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Experience Nitmiluk Gorge (formerly known as Katherine Gorge) by helicopter with North Horizon Heli Adventures.

They have exclusive landing rights at Nitmiluk Gorge, allowing you to experience Nitmiluk in a truly unique way.

Their scenic helicopter flights, cultural tours and tailor-made helicopter adventures allow you to discover the spirit of this vast landscape and its people. Their tours access the rich cultural heritage, with its traditions, stories and landscapes that are significant to Aboriginal people. You will tick off bucket-list experiences that create lifelong memories.

They are the only Indigenous-owned helicopter operator in the Northern Territory. They involve the local Traditional Owners in their business, allowing them, and their guests, to foster meaningful cultural experiences while contributing to the preservation and promotion of Indigenous culture.

They have been operating helicopters in the Norther Territory for over 30 years and have an exceptional safety record. Your safety is their number one priority.

Tours available

The Nitmiluk Scenic Express Flight: The 3 Gorges

This scenic helicopter flight is perfect for anyone looking to catch a breathtaking glimpse of Nitmiluk Gorge from the air. Taking off from within the park itself, you'll fly over highlights like Jedda's Rock, Butterfly Gorge and Lily Pond before turning back above the dramatic Third Gorge — making every moment in the sky unforgettable.

Tour departs: Nitmiluk Tours Gorge Helipad

Tour duration: 10 minutes

Maximum passenger weight per seat: 136kg

Maximum total combined passenger weight: 260kg

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Nitmiluk Gorge and Leliyn (Edith) Falls Flight and Landing

Begin with the full extended scenic flight over Nitmiluk Gorge and Leliyn Falls, following the Katherine River through towering escarpments and remote sandstone country. After experiencing the vast scale of the landscape from above, the helicopter descends into a secluded section of the gorge inaccessible by road or walking tracks.

With approximately 20 minutes on the ground, you'll step onto sandstone country to experience the stillness and scale of Nitmiluk from within. This option combines the complete aerial journey with a rare on-ground perspective inside the park.

On this scenic helicopter journey, you'll lift off from the Gorge Helipad and glide over a tapestry of deep sandstone canyons, crystal-lined watercourses and ancient rock formations carved by the Katherine River, each twist and turn revealing new wonders such as Butterfly Gorge, 8th Gorge Cascades, Yellow Rock and The Amphitheatre. The flight continues beyond the iconic 13 gorges, tracking past serene remote pools like Sandy Camp and Sweetwater before culminating in sweeping aerial views of Leliyn (Edith) Falls and its lush campgrounds—a vibrant contrast to the ochre cliffs and wild bushland.

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The Signature 13 Gorge Flight

Dare to rise above the ordinary and let your spirit soar
over the ancient landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park. On this unforgettable journey, you'll discover all 13 gorges that together form one of Australia's most remarkable natural wonders.

Venturing deep into the heart of the park, you'll follow the path carved by the Katherine River as it winds through towering sandstone walls shaped over millions of years.
Departing from the Nitmiluk Gorge Helipad, we
ascend past the Visitor Information Centre and the boat ramp where river cruises begin, before reaching the mouth of the gorge. From there, the helicopter tracks the full 17 kilometres of the gorge system, revealing a breathtaking panorama of ancient cliffs, hidden waterways, and inviting rock pools - an ever-changing spectacle of nature unfolding beneath you.

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The Nitmiluk Gorge and 17 Mile Valley Scenic Flight

Unleash your sense of adventure, feel the wind on your face and embark on an exhilarating journey through the vast expanse of Nitmiluk National Park. See the entire Katherine Gorge (13 Gorges) before then exploring 17 Mile valley.

Embark on one of our longest scenic flights and take in the full grandeur of Nitmiluk National Park from a perspective few get to see at all. You'll fly over the full length of Katherine Gorge before venturing deeper into the remote wilderness of the 17 Mile Valley, most famously explored on foot via the Jatbula Trail. On this flight, you will be able to glide over
areas that hikers reach after days of hiking.

Along the way, your pilot will provide insightful commentary, sharing stories of the park's geological formations, Aboriginal heritage, and hidden natural features you won't find on the ground.

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Nitmiluk Gorge and Leliyn (Edith) Falls Scenic

Experience two of the Top Ends most remarkable landscapes in one extended helicopter journey, departing from within Nitmiluk National Park.

This extended scenic flight combines the dramatic cliffs of Nitmiluk Gorge with the striking contrast of Leliyn's emerald pools in one seamless 50 minute aerial journey. Experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park from a perspective few ever witness. On this scenic helicopter journey, you'll lift off from the Gorge Helipad and glide over a tapestry of deep sandstone canyons, crystal-lined watercourses and ancient rock formations carved by the Katherine River. As the helicopter climbs, the rugged beauty of the gorges unfolds with dramatic intensity—each twist and turn revealing new wonders such as Butterfly Gorge, 8th Gorge Cascades, Yellow Rock and The Amphitheatre.
This extended flight continues beyond the iconic 13 gorges, tracking past serene remote pools like Sandy Camp and Sweetwater before culminating in sweeping aerial views of Leliyn (Edith) Falls —a vibrant contrast to the ochre cliffs and wild bushland. Whether you're drawn by the geology, the shimmering waterways, or the sheer sense of vast, untouched wilderness, this helicopter flight encapsulates the spirit of Australia's Top End in one spectacular experience.

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The Nitmiluk Heli Art Adventure

Venture deep into Nitmiluk Gorge on an extraordinary journey that goes beyond the view from above. Flying as far as the eighth, this experience reveals the remote heart of the park where the scale, colours, and culture of this remarkable landscape truly come alive.
Your flight weaves through towering rock walls to a secluded landing site of profound cultural significance. Here, time seems to slow as your pilot leads you through an intimate Aboriginal rock art site spanning five ancient rock faces. Surrounded by silence and story, we encourage you to connect to the land and its enduring history—an experience as moving as it is unforgettable.

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Nitmiluk Ultimate Adventure

Experience Nitmiluk National Park from every perspective - a full scenic flight, cultural landing, remote swim and a picnic in a half day helicopter journey.

ift off from our helipad inside Nitmiluk National Park and track across some of the Top End's most striking landscapes. Your flight extends beyond the 13-gorge system to Leliyn Falls and across the expansive 17 Mile Valley, where layered escarpments, waterfalls and deep sandstone country unfold beneath you.

Along the way, wildlife sightings such as brumbies, buffalo, cattle and birdlife are possible depending on conditions.

Touch down at a remote Aboriginal rock art site for a guided cultural landing before continuing to a secluded natural rock pool for a refreshing swim. A scenic picnic with food and beverage is included, allowing you time to relax within this remarkable setting.

The journey concludes with a full aerial track over the entire 13 Gorge system — revealing waterfalls, cascades and sweeping sandstone escarpments from above.

This is Nitmiluk experienced from the air, on the ground and in the water.
Tour duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes (1hr30 minutes flight time)
Minimum Passenger Quantities: 2 seats
Maximum passenger weight per seat: 136kg
Maximum total combined passenger weight: 230kg

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The Nitmiluk Scenic Express Flight: The 8 Gorges

Jump into a world of adventure on a helicopter flight over the majestic sandstone gorges, deep canyons, and shimmering rock pools of Nitmiluk National Park, near Katherine. Flying as far as the eighth gorge, you'll take in towering cliffs, winding waterways, and rugged bushland, all revealed in spectacular detail from above. With nothing between you and the vast Top End below, every twist of the gorge feels thrillingly close.

The memory of this flight will stay with you long after you land. The magnitude and beauty of Nitmiluk Gorge are awe-inspiring, and the perspective from above leaves an unforgettable impression of one of Australia's
most iconic landscapes.

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Chasing Waterfalls – Nitmiluk Heli Swim & Waterfall Landing

This exclusive experience takes you deep into Nitmiluk Gorge, landing at a remote swim spot that is exclusively accessible by air. Our pilots know the gorge's waterholes like the back of their hands ensuring you're taken to the spot where the water is best on the day.

Your adventure will begin with a scenic helicopter flight over the gorge, guided by your pilot who will share their intimate knowledge of the region's ancient landscapes and winding waterways. After touching down inside the gorge, you'll have a full hour to relax, explore, and soak in the cool, crystal-clear pools surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty.

Whether you're seeking serenity and a reconnection to the land, adventure, or an unforgettable moment in nature with a loved one, this immersive experience reveals Nitmiluk at its most magical.

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The Nitmiluk HeliSwim Adventure

Fly the full 13-gorge system of Nitmiluk National Park before landing beside a secluded waterhole to cool off in true Top End style.

Lift off from our helipad inside Nitmiluk National Park and track across the majority of the iconic 13-gorge sytem. From above, towering sandstone escarpments, ancient rock formations and the winding Katherine River reveal the immense scale of this landscape.

After experiencing the gorge system from the air, the helicopter descends beside a remote waterhole for a guided swim stop.

Within Nitmiluk National Park, several safe year-round swimming locations offer clear pools and cascading water framed by sandstone country. Your pilot selects the most suitable site on the day, ensuring optimal swimming conditions and scenic vantage points from both above and below.

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Our Sunrise Flight

Fly the full 13 Gorge system at first light, as sunrise illuminates the sandstone escarpments of Nitmiluk National Park.

Experience all 13 gorges of Nitmiluk as sunrise washes the sandstone escarpments in soft morning light. Departing from our helipad inside Nitmiluk National Park, this 20 minute flight tracks the full gorge system while the landscape transitions from cool dawn tones to warm gold.
Operating during the Dry Season from May to October, exact departure times vary slightly with the sunrise schedule. Our team will confirm your flight time prior to departure.

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The Nitmiluk Gorge and 17 Mile Valley Flight and Landing

From the Skies to the 17 Mile Wilderness
Combine an expansive scenic flight with an exclusive escarpment landing for the ultimate Nitmiluk adventure. This journey offers the rare chance to touch down in the heart of the park and truly connect with the timeless beauty of the landscape. After taking in the silence of the gorge, you will soar deep into the 17 Mile Valley.

Marvel at iconic landmarks including Baruwei Lookout, Lily Ponds and the Northern Rockhole. Your pilot will reveal hidden treasures of the 17 Mile Valley from the Biddlecombe Cascades to wide ochre landscapes and sparkling spring fed pools. This experience is designed for those who want to go beyond the gorge and immerse themselves in the rugged cliffs and dramatic waterfalls of the remote Top End.

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The Signature 13 Gorge Flight and Landing

From the Skies to the Ancient Escarpment
Dare to rise above the ordinary and let your spirit soar with the helicopter over the ancient landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park, home to one of Australia's most extraordinary natural wonders. On this unforgettable helicopter journey, you'll discover all 13 gorges as they unfold beneath you, carved over millions of years by the winding Katherine River.

Departing from the Nitmiluk Gorge Helipad, you'll ascend past the Visitor Information Centre and the boat ramp where river cruises begin, before crossing the mouth of the gorge and tracking the full 17 kilometres of this spectacular landscape. Towering ochre sandstone cliffs, secluded waterways, and inviting rock pools create a constantly changing panorama below.

Midway through your journey, you'll land on a remote escarpment within the gorge, stepping out to fully absorb the scale, silence, and timeless beauty of this remarkable place before taking to the skies once more.

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Nitmiluk Gorge Sunset Tour

Fly over the all 13 Gorges in the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge in the comfort of our helicopter before landing on remote escarpment to watch the sunset and enjoy a refreshing drink. The quiet and beauty of the location will take your breath away. It really is the best way to immerse yourself in the stunning landscape with the comfort and convenience of a helicopter.

The following is just a few of the sights you will see from our flight path:

Baruwei Lookout Platform
Southern Rockhole
Jedda's Rock
Butterfly Gorge
Lily Ponds
Smitt Rock
8th Gorge Cascades
13th Gorge
Yellow Rock

Tour departs: Nitmiluk Tours Gorge Helipad
Tour duration: 40 minutes (20 minutes flight time)
Minimum Passenger Quantities: 2 seats
Maximum passenger weight per seat: 136kg
Maximum total combined passenger weight: 260kg

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Facilities

  • Free wifi

Accreditation

  • Quality Tourism Accreditation
  • Sustainable Tourism Accreditation by ATIC