Mataranka Hot Springs

The Mataranka Hot Springs, formally referred to as The Mataranka Thermal Pool, is one of Northern Territory’s most iconic sights, and attracts thousands of visitors annually.

The Hot Springs, located amongst tall shady Mataranka Palm Trees, produce a significant amount of hot, soothing waters. The Hot Springs are located right across from the Roper River, with the waters of the river adding to the overall serenity of the area. The waters of the Mataranka Hot Springs are spring fed, and can bubble up to a temperature of 34 degrees Celsius. Little red flying foxes use the Mataranka Hot Springs as a breeding ground between the months of November to May. Due to flooding, occasionally the hot springs are not accessible all year round.

The Mataranka Hot Springs are by far one of the Top End’s most sought-after attractions, but what are some of the other amazing cultural and natural gems that await you in this magical part of Oz?

Katherine

Katherine is a great jumping point to experience some truly wonderful outback experiences, with the likes of caving and river cruises waiting right outside of the NT’s third-largest town!

The Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine River are on the town’s fringes, and this allows for plenty of fun and adventure to be had when you visit. The national park is full of unforgettable activities with cruises, canoeing adventures and scenic flights all on offer in this wondrous part of the country.

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a fishing pro, you can try your hand at catching fresh barramundi in the Daly River and, of course, refresh yourself at the gorgeous Mataranka Hot Springs!

The Nitmiluk National Park

The Nitmiluk National Park is easily one of the NT’s best, and this says a lot in a state that also houses Kakadu and Litchfield! Nitmiluk is full of absolute, awe-inspiring natural wonder, with the likes of towering cliff tops and gorgeous waterholes that refresh the senses after a day’s adventure!

Be sure to try your hand at canoeing before taking a scenic flight above its incredible expanse. Next, head out to the Crystal Falls and the Sweetwater Pool, where you can soak in the cool waters after working up a sweat with some serious hiking!

The Gulf Region

The region surrounding the Gulf of Carpentaria has to be some of Australia’s most vibrant, with so much culture and natural splendour to enjoy! Whether you’re keen on wilderness fishing, Indigenous arts, surreal rock formations or world class seafood, there is truly something for everyone in the Gulf Region east of Katherine.

Head out to the Limmen National Park, where the otherworldly Lost City is encircled by vibrant billabongs, ancient woodlands, rivers and floodplains. Next, be sure to head to the Ngukurr Art Centre, where artists from different Gulf clans come together to showcase their stunning works.

Katherine and its surrounding region is a truly incredible part of Australia, with so much natural and cultural beauty to experience and plenty of adventure to keep you going for days!