Kuluyampi Explorer - Journey Beyond

Full Day
Nitmiluk Gorge, Northern Territory
Canoe Adventure
May to October
Skip to product information

This epic nine hour canoeing adventure is a great way to explore Nitmiluk Gorge in the Katherine region of the Northern Territory at your own pace. Take in the diversity of the landscapes and habitats as you paddle your way through the gorges, a visual treat for any nature lover.

A boat transfer will take you to the top of the first gorge, allowing you to take to the waters from the second gorge – allowing you to travel further. From here, you create your experience. You may choose the venture upstream and explore the subsequent gorges, or simply paddle at a more leisurely pace, taking advantage of the swimming spots along the way to cool off.

Location

Nitmiluk Boat ramp. Gorge Road, Nitmiluk National Park. 30km from the township of Katherine, allow 30 minutes driving time.

What to expect

This epic nine hour canoeing adventure is a great way to explore the Nitmiluk Gorges according to your own itinerary and fitness level. Take in the diversity of the landscapes and habitats as you paddle your way through the gorges, a visual treat for any nature lover.

Begin the tour with a scenic journey by boat through Nitmiluk's first gorge before being allocated your canoe at the start of the second gorge. The peace and tranquility of the second gorge and beyond will leave you feeling like you have stepped back in time. All there is for you to enjoy is nature’s beauty and the spirituality of Nitmiluk.

Experienced canoeists will make it to the end of the 4th and 5th gorges. Discover the crystal clear rock pools and waterfalls in this 100% rainfed river system. The freshwater pools make for some refreshing swimming opportunities depending on the water levels and the time of year.

The tropical features of grasslands and pandanus trees provide a perfect picnic spot for lunch or morning tea. Some of our guests say the most magical time of day is late afternoon. As you make your way back to the first gorge after a rewarding day of exercise and paddling, the light from the sun starts to change the colours of the sandstone escarpment to reveal stunning deep reds and oranges. What a great way to end the day.

Fellow canoeists tip: you might want to carry some snacks and/or lunch with you! Forgot? Our Nitmiluk Cafe' offers snacks and easy to carry lunch solutions catering to different tastes and dietaries requirements! Just remember to bring any container or wrapping back with you.

What is included

This adventure takes approximately 9.5 hours and departs daily at 8:00am till 5:30pm between June and October.

Please be mindful that the river levels do decrease over the course of the Dry Season, therefore portages may be longer than anticipated. Full day canoeists may travel as far as their fitness levels allow, provided they return within their allocated time. A moderate level of fitness is recommended to participate. Weight of canoes are 18kgs for single hire and 26kgs for double hire.

Seasonal:
During the months of approximately November / December – May, canoe hire does not operate for safety reasons, due to poor weather and perilous river conditions. The canoeing season will recommence once Parks and Wildlife have completed their annual safety and crocodile survey. For further information please speak to our reservations team.

Cash Deposit:
A $50.00 refundable cash deposit or pre-authorisation per canoe on the day is required at the start of your session. This can be done either on the morning at the Nitmiluk Canoe Shed ( near Main Jetty), or the day prior at any Nitmiluk Kiosk - Visitors Centre, Cicada Lodge (for in-house guests), or the Jatti Poolside Bistro. Cash deposits are refunded once you have returned no later than your allocated time and with no damage to Nitmiluk property. Pre-authorisation will automatically release after 7 days.

Age Restrictions:
Children under the age of 5 years are not permitted to canoe due to safety regulations. Children aged between the ages of 6 – 12 years MUST be accompanied by an adult.

Meeting point

Nitmiluk Boat ramp, Nitmiluk Tours. Please arrive 15 mins prior to departure time

What to bring

  • Shirt
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Mosquito Repellent
  • Plenty of water

YOUR EXPERIENCE PROVIDER

Nitmiluk

Nitmiluk Tours is a successful 100% Aboriginal owned and operated Tourism Operation within Nitmiluk National Park. Nitmiluk Tours are the exclusive providers for touring the breathtaking Nitmiluk Gorge, located approximately 320km South of Darwin in the Northern Territory, Australia.

Nitmiluk Tours has an accommodation option to suit all travellers including campgrounds, tented accommodation, self-contained chalets and the boutique Cicada Lodge. Explore Nitmiluk Gorge with us; cruise, fly, canoe, swim, walk and immerse yourself in the ancient culture of the Jawoyn people.

Ready for an experience you won't forget?
Our positive impact