorges.
Each gorge is separated by natural rock barriers, therefore walking between the gorges is
required on all tours to change boats. Walkways are man-made, however can be uneven in
areas as they follow the natural contours of the bush landscape. The pathways include steps
with handrails. A moderate level of mobility is required.
Tour Information: All Boat Tours require walking between the Gorges
along man-made, uneven paths (min 800m total per tour).
Boarding for all departures is 15 minutes prior to departure at the
Nitmiluk Boat Jetty (400m walk from the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre).
Ticket sales will cease at this time. Marine toilet facilities are available
on board each tour.
Typically Operates:
NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge Tour: Year-Round (subject to River
Levels)Timeless Land Three Gorge Tour: May – Sep (inclusive) Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Tour (2 Gorge): May – Oct (inclusive) During the Wet Season (Oct – Apr), tours will continue to operate.
Tour Information: Double Canoes must carry 2x persons only, and singles canoes must carry 1x person only. Boarding and sign-in for all departures is 30 minutes prior to departure at the Nitmiluk Boat Jetty (400m walk from the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre). Ticket sales will cease at this time.
Manual portage between the gorges is required for guests wanting to venture further than the second gorge. Moderate – high fitness level required. Please see the following link for more info:
https://nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/270772/nitmiluk-national-park-canoeing-guide.pdf
Nitmiluk Heli-Touring is the sole operator permitted to land with-in the National Park and
offers a unique selection of breathtaking landing sites, only accessible by helicopter. All flights
depart from the Nitmiluk helipad, located a three-minute drive from the Nitmiluk Visitor
Centre. There are a variety of flights to choose from, all offer magnificent views from the air
and include photo or video opportunities of Nitmiluk Gorge, the Arnhem Land escarpment and local wildlife. Tour Information: Flights depart with a minimum of 2 passengers, and a maximum of 3 passengers.
1x additional child/ infant permitted as per the below Infant/ Child Policy.
All passengers must be at the Nitmiluk Heli-pad (Located 2km from the
Nitmiluk Visitors Centre) 15 minutes prior to ensure flights depart on time.
Passengers who arrive later than this time will be subject to our Late Policy.
Typically Operates: Flights depart year-round between 8.30am – 5.00pm.
Flights may be delayed/ cancelled due to weather conditions.
Weight Limits:
Scenic Flights: Individual Limit: 130kg | Total Combined Weight: 260kg
Extended Flights: Individual Limit: 130kg | Total Combined Weight: 210kg
Nitmiluk National Park is home to many waterfalls, most of which are seasonal and rely on the
annual rains to bring them into full flow. December – March are typically the wettest months in the
Top End.
The Southern Rockhole is a seasonal waterfall, located towards the top of the first gorge. This
Rockhole is 4km (each way) by foot, or alternatively you can catch a ferry! Ferries are available
either one-way (with the option of walking one way) or return. The ferry will take you within 150m
of the Rockhole, you are then required to walk the remainder of the way. The walk is not a
manmade path, and is rock-hopping most of the way in. As such, a moderate level of fitness and
mobility is required. Swimming is only permitted when the Rockhole has been opened by NT Parks
and Wildlife.
The Jatbula Trail is an iconic walk venturing from Nitmiluk Gorge to Edith Falls, following the
traditional song lines of the Jawoyn Ancestors. Once a booking has been secured for this 5-day
trek, guests are required cross the river to commence the walk. The short boat ride will start your
memorable journey through Jawoyn Country.
For more information on the Jatbula Trail, visit: https://nt.gov.au/leisure/recreation/bushwalking-
hiking/nitmiluk-national-park-jatbula-trail
Information: Boat transfers are not guided tours, and do not include Tour
Guide Commentary.
Boarding for all departures is 15miutes prior to departure at the Nitmiluk
Boat Jetty (400m walk from the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre). Ticket sales will
cease at this time.
Typically Operates:
Southern Rockhole Ferry: Typically, Jan – Mar (inclusive). Subject to river
levels and local rain received.
Jatbula Trail Ferry: The Jatbula Trail is typically open from Jun – Sep
(inclusive)
Southern Rockhole Ferry (10 – 25mins)
Jatbula Trail Ferry (5mins)
For more information on walking trails at Nitmiluk, visit: https://nt.gov.au/parks/find-a-
park/nitmiluk-national-park/walks
The tours may be subject to changes or cancellations due to operational demands.
The Wet Season in the Top End is a truly magical time to visit – waterfalls are in full flow, the
landscape is green and luscious, and wildlife is in abundance. Tours operating during this time (Oct– Apr) are as follows:
1 NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge Tour (2hrs)
2 Gorge Tour w/ Swim* (2.5hrs)
During this time, river fluctuations can occur almost daily depending on rainfall received
locally and in our catchment areas. Due to these fluctuations, tour amendments may be
required to ensure visitors can continue to experience the splendours of Nitmiluk amongst the
gifts mother nature has delivered.
All booking for this time should be booked and confirmed for the NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge
Tour or 2 Gorge Tour w/ Swim, and reservations will be moved to one of the below options if
required:
NOTE: The below options cannot be pre-booked. If an alternate tour is required, it will be advised by
Operations on the day of departure. We encourage all guests to reconfirm their tour at this time.
1 Gorge Tour w/ Rock Art & Swim* (2hrs)
1 Gorge Tour w/ Rock Art (1.5hrs)
Power Boat Tour (45mins)
Tour Information: All Wet Season Tours* require walking on either man-
made, uneven paths or very rocky, natural trails (not man-made paths.
Rock-hopping required). Walking (per tour) can range from 800m (total)
to 1500m (total) per tour, depending on river levels.
*Excludes Power Boat Tours.
Boarding for all departures is 15 minutes prior to departure. Ticket sales
will cease at this time.
Typically Operates: Oct – Apr
NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge Tour
Along the way cultural guides will share their knowledge about plants, animals, dreamtime stories and culture. Surrounded by the limestone escarpment, the scenery is second to none. Immerse yourself in the cultural significance and geology of the park – discover historical facts, such as how the river has been named.
Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Tour
Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge, changing colour with the setting sun, and concluding with the shimmering of the stars and the moon. From group celebrations to intimate getaways, the cruise has its own chef and wait staff,
Morning Two Gorge Dawn Tour
Prior to departing on this two gorge cruise a light snack is served. Depending on the time of year it may still be dark prior to boarding, which adds to the anticipation of what lies ahead. The cruise requires guests to walk between the first and second gorge prior to boarding another boat that takes you into the second largest gorge in the gorge system.
