Mataranka Hot Springs, Northern Territory

Experience the stunning beauty of Mataranka Hot Springs in the Northern Territory. Plan your visit to this tropical paradise and immerse yourself in nature’s healing waters.
Located in the Northern Territory of Australia, Mataranka Hot Springs is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the spectacular views.

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Mataranka Thermal Pool

This thermal pool, a major attraction in the region, is located approximately 16 hours away from Uluru. Visitors have the chance to relax and enjoy stunning views. The hot water provides relaxation and the natural landscape offers tranquility. The pool near the Roper River can get crowded, especially during peak times, but there is enough space for everyone to enjoy this natural attraction. The pool is filled with spring water from the Daly and Georgina pools and is kept at a constant temperature of 34 degrees.

Mataranka Thermal Pool
Botanic Walk

Botanic Walk

Elsie National Park is home to a wealth of wildlife. Each trail winds through the bushland, offering magnificent views of unique flora and natural wonders. The Botanical Trail runs alongside the Roper River and provides an informative walk with information boards, picnic areas, and benches. You can pitch a tent along the trail to immerse yourself in the natural landscape. Fishing, canoeing, and swimming are all available nearby for a fun weekend.

What are the Mataranka hot springs?

The hot springs are natural pools with crystal blue water believed to have healing properties for visitors. The pools are situated in an area with a dense bush, palm trees, waterfalls, and distinctive wildlife.
Visitors can explore Mataranka and its natural resources for an entire day. Visitors often enjoy a leisurely walk around the waterfalls and trails before relaxing in the popular thermal pools during the most pleasant times of the day. Regardless, visitors should be ready to depart feeling rejuvenated after spending time in the area.

Mataranka Falls

Jump into the river alongside this natural bushland and let the current gently push you towards Mataranka Falls. The speed of the current allows you to float slowly through the landscape, allowing you to see the bushland from an entirely different perspective. The cascading streams of water in the thermal pool create a natural treatment. The water bubbles like a jacuzzi. Even if you don’t feel like swimming, you can admire the waterfall from the land.This serene experience is a great addition to an extended Adelaide to Uluru tour.

Local histories

Visitors can explore the Never Never Museum to discover the culture of the Mangarayi and Yangman Aboriginal people, traditional guardians of the country. Additionally, there are exhibitions on the region, the North Australian Railway, the construction of the land telegraph line, and World War II.
The replica of the Elsie Homestead provides insight into the isolated and challenging life of the first settlers. The building is a recreation of the original manor house, constructed for the film adaptation of the 1980s novel “We of Never-Never.” The mansion has been meticulously recreated with attention to every detail, including handcrafted cypress pine.
Learn about the history of the Second World War in the Larrimah region, located south of Mataranka. The historic outpost was established in 1940 to provide services for the nearby Gorrie Airfield during the war. Visitors can view photos and interpretive panels at the Military Transport Museum.

Local histories

Sights & souvenirs

Take a leisurely stroll through the town of Mataranka. The Stockyard Gallery features an exhibition showcasing local Aboriginal art from the Mataranka and Roper River regions. Visitors can purchase souvenirs such as didgeridoos, postcards, whips, and spears at the shop and relax in the cafe’s garden with an iced coffee and scone. Guided tours at Territory Manor provide fish feeding, reproduction, and behavior information.

FAQ

The Mataranka Hot Springs are natural thermal pools with crystal-clear blue water, maintained at around 34°C, offering relaxation and a tranquil bushland setting.
They are situated in the Northern Territory of Australia, near the Roper River and within Elsey National Park.
Besides soaking in the pools, visitors can hike the Botanic Walk, explore waterfalls, go canoeing, or enjoy fishing and picnics.
Yes, the area holds deep cultural meaning for the Mangarayi and Yangman Aboriginal people, and visitors can learn more at the Never Never Museum.
The pools are enjoyable year-round, but mornings and evenings are less crowded and provide a more peaceful experience.
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