Kununurra: The Jewel of the Kimberley Region

Nestled on the banks of the Ord River in the eastern Kimberley, Kununurra is a remote yet welcoming town with a big personality. Founded in 1961 as part of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme, Kununurra has grown into a thriving hub of culture, nature, and adventure. Many visitors use it as the perfect base to explore the Kimberley by 4wd/caravan but also by air - accessing the Bungle Bungles, Lake Argyle and Mitchell Falls on guided tours from Kununurra Airport. 

Top Things to Do in Kununurra

Mirima National Park

Just minutes from town, this striking landscape of sandstone formations - often called the 'mini Bungle Bungles' - offers scenic walking trails and beautiful views, especially at sunrise and sunset.

The Ord River and Lake Kununurra

The river that defines the region is perfect for picnics, birdwatching, or a gentle cruise through wetlands teeming with wildlife.

Blackrock Falls and Middle Springs

Cool off in natural rock pools and refreshing freshwater springs a short drive from town. These are ideal at the start of the year when flows are strongest after the wet season.

Swim Beach Park

A relaxed spot near Lake Kununurra to swim, picnic, or enjoy the afternoon shade.

Water Adventures from Kununurra

Cruises

Take a guided sunset or dinner cruise on Lake Kununurra and Lake Argyle. This peaceful journey showcases the wetlands, birdlife and striking landscapes that make this region so unique.

Barramundi Fishing 

The waterways of the East Kimberley are renowned for barramundi fishing, with big catches a proud part of local bragging rights. Join a guided fishing tour and try your luck reeling in one of the north's most iconic catches — it's an unforgettable outdoor experience whether you're a seasoned angler or casting a line for the first time.

Get Out on the Water

Back in town, there's plenty more to enjoy on the water. Hire a canoe and paddle down the Ord River, or take a self-drive picnic boat out on the lake for a leisurely afternoon. It's a great way to soak up the landscape at your own pace, especially with so many of the region's bigger attractions a scenic drive away.

Culture, Wildlife and History in Kununurra

Waringarri Aboriginal Arts and Artopia Gallery

These galleries showcase contemporary and traditional Indigenous art - a wonderful way to engage with local culture and creativity.

Kununurra Museum

Dive into the region's history, from its Indigenous heritage to colonial development and irrigation milestones.

Kangaroo Haven Wildlife Sanctuary

For animal lovers, this wildlife sanctuary offers close encounters with rescued wildlife in a caring environment.

Scenic Spots and Day Trips from Kununurra

Kelly's Knob Lookout

Enjoy sweeping panoramic views of town, river, and ranges - the perfect end to a day of exploring.

Ivanhoe Crossing

This iconic causeway is a favourite stop for travellers, especially after rain when waters race over the roadway - a quintessential Kimberley experience.

Molly Spring

Located in Ngamoowalen Conservation Park, 30 kilometres west of Kununurra, Molly Spring is a gorgeous spring-fed pool and waterfall - a lovely spot to cool off.

Wyndham: A Historic Kimberley Town

Just 106 kilometres from Kununurra, this historic port town was founded in 1886 and was the lifeblood of East Kimberley trade. Visit Five Rivers Lookout, Marlgu Billabong, and the Wyndham Historical Society Museum for a day of history and wildlife.

El Questro Wilderness Park

Just beyond Kununurra lies the legendary El Questro Wilderness Park, known for its gorges, hot springs, and crystal waters. The Gibb River Road begins here - an unforgettable route through classic Kimberley scenery.

Scenic Flights and Air Tours from Kununurra

One of the best ways to appreciate the scale and beauty of the Kimberley is from the air. Scenic flights from Kununurra with Kimberley Air Tours cover some of the most dramatic landscapes in Australia.

The Bungle Bungle flights from Kununurra offer a perspective on the ochre beehive domes of Purnululu National Park that is simply impossible to get from the ground.

Mitchell Falls is another icon best seen from above - the Mitchell Falls day tours from Kununurra combine a guided aerial experience with the option to land and walk to the four-tiered waterfall with the added thrill of a helicopter scenic transfer over the Mitchell Falls itself

When to Visit Kununurra

The dry season (May to September) is the most popular time to visit, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and all tours and attractions fully operational. The wet season (November to April) transforms the landscape dramatically - waterfalls surge, the terrain turns vivid green, and unique experiences like the King George Falls Coastal Adventure become available.

For a deeper guide to seasonal conditions, read our Kimberley region travel guide covering the best time to visit and what to expect in each season.