Katherine Gorge Cruise & Edith Falls Day Trip from Darwin

Darwin , Australia

Katherine Gorge Cruise & Edith Falls Day Trip from Darwin

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(157 reviews)

13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A must-do day trip when visiting the Top End! We travel south along the famous Stuart Highway through the townships of Adelaide River and Pine Creek towards Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park.

Explore this wonderful region in the Northern Territory and relax as your guide provides historical and cultural commentary throughout your journey. A must-see inclusion is the NitNit Dreaming two-hour Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) boat cruise where you will journey through the middle of cliff faces 70m high with the sun’s natural lighting providing ever-changing colours throughout the landscape and rock formations.

Soak in the stories of the traditional owners of the land, the Jawoyn people of Katherine as you are guided through this spectacular area before we head to the picturesque Edith Falls (Leliyn).*subject to boat cruise timing, Edith Falls (Leliyn) will be visited either prior to or after the Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) boat cruise. Then it's time to meander our way back to Darwin.

Available options

Katherine Gorge Cruise & Edith Falls Day Trip from Darwin

What's included

Air-conditioned comfortable mid-sized coach travel

Guided bush walks (1-2km, subject to fitness level)

A boat cruise through Katherine Gorge

Comprehensive local tour commentary

Hosted by an accredited outback driver guide

Detailed itinerary

We depart Darwin's inner-city early, so we can make the most of our time exploring the Nitmiluk National Park and surrounding areas onboard our Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls day trip.

After leaving Darwin in the morning, we travel south along the famous Stuart Highway through Adelaide River and Pine Creek towards Katherine.

Stop 3

Discover the endemic flora and fauna of this fascinating region of the Northern Territory with your guide's historical and cultural commentary as we journey through Nitmiluk National Park. The Katherine River and Edith Falls are two of the most famous attractions in this region

Stop 4

There is no better way to experience Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) than with the NitNit Dreaming boat cruise. On the NitNit Dreaming cruise, you will travel through the middle of cliff faces 70m high as the sun's natural lighting changes the colours of the landscape and rock formations as you travel through the gorge.

Stop 5

Edith Falls (Leliyn), with its huge natural plunge pool, is a great place to take a refreshing dip or simply relax and enjoy your surroundings. (*swimming is subject to seasonality) Views over the escapement can be seen from several lookout points along the walk

If time permits we stop here for travellers to have a stretch their legs and have a rest stop.

After enjoying an action-packed day of natural beauty, we slowly make our way back to Darwin arriving sometime between 7:30pm and 8:00pm.

What's not included

Meals not included. Guests will have an opportunity to support locals and buy lunch along the way.

Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

75 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

82 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A minimum moderate level of fitness is required to complete the walks.

Child policy 6 years old and over, not suitable for children 5 years old and under.

This itinerary may vary 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.

Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing.

Prior to booking, we strongly recommend guests purchase travel insurance.

Meeting point

Our main meeting point for this tour will be outside the entrance to the Travelodge Darwin, 64 Cavenagh Street at 6.30am. Please wait out the front gates and not in the hotel foyer, to avoid missing the bus.

Important notes

Our main meeting point for this tour is outside the front of the The Leea Darwin (formerly known as Travelodge Resort Darwin), 64 Cavenagh Street @ 6.30am.

Please be waiting out the front at least 10 minutes before departure. For any enquiries, please call our reservations team on +61 (08) 7913 7144.

We would like to inform you that a NT Parks Day Pass is required for entry into Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park for day trips. This pass is not included in the tour price, so we recommend purchasing it in advance to ensure a seamless entry on the day of your tour.

*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies.

About Darwin

Darwin is the capital of Australia's Northern Territory, known for its unique blend of multiculturalism, stunning natural beauty, and rich Indigenous heritage. The city offers a gateway to the Outback, World Heritage-listed national parks, and a vibrant tropical lifestyle.

Top Attractions

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

Showcases the natural and cultural history of the Northern Territory, including Indigenous art and the story of Cyclone Tracy.

Museum 2-3 hours AUD 10-20

Darwin Waterfront Precinct

A lively area with a wave pool, restaurants, and bars, offering a great place to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

Entertainment Half day Free (activities may have separate costs)

Litchfield National Park

A stunning national park featuring waterfalls, termite mounds, and scenic walking trails.

Nature Full day AUD 10 entry fee

Crocosaurus Cove

A unique wildlife park offering close encounters with crocodiles, including the famous 'Cage of Death' experience.

Adventure 2-3 hours AUD 20-40

Mindil Beach Sunset Market

A vibrant market offering local food, crafts, and live music, set against the backdrop of stunning sunset views.

Cultural Evening Free entry, food and crafts for purchase

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mango Chicken

A tropical dish featuring grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy mango sauce.

Main Course Contains poultry and dairy

Barramundi

A local fish, often grilled or fried, with a delicate flavor.

Main Course Gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be prepared to be nut-free

Kangaroo

A lean and flavorful meat, often grilled or served in stews.

Main Course Gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be prepared to be nut-free

Pineapple and Lime Smoothie

A refreshing blend of tropical fruits, perfect for the hot climate.

Drink Vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in Litchfield National Park Boat tours in Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) Crocodile encounters at Crocosaurus Cove Sunset cruises on Darwin Harbour Spa treatments at luxury resorts Beach relaxation at Casuarina Beach Visiting Indigenous art galleries Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The dry season offers ideal weather for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the natural attractions.

20-32°C 68-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Indigenous languages, Asian languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

GMT+9:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Darwin is generally safe for travelers, but caution should be exercised in certain areas and situations.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of crocodiles and other wildlife
• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

Darwin International Airport • 13 km from city center

By bus

Darwin Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with services running frequently during the day.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Parap Fannie Bay Nightcliff

Day trips

Litchfield National Park

100 km from Darwin • Full day

A stunning national park featuring waterfalls, termite mounds, and scenic walking trails.

Kakadu National Park

250 km from Darwin • Full day or overnight

A World Heritage-listed national park offering stunning landscapes, Indigenous rock art, and diverse wildlife.

Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge)

300 km from Darwin • Full day or overnight

A stunning gorge system offering breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities.

Festivals

Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair • August Darwin Festival • August Mindil Beach Sunset Market • May to October (Thursday and Sunday evenings)

Pro tips

Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather and outdoor activities
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting Indigenous sites and communities
Be cautious of wildlife, especially crocodiles, and follow safety guidelines
Use public transport or walk to minimize your environmental impact