Kununurra: The Wild Heart of the East Kimberley

Untamed, sun‑drenched and irresistibly adventurous, Kununurra is where Western Australia’s vast Kimberley region truly begins. This is a land of blazing red earth, endless blue horizons and ancient rock formations sculpted over hundreds of millions of years. It’s a place that doesn’t just welcome you—it awakens you.

Just a three‑hour flight north of Perth, Kununurra is the natural gateway to the East Kimberley, one of Australia’s last great wilderness frontiers. From here, travellers can venture into some of the country’s most extraordinary landscapes: the beehive domes of Purnululu National Park and the Bungle Bungle Range, the immense waters of Lake Argyle, the remote Mitchell Plateau, the mighty Ord River, and the legendary Argyle Diamond Mine.

This is a region where adventure is measured not in kilometres, but in the sheer scale of the land—cattle stations the size of small European nations, gorges carved by ancient rivers, and waterfalls that thunder to life in the wet season. Though Kununurra itself is a relatively young town, it sits on a landscape shaped by tens of thousands of years of Aboriginal culture. Its name, meaning “big water” in the local Aboriginal language, reflects the life‑giving waterways that define the region.

A Landscape Shaped by Water and Time

The Ord River Irrigation Scheme transformed a chain of waterholes into a permanent oasis, creating Lake Kununurra, now a year‑round playground for boating, kayaking, fishing and water‑skiing. Nearby, Lake Argyle—so vast it’s often described as an inland sea—beckons with mirror‑calm waters, thriving wetlands and unforgettable sunset cruises.

Local lore says that once you taste the waters of the Ord River, you’re destined to return. Spend even a day here and you’ll understand why.

For sweeping views, head to Kelly’s Knob Lookout, the highest point in town, where the Kimberley sky ignites in shades of gold and crimson at sunset. Explore the mesmerising patterns of Zebra Rock, a 600‑million‑year‑old geological wonder found only in this region. In the wet season, cool off at Black Rock Falls, where minerals have stained the 30‑metre cliffs a dramatic jet‑black—an unforgettable sight when the water cascades after rain.

Just minutes from town lies Mirima National Park, affectionately known as Hidden Valley. Its striped sandstone formations glow in shifting colours throughout the day, offering spectacular photography and short walking trails that reveal the Kimberley’s ancient story.

Things to Do in Kununurra

• Cruise the Ord River — Glide through wetlands teeming with birdlife and dramatic escarpments.
• Visit Lake Argyle — Swim in the famous infinity pool, join a sunset cruise or explore by canoe.
• Explore Purnululu National Park — Take a scenic flight or 4WD adventure to the iconic Bungle Bungles.
• Discover Aboriginal culture — Join local tours to learn about Dreamtime stories, bush tucker and ancient rock art.
• Chase waterfalls — Depending on the season, visit Black Rock Falls, Middle Springs or Molly Springs.
• Hike Mirima National Park — Wander through Hidden Valley’s surreal rock formations.
• Enjoy local produce — Visit farms and distilleries producing sandalwood, rum, mangoes and more.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (May to September) is the most popular time to visit, offering warm days, cool nights and ideal conditions for exploring.
May is particularly special thanks to the Ord Valley Muster, a vibrant festival celebrating Kimberley culture, food, music and art. Its finale, the Kimberley Moon Concert, lights up the banks of the Ord River in spectacular style.

The wet season (October to April) brings dramatic skies, lush landscapes and flowing waterfalls—perfect for travellers seeking a more adventurous, atmospheric experience.

How to Get There

Kununurra is easily reached by air, with regular flights from Perth, Darwin and Broome. The town is also a key stop on epic 4WD journeys across the Kimberley, including the legendary Gibb River Road.

Why You’ll Love Kununurra

Kununurra is not just a destination—it’s a feeling. A sense of freedom, scale and raw beauty that stays with you long after you’ve left. Whether you’re chasing adventure, seeking serenity or craving a deeper connection with Australia’s ancient landscapes, this is a place that rewards every traveller.