If you’re planning a visit to Nitmiluk National Park and want to prioritise Nitmiluk Gorge, choosing the right boat tour is all part of creating your ideal Nitmiluk experience. From shorter cruises through the first gorge to extended journeys exploring the first two gorges or even two gorges in greater depth, there are several popular tours designed to suit different interests, timeframes and mobility issues. Each guided tour travels along this spectacular waterway, where dramatic scenery, ancient sandstone cliffs and thriving flora and vegetation set the scene.
With a knowledgeable tour guide onboard, you’ll gain insight into the indigenous culture of the Jawoyn people — the traditional owners of this remarkable outback landscape — while keeping watch for local wildlife, native fauna and even crocs along the riverbanks. Departing conveniently from the boat ramp, these tours vary in itinerary and pace, whether you’re cruising into the second gorge or staying within the first gorge for a shorter experience. Below, we break down the different boat tour options to help you decide which adventure is right for you.
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Nitmiluk National Park, Katherine Hot Springs OR Leliyn (Edith Falls)
📍Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park, NT
⏰ 12 hours (approx.)
💰: From $599
Explore the best of Kakadu, Nitmiluk, and Litchfield National Parks on this all-inclusive two or three-day luxury tour. You’ll be treated to stunning views of ancient wetlands, towering rock formations, and high escarpments. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot crocodiles, buffalo, wild pigs, brumbies, and diverse birdlife along the way.
Learn about the region’s cultural history with a visit to an Aboriginal Rock Art Gallery, and take in the landscapes from a unique perspective on the Yellow Water Cruise and Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise.
Katherine Gorge Cruise + Edith Falls from Darwin
📍Darwin and Nitmiluk National Park, NT
⏰ 13 hours (approx.)
💰: From $345
Discover the natural beauty of Nitmiluk National Park on this one-day tour from Darwin. You’ll travel through the stunning landscapes of the Northern Territory, with stops at Adelaide River and Pine Creek along the way.
The highlight is the NitNit Dreaming boat cruise through Katherine Gorge, where you’ll be awed by towering cliffs and learn about the Jawoyn people’s culture from your knowledgeable guide. The tour also includes a stop at Edith Falls, offering a chance to unwind and, if conditions allow, take a dip in its refreshing plunge pools. Enjoy guided walks, wildlife spotting, and a visit to the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre for cultural insights.
Katherine Gorge – Mataranka
📍Katherine and Mataranka, NT
⏰ 15 hours (approx.)
💰: From $1,700
This full‑day Katherine Gorge – Mataranka tour offers an unforgettable journey through some of Australia’s most iconic Top End landscapes. You’ll begin with a scenic visit to Nitmiluk National Park, where towering sandstone cliffs and deep waterways define the dramatic Katherine Gorge. A boat cruise through this ancient network of gorges lets you admire the rugged beauty and learn about the region’s natural and cultural significance.
Later in the day, the tour continues south to Mataranka, a lush oasis known for its warm, palm‑fringed thermal pools and tranquil tropical setting. Here you’ll have the chance to relax and soak in crystal‑clear spring waters surrounded by native flora, completing a truly immersive experience of the Northern Territory’s diverse natural wonders.
3-Day Katherine River Safari
📍Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park, NT
⏰ 3 Days
💰: From $1,170
The Katherine River Safari is a three-day adventure perfect for nature lovers of all ages. Paddle 40-55 kilometres along the wildlife-rich Katherine River, away from the crowds of Nitmiluk National Park. One of the most popular Nitmiluk tour options, it offers everything from comfortable bush camping to great dining and expert guides.
You’ll cruise through paperbark forests, pandanus channels, and small rapids, stopping to swim, fish, and spot wildlife. Enjoy the serene setting of remote campsites, where you can indulge in campfire meals and stargazing at night.
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Three National Parks in Two or Three Days
📍Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park, NT
⏰ 3 Days
💰: From $5,740
Explore the best of Kakadu, Nitmiluk, and Litchfield National Parks on this all-inclusive two or three-day luxury tour. You’ll be treated to stunning views of ancient wetlands, towering rock formations, and high escarpments.
Wildlife enthusiasts may spot crocodiles, buffalo, wild pigs, brumbies, and diverse birdlife along the way. Learn about the region’s cultural history with a visit to an Aboriginal Rock Art Gallery, and take in the landscapes from a unique perspective on the Yellow Water Cruise and Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise.
4-Day Kakadu & Katherine Gorge Tour
📍Kakadu and Nitmiluk National Parks, NT
⏰ 4 Days
💰: From $2,870
This Kakadu and Katherine tour offers comfortable accommodations and is perfect for those who want to combine adventure with relaxation.
Highlights:
- Explore the stunning Kakadu National Park, home to an array of wildlife and ancient rock art.
- Cruise along the picturesque Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park.
- Experience the unique culture and heritage of the local First Nations communities.
5 Day Kakadu, Katherine Gorge, Litchfield 4WD Camping Adventure
📍Kakadu, Katherine and Nitmiluk, and Litchfield, NT
⏰ 5 Days
💰: From $1,865
Experience the highlights of the Top End on this 5-day adventure. Starting from Darwin, you’ll explore Kakadu National Park, visiting the ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr and enjoying breathtaking sunset views over Nadab Floodplain. On day two, cool off at the lush plunge pools of Jim Jim Falls. Day three takes you to Burrungkuy to admire more rock art and enjoy a picnic by the stunning Barramundi Gorge waterfall.
In Nitmiluk National Park on day four, you’ll cruise through Katherine Gorge and unwind at Edith Falls. The final day offers a visit to Litchfield National Park, where you’ll see magnetic termite mounds and swim in refreshing plunge pools before returning to Darwin.
No matter which boat tour you choose, exploring Nitmiluk Gorge is a spectacular way to experience this iconic Northern Territory waterway. Whether your itinerary includes the first gorge, the second gorge or the first two gorges, each guided tour showcases incredible scenery, unique vegetation and abundant local wildlife on a tranquil cruise. Along the way, your tour guide will share stories of the Jawoyn people, offering a deeper understanding of the indigenous culture and connection to Country that defines this landscape.
From shorter cruises ideal for those with mobility issues to longer journeys venturing further into the outback, these popular tours make it easy to tailor your Nitmiluk experience. With convenient access via the boat ramp and the chance to spot crocs and other native fauna, every option delivers a memorable and meaningful encounter with one of Australia’s most spectacular natural attractions.
*Cover photo by @jemma_rk
Have you explored Nitmiluk National Park? We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us enhance the visitor experience, so please take a moment to comment below and share your tips and recommendations.
Norther would like to invite you to explore more about the beauty of Nitmiluk National Park here. And… as always, you can get more inspiration for other National Parks & Destinations to visit by following @northerhq or get your Nitmiluk National Park daily fix @nitmiluknationalpark
Heading to the NT? Here’s What You Need to Get Started
Travel Insurance
Whether you’re from Australia or across the globe, it’s a great idea to get insurance to cover unexpected accidents or medical emergencies. AllClear and Cover More are our favourite travel insurance providers to give us the peace of mind while heading to the outback.
Flights
For the best deals on flights, we recommend using Trip.com. It’s super easy to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. I always find great options for my trips, and it saves me so much time and money!
Hotels
We always recommend using Booking.com for hotels. They have a variety of accommodation options and great filters to help you find the perfect place for your trip to the NT. With amazing deals, a great loyalty program, and the largest selection of hotels and rentals, it’s our favourite place to book rooms.
Tours
Tours, either multi-day, half-day, or private excursions, are a great way to experience the NT. Viator has a great selection of activities to help you travel the Territory and learn from locals.
Car Rental
If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Territory on your own, we suggest checking out Budget. It’s so easy to compare prices and find the best option from their huge selection of cars. Or try Rentalcars.com to see cars from all rental companies in the NT.
National Parks Pass
If you live outside the NT and plan on visiting national parks, you'll need a Parks pass. Choose from a day pass, a 2-week pass, 12-month pass, or family pass at NT.gov.au. If you're an NT resident be sure you bring your NT driver licence or proof of residency. Note: Park Passes are not accepted at Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Purchase those from Parks Australia.
Sim Card
If you're travelling and need a reliable connection, We'd recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. Choose from data only or cellular connection. It’s super convenient and helps you stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant fees to your wireless provider.
