Kakadu > Destinations > Katherine
Adventure
The Katherine region sets the scene for some real Territory-style adventure. It is a relatively remote destination with abundant waterways including gorges, rivers waterfalls and the ocean. It's these characteristics that attract an influx of adventure seekers all year round. Find Out More
Nature
The Katherine area offers many opportunities to immerse yourself in its dramatic natural environment. Its boundaries include sweeping escarpment country, savannah grasslands, gorges and rivers and the entire area is scantily populated. Find Out More
Festivals & Events
The Katherine area hosts a variety of events every year. Some are whacky, all are unique and they're hugely popular with both locals and visitors. Find Out More
History and heritage
The first people to inhabit the Katherine region were the Jawoyn and Dagomen Aboriginal people. Explorer John McDouall Stuart passed through the region in 1862 and named the river 'Katherine' after the daughter of his sponsor, James Chambers. Find Out More
Sweeping from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the West Australian border, the vast Katherine region is full of hidden gems.
Its diverse landscapes and unique ecosystems set the scene for outback adventure activities like fishing, canoeing, bushwalking, birdwatching, camping and four-wheel driving.
The outback meets the tropics at Katherine, about 300 kilometres south of Darwin. The township is situated on the banks of the Katherine River, which flows down from the world-renowned Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park).
Day trips from Katherine can be taken north to Pine Creek or south to Mataranka. Pine Creek has a strong gold mining heritage, with original buildings dating back to the 1800s, while Mataranka is famous for its tropical thermal pool and nearby Elsey National Park.
The Victoria River region, south west of Katherine, is well known as a premier fishing holiday destination. There are also excellent four-wheel drive tracks and camping spots.
Further north, the Daly River region is another spot popular for fishing and camping travellers with hot springs, gorges and rivers.
The remote Gulf region, east of Katherine, is perfect for adventurous anglers who enjoy fishing in remote rivers.
