KATHERINE - Southern gateway to the Top End

Just a three hour drive from Darwin, and the third largest town in the Northern Territory Katherine is a great place to spend a few days. A town filled with nature, culture and history, there is so much to do you will never be bored! 

Head over to the Nitmiluk National Park, one of this regions most spectacular areas, home to the Katherine Gorge made up of thirteen gorges, just 30 minutes from town. You can take a boat cruise, canoe the gorges, go for a bushwalk or just take in the scenery. Whatever you decided, this is a sight that you wont want to miss. 

The Katherine River is a great place for picnics and  adventure activities; many overnight canoeing trips are available. The Katherine Hot Springs, are just around the corner, so if can’t make it all the way to New Zealand, you can still experience their beauty and wonderful water. If time allows, make your way over to the Katherine Low Level Bridge, the area has many peaceful spots to picnic, swim, and bushwalk.

If the water isn’t for you there are many other great ways to experience the town and the water without getting wet. The Katherine River Railway Bridge Lookout affords great views of the Katherine River and Main Katherine River Bridge. Knotts Crossing, the site of the “overland telegraph line: crossing and the original horseback crossing are to the rear of the Katherine Hospital. These are great places to take in a little history and enjoy the town. 

If you have the chance and time allows, head to the Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park. Just 27 km south of Katherine, the tropical limestone caves, formed millions of years ago are still growing! They are also home to five species of bats, including the rare ghost and horseshoe bats. The harmless brown tree snake also inhabits the caves and can often be seen. Tour are operated daily for a small cost.