Located 320km south of Darwin, Katherine is an important centre in the region and there is plenty for the backpacker to see and do. Visit Katherine Gorge in the Nitmiluk National Park and enjoy some great scenery. Cruises up the gorge can be arranged or for the adventurous you may like to go it alone and canoe at your own pace. There are plenty of tracks for the bushwalker with just as much to see.
50 kms from Katherine and still in the Nitmiluk national park is Edith Falls. These falls flow all year even in the dry season as they are spring fed and there are some good swimming spots here as well as camping areas, bushwalks and picnic areas. For something a little different you can visit the Katherine Hot Springs of further south the Mataranka Thermal Springs and the Bitter Springs and take a dip.
There are many art and cultural displays at Katherine with four galleries. There is a big focus on Aboriginal culture with displays of art as well as many artifacts from times gone by. Learn to weave baskets, play a Didgeridoo or throw a spear. You can also learn painting from one of the local artists.
The Katherine Museum has some good displays, photos and artifacts from the past including early pioneers, WWII, The Katherine Floods and much more. There are many natural wonders to see in the surrounding areas and there are also many festivals held in the area.
Katherine is a good sized town with plenty of accommodation and other amenities for the backpacker. There are medical facilities, restaurants and cafes and plenty of shopping for basic essentials and retail therapy. An interesting place to stay and base yourself whilst you explore the region and have a break from the road.
Do browse our many Australia tours designed for backpackers.
