Katherine River gorge system

Litchfield National Park & Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), Australia

The 13-gorge system meandering around the Katherine River, known for walks, canoeing, swimming, and Aboriginal rock art.

Places in Katherine River gorge system

Jet boat cruise refreshments Refreshments aboard jet boats operating cruises on the gorge during the wet season.

Best time to visit: May to October (dry season), for warm and dry conditions ideal for hiking, canoeing, and exploring the gorge system.
Getting around: Nitmiluk National Park sits 30km north-east of Katherine, with the Nitmiluk Park Visitor Centre serving as the hub for canoe hire, boat trips, and access to the 13-gorge system along the Katherine River.
Currency: Australian Dollar (A$)
Language: English. Aboriginal languages are spoken in some communities.
Timezone: ACST (UTC+9:30, no daylight saving)
Current trends: Nitmiluk Gorge's 13-gorge system continues to be explored by foot, canoe, boat, and helicopter, with the dry season from May to October remaining the prime time for long hikes and canoeing while the wet season from November to April shifts activity toward jet boat cruises as water levels rise; the architect-designed Cicada Lodge, fusing international, modern Australian and indigenous design, represents the luxury end of an accommodation range that spans all the way down to basic camping within the national park.

Nitmiluk Park Visitor Centre area — Has restrooms, a café-restaurant, gift shop, free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and an ATM, serving as the park's central hub.
Cicada Lodge district — Home to the upmarket, architect-designed Cicada Lodge, a perfect base for exploring Nitmiluk Gorge.