The waterfall at Northern Rockhole in Nitmiluk National Park

Nature & wildlife around Katherine

Explore one of the most diverse and dramatic natural environments in the world and discover a bountiful array of birds, animals and fish.

Stretching from Queensland to Western Australia the vast Katherine region is famous for its magnificent river systems, gorges, savannah grasslands and escarpment country.

Commonly known as the place where the ‘outback meets the tropics’, Katherine and its surrounding areas offer a dizzying range of landscapes. A visit to this region will expose you to a bountiful array of birds, animals and fish.

Parks and recreation

A true representation of the region’s diversity lies in its national parks – from the pristine marine environment of remote Barranyi (North Island) National Park to the towering sandstone landforms of the Keep River National Park. There are six parks to choose from and more than 10 nature parks, reserves and conservation areas.

One foot forward

Bushwalking on an established trail is a great way to spot some of the region’s wildlife – the Nitmiluk National Park alone has over 100 kilometres of walking trails. Throughout the Katherine region walks range from overnight treks across rugged terrain to simple afternoon strolls through lush nature reserves.

What bird is that?

The greater Katherine area is alive with exotic and rare bird species. From sandstone country to gorges and billabongs, its habitats are home to a broad range of bird life.

Stumble across the monsoonal springs of Mataranka and discover an endangered colony of red goshawks or head northwest to the grassy plains of Timber Creek to see black kites soaring in a blue sky.

Saltwater crocs

While the wildlife is a major attraction in the Northern Territory, some attractions are best viewed from a distance. There are over 100,000 crocodiles in the Top End, and the biggest of the species is the mighty saltwater croc, or ‘saltie’.

Explore nature & wildlife

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