Things To Do
in Katherine

Katherine is a vibrant town located in the Northern Territory of Australia, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the iconic Nitmiluk National Park, where visitors can explore breathtaking gorges and waterfalls. The town itself is steeped in history, featuring a mix of Indigenous culture and European influences.

Katherine's warm climate and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nitmiluk National Park
morning
:

Start your day with an early morning guided tour of the Katherine Gorge, taking in the stunning landscapes and learning about the local Aboriginal culture.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a canoeing adventure on the gorge, allowing you to get up close to the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional bush tucker dishes while watching the sunset over the gorge.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Discoveries
morning
:

Visit the Katherine Hot Springs for a relaxing swim in the natural pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

afternoon
:

Explore the Katherine Museum to learn about the local history, including the Indigenous heritage and the impact of World War II in the region.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual meal at a local pub where you can mingle with locals and experience the town’s friendly atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🏨Mid-Range Hotel$150
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🚗Fuel (per liter)$1.60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich Indigenous culture and history.
  • Warm and friendly community atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • High humidity during the wet season.
  • Distance from major urban centers.

Places to Visit in Katherine

Visit one of these nice places.

Katherine Gorge

Famous for its dramatic cliffs and serene waters, it's perfect for landscape photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Katherine Hot Springs

A picturesque location featuring natural thermal pools surrounded by lush vegetation.

Nitmiluk National Park

Home to breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and Aboriginal rock art, offering countless photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Katherine

Katherine offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural diversity, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors.

Katherine Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kangaroo Steak

A lean and flavorful meat, often served grilled with local sides.

Must-Try!

Barramundi

A popular local fish, typically grilled or pan-fried, known for its flaky texture.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Katherine Markets

Held on weekends, these markets offer fresh produce, local crafts, and tasty street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Katherine experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The wet season from November to April is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) and heavy rainfall. The dry season from May to October offers warm days and cooler nights, with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Indigenous Culture

Be respectful when interacting with Indigenous communities and follow guidelines regarding sacred sites.

Casual Dress

Australians typically dress casually; wear comfortable clothing suitable for the warm climate.

Greeting Locals

A friendly 'G’day' is a common way to greet someone; Australians value friendliness and approachability.

Safety Guide

Safety

Katherine is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and securing valuables. Wildlife encounters, including snakes and crocodiles, can occur, so it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially near water bodies.

Tipping in Katherine

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for excellent service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is less common, but some smaller vendors may only accept cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Wet Season (November to April)

Expect heavy rainfall and humidity, which can lead to flooding; however, this season also brings lush greenery and vibrant waterfalls.

Dry Season (May to October)

Characterized by warm days and cool nights, this is the ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the region.

Cool Season (June to August)

Temperatures can drop significantly at night, making it advisable to dress in layers while enjoying the daytime warmth.

Transitional Season (September to October)

Temperatures begin to rise, and the humidity increases, leading up to the wet season; it's a great time for wildlife spotting.

Nightlife Guide

Katherine at Night

Katherine's nightlife is relatively laid-back, featuring a few local pubs and bars that offer live music and entertainment, especially on weekends. The Katherine Country Club is a popular spot for dinner and drinks, while some venues may host events like trivia nights or karaoke. The atmosphere is friendly, providing a great opportunity to mingle with locals and other travelers.

Hiking in Katherine

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Leliyn (Edith Falls) Trail

A scenic hike that takes you to beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes, ideal for a refreshing dip.

Cicada Trail

A moderately difficult trail that offers stunning views of the Katherine Gorge, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Katherine by plane.

Katherine Airport

Located approximately 10 km from the town center, this airport offers flights to and from Darwin and is the main gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Katherine's town center is quite walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance. Sidewalks are available, and the pace is relaxed, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may require a vehicle or organized tours to reach, especially those outside the town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Australians

A significant portion of Katherine's population is made up of Indigenous communities, contributing to the cultural richness of the region.

Tourists and Backpackers

With its natural attractions, Katherine attracts a variety of tourists, including adventure seekers and those looking to explore the Australian outback.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Australian Rules Football

A popular sport in the region, with local clubs hosting matches throughout the season.

Cricket

Cricket is widely played and enjoyed, especially during the dry season, with local competitions and informal games in parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Katherine is generally light, with most locals using cars for transportation. Public transport is available, but it may not be as frequent, making it more convenient to rent a vehicle or join guided tours for exploring further afield. The town's layout is straightforward, making navigation easy for drivers.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Katherine.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places can accommodate gluten-free diets, but it’s recommended to inform staff when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Katherine includes a public hospital, Katherine District Hospital, and several medical clinics. Emergency services are available, but for specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities like Darwin. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide