Scenic Flight • Scenic Flight + Landing

Nitmiluk 13 Gorge + 17 Mile Valley

Explore the vast expanses of the National Park and the remote 17 Mile Valley with our most comprehensive scenic flight and landing options.
Experience the wider Nitmiluk National ParkYear-round waterfall spottingScenic flight and landing options available
*From $549 per Seat. Limited seats per flight.
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Choose Your 13 Gorge + 17 Mile Valley Adventure

From $549 per seat

Duration: 40 minutes

What’s Included:

Helicopter flight over Nitmiluk Gorge Pilot commentaryAll sales taxes and credit card fees
Experience Overview

A Grand Journey Beyond the Gorge

Embark on our premier scenic flight to witness the full grandeur of Nitmiluk National Park. You will soar over the entire length of Katherine Gorge before venturing into the remote 17 Mile Valley. This wilderness is usually only accessible via the multi day Jatbula Trail, but you will glide over these rugged landscapes in minutes.

Your pilot will share stories of the ancient geological formations and Aboriginal heritage as you pass Baruwei Lookout, Jeddas Rock and the Northern Rockhole. Enjoy bird's eye views of the Biddlecombe Cascades and spring fed rock pools. This is the ultimate choice for those wanting to see the deep valleys and spectacular waterfalls that lie far beyond the main gorge.

Tour Departs: North Horizon Heli Adventures Helipad, Gorge Road Duration: 40 minutesMode: HelicopterMin Passengers: 2 seatsMax Weight Per Seat: 136kg
Departure Location

Departure Location

This flight departs from the Nitmiluk Gorge helipad on Gorge Road, right inside Nitmiluk National Park. There is only one road into the park and you will easily spot our signage on the left as you near Nitmiluk National Parks’ main visitor centre, which is another 2.5kms down the road. At the helipad, there is a large carpark where you can leave your vehicle.

Should you require any assistance, you can always call us on 0418 967 145.
What You'll See

What You'll See

Your flight showcases many of Nitmiluk’s most iconic landmarks, from Baruwei Lookout and Jedda’s Rock to Butterfly Gorge, Lily Ponds, and the dramatic upper gorges, where your pilot’s favourite stretches also offer the best chances to spot wildlife.

The eastern escarpment of the 17 Mile Valley is a landscape of deep valleys, waterfalls and layered rock formations. It’ll be hard to miss the Biddlecombe Cascades but your pilot will point out many more of the other waterholes best viewed from above.
What to Bring

What to Bring

Your camera Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended) Water bottle Personal items can be carried on board but must be 10 kg or less and packed in a small, soft-sided bag for easy storage.
What's covered

What’s Included

Helicopter flight over Nitmiluk Gorge Pilot commentary All sales taxes and credit card fees

What’s Not Included

Park entry fees

From $608 per seat

Duration: 40 mins flight and 20 mins landing (1 hour total)

What’s Included:

Helicopter flight over Nitmiluk Gorge Pilot commentary All sales taxes and credit card fees
Experience Overview

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.

Tour Departs: North Horizon Heli Adventures Helipad, Gorge Road Duration: 40 mins flight and 20 mins landing (1 hour total) Mode: HelicopterMin Passengers: 2 seatsMax Weight Per Seat: 136kg
Departure Location

Departure Location

This flight departs from the Nitmiluk Gorge helipad on Gorge Road, right inside Nitmiluk National Park. There is only one road into the park and you will easily spot our signage on the left as you near Nitmiluk National Parks’ main visitor centre, which is another 2.5kms down the road. At the helipad, there is a large carpark where you can leave your vehicle.

Should you require any assistance, you can always call us on 0418 967 145.
What You'll See

What You'll See

Your flight showcases many of Nitmiluk’s most iconic landmarks, from Baruwei Lookout and Jedda’s Rock to Butterfly Gorge, Lily Ponds, and the dramatic upper gorges, where your pilot’s favourite stretches also offer the best chances to spot wildlife.

The eastern escarpment of the 17 Mile Valley is a landscape of deep valleys, waterfalls and layered rock formations. It’ll be hard to miss the Biddlecombe Cascades but your pilot will point out many more of the other waterholes best viewed from above.
What to Bring

What to Bring

Your camera Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended) Water bottle Personal items can be carried on board but must be 10 kg or less and packed in a small, soft-sided bag for easy storage.
What's covered

What’s Included

Helicopter flight over Nitmiluk Gorge Pilot commentary All sales taxes and credit card fees

What’s Not Included

Park entry fees

Weather And Safety

Flights and gorge landings are weather dependent. Your pilot will brief you on safety before takeoff and again before touchdown. In wet season and high wind conditions, routes or landing times may change to keep every flight safe and comfortable.

The North Horizon Difference

Local Expertise

With over 30 years of Top End experience, we work closely with Traditional Owners to share genuine cultural insights. Every flight offers a meaningful and respectful connection to country.

Exclusive Access

We are the only operator permitted to land inside Nitmiluk National Park. Departing from our private helipad, we take you to remote areas inaccessible by road or walking trails.

Exceptional Safety Record

Your safety is our priority. We maintain a fleet of modern helicopters and an unblemished record with three decades of flying experience across the rugged Top End landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your cancellation policy?
Whilst we hope that you wouldn’t need to cancel, we do offer full refunds provided that your booking is cancelled 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure time.
What happens if it rains on the day of our tour?
A full refund will be arranged if conditions are deemed unsuitable for flying prior to departure. A refund will not be provided if weather conditions become unsuitable during a tour. All efforts will be made by your pilot to adjust the tour to ensure your comfort.
How many people fit in the helicopter and what type of helicopters do you use?
North Horizon Heli Adventures use Robinson 44 (3 passengers) and Bell 206 Jetranger (4 passengers) helicopters.
Will you cancel the tour if not enough people book?
Most tours have a minimum of 2 passengers, however some may have a minimum of 3 passengers. Contact our booking team for further information.
Can we take kids on your tours and what is the minimum age?
All ages are very welcome!
Are there weight restrictions and if so, what are they?
Yes. Maximum weight per passenger is 136kg. Maximum total combined passenger weight limits for tours also apply - Contact bookings team for further details.
Can we bring our own food and drink?
Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks.

What Our Guests Say

"What an amazing experience. I purchased this flight for my wife’s birthday. At 91 years old this was a once in a lifetime adventure that we will never forget. We loved viewing the stunning Katherine River, gorge and Edith Falls from above. Highly recommend."
Ian Bruce
"Experience of a lifetime! From the jump, Sonam was super friendly and accommodating, setting the tone for a great experience. The tour was absolutely incredible from start to finish. Amazing knowledge about the Katherine gorge with insane views throughout the entire 20 minute helicopter tour. Could not recommend it enough!"
Patrick Kerrigan
"Unreal opportunity to see the Katherine gorge from the air. The pilot was great and full of knowledge. Definitely recommend a flight."
Liz Pederick

"What a spectacular flight! Views were particularly superb as the wet season had begun, waterfalls were flowing, and the landscape was beginning to look lush. Our pilot was fantastic, making us feel at ease and giving us insight to the landscape. The route was thoughtfully picked with consideration given to views and timing. Super fun! Highly recommended!"

Emily Toogood
"Absolutely amazing experience. Our pilot Sonam was excellent, very friendly and knowledgeable. Did the 13 gorge tour which was a great way to see Nitmiluk from the sky. Highly recommend to anyone wanting to take a heli tour. Will definitely be back again"
Linda
"The tour was incredible, not only because of the views, also for the information the pilot shared with us. A different way to fully experience Nitmiluk. Thanks"
Marco

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Ready for the Ultimate Journey Beyond the Gorge?

Secure your seat on the Nitmiluk Gorge and 17 Mile Valley experience to see the full grandeur of the Top End from the air and on the ground.