Katherine Gorge Tour & Edith Falls

Embark on a journey through the ancient heart of the Top End. We invite you to witness the breathtaking grandeur of Nitmiluk National Park, a place where rugged sandstone cliffs meet serene waters. Experience the very best of the Northern Territory with our Katherine Gorge Tour & Edith Falls, designed to showcase the raw beauty and spiritual soul of this majestic landscape.

DEPARTS
6:00 am
RETURNS
8:00 pm
Days
1
PRICE from
$365 AUD

Operates

WED, FRI, SAT, SUN

Touring Route

Trip Style
Original
Language
Multilingual
Age Restriction
From 6 years old
Group Size
Max 28 people

Highlights

  • Cruise through Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) – drift along this awe-inspiring waterway flanked by 70-meter high towering cliffs.

  • Discover the wonder of Nitmiluk National Park and explore hectares of untouched wilderness rich with culture and history.

  • Meander through the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, managed by the Jawoyn people, featuring cultural displays and information.

  • 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.

  • A must-do day trip adventure when visiting the Top End!

Trip Inclusions

  • Katherine Gorge NitNit Dreaming boat cruise ticket

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

  • Australian wildlife sightings in the wild!

  • Hosted by an accredited outback driver guide

  • Air-conditioned mini-coach travel

  • Comprehensive local tour commentary

  • Selected Darwin inner-city hotel pick-up/drop-off points

  • Multilingual translation app available in 20 languages, including 10 with full audio + text support. Please note: personal headphones are required and are not supplied onboard.

What to Bring

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Your sense of adventure
  • Water bottle &/or Camelbak (2L minimum)
  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
  • Swimmers and beach towel
  • Hand sanitiser and insect repellent
  • Money for snacks and meals
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat
  • Beach thongs or flip-flops and swimwear
  • A personal first aid kit and any prescription drugs that may be required
  • A camera to record your luxury moments

Google & TripAdvisor Reviews

Autopia Tours
4.9
Based on 7202 reviews
powered by

Trip Itinerary

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.

Exclusions
  • 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.
  • 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 lunch along the way.
  • Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended
  • Personal expenses

Route details

Our central meeting point for this tour will be Travelodge Resort Darwin (rebranded to THE LEEA DARWIN) – 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City @ 6:30am. Guests are to be waiting outside the main gates on Cavenagh Street for collection.

  • 6:00 – Mindil Beach Casino Resort – Casino Dr The Gardens Darwin
  • 6:02 – Cullen Bay Resort – 26 Marina Boulevard Darwin
  • 6:05 – Ramada Suites Zen Quarter – 6 Carey Street Darwin City
  • 6:07 – Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront – 7 Kitchener Drive Darwin City
  • 6:10 – Oaks Elan – 33 Woods Street Darwin City
  • 6:15 – Mantra on the Esplanade Darwin – 88 Esplanade Darwin City
  • 6:20 – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade – 116 Esplanade Darwin City
  • 6:23 – H on Mitchell Hotel Apartment – 105 Mitchell St Darwin City
  • 6:26 – Hilton Darwin – 32 Mitchell St Darwin City
  • 6:28 – Courtyard by Marriott Darwin – 81 Smith St Darwin
  • 6:30 – Travelodge Resort Darwin (newly rebranded to The Leea Darwin) – 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City (main meeting point)
  • 6:40 – Darwin Resort – The meeting point is on 383 Stuart Hwy (Bus Stop ID: 183) directly opposite the resort
  • 6:43 – Discovery Parks – The meeting point is on Stuart Hwy (Bus Stop ID: 287) directly opposite Farrell Crescent
  • 6:55 – Darwin FreeSpirit Resort – 901 Stuart Hwy Deviney Rd Holtze

*Please arrive 5-10 minutes before your nominated pickup time so as not to delay or miss your tour.

At Autopia Tours, we actively promote the protection of flora and fauna on our Darwin Top End Tours. It is our duty to ensure there is minimal disturbance to this World  Heritage Listed region and the species that call it home. Cultural sensitivity and respect for the traditional owners should also be shown at all times.

Part of our responsibility is educating guests on minimal impact practices and the importance of ensuring the safety of wildlife and the environmental sustainability of the destinations we visit.

Learn more about EcoTourism: https://www.ecotourism.org.au/

Traditional Owners

Autopia Tours would like to begin by paying our respects to the traditional owners of this country, with specific acknowledgement to the Wurundjeri people. Please be conscious and respectful of the sensitivities of indigenous culture and the spiritual connection they have with the land at all times.

Wildlife Encounters

The natural behaviours of wildlife are to be respected and not interfered with. When viewing wildlife, people should take care to avoid rapid or sudden movements, which could frighten the animal, and should keep noise to a minimum and refrain from touching, petting or feeding all wildlife including birds. Contact with people can introduce diseases to wildlife and can cause them to become aggressive.

Wildlife should not be handled or fed, unless by certified wildlife handlers. Feeding wildlife can alter their natural foraging behaviour and can lead to disease or illness through contact with people and the introduction of foods that are harmful to their digestive system. Feeding wildlife can also cause them to become aggressive toward people.

Wildlife that appears to be in distress, injured or in danger should be reported immediately to the appropriate authority, such as your Guide/Tour Leader, a National Park Ranger or Visitor Centre Staff.

Protecting our National Parks

People should remain on designated walking tracks, behind safety barriers/fences and follow all directions given by the guide/tour leader. Venturing off these can alter fragile ecosystems and can harm wildlife shelters and native vegetation. There are other dangers to be aware of too, such as cliff edges, unstable rock formations, overhanging tree branches and slippery ground cover. Remaining on tracks ensures safe visitation for guests and the environment.

No flora or fauna should be removed from their natural setting. This includes dead wood, fallen leaves, flowers and so forth, as they form part of the ecosystem of the region and their removal could cause a disturbance.

Waste Management

All buses are fitted with waste bins. No organic waste should be disposed of onto the ground. Although organic, items such as banana peels, apple cores, bread and other food scraps, are not natural/native to the region and can introduce pest species, diseases or harm to wildlife if found and eaten. We recommend all passengers bring a water bottle with you on our Grampians Tour. Purchasing bottled water contributes large amounts of plastic into the landfill. Therefore, we ask guests to bring their own bottle, as there is access to water refill stations available on our vehicles. Please ensure you stay hydrated throughout the tour to reduce the risk of sun exposure and dehydration.

First Aid

All our guides carry a current Level 2 First Aid certificate. Please report any accident or illness to your tour guide. We recommend anyone with an existing medical condition to carry their medication with them on tour and to notify their tour guide at the beginning of the tour.

If you are a smoker! We ask you to refrain from smoking whilst in the company of other passengers and limit it to designated smoking areas. Smoking is not permitted on any of our vehicles, or in any type of accommodation including permanent campsites. We make frequent ‘comfort stops’ to allow free time for guests but cannot guaranteed smoke breaks. Please ensure you dispose of your cigarette butt responsibly and appropriately.

What is a suitable age for this tour?

Child policy for this tour is 6 years old and over, due to the nature of this tour, it’s not suitable for infants or children 5 years and under. Children must be supervised at all times and guests are to keep to the marked tracks and designated visitor areas.

How much luggage can I bring on tour?

We ask that guests travelling on day trips bring small day packs and hand luggage only as we have limited storage onboard our vehicles. Suitcases and large backpacks must be put in storage at your hotel or bus station lockers prior to boarding our vehicles..

Is lunch provided on this tour?

Meals are not provided on this tour. We believe it is important for our trips to support the local economy, so guests are given the opportunity to purchase lunch on our way to Katherine Nitmiluk National Park.  Alternatively, guests can bring their own food as we will have an eski onboard to keep items fresh. A water refill station is provided, we recommend you bring a 1.5-2L refillable water bottle.

How fit do I need to be for this tour?

A moderate level of fitness is required to complete the walks, some areas of the Nitmiluk National Park consist of rocky terrain and steep walking tracks such as the walk down to Edith Falls.

Can you swim on this day tour?

Guests will have an opportunity to swim at Edith Falls (Leliyn) waterfalls and plunge pools, subject to seasonality.

How many people are on this tour?

We operate this tour with a maximum of 28 passengers, our vehicles are 28-seater Yutong. This vehicle makes for a safe & comfortable journey (air-conditioned), with large passenger windows for unobstructed views.

What happens if it rains, will the tour proceed?

In the event of rain or inclement weather, your travel experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider. This tour would only be cancelled in extreme weather conditions, whereby it’s not safe to travel into Nitmiluk National Park.

Where can I park my car in Darwin city?

There is a government parking lot near 7 McLachlan Street Parking, and only a short walk (2 blocks) to Travelodge Darwin. Here is a handy City Parking Location Map.

Overnight Parking in Darwin City – Free overnight parking is available in all off-street open-air car parks (except West Lane and Dragonfly car parks) every night from 5.00pm – 8.00am. Overnight parking fees apply in West Lane and Dragonfly car parks between Monday to Thursday, 5.00pm – 8.00am.

Safe Travel Statement

For your safety, we have implemented comprehensive hygiene measures and increased regular sanitation. For more information click here.

Our Contract

All bookings are made with Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 94 143 929 962). By making a booking, you agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. Your booking is considered confirmed upon receipt of your booking confirmation and/or invoice.

These Terms & Conditions are valid from 1 August 2025 until 31 March 2027, though dates and itineraries remain subject to change at any time.

Accredited Bus Number: AC003612.

Booking Confirmations & Enquiries

All bookings must be confirmed within 72 hours of departure via email to [email protected]

Before You Book

Please ensure you:

  • Understand the style, itinerary and physical demands of your chosen tour.
  • Familiarise yourself with these Terms & Conditions and tour details.
  • Disclose any medical conditions, dietary requirements or special needs.

We are not responsible for passengers who fail to review this information prior to travel.

Traveller Responsibilities
  • Travellers are required to comply with all relevant government regulations (Federal, State and Territory).
  • All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing. In exceptional cases (e.g. serious medical issues, visa denials, or regulatory changes), requests may be considered with supporting documentation. Approval is not guaranteed.
  • To ensure the safety of all passengers, if you are feeling unwell during your tour, you must notify your guide immediately.
  • If you choose to leave a tour early or join after it has commenced, no refund will be provided and any additional costs incurred due to late arrival or early departure remain your responsibility.
Traveller Information

To confirm your booking, you must provide:

  • Full name and contact details.
  • Email address and dietary restrictions (if applicable).
  • Nationality, country of origin or Australian postcode.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions that may affect your travel.
  • For Comfort Style Tours including domestic flight, passport details (or government-issued photo ID for Australian citizens) are required. Failure to provide this may result in missed flights and additional costs.

Please see our Privacy Policy for information on how we manage your personal data.

Special Requirements

Please advise us at the time of booking or no later than 7 days before departure of any:

  • Medical conditions.
  • Dietary requirements / food allergies.
  • Mobility or accessibility needs.

We will do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee all requests, especially in remote regions. We recommend bringing your own snacks for special dietary needs.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend all travellers obtain comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking.

Insurance should include cover for:

  • Medical emergencies and repatriation (recommended minimum AUD $300,000 or USD $200,000).
  • Personal accident, illness, loss of property and liability.
  • Tour cancellation, flight delays and force majeure disruption.

Travel insurance is mandatory for all Comfort Style Tours. Proof of cover will be requested before departure. If you do not provide adequate cover, you may be refused travel and cancellation fees will apply.

If relying on credit card insurance, please bring policy number, insurer’s name and emergency contact details.

Check Availability & Book Now!

[booking_iframe]

FAQ

What does the tour include?

The tour provides round-trip transportation from Darwin and guided visits to popular attractions such as Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park) and Edith Falls. It also includes a boat cruise through Katherine Gorge, a visit to the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, and a chance to swim at Edith Falls, weather permitting.

How long is the day tour?

The day tour usually lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours, beginning in the early morning and concluding in the evening when returning to Darwin.

Packing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, a towel, a water bottle, a camera, and a light jacket for more relaxed morning or evening temperatures is advised.

Is lunch provided as part of the tour?

There is no lunch provided on the tour. We do make stops along the way where you can purchase something and support local businesses.

Are there any age or health restrictions?

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

Related Tours

🔥 15% OFF
🔥 15% OFF

Related Articles