Autopia Tours: Katherine Gorge Cruise + Edith Falls from Darwin
Duration:
Operated By:
This fare price is for a Katherine Gorge Cruise + Edith Falls full-day tour.
TOUR CODE: KG-B
OPERATES: Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun (May to Sep) / Fri, Sun (Oct to Nov) / Sundays (Dec to Apr)
DEPARTS: 6:30am
RETURNS: 20:00pm
TOUR DURATION: 13.5 Hours
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: The Leea Darwin Hotel – 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City @ 06:30am.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Cruise through Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) – Drift along this awe-inspiring waterway, flanked by towering, jagged cliffs that rise 70 meters above you, creating an unforgettable panorama that will take your breath away.
- Discover the wonder of Nitmiluk National Park and explore hectares of untouched wilderness, home to the Jawoyn people, and immerse yourself in a land rich with culture, history and stunning natural beauty.
- Meander through the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, managed by the Jawoyn people with cultural displays and information, souvenirs and refreshments
- Support locals by purchasing breakfast and/or lunch refreshments in Adelaide River, Pine Creek or at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre
- Dive into the serene tiered plunge pools of Edith Falls (Leliyn), where crystal-clear waters cascade into tranquil pools surrounded by lush greenery. Perfect for a refreshing swim and peaceful moments by nature’s beauty. (Swimming is subject to seasonality.)
- A must-do day trip adventure when visiting the Top End!
ITINERARY:
Embark on a captivating journey to one of the Top End’s most stunning natural attractions, Nitmiluk National Park, home to the Jawoyn people. Departing from tropical Darwin, we’ll travel south along the iconic Stuart Highway, passing through the historic townships of Adelaide River or Pine Creek, and heading towards the charming town of Katherine. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by an abundance of unique flora and fauna endemic to the Northern Territory. As you relax and enjoy the picturesque landscapes, your guide will offer fascinating historical and cultural insights, enriching your experience of this extraordinary region.
A highlight of the day is the NitNit Dreaming two-hour Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) boat cruise. As you journey through this stunning gorge, you’ll be surrounded by towering 70-meter-high cliff faces, with natural sunlight illuminating the rock formations and creating a constantly changing display of colors. Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) is managed by the traditional custodians of this land, the Jawoyn people, who have a deep spiritual connection to the land. Their profound relationship with the Gorge and its surroundings will bring the landscape to life as you float through this serene and awe-inspiring environment.
After the boat cruise, we’ll head to the picturesque Edith Falls (Leliyn), a serene spot nestled within the park. Depending on the timing of the boat cruise, we may visit Edith Falls either before or after the Katherine Gorge cruise. Subject to seasonal conditions, you’ll have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the expansive natural plunge pool of Edith Falls (Leliyn), a perfect spot to cool off after the boat ride. Alternatively, if swimming isn’t on your agenda, simply relax by the water, soaking in the beauty of this tranquil setting.
After a rejuvenating visit to Edith Falls, we’ll continue our journey back, retracing our route through the townships of Pine Creek or Adelaide River. Along the way, you can reflect on the day’s experiences, immersing yourself in the beauty and culture of Nitmiluk National Park. As we arrive back in Darwin, you’ll have cherished memories of a day spent exploring the heart of the Northern Territory, with its striking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable natural wonders.
- Meals: n/a
- Driving Distance: 820kms
- Walking Distance: 500m
*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule to adapt to seasonal changes and occasionally spots in the parks close or do not allow swimming. As safety is our top priority we plan accordingly to ensure our guests have the most fun and best experience possible while on tour.
INCLUSIONS:
- Katherine Gorge NitNit Dreaming boat cruise ticket
- Guided bush walks (1-2km, subject to fitness level)
- Australian flora and fauna sightings
- Hosted by an accredited outback driver guide
- Air-conditioned mini-coach travel
- Comprehensive local tour commentary
- Selected Darwin inner-city pick-up/drop-off points
EXCLUSIONS:
- NT Parks Day Pass Required: Entry to Nitmiluk National Park is not included in the tour price. Purchase in advance to avoid issues on the day.
- Any meals not indicated within the itinerary – at the guest’s own expense. We provide plenty of opportunities for guests to support locals and buy breakfast/lunch/dinner along the way.
- Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
- Personal travel insurance is highly recommended.
- Spending money for personal items.
WHAT TO BRING:
2L Refillable water bottle, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen, beach towel, and swimwear, comfortable walking shoes (tread closed-toe shoes), all-weather comfortable clothing, tropical strength insect repellent, small day pack 5-7kg, money for snack and meals, camera to capture every moment, binoculars for wildlife spotting.
CHILD POLICY:
Child fare prices apply from 6 to 12 years old. Not suitable for infants or children 5 years old and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walks.
WEATHER:
The weather in the Northern Territory can fluctuate and be extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and in the evening the temperature drops dramatically. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, and a contact phone number.
- Medical Conditions: The tour operator must be notified of any known medical conditions at the time of booking. This is a physically demanding tour requiring a moderate level of fitness and mobility.
- Fitness Level: A minimum moderate level of fitness is required to complete the walks down to the waterfalls in sometimes extreme weather conditions on this tour.
- Age Restrictions: Children aged 6 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times due to the swimming holes involved. Not suitable for infants or children aged 5 and under.
- Mobility Considerations: This tour terrain is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, including those using wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers.
- Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 5-7kg day bag per person. We are not able to accommodate travellers’ suitcases on day trips, please store at your hotel whilst on tour.
- Itinerary Variations: Itineraries and touring routes or cruise vessels may change to adapt to seasonal weather conditions, park, road and river closures or due to traditional landowner ceremonies. Safety is our top priority, and we plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests.
- Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 03 9393 1333.
- Private Tours: Private charters services are available on request at charters@gltg.com.au.
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My favorite experience was snorkeling with the Whale Sharks followed closely by snorkeling with the Manta Rays in the Ningaloo Reef.
Our tour guide Craig M was funny, insightful and so helpful!
All the stops are well thought out for you to see the most / get pics / experience etc.
Wear sensible shoes as there is quite a bit of walking when you do stop (esp if you want to do the longer route in the rainforest). Also bring a small towel to dry your feet if you go for a paddle
Would 100% recommend
Total number of pax in the bus were around 10 and everyone is friendly. Duane have it organized well and were very helpful and friendly throughout the trip. Love his voice and his approach to us in the bus.
My 2 yo daughter also seem to love Duane alot and hence, make the one day trip much more enjoyable. What more surprised were that 2 days later while we were on a tour to philip island, we actually got honed by him and he greeted us and my daughter say hi to him again!
What a friendly guide we have!























