Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)

Scored through the ancient sandstone by the Katherine River, the deep gorge site is sacred to the Jawoyn people, who have inhabited this region for thousands of years. The word Nitmiluk means “place of the cicada dreaming” in the Jawoyn language, and the gorges and surrounding landscape bear a deep cultural significance to their peoples, who are considered the official custodians of the Nitmiluk National Park.

The placid lakes with their sheer sandstone backdrops have long been a favorite haunt for locals and travelers alike, who venture into the refreshing waters to cool off from the heat of Australia's dry season – roughly between April to October.

There are usually a few freshwater crocodiles nesting along the banks of the river, which are harmless to humans. During the wet season, however, deadly saltwater crocodiles enter the river when the levels are very high, making swimming prohibitive during this time. 

The park stretches from Kakadu in the north to 30 km northeast of the town of Katherine in the south where you’ll find the park’s main entrance and attendant facilities. The other main area of the park is Leliyn (Edith Falls) to the north west.

The park can be explored by foot, mountain bike trails, boat tours, or even helicopter tours, which offers the most comprehensive views over a short time-frame – ideal for visits while on yacht charter.  If you have a little more time, hire a kayak or canoe while you're there, where you and your intrepid guests can take in the majestic towering gorges from a unique vantage point.

If you're keen to visit Nitmiluk National Park and would like to incorporate a trip into your Australia itinerary, please speak with your preferred yacht charter broker. 

To find out more about chartering in the region, check out our in-depth Australia yacht charter guide for more information.