Katherine River Discovery Tour

7 days

This experience utilises an exclusive land access permit through aboriginal lands and national park and combines the use of remote access along the Katherine River. This guarantees that you will be camping alone in remote, secluded and pristine locations. Discover the lifeline which flows through the heart of the Nitmiluk/Katherine Region. The Katherine River starts in Arnhemland and flows through the diverse Northern Territorian Outback, through Kakadu, Nitmiluk and the Tropical Savanna of the greater region. Journey through Jawoyn and Wardaman country by foot, boat and canoe/kayak, truly experiencing the wilderness every step of the way.

Spend 4 days walking on the Dreaming Place Trail through Jawoyn Lands, down to the Katherine River and then follow it into the famous Nitmiluk Gorge, walk and camp in the upper reaches. Then board a boat and gently cruise the lower sections of the gorge. After a rejuvenating evening in Katherine, start your 3 Day Canoe Trek into Wardaman Country and the Tropical Savanna. The time is spent floating on the permanently flowing spring fed river system, through paper bark forests and lush channels.

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day in Katherine. Evening meet and greet.

Day 2

We set off on the Dreaming Place Trail with tour leader and local indigenous guide. This is a ‘traditional hunting trail’ used by the Jawoyn people, covering highland escarpment, river country, and amazing gorges cut into the rocky landscape.

Days 3-4

10 to 15 kilometres hiking each day, before reaching our riverside campsites each afternoon to relax, swim, and enjoy the beauty of your surrounds. View aboriginal art and unspoilt remote scenery along the trail.

Day 5

Morning walk to Nitmiluk Gorge swimming hole, before joining cruise boat for 3 gorge cruise. Transfer back to Katherine for afternoon/ evening at leisure. Transfer to Katherine River for beginning of 3 day canoeing journey, with stops along the way to eat, swim, and enjoy the bird and wildlife. A campfire dinner, bottle of wine, and swag under the stars awaits.

Day 6

Morning walk to the dawn chorus, before continuing our paddle downstream. Today we encounter some small rapids, and see the change from shady paper bark forests to lush pandanus channels.

Day 7

Our last day of paddling is a relaxing opportunity to soak up the sights and sounds of this gorgeous river. Afternoon transfer to Katherine where tour ends.

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