Jatbula Trail Trek

You’ll be picked up from your Darwin accommodation between 8:00 and 8:30 am, before heading south on the Stuart Highway to Katherine. Upon arriving in Katherine, an iconic top-end town, you’ll enjoy lunch before transferring to Nitmiluk Gorge.

Here, the Jawoyn people will welcome you, and you’ll embark on an afternoon cruise through the gorge, guided by cultural experts who will share insights into local flora, fauna, dreamtime stories, and Jawoyn culture. Afterward, you’ll head to a nearby accommodation for a hearty welcome dinner.

The starting point of your walk is at Katherine Gorge. You’ll cross the Katherine River in the morning and begin the trek into the stone country. The Northern Rockhole offers a fantastic swimming spot. You’ll then trek to your evening campsite beside the clear, flowing stream of Biddlecombe Cascades. Meanwhile, your professional wilderness guides will be preparing a nutritious and delicious dinner.

Today’s trek takes the group further into the rugged stone country. You’re are now deep in the wilderness of the Arnhemland Escarpment and Stone Country which extends almost 1000 kilometres through the heart of the Top End. The trail today includes some interesting Jawoyn Aboriginal rock art sites hidden in the many rocky outcrops and overhangs. The cascades of Crystal Falls are an inviting backdrop to tonight’s campsite.

A good morning trek brings the gang to the Amphitheatre, an aptly named natural pocket in the escarpment. The shade of the cliffs encourages a rich monsoonal rain forest and the rock shelters exhibit the art of the Jawoyn Traditional Owners. Trekking along the edge of the escarpment with its stunning views, you’ll reach your camp and the spectacular 17 Mile Falls. The rock pools above the falls offer great swimming in the spring fed clear streams.

A bigger day of trekking takes you to the Edith River Crossing as it flows across the stone country. The permanent waterholes here attract abundant birdlife and are a wonderful place to enjoy another delicious picnic lunch. You’ll follow the course of the river with its gentle gradients to your evening campsite at Sandy Camp Pool.

The day starts with an invigorating swim, setting the stage for the trek to Sweetwater Pool for lunch. Walking beside the Edith River, with its billabongs and waterholes, offers a chance to spot elusive wildlife like turtles, Brolgas, and Water Monitors. After a refreshing swim and a delicious lunch prepared by your guides, you’ll continue to trek along the river to Leliyn (Edith Falls), where you can enjoy one last last swim before boarding the awaiting bus and transfer back to Darwin. The aim is to drop you back at your accommodation between 5-6pm. This evening your group may like to meet at one of Darwin’s great eateries for a celebratory dinner!