Kununurra, WA
Tucked in the far northeastern corner of Western Australia, Kununurra is a town that rewards travelers with extraordinary landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Known For
- Lake Argyle
- Ord River
- Purnululu National Park
Situated approximately 3,200 kilometers from Perth (about a 35-hour drive or a 4-hour flight), this Kimberley hub offers an authentic glimpse into the wild beauty and vibrant culture of the region.
Kununurra’s natural environment is both vast and diverse, offering striking contrasts. From the expansive waters of Lake Argyle to the rugged gorges of El Questro Wilderness Park, the town is surrounded by an outdoor playground. Visitors are often amazed by the sheer scale of these features, with Lake Argyle being so vast it is classified as an inland sea. A cruise or swim here offers unparalleled tranquility.
Close by, Mirima National Park, often referred to as the Mini Bungle Bungles, provides an accessible taste of the region’s famed striped sandstone formations. The hiking trails within the park are short but offer impressive views, making them a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike.
A Taste of Kununurra
The agricultural backbone of the region, the Ord River Irrigation Scheme, has transformed Kununurra into a hub for fresh produce. Mangoes, melons, and chia seeds are some of the local specialties that visitors can enjoy. A visit to the Saturday Ord River Markets is a great way to sample these delights, alongside handmade crafts and art.
For dining, spots like the PumpHouse Restaurant offer a unique experience with waterfront views, while local cafes serve up fresh Kimberley-inspired dishes, making it easy to savor the flavors of the region.
With year round warm weather and plentiful water, Kununurra is lush and fertile, and produces much of the State’s fruit and vegetables.
Developed in the 1960s as a service town for the Ord Irrigation Scheme, it has a population of approximately 6,000 people. It is well serviced with a modern hospital, leisure and aquatic centre, specialty shops, air and ground passenger services.
Kununurra has developed into the regional centre for the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley and is the base of development of the Ord Irrigation Scheme, parts one and two.
Things To Do
For those seeking adventure, Kununurra doesn’t disappoint. From helicopter flights over the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park to kayaking down the Ord River, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities. Scenic flights are particularly popular, offering breathtaking views that are impossible to capture from the ground.
If relaxation is more your style, Kununurra has plenty to offer as well. Accommodation options like the Kimberley Grande Resort and Hidden Valley Caravan Park provide comfortable stays, whether you’re looking for luxury or a connection to nature. Many lodgings also offer views of the surrounding ranges, giving guests a chance to unwind while soaking in the scenery.
A feature of the town is the extensive waterway which forms the basis of the Ord Irrigation Scheme. The mighty Ord River, once a series of waterholes during dry season, is now a permanent waterway. From the Diversion Dam upstream to Lake Argyle, the Ord has developed into an intricate and interesting ecosystem of rivers, wetlands and lakes.
Surrounding the town itself is a variety of unique and unusual rock formations which are typical of the region. Good examples of the colours and shapes of these formations can been seen at Mirima Nature Park, known locally as Hidden Valley.
The town is the ideal base for an adventure holiday, utilising one of the many four wheel drive cruise or flight operators located in Kununurra. Visitors can access all parts of the surrounding areas in a variety of ways, limited only by time, preference and budget.
Gateway to the Kimberley
As a base for exploring the Kimberley, Kununurra is second to none. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip along the iconic Gibb River Road or planning to venture into remote wilderness areas, the town provides everything you need to prepare for your journey. Equipment rentals, guided tours, and expert advice are all readily available. For those who wish to be totally independent, local hire car companies can arrange short or long term vehicle hire.
Visitors to Kununurra should beware, however, that local rumour has it that once a person has tasted the waters of the Ord River, they are destined to return.
Further details of what is on offer in and around Kununurra can be obtained from the Kununurra website.
Horizontal Waterfalls
While not directly in Kununurra, the Horizontal Waterfalls are a spectacular natural phenomenon that many travelers include in their Kimberley adventure. Located approximately 350 kilometers to the west, these waterfalls, described by David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world,” are formed by massive tidal movements rushing through narrow gorges in the McLarty Range.
Visitors can reach the Horizontal Waterfalls via scenic flights or day tours, often departing from Kununurra. These excursions typically combine aerial views with boat rides through the surging waters, offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience. The falls are most dramatic during high tide, making it essential to time your visit to coincide with nature’s schedule.
The Bungle Bungle Range
One of Kununurra’s most iconic attractions is the Bungle Bungle Range, located within Purnululu National Park. Known for its distinctive beehive-shaped sandstone domes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Kimberley. The range lies about 300 kilometers south of Kununurra and can be accessed via a 4WD track or scenic flights.
Exploring the park on foot reveals its hidden gems, including Cathedral Gorge, a natural amphitheater with incredible acoustics, and Echidna Chasm, a narrow gorge that lights up with brilliant colors when sunlight filters through. Guided tours are available for those who wish to delve deeper into the area’s geology and cultural significance to the Indigenous custodians.
Lake Argyle
Lake Argyle, one of the world’s largest man-made freshwater lakes, is just 70 kilometers from Kununurra and a highlight of the region. Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers, it’s a haven for wildlife and a serene destination for outdoor activities. The lake is home to more than 70 islands and abundant aquatic life, including freshwater crocodiles and over 26 species of fish.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from sunset cruises that offer stunning views of the changing hues over the water to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The Infinity Pool at the Lake Argyle Resort is another favorite spot, offering panoramic views that blend seamlessly with the lake and surrounding ranges.
Ord River
The Ord River is the lifeblood of the Kununurra region, playing a vital role in both its natural environment and its economy. Stretching over 650 kilometers, it supports a thriving ecosystem of flora and fauna. Guided river cruises allow visitors to explore its waters while spotting wildlife like freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, and an array of bird species, including egrets and kingfishers.
The river is also a hub for water-based activities. Fishing enthusiasts often try their luck for barramundi, while others opt for leisurely kayaking trips. The Ord River’s role in the Ord Irrigation Scheme has transformed Kununurra into an agricultural powerhouse, and tours of the area provide fascinating insights into how this engineering feat has shaped the region.
Argyle Diamond Mine
Located about 120 kilometers south of Kununurra, the Argyle Diamond Mine was one of the world’s largest producers of diamonds until its closure in 2020. It was especially famous for its rare pink diamonds, which accounted for over 90% of the global supply. While the mine is no longer operational, its legacy remains a point of interest for visitors.
Tours of the former mine site are occasionally available, offering insights into its history, operations, and the geological processes that created these extraordinary gems. Pink diamonds from the Argyle Mine are now highly sought after, and local jewelers in Kununurra often showcase exquisite pieces made from these precious stones, allowing visitors to take home a piece of Kimberley’s history.
The Cultural Heart of the Kimberley
Kununurra is rich in Indigenous heritage, with the Miriwoong people being the traditional custodians of the land. Visitors can engage in cultural tours to learn about the area’s history, art, and deep spiritual connection to the landscape. The town also hosts the annual Ord Valley Muster, a celebration of local art, music, and culture that draws visitors from across the country.
In addition to cultural experiences, Kununurra’s Artlandish Gallery showcases remarkable Indigenous artworks, offering an opportunity to support local artists while taking home a unique piece of Kimberley culture.
Where To Stay
Accommodation in Kununurra caters for all people and budgets. Hotels, motels, backpacker accommodation and caravan parks as well as farm station accommodation are all available to suit your needs.
Nearest Airport: Kununurra
Experiences
- Caravan and Camping
- Eco Tourism
- Farm/Station
Popular Activities
- Adventure
- Fishing
- National Park
- Wildlife
About Kununurra
- Locality: Urban locality
- Kununurra Postcode: 6743
- State: Western Australia
- Region: Broome & the North West
- Latitude: -15.7739
- Longitude: 128.73897
- Elevation: 51m
- Population: 5308
- Median Income: $50440
- Area (Sq/km): 2175.06
- Timezone: Australia/Perth
Accommodation In Kununurra
Discover some of the accommodation in and around Kununurra
- All Seasons Kununurra
- Argyle Kimberley Resort
- Bungle Bungle Wilderness Camp
- Country Club Plaza Resort
- Drysdale River Station
- El Questro Wilderness Park
- Faraway Bay The Bush Camp
- Hotel Kununurra
- Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort
- Kimberley Coastal Camp
- Kona Lakeside Tourist Park
- Kununurra Lakeside Resort
- Town Caravan Park
Tours In Kununurra
Discover some of the tours options around Kununurra