Located on the lands of the Jawoyn people, approximately 320 kilometres south of Darwin in the Katherine region in the Northern Territory, lies Nitmiluk National Park. The gorges and surrounds hold great ceremonial significance to the local Jawoyn people, who are the custodians of Nitmiluk National Park. Nitmiluk Gorge has been carved out of the sandstone cliffs of the Katherine River over the course of thousands of years, explore this 12-kilometre-long series of 13 magnificent gorges in this world-famous park on foot, by water, or by air. Walking tracks abound in Nitmiluk; there are over 100 kilometres of walking trails, allowing visitors an up close and personal opportunity to meet the local wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles, ospreys, wallabies, red-tailed black cockatoos, and red-winged parrots. Paddling explorers can hire canoes from the visitor’s centre and go at their own pace, allowing for full immersion amongst the dramatic red cliffs. Or opt for a view of this spectacular area by air via a scenic helicopter flight.
This optional upgrade will provide views of the magnificent Nitmiluk Gorge unlike any other. Arriving in Katherine, alight the train and be taken to your awaiting helicopter. The Dreamtime story of the Traditional owners of this land tells of the gorge system's creation by Bula, an important figure of the Jawoyn people, who is said to have carved these gorges with his two wives as they were hunted across the lands. Flying over all 13 gorges, see if you can follow Bula's path as you appreciate the enormity & complexity of this landscape.
The NitNit Dreaming cruise is one of the most popular tours in the region. A boat will take you to the end of the first gorge, where you will experience the beauty of the large boulders, rock pools and sands that make up the crossover to the second gorge. 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.
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