The Complete Travel Guide to Visiting Katherine in the Northern Territory

When most people think of Australia, two very different landscapes come to mind – one being the incredible coast, the other the vast outback. Outback Australia is iconic for many reasons, and there is no better state to see the outback than the Northern Territory. The capital, Darwin, is the gateway to incredible national parks, red dirt and swimming holes. But no trip to the NT, or the outback, is complete without visiting Katherine. Located approx. 3.5 hours from Darwin, Katherine is an excellent stop on any road trip and has some incredible scenery to visit. You will find everything you need to know about visiting Katherine in this complete travel guide, including how to get there, when, and what to do.

How to get to Katherine:

Sadly, there is currently no major airport operating in Katherine. Thus travellers will most likely have to travel from Darwin. However, getting from Darwin to Katherine is easy.

Private vehicle:

Driving from Darwin to Katherine in a private vehicle is extremely easy. It is sealed roads the whole way, and in some places, the speed limit is 130km/h. However, it is a longish drive. Three hours will take you from Darwin to Katherine, following National Highway 1 (Stuart Highway) through Adelaide River and Pine Creek.

Public transport – bus services:

Greyhound Australia operates a bus service between Darwin and Katherine, so no matter where you are in Australia, you can reach Katherine via Greyhound. The four-hour bus ride is only slightly longer than it would be by private vehicle, and there are usually two services per day. Prices start at $98 one way.

Train – The Ghan:

If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience (and have the money), why not take The Ghan? The infamous train ride takes you to Katherine in both directions for a fabulous day trip, so if epic train rides through the heart of the country sound appealing, this is for you!

Flights – from Darwin, Alice Springs and Tennant Creek:

Airnorth is the only airline that currently flies into Katherine. As a small airline, it only has three departure locations that operate to Katherine; Darwin, Alice Springs and Tennant Creek. This is a more expensive option than, say, by bus, but it is a good option if you are short on time.

When to visit Katherine:

Katherine has only two seasons; the wet and dry seasons. The wet season is characterised by high humidity and monsoons (lots of rain) and falls from November to April. These months are hot and muggy, so not suggested for those not used to the heat. The dry season is much more tolerable and falls between May – October. During these months, there is usually no significant rainfall, so you can expect warm and sunny days that are not so humid! We recommend visiting during the dry season for a more tolerable heat. 

How to get around Katherine:

Most of the attractions of Katherine are on the outskirts of the centre. Therefore, a personal vehicle is the only convenient option to get the most out of your stay. There are plenty of hire car/van options in Katherine and Darwin, so look for the best option. If you are hiring, we recommend hiring in Darwin, so you can also stop at some of the magnificent National Parks on the way. Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks are a must-do in the Northern Territory, so why not make your Katherine trip a part of something bigger?

Where to stay in Katherine:

We stayed at the Katherine Farmstay and loved it. Located on the Katherine River, it was an easy drive to and from, well maintained and had charming staff. This is the perfect spot for campers, vanners and caravaners, with both powered and unpowered sites available. To book, call 0421 381 371, email katherinefarmstay@outlook.com or find them on Facebook.

Things to do in Katherine and surroundings:

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge:

No trip to Katherine is complete without a stop at the incredible Nitmiluk National Park and Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, the traditional lands of the Jawoyn people. Just 30km from the CBD, this infamous park and gorge offer something for everyone. Explore on foot, above from a helicopter or on the water with a canoe or on a boat cruise.

Jatbula Trail:

Distance: 62km overnight hike

Difficulty: grade 4 (moderate – difficult)

When: the walking season is open from June to September. Bookings open in early February. 

Booking is possible on the Northern Territory Parks Booking System.

This multi-day hike is perfect for avid explorers and adventurers looking to do a little more during their trip to Katherine. The walk is 62km one-way (one-way only) and usually takes 5 – 6 days to complete. You will need to book in advance, as this trail is extremely popular, and campsites book up fast. Starting with a ferry ride at the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, the walk finishes at Leliyn (Edith Falls) and follows the western edge of Arnhem Land. Follow the trail through various scenery, including woodland and open and monsoon forest. The traditional landowners, the Jawoyn People, have used parts of this trail for generations. The track itself is named after Peter Jatbula, a Jawoyn Traditional Owner, who was a significant part of securing the land rights of the Jawoyn People. 

Click here to find out more or book transport to and from the trail.

Edith Falls (Leliyn):

Located in the northern section of the Nitmiluk National Park, Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a great swimming hole and campground worth visiting. 60km north of Katherine on the Stuart Highway, we recommend visiting either on your way to or from Katherine. The Leliyn Loop Walk is a must-do while at the falls, as it takes you to some fantastic lookouts and the upper and middle pools. The Edith Falls Plunge Pool can be very deep in places, so we recommend taking a pool noddle per person if you want to lay and relax in the water. 

Sweetwater Pool:

If you have the time, Sweetwater pool is another great spot to check out while in the northern section of Nitmiluk National Park. A short 4.5km walk from Leliyn/Edith Falls, the Sweetwater Pool is the last campground on the popular multi-day Jatbula hiking Trail. The Sweetwater trail begins at the Leliyn Campground and is considered a moderate to difficult hike. Therefore, some bushwalking/hiking experience is recommended. Ensure you pack enough water, as although short, in the Northern Territory sun; you will need as much water as you can carry. Also, make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear. 

Katherine Hot Springs:

There is no better way to start or end your day than a trip to Katherine Hot Springs. Open from 7 am-7 pm daily, these natural thermal springs sit along the banks of the Katherine River and are the perfect place to relax and unwind. Comprised of multiple smaller pools and channels, you may even get a whole pool all to yourself to enjoy. They are located on Riverbank Drive. 

Top Didj & Art Gallery cultural experience:

If you are looking to learn more about Australia’s rich indigenous and cultural history, then make sure you check out Top Didj. Their Indigenous Cultural Interaction experience is a great way to learn about aboriginal history, culture, and traditional art style. Book now here. https://topdidj.com/cultural-experiences/

Tickets:

Adults- $85

Children (3-15 years) – $55

Family (2 adults and 2 children) – $250

Cutta Cutta Caves National Park:

This experience is only offered during the dry season, from March to October. The Cutta Cutta Caves is considered one of the most remarkable experiences in the Top End, as limestone cave systems like this are not standard in sub-tropical Australia. This is the only one of its type accessible to the public. Going down to 15 meters below the surface, the caves are home to various native wildlife (including two rare bats) and rich indigenous culture. The caves can only be seen during a guided tour operated by Nitmiluk Tours. They run every hour, on the hour, between 9 am and 3 pm. Please note that closed-in shoes are mandatory; if you do not have them, you will not be allowed into the caves. The tour runs for approx. one hour. If you arrive early, you can enjoy the short Tropical Savanna Walk, which takes about 20 minutes. 

Tickets:

Adults – $30

Children (6-15 years) – $19

Family (2 adults, 3 children) – $73

To book, click here.

Day trip to Mataranka:

1.5 hours south of Katherine is the home of the famous Australian novel, We of the Never Never, Mataranka. 

Mataranka Thermal Pools:

One of the other reasons Mataranka is a popular tourist destination is the incredible sandy-bottom thermal pool. Located in Elsey National Park, the water is clear, warm and open all year round. This is a great place to relax, but if you are feeling active beforehand, why not check out one of the three walks around the pool?

Matarank Thermal Pool Walk:

Distance: 500m loop; allow 20 minutes.

Difficulty: easy.

This walk takes you through towering Livistonans to the thermal pool.

Riverside Walk:

Distance: 16km; allow 8 hours.

Difficulty: easy.

This walk takes you to and along the river and is great for an easy day’s adventure. Please note that there is no wheelchair access. Remember to pack enough food and water for the duration of the walk.

Stevie’s Hole:

Following the Waterhouse River from the Mataranka Homestead, this walk links to the Riverside walk. Again, no wheelchair access.

Distance: 1.2km return; allow 45 minutes.

Difficulty: easy

Bitter Springs:

The second of the two thermal pools in Elsey National Park is Bitter Springs. Warm all year round, and swimming is incredible here. If you have a spare 20 minutes while at the springs, why not embark on the short 500-meter loop walk around the pool? Located on Martin Road, Mataranka.

Things to remember while visiting Katherine and her surroundings:

• Be Croc-wise. The Northern Territory is well known for its crocodile residents, and Katherine is no exception. Swim only in designated places and always observe warning signs. Never approach a crocodile, salt water or fresh water. While rangers check the most famous sights and swimming holes, you must remain vigilant. 

• Bushfires are a regular sight in the NT, as backburning is used to regulate bushfires. Be vigilant and stay up-to-date with park closures for backburning.

• Stay hydrated, and always carry water on you. 

• Avoid strenuous activity in the middle of the day to avoid heat stroke.

• If driving, take note of the following fuel station, as in the outback, they are not too common. 

• If your car breaks down, you MUST NEVER LEAVE YOUR CAR. The distance can be deceiving in the desert, and it is perilous to walk without proper planning. Furthermore, ensure you always carry extra water in your vehicle.

• Be aware of dingos and other wild animals. Keep your food and rubbish packed away not to attract wildlife. Do not try to approach or pet a wild dingo. 

• Wear sun protection, including a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses when you can.

• Be aware of no-alcohol zones in and around the NT.

• Many parks, swimming holes and roads may be closed during the wet season. Therefore, check with the appropriate body to determine whether your itinerary is affected by any closures. 

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