Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls Day Tour from Darwin

Darwin ⇆ Darwin

Ages 6+

13.5 Hours | 6:00 - 20:00

200% Co2 Offset

Darwin ⇆ Darwin - Please check itinerary for detailed start point. Operators will provide exact details after booking.

Ages 6+ - This represents the restricted/recommended age/s and expected difficulty of the tour.

| 13.5 Hours | 6:00 - 20:00 - This represents the accommodation style used for this tour and the duration of the tour. Please look below for specific accommodation details and booking options. One day Tours will only display the tour duration

Every tour we offer is 200% Climate Positive.

We calculate your trip's CO₂ footprint (including transport, food, and gear) and fund twice that amount in landscape restoration projects—creating a genuine net-positive impact on the planet.

Travel knowing you're helping restore ecosystems, not just offsetting.

This Tours Co2 Emissions are 0.160 tonnes of Co2. Each booking results in a Co2 reduction of 200% these emissions in restoration projects.

Adult

$345.00 AUD

Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls Day Tour from Darwin

Tour Overview

Cruise the ancient sandstone walls of Katherine Gorge and swim in the crystal plunge pool beneath Edith Falls on this full-day escape to Nitmiluk National Park — the spiritual heartland of the Jawoyn people — with all transport and guiding included. This small-group adventure combines a scenic NitNit Dreaming boat cruise through the gorge, short guided bush walks, and refreshing swims at Edith Falls, plus opportunities to spot freshwater crocodiles, birds, and tropical wildlife.

You’ll travel in an air-conditioned mini-coach with an experienced driver-guide who shares insights on Jawoyn culture, gorge geology, Top End ecology, and wildlife. Every booking is 200% climate positive through landscape restoration offsets and conducted with full respect for Jawoyn Traditional Owners.

Tour at a Glance

Duration: 1 day (13.5 hours, 6:00am–8:00pm)
Group size: Small-group (typically 8–21 guests)
Physical level: Moderate – short guided walks (1–2 km total) on rocky/uneven tracks with some steep sections
Age: Ages 6+ (children 6–12 at child rate; under 6 not suitable)
Start / Finish: Selected Darwin inner-city pick-up/drop-off points (arrive 5–10 mins early)
Transport: Air-conditioned mini-coach with experienced driver-guide

Keen to glide through towering gorges and cool off under cascading waterfalls? Secure your Katherine adventure today.

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Tour Highlights

Highlights

NitNit Dreaming Boat Cruise — Glide through the towering sandstone walls of Katherine Gorge on a peaceful cruise with expert commentary.
Edith Falls Swimming — Refresh in the stunning plunge pools fed by cascading waterfalls, surrounded by tropical rainforest.
Guided Bush Walks — Short 1–2 km walks on rocky tracks with lookout views over the gorge and falls.
Jawoyn Cultural Insights — Learn about the deep spiritual connection of the Jawoyn people to Nitmiluk and its creation stories.
Top End Wildlife — Spot freshwater crocodiles, birds, wallabies, and colourful flora in this biodiverse wilderness.
Small-Group Eco Experience — Relaxed pace with emphasis on cultural respect and minimal environmental impact.

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INQUIRE ABOUT TOUR

★★★★★

Michelle

We joined this tour with our guide, Ethan. It was a long day but so enjoyable. Katherine Gorge is spectacular – it’s a must see. The stop at Edith Falls was nice for a quick dip and bite to eat. Very serene setting. Ethan is very knowledgeable about the local history, has a great sense of humour, and a terrific music selection. Thanks, Ethan, for a fabulous day!

★★★★★

Valeria

I would like to give a special thank you to Andrea her knowledge of all was amazing & entertaining our 12 hr tour was certainly entertaining and literally flew!!! A special mention to the indigenous guide who took us around the gorges his personal knowledge was extremely well received Thank you Andrea & Eutopia tours

★★★★★

Teresa

Was absolutely beautiful, thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and the knowledge of the Darwin to Katherine tours guides. Our bus driver, journey to Katherine Gorge was Andrea would recommend her to everyone. Like to also mention the indigenous boat tour guy who was so lovely and thoroughly enjoyed his sense of humour.

ITINERARY

Detailed Day Tour Itinerary

Itinerary

Key Information
• Total round-trip driving distance: ~700 km
• Walking distance: 1–2 km total on rocky/uneven tracks with steep sections
• Total tour duration: 13.5 hours

Detailed Timeline

6:00 am
Depart Darwin from selected inner-city pick-up points.

Morning
Scenic drive south through the Top End savanna (approx. 3.5 hours / 350 km). Comfort stop en route.

Midday
Arrival at Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge).
• Board the NitNit Dreaming boat cruise through the spectacular sandstone gorge
• Short guided bush walks along the gorge rim and lookout points

Afternoon
Transfer to Edith Falls.
• Time to swim in the beautiful upper and lower plunge pools beneath the cascading waterfall
• Relaxed exploration of the surrounding monsoon forest and swimming areas

Late afternoon
Return drive to Darwin with ongoing commentary.

8:00 pm
Arrive back in Darwin.

Key Tour Information

ROUTE MAP

WHAT'S INCLUDED & WHAT'S NOT

✅ What’s Included

Itinerary Activities

NitNit Dreaming boat cruise on Katherine Gorge
Guided short bush walks (1–2 km)
Entry to Nitmiluk National Park
Comprehensive driver-guide commentary on culture, geology, and ecology

Guides & Support

Accredited driver-guide
Air-conditioned mini-coach

Eco & Practical

Selected Darwin inner-city pick-up/drop-off
Water refill station on coach
Minimal-impact practices and cultural respect education

🚫 What’s Not Included

Meals or beverages (purchase lunch/snacks en route or bring your own)
Hotel transfers beyond listed Darwin pick-up points
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Personal expenses or souvenirs

WEATHER EXPECTATIONS

Seasonal Weather Expectations

Dry Season (May–September) — Warm sunny days (18–32°C), low humidity, perfect for swimming and cruising. Full water flow at Edith Falls.

Build-up (October–November) — Hot and humid (25–38°C) with possible late storms.

Wet Season (December–April) — High humidity, monsoonal rains and thunderstorms (24–34°C). Spectacular high-flow waterfalls, but some tracks or swimming areas may have seasonal closures. Tour operates with adjustments except in extreme weather.

What to Pack
Tropical heat, strong sun, high humidity, rocky tracks and possible insects – pack light, responsibly and for sun/swim protection.

WHAT TO PACK

✅ Essentials

1.5–2 L refillable water bottle (refill station on coach)
Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and broad-spectrum sunscreen
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
Lightweight long-sleeve shirt and pants (sun + insect protection)
Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes with good grip
Tropical-strength insect repellent
Small day pack (5–7 kg max)
Cash or card for lunch/snacks
Camera or binoculars for gorge and wildlife

Insect & Weather Protection

Light rain jacket or poncho (wet season)
Lip balm with SPF

Toiletries & Extras

Personal medications
Hand sanitiser

Luggage Limits

Small day pack or hand luggage only (5–7 kg max; no large suitcases or backpacks – store at your accommodation)

LOCAL INSIGHTS

Local Insights

Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) is the traditional Country of the Jawoyn people, who have cared for this land for over 40,000 years; the name “Nitmiluk” means “place of the cicada dreaming”.
The gorge was carved over millions of years by the Katherine River cutting through ancient sandstone, creating 13 spectacular gorges with sheer walls up to 100 metres high.
Edith Falls (Leliyn) features a series of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools safe for swimming (no saltwater crocodiles in the upper pools).
The area is part of the Arnhem Land plateau, one of the oldest landscapes on Earth, with rock art sites dating back tens of thousands of years.
Freshwater crocodiles (not the dangerous saltwater variety) live in the gorge and can sometimes be seen from the boat.
The park changes dramatically with the seasons — dry season offers calm swimming, while the wet season brings powerful waterfalls and lush green landscapes.

CO₂ FOOTPRINT REPORT

Carbon Footprint & Offset Report: Katherine Gorge Tour & Edith Falls

Quick Snapshot

Estimated CO₂e footprint per participant: 160 kg CO₂e
(higher-end conservative estimate – covers all on-tour impacts plus average local travel to/from Darwin pickup points)

Our 200% offset commitment per booking: 320 kg CO₂e
Funded through genuine landscape restoration in climate-vulnerable developing regions (reforestation, mangroves, soil regeneration, etc.). This creates real net-positive impact beyond neutrality.

Tour summary

13.5-hour day tour (departs ~6:00am, returns ~8:00pm)
Group size 8–28 travellers (usually max 21)
Starts and ends at selected Darwin inner-city pickup points (main central point: Travelodge Resort Darwin / The Leea Darwin)
Air-conditioned mini-coach (~820 km round trip)
No meals or accommodation included
Highlights: Guided commentary en route, Nitmiluk Visitor Centre (Jawoyn-managed cultural displays), 2-hour NitNit Dreaming Katherine Gorge boat cruise through 70 m cliffs, Edith Falls (Leliyn) for seasonal swimming in plunge pools or relaxing, guided bush walks (~1–2 km, rocky terrain), wildlife spotting

Overview

This report estimates the carbon footprint for one individual participant on this tour using higher-end data from trusted sources. We intentionally choose upper-range figures to fully cover every impact – including hard-to-measure parts like supply chains and indirect effects.

We then double it (200%) and fund genuine landscape restoration projects in developing and climate-affected regions worldwide. This goes beyond standard offsetting to deliver real, lasting benefits for ecosystems and communities.

All figures in kg CO₂e (carbon dioxide equivalent – the standard measure that includes all greenhouse gases).

Tour Details

Duration: 13.5 hours (full day)
Key locations: Darwin CBD pickups, Stuart Highway via Adelaide River/Pine Creek, Nitmiluk National Park (Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, Katherine Gorge boat cruise, Cahills Crossing), Edith Falls (Leliyn)
Travel style: Eco day tour with boat cruise, short guided walks and cultural/wildlife focus
Assumptions: Average participant, standard behaviours, higher-impact choices where uncertain. Local travel to Darwin pickup points is factored into the higher-end footprint for completeness.

Calculation Approach

Sources: UK DEFRA 2025 conversion factors, Australian National Greenhouse Accounts 2024, UNWTO tourism data, IPCC guidelines, and peer-reviewed studies.
Higher-end scale: Upper-range emission factors everywhere, plus well-to-tank fuel effects, +20% uncertainty buffer, and conservative assumptions for remote Northern Territory mini-coach operations, marine boat cruise and tourism-level food purchases.
Per person, full tour experience.
Excludes only purely personal extras (e.g. souvenirs or optional extra activities).

Detailed Emissions Breakdown (per participant)

Transportation – 105 kg CO₂e

Average local travel to/from Darwin pickup points (higher-end mix of car, taxi or short transfers): 30 kg
All on-tour air-conditioned mini-coach transfers (~820 km round trip, shared): 75 kg – higher-end diesel factor with realistic low-occupancy buffer

Accommodation – 0 kg CO₂e

Day tour only – no overnight stay

Meals & Food – 25 kg CO₂e

No meals included; higher-end estimate for own purchases at stops (Adelaide River, Pine Creek or Nitmiluk Visitor Centre) with tourism-level portions and waste: 25 kg

Activities & Excursions – 30 kg CO₂e

2-hour NitNit Dreaming boat cruise, guided bush walks (~1–2 km), wildlife spotting, cultural displays at Nitmiluk Visitor Centre and commentary

TOTAL ESTIMATED FOOTPRINT PER PERSON: 160 kg CO₂e

Our 200% Offset Commitment

Amount we will offset:2 × 160 kg = 320 kg CO₂e per individual booking
How: Direct funding of landscape restoration projects – reforestation, mangrove protection, regenerative agriculture, wetland and soil carbon restoration
Where: Developing countries and regions most affected by climate change (e.g. Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America) for maximum global benefit and community co-benefits
Why 200% and higher-end estimates: To guarantee coverage despite any measurement discrepancies and to create genuine extra positive impact

Important Notes

Numbers are deliberately conservative (higher) so we over-deliver on restoration – real footprint may be lower
The tour already has strong sustainability practices (minimal impact guidelines, respect for Jawoyn traditional owners, stay on designated tracks, support local economy, refillable water encouraged); our independent higher-end analysis adds extra certainty
Carbon accounting has natural uncertainties – doubling it is the responsible way
This directly supports long-term carbon-sequestering landscapes and local communities

TOUR FAQ'S

Tour-Specific FAQs

Is swimming compulsory?
No — swimming at Edith Falls is optional and weather/season dependent.

How much walking is involved?
1–2 km total on rocky/uneven tracks with some steep sections — moderate fitness required.

Is lunch provided?
No — purchase lunch/snacks during the day or bring your own (eski available on coach).

Can children under 6 join?
No — the tour is not suitable for infants or children 5 and under.

What happens in the wet season?
The tour still runs (weather permitting), but swimming or certain walks may be adjusted for safety.

Is the boat cruise always included?
Yes — the NitNit Dreaming boat cruise is a core part of every departure.

What time of year is best for swimming?
Dry season (May–September) offers the safest and most comfortable swimming conditions.

Are there toilets on the coach?
No — regular comfort stops are scheduled at visitor areas.

Is the tour suitable for solo travellers?
Yes — small-group format makes it easy to connect with others.

Do I need a towel?
Yes — bring your own quick-dry towel for swimming at Edith Falls.

Your Booking's CO₂ Impact

CO₂ Emissions

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CO₂ Reductions

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Here’s how it works—clean, simple, no surprises:

A) "Book with Deposit"

Place a deposit. You’ll pay the deposit at checkout.
Tell us the details. You’ll receive an email asking for your tour name/date, passenger details, and any special requests (room type, extras, dietaries, etc.).
We secure your spots. If everything’s clear, we confirm your booking by email so you can lock flights and plan the rest.
If we need anything (e.g., room configuration, add-on activities), we’ll ask—then issue confirmation once sorted.
Final balance invoice. After confirmation, you’ll be invoiced the remainder in line with the trips booking terms & conditions (each trip/partner has its own timeline but full payment is generally required at least 30 days prior to departure).
If we are unable to confirm your spot: you’ll receive a full refund of your deposit. Zero stress.

B) Instant confirmation route (selected trips)

Some departures use live operator booking calendars. These can deliver instant confirmation inside the operator’s system.
If you book this way, the operator’s terms & conditions apply immediately (including payment schedules and change/cancellation rules).

Good to know

Each trip may have slightly different deadlines and deposit rules—You can find the terms and conditions for your chosen booking on the listing page.
You can still flag special requests after deposit—earlier is better for availability.

Before your booking is confirmed

If we can’t confirm your spots after you’ve paid a deposit, we’ll issue a full refund of that deposit.

After your booking is confirmed

Cancellations follow the operator’s cancellation schedule (varies by trip and how close you are to departure).
Expect possible fees or non-refundable items (e.g., internal flights, permits, certain accommodations).
If a refund or credit is due, we’ll process it once the operator releases the funds and pass it back to your original payment method.

Instant-confirmation bookings (live operator calendars)

The operator’s T&Cs apply immediately on these. Some departures are non-refundable or have stricter windows.

How to cancel

Email us your booking reference, names on the booking, and a one-line request (“Please cancel”).
We’ll reply with the exact penalties/refund or credit per your operator before proceeding.

If the operator cancels or significantly changes your trip

You’ll be offered an alternative date, a travel credit, or a refund according to that operator’s policy. We’ll advocate for the best outcome for you.

Good to know

Refunds are returned to the original payment method; bank/FX fees aren’t usually recoverable.
Travel insurance is your friend for recovering non-refundable costs.
The earlier you contact us, the better your options typically are.

Short answer: Usually yes, but it depends on the operator’s rules and how close you are to departure.

Date changes

We’ll check new-date availability with the operator.
If a change is possible, you’ll pay any applicable operator change fee plus any price difference for the new date.
The closer to departure, the tighter (and costlier) changes become; some trips treat late changes as a cancel + rebook under the operator’s policy.

Transfer to another person (name change)

Many operators allow a name change/transfer up to a certain cut-off.
Fees and deadlines vary by operator and services booked (e.g., flights may be non-transferable).

Instant-confirmation bookings

If you booked via a live operator calendar, the operator’s T&Cs apply immediately. Some departures are non-changeable or have stricter windows.

How to request a change

Email us with your booking reference, preferred new date/person’s details, and any flexibility.
We’ll confirm options, fees, and any price differences before making changes.

Pro tips

Ask early—more seats = more options, lower fees.
Consider travel insurance that covers change/cancellation costs.
Always check booking terms and conditions, links displayed on each tour page under the overview.

Yes. Your money is protected by our own accreditation and safeguards, plus the protections of our tour partners and the payment methods we use.

Our business safeguards

Legally registered business with documented booking & refund policies.
Commercial insurance appropriate to our operations.
VTIC Quality Tourism Accreditation (Quality Tourism Accredited Business) confirming we meet industry standards for customer service, safety, and risk management.

Operator-level protection

We partner only with established operators who maintain their own financial protections and clear refund/credit policies.
When you book via a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly by the operator and their protections/terms apply immediately.

How your payment is handled

All card payments run through a secure, PCI-compliant gateway; we don’t store your full card details.
If you book through a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly into the operator’s system, and their terms & protections apply immediately.

Your legal rights

Your purchase is also covered by consumer laws in your country/state (fair trading/refund rights). We reference the applicable jurisdiction on your paperwork.

Extra peace of mind

Paying by credit card may add chargeback protection from your card issuer.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover situations outside operator/consumer protections (your own cancellation, medical, delays).

Absolutely. Our prices update live from the operator, but if you spot the same tour on the same dates with the same inclusions and terms advertised for less — even in a public sale or promo — we’ll match it.

Already booked? We’ll refund the difference to your original payment method (eligibility applies, based on the final checkout price including taxes/fees from an authorised seller). And yes, the matched price still includes our 200% carbon offset — no dilution of benefits.

Not for every trip—but for most travellers, we strongly recommend it

Some itineraries and partner operators do require insurance (especially remote treks, glacier walks, or bookings made via live operator calendars with mandatory cover).

When it’s required

Certain partners/departures make insurance compulsory and may ask for proof before departure. If you book one of these, their T&Cs apply immediately.

What good cover includes

Medical treatment & emergency evacuation/repatriation (high limits).
Trip cancellation/interruption (protects your deposit and balance if plans change).
Baggage & travel delay, and supplier default where available.
Coverage for all activities on your itinerary (e.g., trekking, glacier hikes, kayaking) and any relevant altitudes/conditions.
24/7 assistance hotline and a clear claims process.

When to buy

At booking. That way, cancellation benefits start immediately and you’re covered if something crops up before you travel.

How to share proof

Email us your policy certificate (names, policy number, assistance phone).
If you booked via an instant-confirmation operator calendar, follow their proof instructions and deadlines exactly.

Most departures run as planned, but guarantees depend on the operator and minimum numbers. If there’s a wobble, we’ll tell you fast and give you options.

How it works

Minimum group size: Most partners need a minimum number of travellers to confirm a trip.
When we confirm: Each operator has a confirmation window (often 30–60 days before departure). We monitor load and update you as status changes.
Any listing from "G-Adventures" will be guaranteed to run with a booking

If a trip is under-subscribed

We’ll contact you with clear options:

Move to another date (same tour)

Switch to a comparable trip

Full refund of monies paid (per the operator’s terms)

Any price differences for new dates/trips will be discussed before you decide.

If a trip is suspended (weather, park closures, strikes, force majeure)

First, we’ll look to re-route or adjust (e.g., alternative park, similar activities).
If that’s not viable, you can move dates, choose a different trip, or receive a refund/credit according to the operator’s policy.

Our promise

Proactive comms: We’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more—no last-minute surprises if we can help it.
No pressure choices: You pick the outcome; we handle the admin.
Flight advice: Until your tour is confirmed, book flexible/refundable flights or add insurance that covers schedule changes.

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