Best of the Gibb River Road: an 11-day Kimberley itinerary

Leah McLennanBy Leah McLennan
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It’s the outback road trip to top them all, but don’t let that intimidate you – we’ve got just the thing.

Next time you hit the road, venture north for an epic 11-day trip through Western Australia’s captivating Kimberley wilderness. Hike to cascading waterfalls, camp near ancient boabs under a star-filled sky and find Aboriginal art in picturesque gorges.

The 660-kilometre mainly unsealed Gibb River Road cuts a swathe right through the heart of the Kimberley, between Derby and Kununurra. We’ve found the most ‘do-able’ way to navigate the iconic Gibb River Road.

Days one and two: Broome and Derby

In frangipani-scented Broome pick up some wheels – either a 4WD or campervan – and stock up on food and water, then head out of town to Derby, an easy two-hour drive on a sealed road.

two people stand captivated before a magnificent Boab Tree
Stand before the iconic boab tree just south of Derby. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Just before you reach Derby, your first stop is the ‘prison tree’, a large hollow boab believed to be around 1,500 years old. From here either pop into Derby for lunch (if you like kebab, head to the Cairo on Johnston Street) or turn onto the Gibb River Road after seeing the ‘prison tree’ and let the adventure begin!

the scenic rock formation at Windjana Gorge National Park, Gibb River Road itinerary
Windjana Gorge is carved out of the Napier Range. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Your next stop is two-hours down the track to stunning Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park, situated within the Napier Ranges – an area partly made up of an ancient reef system formed around 350 million years ago.

a couple exploring Windjana Gorge with local Aboriginal tour guide, , Gibb River Road itinerary
Explore Windjana Gorge National Park with a local guide. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Once you’ve settled in, take the 3.5-kilometre Gorge Walk Trail, which winds its way through the gorge with its soaring 300-metre-high walls and deep freshwater pools. Keep an eye out for corellas, fruit bats and freshwater crocodiles.

Must-see highlights

Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek)

A trip out to Tunnel Creek, located 36 kilometres from Windjana Gorge, should be high on your agenda where you can make your way along the 750-metre-long subterranean waterway.

people visiting the Dimalurru Tunnel Creek, , Gibb River Road itinerary
Dimalurru Tunnel Creek is hidden beneath a mountain range. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Lillimilura Police Station

Visit the old homestead, which was built from local limestone in 1884 and later turned into a police outpost in Windjana Gorge National Park.

Accommodation tip: Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) Campground

Day three: Lennard River Gorge and Bell Gorge 

Wave goodbye to Windjana Gorge and hello to Lennard River Gorge, a 1.5-hour drive away. Pull on the walking boots again to take the challenging three-kilometre return walk from the parking area to the gorge lookout. If you can get there shortly after the wet season, you will see a spectacular cascading waterfall, which tumbles over red rocks and plunges into the narrow gorge below.

Possibly the prettiest gorge in the Kimberley, Bell Gorge, is a one-hour drive from Lennard River Gorge. From the car park, a short walk along Bell Creek leads to the gorge where water cascades down the cliffs into a deep pool that is perfect for swimming. Be prepared to spend the day here (it’s hard to leave). Flat rocks next to the waterhole make a divine sunbaking, snoozing or picnic spot.

the Bell Gorge, Gibb River Road, Kimberley WA
Immerse yourself in natural beauty at Bell Gorge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Must-see highlights

Imintji Art Centre

Visit Imintji Art Centre  to view work from talented artists in the local community (you can refuel at Imintji Roadhouse).

kids painting at Imintji Campground Art Centre, , Gibb River Road itinerary
Immerse in local arts and crafts at Imintji Art Centre. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Galvans Gorge 

Take a dip at pretty Galvans Gorge, a good stop off on the journey between Bell Gorge and Manning Gorge (Mt Barnett Roadhouse).

the spacious grounds of Dulundi (Silent Grove) Campsite, Gibb River Road itinerary
Set up camp on Dulundi (Silent Grove) Campsite. (Image: Jacki Baxter)

Accommodation tip: Dulundi (Silent Grove) Campsite

Day four and five: Adcock Gorge and Manning Gorge

About halfway along the Gibb River Road, you’ll find Manning Gorge one of the most post-card worthy swimming spots in the Kimberley.

The campground is located seven kilometres from Mt Barnett Roadhouse and only a few minutes’ walk from the sandy banks of Manning Creek. Once you’ve set up camp, swim across the river to reach the start of the 5.6-kilometre return hike to Manning Gorge. You can easily spend hours here floating in the huge waterfall-fed pool.

a tranquil pool in Manning Gorge, Gibb River Road itinerary
Hike to the tranquil pool of the Manning Gorge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Must-see highlights

Adcock Gorge

This secret little gem is just under an hours’ drive from Manning Gorge and boasts a dreamy emerald green pool with a small waterfall surrounded by ferns and grassy edges.

Gorges on Mt Elizabeth Station

It’s just 39 kilometres from Mt Barnett Roadhouse to Mt Elizabeth Station , home to Warla and Wunnamurra gorges, some of the quietest swimming and birdwatching spots in the Kimberley.

Accommodation tip: Camping area at Manning Gorge

Day six and seven: Drysdale River Station and Mitchell Falls

If you’re planning a trip to the Mitchell Falls (and why not?) then Drysdale River Station 165 kilometres from Manning Gorge on the Kalumburu Road is the place to stop on your way up and back.

If you have two nights to spare, continue your drive for four hours on the corrugated and rocky road to the Mitchell Plateau, where you can bushwalk, see Aboriginal rock art and swim at the four-tiered falls.

an aerial view of Mitchell Falls, Gibb River Road itinerary
The four-tiered Mitchell Falls from above. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Must-see highlights

Mitchell Falls walk

If you’ve made it all the way up to the Mitchell Plateau, then take the hike past Little Mertens Falls and Big Mertens Falls to the awe-inspiring Mitchell Falls.

a couple standing atop a cliff near Mitchell Falls, Gibb River Road itinerary
See the majestic Mitchell Falls. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Fly over Mitchell Plateau

Jump on a scenic flight at Drysdale River Station or at the Mitchell Falls Campground to see the unforgettable Mitchell Falls. From the campground it is possible to fly one-way and walk back (or vice versa).

an aerial view of the Mitchell Plateau
Fly above the Mitchell Plateau. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Accommodation tip: Drysdale River Station

Day eight: Ellenbrae Station 

Back on the Gibb River Road, it’s time for a cuppa and scones at Ellenbrae Station. Primarily a cattle station, in recent years it has become a popular stop for tourists during the dry season thanks to its rustic facilities, campground, cabins and two swimming holes.

the entrance at Ellenbrae Station
Step into an off-grid campsite at Ellenbrae Station.

Must-see highlights

Sandy Gorge

Take a dip or fish for Bream in the refreshing swimming hole Sandy Gorge on Ellenbrae Station.

Outdoor baths

Be sure to make time at Ellenbrae Station to wash away the dust in one of the outdoor claw baths, which can be booked for hour-long soaks. Take it up a notch and reserve the sunset session with cheese platter and bubbles for two.

the outdoor baths at Ellenbrae Station
Head to the outdoor baths to wash away the dust.

Accommodation tip: Ellenbrae Station

Day nine and ten: El Questro Wilderness Park

From Ellenbrae Station it’s a 160-kilometre drive south to El Questro Wilderness Park, an iconic outback holiday destination on the Kimberley’s eastern edge.

sunset at El Questro Wilderness Park, East Kimberley
El Questro Wilderness Park at sunset is beyond magnificent. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

To enter El Questro, you’ll cross the Pentecost River, one of the best spots in the area to go barramundi fishing. Set on 700,000 acres of stunning terrain, you’ll spot a plethora of native animals, birds and fish in the many rivers, freshwater springs and gorges.

the Pentecost River Crossing on a clear day
The Pentecost River Crossing spans through the central Kimberley Plateau to the Cambridge Gulf. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Must-see highlights

Chamberlain Gorge

Hop on a sunset cruise to Chamberlain Gorge for an excellent introduction to El Questro. On the water you’ll spot spitting Archer fish and huge, swirling Barramundi.

the Chamberlain Gorge in WA
Cruising the Chamberlain Gorge is truly one of a kind. (Image: Delaware North Companies/Tourism Australia)

Emma Gorge

Take the one-hour hike to Emma Gorge, a 30-minute drive from El Questro Station, and you’ll be rewarded with a swim in one of the Kimberley’s most spectacular and accessible gorges.

a woman sitting on a rock at Emma Gorge, El Questro Wilderness Park
Dip in a cool oasis between rocky cliffs at Emma Gorge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Accommodation tip: Emma Gorge Resort

a couple sitting outside a luxury tent at Emma Gorge El Questro
Sleep under the stars at Emma Gorge Resort.

Day eleven: Kununurra

You’ve nearly made it! The last stretch of the Gibb River Road brings you to Kununurra, about 1.5 hours from El Questro.

For lucky folks with more time to spare, explore one of the Kimberley’s most incredible sites: Lake Argyle. Swimming or cruising on Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere, is the perfect way to finish an epic Gibb adventure.

an aerial view of Lake Argyle
Cruise along the calm waters of Lake Argyle. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Must-see highlights

Purnululu National Park

The World Heritage-listed Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park has become one of the most famous symbols of the Kimberley. See the giant rocky domes from the ground or the air.

huge striped rock formations at Purnululu National Park
Purnululu National Park is dotted with orange and black sandstone rock formations. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The Grotto

From El Questro, rather than heading to Kununurra first travel to Wyndham and squeeze in a visit to The Grotto. This spectacular swimming hole features a 120-metre cliff face that becomes a huge waterfall during the wet season.

two people atop The Grotto near Wyndham
Admire scenic landscapes atop The Grotto. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Accommodation tip: Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments

From Kununurra, either catch the plane or refuel and begin the stunning drive back to Broome via the Great Northern Highway (13 hours in total), stopping for a night at Fitzroy Crossing along the way.

The Crossing Inn in Fitzroy Crossing
Make a short stop to rest at The Crossing Inn. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Leah McLennan
Leah McLennan is a freelance writer based in Darwin. She was a journalist in Sydney for over a decade and counts her time as travel editor for Australian Associated Press as one of the highlights of her career. From exploring remote campsites in the Top End with her family, to seeking out new art galleries in faraway cities, she’ll grab an adventurous or arty travel experience within her reach.
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Inspire your senses with these iconic East Kimberley stays

    Jennifer EnnionBy Jennifer Ennion
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    The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

    Livistona palms soar out of chasms the colour of Valencia oranges. Shady waterholes beckon travellers daring to venture off the bitumen. From the air, fruit farms give way to vast plains that meet rolling hills and fascinating geological formations centuries in the making. The East Kimberley is one of Australia’s most treasured wilderness areas, but don’t be fooled by its rust-coloured roads. This north-eastern corner of Western Australia is home to some of Australia’s most iconic stays by Discovery Resorts  that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

    A group of people enjoy an intimate dining experience at El Questro Homestead.
    Dine in the heart of nature.

    Your guide to Lake Argyle

    The backstory

    With rolling hills that glow amber at sunrise and glassy water that reflects the Kimberley’s bright blue sky, a visit to Lake Argyle is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As Australia’s second-largest man-made freshwater lake, travellers flock here to soak in the views from boats, helicopters and Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle .

    The latter is a lakeside oasis, a resort where travellers crossing from Western Australia into the Northern Territory (or vice versa) converge. Fifty minutes’ drive south of Kununurra, the property is perched atop a cliff overlooking the sprawling Lake Argyle.

    Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle was originally built in the late 1960s to provide accommodation for builders of the Ord River dam, which formed Lake Argyle. In the decades that followed it had several owners, until a Kununurra local took the reins in 2004 and reinvented the property with luxury villas and its now world-famous infinity pool. The iconic property was added to the Discovery Resorts portfolio in 2021, undergoing a major upgrade that took the resort from a beloved campground to an all-encompassing resort with premium waterfront villas.

    A boat glides across the expansive waters of Lake Argyle, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Kimberley. As part of the Discovery Holiday Parks experience, this unforgettable journey offers adventure and relaxation.
    Glide across the vast, shimmering waters of Lake Argyle.

    The rooms

    A lakeside resort like no other, Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle offers something for everyone, from campsites to villas and cabins . The Deluxe Lakeview Cabins have views of the opposing cliff and are surrounded by bush, ensuring plenty of privacy, while both the Deluxe and Standard Cabins are ideal for families, with contemporary furnishings and one, two or four bedrooms. The campsites also come in a variety of sizes.

    The facilities

    There’s no doubt the biggest drawcard to Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle is the lake, 20 times the size of Sydney Harbour. One of the best ways to experience it is on the Kimberley Durack Sunset Explorer Cruise , during which you’ll see freshwater crocodiles nesting along the banks (it’s home to 30,000 freshies) and even get the chance to swim in their waters. The cruise also takes in Mt Misery, towering above the original and now submerged Argyle Downs Homestead.

    If you have young children who need to get to bed early, a great alternative is the three-hour Lunch Explorer Cruise . You’ll tour around the lake’s bays as you learn about the local wildlife before stopping at a remote island for a swim.

    Refuel between adventures at the onsite pub-style eatery, The Lake Argyle Cafe. The cafe is the heart of the resort, bringing together friends new and old over a steak, cold beer and live music. Hours vary with the seasons, but rest assured you’ll be able to enjoy a good feed year-round, with a well-stocked general store also open during the day.

    Cool off from a day of exploring in the striking infinity pool with some of the best views in the country (you’ll find sweeping views of the lake below). Or enjoy a flight with HeliSpirit, or clear your mind during a yoga class on the lawn.

    Two people unwind in an infinity pool, overlooking stunning Lake Argyle at Discovery Holiday Parks.
    Take a dip in the infinity pool and soak in breathtaking Lake Argyle views.

    Your guide to El Questro

    The backstory

    One of the most famous stays in Australia is El Questro . A former cattle station, it’s evolved into one of the country’s most recognisable tourism destinations over the past 30 years, and is now embarking on a new chapter to elevate the region’s rich First Nations culture.

    The property draws travellers seeking to reconnect with nature and the beauty of this country. Wild in spirit but immaculate in style, El Questro is a 283,000-hectare property like no other; surrounded by dramatic gorges, impressive mountain ranges, thermal springs, secluded waterfalls and even rainforest, it’s the perfect base for adventurous souls.

    A person floats leisurely in the river at Discovery Holiday Parks, immersed in nature’s tranquillity.
    Float along Zebedee Springs and immerse in nature.

    The rooms

    Across the sprawling El Questro are three properties catering to the wide variety of travellers who journey this way. The most impressive is the luxurious Homestead , where 10 suites perch at the edge of a burnt-orange cliff, with cantilevered bedrooms over the peaceful Chamberlain River. The adults-only, all-inclusive Homestead is a member of the prestigious Luxury Lodges of Australia collection and offers a backdrop of thick bushland; riverside, you’ll find an immaculate lawn and a shaded pool that lures guests out of their rooms.

    At Emma Gorge , travellers will be immersed in the beauty of the Cockburn Ranges, falling asleep to the sounds of wildlife in safari-style tented cabins. This is where you come if you want to completely connect with your environment while retaining a few creature comforts. The Emma Gorge Tented Cabins sleep three or four people and feature private ensuites and ceiling fans.

    Families also love The Station , home to simple yet comfortable air-conditioned rooms, as well as a large, leafy campground. Sitting by the Pentecost River, The Station is open from April to October and has a range of accommodation, from unpowered and powered campsites to air-conditioned tents for two people and a Gardenview Family Room for five.

    Two people stand beside a suite perched on the edge of a striking burnt-orange cliff, gazing out over the serene Chamberlain River below.
    Take a breather with stunning views of nature all around.

    The facilities

    Located in the heart of the Kimberley, El Questro retains its strong connection with its Traditional Owners, the Ngarinyin people. A highlight of a stay here is the Injiid Marlabu Calls Us experience ; over two hours, guests are immersed in the soul of Country by witnessing ancient healing rituals, listening to generational stories and learning about the land’s ancestral heritage.

    Other experiences include bird watching, cruising through Chamberlain Gorge, hiking through Emma Gorge, horse riding, four-wheel-driving and soaking in Zebedee Springs. At the properties, you can also cool off in the pools, and relax in the restaurants or at private dining locations. A bonus of staying at The Homestead is the exclusive service of El Questro’s dedicated reservations team, who will craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your travel tastes.

    A group of people stand beside a tree, with a car parked nearby, taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
    Experience thrilling nature activities.

    Book your East Kimberley adventure today with Discovery Resorts.