Paradise in the middle of the forest attracts tourists in Australia

The swimming pool located in the middle of a green oasis in the Northern Territory, Australia, is likened to a paradise on earth, attracting tourists and locals to visit.

A simple search for “Lake Mataranka” will bring up images and videos of the natural hot springs nestled in the lush oasis of the Northern Territory. The water is crystal clear and the temperature is 34 degrees Celsius year-round. The lake is surrounded by paper maples, fan palms and pandanus trees. Many visitors have described the place as a paradise.

It's winter in Australia so the warm temperature of the lake water makes this place even more attractive to visitors.

Lake Mataranka seen from above. Photo: Domain — Lake Mataranka seen from above. Photo: *Domain*

Mataranka is one of two natural hot springs in Elsey National Park. The other is Bitter Springs, a name long familiar to locals and visitors. The area is about 100 km from the town of Katherine.

"Our little paradise without tourists around," said an Australian who came to the lake for a swim in March and posted a video on TikTok showing off the peaceful scene.

Other visitors have also posted photos of the lake online, saying it is a "must-do if you are in the area". Others have described the lake as "the jewel of the Northern Territory".

According to locals, the two lakes (Bitter Springs and Mataranka) are the perfect stopovers for day-trippers driving from Darwin to Daly Waters. “The water massages our backs and refreshes us after a long drive. It’s heaven,” another person shared on Tripadvisor during their trip in May.

The lake water is so clear you can see the bottom. Photo: Tripadvisor — The lake water is so clear you can see the bottom. Photo: *Tripadvisor*

The lake can be found at the end of a 500m walk after about 20 minutes of bushland. Crocodiles are known to be found around the Roper River. However, Mataranka Lake is considered “safe for swimming” despite being a short distance from the river. Both lakes are carefully monitored and closed if crocodiles are spotted.

The lake attracts many tourists to swim. Photo: Tripadvisor — The lake attracts many tourists to swim. Photo: *Tripadvisor*

The national park website says there are warning signs, visitors just need to pay attention and obey. When going, bring mosquito repellent, drinking water, first aid kit and appropriate footwear and clothing as well as a map of the national park integrated into the phone.

In addition to swimming in the warm water, visitors can camp, fish, boat, and hike through trails near Mataranka Lake such as Stevie's Hole or Botanic Walk along the Roper River. Before planning a hike, visitors should check the national park's website. When these places appear crocodiles or are unsafe, the trail area will be closed. If you want to hike further, visitors can go to Mataranka Falls, 8 km away, a round trip time of about 4 hours. Entrance fees to the national park start at 10 USD.

Anh Minh (According to NT.Gov, Tripadvisor )

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