Kimberley Western Australia: We hiked, canoed and cruised

Trips from Kununurra

We chose the town Kununurra as a base to explore the Kimberley region. From there we flew into the Bungle Bungles, went on hiking trips and canoeed the Ord River. In addition we cruised the stunning Lake Argyle, which is ess than an hour’s drive away.

We stayed at Discovery Park on the stunning Lake Kununurra, Kimberley,Western Australia where we had a cabin close to the water.

For a few days we stayed in a cabin at the Discovery Park on the shores of stunning Lake Kununurra.

After all the hours in the aeroplane, we needed a good walk. We took a late afternoon stroll through Mirima National Park near Kununurra. The park featured stunning rock formations and views.

After a long flight, a good walk was just what we needed. We stretched our legs with a late afternoon walk through Mirima National Park. The park sandstone cliffs are spectacular with string colour due to sunlight and we shot some beautiful photos.

The Pump House is a popular waterhole and dining spot with a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s just a five-minute walk from our caravan park a perfect place to for sunset drinks on the Ord River.

We took a dirt road to see Mayiba, Molly Springs, Blackrock, Marlgu Billabong, and the Grotto. There were no waterfalls or billabongs, all the water had already dried up by then.

We went to the historic town of Wyndham to see the mud flats. We took a detour down a dirt road to see some springs and billabongs, but sadly, the dry season had left all the waterholes completely dry.

We travelled further to Wyndham. It's a small town surrounded by the Cambridge Gulf, mangrove swamps, and mud flats. Wyndham is the oldest and was once the largest town in the Kimberley Western Australia. During the gold rush, Tennant Creek had six pubs. But today, the population is under a thousand and there is no pub. View from the Five Rivers Lookout.

Wyndham, is a small town nestled on the Cambridge Gulf, surrounded by mangrove swamps and mud flats. Once the largest and oldest town in the Kimberley, Wyndham’s population has dwindled to under a thousand, and its six pubs from the gold rush era are now just a memory. We should have done our research before we arrived: punishment, no drinks and meals. The Five Rivers Lookout offers stunning views of the area.

On our journey back from Wyndham, we crossed the mighty Ord River using the Ivanhoe Crossing. It's a popular spot for photos, picnics, and fishing for barramundi. However, swimming is not safe because of the presence of crocodiles.

Our drive back from Wyndham we drove across the mighty Ord River at the Ivanhoe Crossing. It’s popular for taking photos and fishing, but don’t swim here, hungry crocodiles just waiting for a good meal.

Keep River National Park

We from drove to the Keep River National Park. which is 70 kilometres from Kununurra. The park is stunning and looks like a lusher, miniature version of the Bungle Bungles. There are hiking trails through the sandstone escarpments, ridges, and gorges. We saw the two campgrounds, nice in the bush with basic facilities.

Tthe hiking trails, were superb and the beauty of the place was overwhelming, we loved the park,.The bush is just wonderful, there are Boab trees, vibrant wattles and grevilleas. We were lucky to see kangaroos and wallabies, a goanna basking in the sun, and a snake crossing our path. Then, we discovered ancient rock art sites. It felt like stepping back in time.

The Cockatoo Lagoon is a beautiful part of Keep River National Park. There are picnic areas. But you can't swim in the lagoon. It's because there can be both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles.

On our hike we passed the Cockatoo Lagoon which is a perfect place for a picnic. However, we couldn’t swim there. It was not allowed because of the potential of crocodiles in the water.

Then, after arriving at Cockatoo Lagoon, we took a nice walk downstream. There, we saw some "freshies," or freshwater crocodiles.

Later, we had a nice walk from Cockatoo Lagoon downstream. There we spotted some crocodiles in the water. These species are small and live in freshwater. You can’t mixed them up with the massive saltwater crocodile we saw in Kakadu!

Trip to the Bungle Bungles

The Bungle Bungles range is famous for its orange and black sandstone domes Rising 300 metres above of the ground. These unique, beehive-shaped sandstone domes, with their striking orange and black stripes, were formed over 350 million years by weathering and erosion. In addition to the domes, there are deep gorges and narrow chasms. To get into the Bungle Bungles can be challenging. The nearest town is Kununurra, which is about 300 kilometres away. The last 50 kilometres are very rough and can take more than 2 hours to get there. We took the easiest way and flew in from Kununurra into the small airstrip.

We took a flight with Kingfisher Tours from Kununurra to the Bungle Bungles. Vanessa, our 20-year-old pilot, was great. She pointed out all the highlights. During the flight, we saw Lake Argyle, the diamond factory, and the rugged gorges.

We flew with Kingfisher Tours from Kununurra to the Bungle Bungles, and our pilot, Vanessa, was fantastic. At only 20 years old, she handled the flight with confidence and skill, and she pointed out all the major landmarks along the way. Meanwhile, from the air, we enjoyed breathtaking views of Lake Argyle, the diamond mine, and the rugged gorges.

When we landed at the Bungle Bungles Airstrip, we took a bus tour. It was guided and went through beehive-shaped domes, beautiful flora, and stunning rocks.

After landing at the Bungle Bungles Airstrip, we went on a guided bus tour. The trip passed the beehive-shaped domes,vibrant native flora, and striking rocks.

From the Piccaninny car park, we walked through the beehive rocks. Then, we went down a narrow passage between two rock walls before reaching the Cathedral Gorge.

From the Piccaninny car park, we wandered through the towering domes. Their striking layers glowing in the sunlight. Our path led us through a narrow passage between high rock walls, toward the stunning Cathedral Gorge.

The red rock amphitheatre at Cathedral Gorge was a beautiful spot for a break and lunch. The towering rock formations offered cover from the sun. The tranquil atmosphere made it an ideal place to relax and rest before continuing the tour.

The Red Rock Amphitheatre at Cathedral Gorge was the perfect spot where we had lunch. The high cliff walls provided welcome shade. A fantastic place to relax and recharge before continuing our tour.

There were no other passengers on the flight. While we had the plane and the pilot for ourselves, we felt very secure with Venessa as our pilot and guide. Photo at the Bungle Bungles Airstrip.

We were the only passengers on the flight. What a feeling, our own plane and pilot Vanessa. Her expertise and friendly guidance made us feel completely secure as we flew over the landscape. A photo at the Bungle Bungles Airstrip.

Goodbye, wonderful Bungle Bungles in the Kimberley Western Australia; I hope we see you again.

Goodbye Bungle Bungles, we will miss you and hope to see you again.

We are flying over the Ord River. Below are areas with tropical fruits, chickpeas, sugarcane, chia seeds, and sandalwood.

We are flying over the Ord River, as we look down we see a patchwork of agricultural fields. The Ord River Irrigation Scheme was built in 1963 to prevent seasonal flooding and drought. To have now water around the year made it possible to grow crops sugarcane, and sandalwood.

Canoeing the Ord River

Then, our next adventure is a self-guided canoe trip down the Ord River. Organized by Go Wild Adventures Eco-Canoeing. Early in the morning, we are picked up from our accommodation. During the trip, we study a map of the river to learn about the dangerous spots along the way. After a safety briefing, we were sent off.

Our next adventure was a self-guided canoe trip down the Ord River with “Go Wild Adventures Eco-Canoeing“. They pick us up early in the morning with a mini bus from our accommodation. During the drive to the river, we had to study a detailed map of the river. We had to learn and memorise any potential hazards on our trip. After a short briefing, we were equipped with our canoes and all the necessary gear and were sent off.

We started near the Argyle Dam outlet into the Ord River. The water flowed quickly, so we didn't have to paddle. Our focus was on manoeuvring around the various hazards on the river.

We started our canoe trip near the Argyle Dam outlet. Right from the beginning, the fast-moving water carried us downstream. As a result, we didn’t have to paddle—just steer through the river. Along the way, there were various obstacles and hazards we had to navigate. Fortunately, we remembered what we had learned and took the correct corners on the way down. Although we’ve done canoe tours before, this one was by far the most challenging.

We stopped for lunch at Sandy Beach of the Ord River, the halfway point. We focused on safely navigating the bends, so we didn't take photos while paddling. There was only one dangerous moment.

The halfway point was Sandy Beach, where we stopped for lunch and had a short rest. However, there was one dangerous moment on our canoe trip. Suddenly, a tourist boat came around a bend and created a huge wave. At that moment, we had to work hard not to capsize.

The second part of our canoe tour was easier because the Ord River is much wider and there are no dangerous areas. But, paddling became harder due to a strong headwind.

The second leg of our canoe trip was a breeze, as the Ord River widened and the rapids disappeared. However, a strong headwind made paddling a real workout.

Finally, we made it to the Pyramid Rock in the Ord River, where Macca, the tour manager, picked us up.

Finally, we made it to the Pyramid Rock, where Macca, the tour manager, picked us up with his boat.

We had spent five hours on the water of the Ord River. We were sunburnt, a bit tired, and happy. But, unfortunately, there wasn't any wine or beer to recover.

Five hours on the Ord River left us sun-kissed, pleasantly tired, and utterly happy. The only thing missing? A glass of wine or a cold beer to celebrate. We still can’t decide which adventure topped them all—the challenging canoe trip or the thrilling white-water rafting in New Zealand.

The way back

Macca took us on a tour of the beautiful area. He showed us the "romantic tents" where we could stay for the night. We tried bush tucker, including Green Tree Ants with a lemon flavour, and other food.

Then, Macca gave us a tour of the stunning surroundings. We tried bush tucker, the Green Tree Ants we eat, had a lemon flavour and we had other indigenous foods. After the tasting , he showed us the “romantic tents” were we could say overnight, but we decided that the comfort of a cabin, with hot showers and cozy beds, was the best way to end our day.

After a long day, we're heading to Kununurra, enjoying the scenic views along the river.

It was a long day for us. We are a bit tired but relaxed and enjoying the scenic views along the river on the way home to Kununurra.

Heading at full speed on the Ord River to Kununurra with Macca.

We think , Macca had a long day as well. Driving us at full speed on the Ord River to Kununurra.

Macca dropped us off at the Discovery Park in Kununurra, just 20 metres from our cabin.

What a service! Macca dropped us off from the boat only 20 meters away from our cabin.

El Questro Emma Gorge Resort

For our next adventure, we stayed for a few days in the amazing El Questro Emma Gorge resort. It was clamping ,with a private bathroom, electricity and fridge. Plus, daily room service! It was just a quick walk to Emma’s restaurant, the pool, and the Emma Gorge trail, which was perfect.

For our next adventure, we stayed for a few days at the amazing El Questro Emma Gorge Resort. In terms of comfort, it was glamping—with a private bathroom, electricity, and even a fridge. Best of all, there was daily room service! Additionally, it was just a quick walk to Emma’s restaurant, the pool, and the Emma Gorge trail, which was absolutely perfect.

While the trail to Emma Gorge was rocky in sections, it took us about an hour to complete it in each direction. However, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for the walk, and wear sturdy shoes.

The hike to Emma Gorge, while taking about an hour each way and featuring some rocky stretches, was well worth the effort. We recommend bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes for the journey. The reward? A swim in the magnificent rock pool at the base of the gorge – so don’t forget your swimmers!

On the way up, there are several beautiful rocks and nice waterholes.

Along the way, there are stunning rock outcrops and crystal-clear pools.

The waterfall in the Emma Gorge had dried up due to the dry season. We enjoyed a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water. Later, we discovered a small thermal spring with a water temperature of 30 degrees.

When we arrived at Emma Gorge, the cascade had all but dried up due to the dry season But that couldn’t dampen our swim in the crystal-clear pool. The real treat, however, was when we discovered a small thermal spring tucked away in the gorge. The waters there was a perfect 30 degrees.

On our way back, we encountered a green tree snake, but a non-venomous reptile with a length of 2 metres.

We saw a huge green tree snake on the way back—it was two meters long! Luckily, they’re not venomous.

The restaurant was excellent, but we preferred to eat at our place. We had our meals in the fresh air outside our tent. It was a peaceful atmosphere, and some cane toads joined us, which enhanced our dining experience.

The restaurant was great, but we usually just ate outside our tent. It was so peaceful out there, and even the cane toads came to hang out with us! It was actually quite romantic.

Trips from the resort

From May to October, the Kimberley Western Australia receives little rain. However, some areas still have plenty of water and it requires a four-wheel drive to reach.

We travelled in the dry season from May to October but still there were pockets of water. We were lucky to drive a four-wheel, so we could get to all the places we wanted to go.

During our trip, we also visited Zebedee Hot Springs. This beautiful location is surrounded by pandanus and Livistona palms. The water temperature at the springs ranges between 28 and 32 degrees. Day visitors can visit the springs from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily.

During on our trip , we went to the Zebedee Hot Springs. It is place surrounded by beautiful Pandanus and Livistona palms. The water temperature at the springs ranges between 28 and 32 degrees. Day visitors can visit the springs from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily.

We walked the 9.6-kilometer Questro Gorge trail. The first section is a nice walk through palm and fern-covered areas before reaching a little creek. Then, hiking becomes quite challenging.

We started the 9.6-kilometre trek along the Questro Gorge trail with an easy walk through a lush landscape of palms and ferns, where the path gently wound towards a small creek. From there, the real challenge began, as the trail became increasingly rugged.

About halfway up the trail, there is a nice swimming hole. We attempted to reach this point twice, but the creek was too full.

Twice we tried to reach the beautiful swimming hole located roughly halfway up the trail, but each time the swollen creek forced us to turn back.

Travel to Home Valley Station

While the road to the Saddleback Ridge was steep and narrow, we had a fantastic 360-degree view of the Kimberley Western Australia's sandstone escarpments.

We drove from El Questro Station to Saddleback Ridge which was quite an adventure. The track was steep and narrow. Even for a 4WD it was challenging, but the reward was well worth the effort. From the ridge, we had a panoramic view of the Chamberlain River.and the vast East Kimberley region, it was breathtaking.

Then, our next accommodation was the Home Valley Station, about 120 km from Kununurra along the famous Gibb River Road. To get there, we had to cross the Pentecost River, which is below the Cockburn range. Crossing can be extremely difficult during the wet season when the river can be up to 60 metres wide.

From the El Questro Emma Gorge resort we drove to the Home Valley Station where we stayed for a few days. On the way, we had to cross Pentecost River which is below the majestic Cockburn Range. This crossing can be challenging, during the wet season when the river swells to a width of up to 60 meters.

Home Valley Station is a 249,000-ha working cattle station in the Kimberley Western Australia, resort. At the entrance to the Home Valley station, there are two massive Boab trees. There are all kinds of accommodations and numerous beautiful self-guided hiking trails.

For a few days we explored the savannah landscape from the Home Valley cattle station. The size of This property, 249,000-hectare, is larger than many countries. At thev station you can book accommodations and tours. In addition, there are many self-guided hiking trails We had a great time there and loved the two massive Boab trees that standing guard at the entrance.

The Bindoola Gorge Trail is a 2- to 3-hour return hike through Savannah plants, rocks, and sandstone slabs to a permanent waterhole.

Hiking through the savannah was unlike anything we had ever experienced before. Above all, it was the silence along all the trails that struck us most. For example, one such hike was the Bindoola Gorge Trail, a 2- to 3-hour return trek. Along the way, we walked through savannah vegetation, over rocks and sandstone slabs, and eventually had a rest at a peaceful waterhole.

The Cockburn Lookout Trail is a great walk at sunrise or late afternoon. The 1.8 km loop starts near the front gate of the tourist resort at Home Valley Station. The hiking trail has great views of the Cockburn Ranges and the meteorite crater.

The Cockburn Lookout Trail is a wonderful walk, especially at sunrise or late afternoon. This 1.8 km loop begins near the entrance gate of the Home Valley Station resort. Along the trail, we enjoyed the stunning views of the Cockburn Range.

The Mount Baldy Lookout Trail is one of several good walks. We loved hiking the 3.6-kilometre return walk. It starts near the front gate of Home Valley Station tourist resort. The summit offers spectacular panoramic views of the Cockburn Ranges.

The Mount Baldy Lookout Trail is another excellent hike in the area. We loved the 3.6-kilometre return walk, which starts near the entrance gate of the Home Valley Stationt. The views of the Cockburn Ranges.

Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle is one of the largest human-made freshwater lakes in Australia. We drove from Kununurra to Lake Argyle, were we stayed in nice cabin for a couple of days.

The Lake Argyle Tourist Village has an infinity pool. It has a breathtaking view of Lake Argyle and the surrounding landscape.

We enjoyed swimming in the infinity pool. The view from there at Lake Argyle and surrounding ls stunning.

Later, we took a four-hour sunset cruise through Lake Argyle's lakes and bays.

While there, we went on a fantastic four-hour sunset cruise on ,Lake Argyle. We cruised serene lakes and hidden bays.

Before we went back, we had a dip in Lake Argyle and a cheese platter with complimentary drinks.

Before heading back, we had a refreshing dip in the lake. We finished the cruise with a cheese platter and complimentary drinks.

Finally, the last photo from our great trip to the Kimberley region. Sunset at Lake Argyle.

This was the grand finale of a fantastic adventure. A last stunning sunset at Lake Argyle and then back to the airport in Kununurra to fligh home.

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