Katherine is often described as a place where ‘the outback meets the tropics’. Whilst the star attraction is undoubtedly the famous Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge), Katherine and its surrounds include great fishing, hidden natural wonders and a rich indigenous and pioneering history. Katherine Gorge is an awe-inspiring place covering an awesome 3,000 kilometres of magnificent escarpment country, with sheer cliffs and stunning waterfalls plunging to picture-perfect freshwater beaches. Here you can bushwalk, swim, seek out ancient aboriginal rock art on cliff faces, or take a scenic flight to any of 13 gorges. Other attractions in the area include Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park, Katherine Hot Springs, Leliyn / Edith Falls, Elsey National Park, Cape Crawford, Pine Creek, the McArthur River and The Barranyi National Park, located in the Sir Edward Pellew Group of islands. This area is a haven for wildlife, providing a home for nesting turtles and migratory birds.
When to Visit Katherine
Away from the coastal influence, Katherine reverts to four distinct seasons. Winter is June - August with maximum temperatures around 20-22° C during the day dropping to minimums of around 4-6° C overnight. Summer is December - February with maximum temperatures around 34-36° C during the day and 20-22° C overnight. The best time to visit is May through to September.
Getting Around Katherine
Darwin International Airport (DIA) is located approximately 13 klms from the Darwin central business district and is the main international and domestic gateway to the Northern Territory. Tourist buses and guided tours leave from Darwin daily to visit Kakadu, Katherine Gorge, Litchfield National Park, and Arnhemland. Alternatively hire a rental car. Most of the popular attractions are reachable via sealed roads however some require a 4WD for access. Be watchful of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.