1 Day Katherine National Park

Itinerary: day by day

Depart Darwin and stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery, the resting place for many Second World War soldiers and civilians killed in the 1942 air raids on Darwin.

Continue via Pine Creek to the township of Katherine, a popular tourist centre and one of the Northern Territory's most important agricultural and grazing regions.

Enter Nitmiluk National Park, home to 13 stunning gorges, the famous Katherine Gorge among them. The name 'Nitmiluk' is the traditional Jawoyn owners' word for 'Cicada Dreaming', which is one of the area's important Dreamtime stories.

Wander through the Visitor Centre before joining your guided cruise between the sheer sandstone cliffs of Katherine Gorge. The waters of Katherine Gorge are an enticing deep blue, but it is the sheer scale of the gorge that is the most mesmerising feature. As you glide along the tranquil waters of this ancient watercourse, enjoy commentary from your guide detailing the area's plants and wildlife. Keep an eye out for crocodiles and an array of birds.

This afternoon, travel to beautiful Leliyn (Edith Falls) located on the western boundary of Nitmiluk National Park. The paperbark and pandanus-fringed natural pool at the base of Leliyn is safe for swimming throughout most of the year and you'll have a chance to take a dip in the refreshing cool waters.

On the return trip to Darwin, you have the opportunity to purchase dinner – a Top End speciality of barramundi and chips (own expense).