Kimberley Western Australia: We hiked, canoed and cruised

Trips from Kununurra

The beautiful town of Kununurra, nestled in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is a perfect base for exploring the area, with hiking trails and canoeing on the Ord River. The stunning Lake Argyle is also within easy reach, less 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.

Discovery Park, on the shores of stunning Lake Kununurra, was our home for a few days, with our cabin nestled close to the water.

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 stroll through Mirima National Park near Kununurra, enjoying the stunning rock formations and breathtaking views.

The Pump House is a popular waterhole and dining spot with a beautiful outdoor setting on the Ord River. It's a five-minute walk from our caravan park.

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—the perfect place to enjoy sunset drinks over 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 took a detour down a dirt road on our way to Wyndham, exploring Marbul Billabong, Mayiba, Molly Springs, and The Grotto. Sadly, the dry season had left all the billabongs 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.

We continued to Wyndham, 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. 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 took us across the mighty Ord River at the Ivanhoe Crossing, a well-known landmark. It’s a favourite destination for photographers, picnickers, and those trying their luck at barramundi fishing. Crocodiles make swimming here too dangerous.

Keep River National Park

Keep River National Park, located in the Northern Territory about 70 kilometres from Kununurra. The stunning landscape looks like a lusher, miniature version of the Bungle Bungles. The hiking trails wind through sandstone escarpments, ridges, and gorges. The park also has two campgrounds with basic facilities.

Keep River National Park quickly became one of our favourite hiking destinations. The beauty of the place was overwhelming. Everywhere we looked, there was something to admire: the iconic Boab trees, vibrant wattles and grevilleas, and a carpet of wildflowers. We were lucky enough to see kangaroos bounding through the bush, a couple of wallabies, a goanna basking in the sun, and a snake slithering across our path. Exploring the ancient campsites and discovering rock art 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.

The Cockatoo Lagoon is a beautiful part of Keep River National Park, perfect for a picnic. However, swimming is not allowed due to the presence of both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles.

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

Later, we took a pleasant walk downstream from Cockatoo Lagoon, where we spotted several “freshies” — freshwater crocodiles — in the water. What a contrast to the massive saltwater crocodile we saw in Kakadu!

Trip to the Bungle Bungles

The Bungle Bungles, located in Purnululu National Park in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, are a spectacular geological wonder. 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. Due to its remote location, access to the Bungle Bungles can be challenging. The nearest town is Kununurra, which is about 300 kilometres away and the last 50 kilometres are very rough and can take more than 2 hours to get there. The easiest way is to fly in from Kununurra.

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 just 20 years old, she handled the flight with confidence and skill, pointing out all the major landmarks along the way. 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 through the park’s breathtaking landscapes. We droved through the iconic beehive-shaped domes, past vibrant native flora, and alongside striking rock formations.

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 beehive-shaped domes, their striking layers glowing in the sunlight. Our path led us through a narrow passage flanked by towering rock walls, toward the breathtaking 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 to pause for a break and lunch. Surrounded by towering rock formations that provided welcome shade. The serene atmosphere made it an ideal 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, so it felt like a private adventure, with both the plane and Vanessa, our skilled pilot, all to ourselves. 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, magnificent Bungle Bungles. I hope we see you again.

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

We are soaring above the Ord River, and below us stretches a vibrant patchwork of agricultural fields. The Ord Irrigation Scheme has made it possible to grow tropical fruits, chickpeas, sugarcane, chia seeds, 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: a self-guided canoe trip down the Ord River, organized by Go Wild Adventures Eco-Canoeing. Our day began early with a pick-up from our accommodation. During the trip, we had to study a detailed map of the river, familiarizing ourselves with any potential hazards. After a safety briefing, we were equipped with our canoes and all the necessary gear and 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.

Our canoe trip began near the Argyle Dam outlet, where the fast-moving water of the Ord River carried us downstream, minimizing the need for paddling. This allowed us to fully concentrate on navigating the river’s various natural obstacles and hazards. We’ve done canoe tours before, but 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 is Sandy Beach, where we stopped for lunch and had a short rest. While paddling, we focused on navigating the river’s numerous bends and had no opportunity to take photos. There was only one dangerous moment. A speeding tourist boat unexpectedly rounded a bend, creating a surge of large waves that we had to maneuver to avoid capsizing.

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.

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.

Macca gave us a tour of the stunning surroundings, including the “romantic tents” available for overnight stays. We tried bush tucker, including Green Tree Ants, which had a lemon flavour, along with other indigenous foods. After considering the rustic charm of the tents, 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.

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

Macca took us to Kununurra at full speed on the Ord River.

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

.Macca dropped us off at Discovery Park in Kununurra, practically at the doorstep of our cabin – only 20 meters away.

El Questro Emma Gorge Resort

Next up: the amazing El Questro Emma Gorge resort in the Kimberley! Our canvas tent was seriously luxurious – think private bathroom, electricity, a fan, the works. Plus, room service! It was just a quick walk to Emma’s restaurant, the pool, and the Emma Gorge trail, which was 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.

Emma Gorge’s waterfall, reduced to just a trickle due to the dry season, couldn’t dampen our swim in the crystal-clear pool. The real treat, however, was discovering a small thermal spring tucked away in the gorge, its waters 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.

Despite the dry season in the Kimberley (May to October), pockets of water remain, to reach them you need a four-wheel drive.

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.

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.

Our 9.6-kilometre trek along the Questro Gorge trail began with an easy walk through a lush landscape of palms and ferns, the path gently winding towards a small creek. Beyond, the real challenge began, as the trail became more 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.

The drive to Saddleback Ridge lookout from El Questro Station was a thrilling adventure. The steep, narrow track proved challenging even for our 4WD, but the reward was well worth the effort. The panoramic 360-degree view of the Chamberlain River and the vast East Kimberley region was simply 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.

After the El Questro Emma Gorge resort, our next stop was Home Valley Station. A 120km drive from Kununurra along the legendary Gibb River Road. To get there, we had to cross Pentecost River, below the imposing Cockburn Range. This crossing can be challenging, especially during the wet season when the river swells to widths 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.

Home Valley Station, a 249,000-hectare working cattle station and resort, is managed by the Balanggarra Traditional Custodians. They offer a diverse range of accommodations, tours, and activities. In addition, there are beautiful self-guided hiking trails. We enjoyed our stay, particularly the two massive Boab trees that stand 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.

We loved hiking through the savannah, dazzled by a silence unlike anything we had ever experienced elsewhere. One such hike was the Bindoola Gorge Trail, a 2- to 3-hour return trek. The trail winds through savannah vegetation, over rocks and sandstone slabs, and ends at a permanent 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, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Cockburn Range and a fascinating meteorite crater.

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 Station resort. At the summit, you have spectacular panoramic views of the majestic Cockburn Ranges.

Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle is Australia’s second-largest water reservoir, covering an area of 1,000 square kilometres. We stayed at Lake Argyle Tourist Village for a couple of days. It offers a range of accommodation options, boat tours, and other activities.

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

The Lake Argyle Tourist Village has an impressive infinity pool. From there, you have a breathtaking view of Lake Argyle and its stunning surrounding landscape.

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

During our time there, we went on a fantastic four-hour sunset cruise, exploring the serene lakes and hidden bays of Lake Argyle.

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 Lake Argyle, followed by a cheese platter and complimentary drinks.

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

The grand finale: A breathtaking sunset at Lake Argyle. This was the end of our unforgettable Kimberley adventure.

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