A Kimberley Tour Guide to Kununurra, Western Australia: Your Gateway to the Kimberley’s Natural Wonders

A Kimberley Tour Guide to Kununurra, Western Australia

Nestled in the far north of Western Australia, Kununurra is a vibrant and unique town that serves as the gateway to the Kimberley region’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you are looking to explore vast wetlands, hike through rugged gorges, or immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture, Kununurra offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an adventure in the Australian outback.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore everything you need to know about visiting Kununurra, from how to get there to the top attractions and the best activities you should not miss. Get ready to discover why Kununurra is the perfect base for exploring the Kimberley.

What is Kununurra?

Kununurra is a small town located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Situated on the banks of the Ord River, the town was established in the early 1960s as part of the development of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Today, Kununurra is a bustling hub that serves as the regional centre for the surrounding farming communities and a base for tourism in the Kimberley.

Surrounded by rugged escarpments, lush wetlands, and breathtaking natural beauty, Kununurra is a gateway to some of the Kimberley’s most famous attractions, including the Bungle Bungles, Lake Argyle, Mitchell Falls, and the Gibb River Road. With its warm, tropical climate and proximity to key Kimberley landmarks, Kununurra has become an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking to experience the wonders of Australia’s wild north.

How to Get to Kununurra?

Getting to Kununurra is easy, with several transportation options available.

By Air

The quickest way to get to Kununurra is by air. The town is serviced by the Kununurra Airport (KNX), which is located just outside the town centre. Regular flights from Perth (about 2.5 hours), Broome, and other regional centres are available via Qantas and Skywest. These flights provide a scenic view of the Kimberley landscape, giving you a taste of what awaits you on the ground.

By Road

For those with a bit more time to spare, a road trip to Kununurra can be a rewarding way to experience the outback. Kununurra is located about 1,100 km from Broome via the Great Northern Highway, and approximately 500 km from Darwin, making it a convenient stop if you are travelling through the Top End. The drive from Broome to Kununurra is filled with stunning landscapes and wildlife, and you will pass through towns like Fitzroy Crossing and Halls Creek on the way.

If you are planning to travel to Kununurra as part of a broader Kimberley adventure, the Gibb River Road is a rugged yet unforgettable route that takes you through gorges, waterfalls, and remote outback landscapes, eventually leading to Kununurra.

By Boat

The Ord River that flows through Kununurra is navigable, and several boat tours are available to travel down the river, providing a scenic route to Kununurra. This option offers a unique way to see the region’s wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles, birds, and more.

What to Do in Kununurra?: Top Attractions

Kununurra is a small town, but it serves as the launchpad for some of the Kimberley’s most famous natural attractions. Here are the top things to do and see while visiting Kununurra:

1. Lake Argyle

Just 70 km east of Kununurra lies Lake Argyle, a vast and picturesque freshwater reservoir. Created by the Ord River Dam, Lake Argyle is known for its stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and unique wildlife. The lake offers a range of activities, including boat tours, swimming, and wildlife watching. It is also a beautiful place to enjoy a sunset cruise or a peaceful swim in the resort’s pool overlooking the water.

Lake Argyle is home to freshwater crocodiles, birds, and a variety of aquatic life, and it is one of the Kimberley’s most serene destinations. If you are looking for a day trip from Kununurra, Lake Argyle is a must-visit.

2. Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles)

One of the Kimberley’s most iconic attractions, the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that should not be missed. The park is known for its striking, beehive-shaped sandstone domes, which rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape. Hiking through the park’s gorges, including the famous Cathedral Gorge, offers a chance to explore the area’s ancient geological formations and stunning landscapes.

Visitors can access the Bungle Bungles by road from Kununurra, though it is a rugged 4WD trip that takes around 3-4 hours. Alternatively, scenic flights from Kununurra offer an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the park, giving you the chance to appreciate the scale and beauty of the Bungle Bungles from above.

3. Ord River Cruise

A relaxing way to take in the stunning Kimberley landscapes, an Ord River cruise is one of Kununurra’s most popular activities. You can take a morning or afternoon cruise on the river, where you will pass by tranquil waters, lush vegetation, and perhaps spot some of the local wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles, fish, and a variety of birds. The cruises are often led by local guides who provide insights into the region’s history, flora, and fauna.

The Ord River is a vital lifeline for the region, and cruising along it offers a great perspective on the importance of this waterway to the local communities and the surrounding wildlife.

4. Mirima National Park (Hidden Valley)

Located just outside Kununurra, Mirima National Park (also known as Hidden Valley) is a small but stunning park filled with striking sandstone formations, similar to the Bungle Bungles. The park offers easy walking trails that lead through lush valleys, providing magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes and the chance to see local wildlife, including rock wallabies and various bird species.

The park’s main attraction is its dramatic sandstone cliffs and domes, which are particularly photogenic at sunrise or sunset. It is a perfect spot for a short hike and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.

5. Wyndham and the Five Rivers Lookout

Wyndham is a historic town located about 100 km from Kununurra and offers stunning panoramic views of the Five Rivers — the Ord, King, Durack, Pentecost, and Baines rivers — from the Five Rivers Lookout. The lookout offers an expansive view of the wetlands and river systems, making it a great spot for photography and birdwatching.

Wyndham is also home to the Wyndham Museum, where you can learn about the town’s history and its role as a port during the early development of the region.

Best Time to Visit Kununurra?

The best time to visit Kununurra is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and wildlife watching, as the roads are accessible, and most attractions are open.

The wet season (November to April) brings high humidity, tropical storms, and occasional flooding. While the landscape is lush and green, some attractions and roads may be inaccessible during this time, and many tour operators close for the season.

Where to Stay in Kununurra?

Kununurra offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to more luxurious resorts. Some of the top places to stay in Kununurra include:

• Lake Kununurra Resort: A beautiful resort offering spacious rooms with views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
• Kimberley Grande Resort: A stylish resort with an infinity pool, restaurant, and spa, ideal for those looking for a bit of luxury.
• Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort: A great option for those looking to camp or stay in a cabin close to the town.

There are also plenty of campgrounds around Kununurra and Lake Argyle for those who prefer a more rustic experience.

Kununurra is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Kimberley region, offering a range of experiences that cater to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking to relax and unwind. From the iconic Bungle Bungles to the tranquil Lake Argyle, Kununurra serves as the perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of the Kimberley. Whether you are cruising down the Ord River, hiking through Mirima National Park, or taking in panoramic views from the Five Rivers Lookout, Kununurra will leave you with lasting memories of one of the most beautiful and remote parts of Australia.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the Kimberley from Kununurra visit for a wonderful range of tours to choose from — adventure, nature, and culture come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Image Credits – Tourism Australia