Planning a trip to Kununurra? You have come to the right place. We have gathered answers to the questions we’re asked most often to help you get the most out of your Kimberley adventure.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, our local, friendly team is just a call 08 9168 1177 or email away!
What are the road conditions?
Kununurra Visitor Centre are asked daily about the Gibb River Road, Spring Creek Track, Duncan Road, Tanami Road, Fairfield Leopold Downs Road, Kalumburu Road and the Port Warrender Road.
While we can tell you if the road is open or closed, its actual condition can be much harder to predict. Road surfaces can change rapidly due to weather, traffic, and maintenance schedules.
It’s just not realistic for us to describe the condition of every stretch of the road.
Conditions on the unsealed sections vary widely. Right after grading, the road can feel as smooth as a highway. But over time, traffic causes wear and tear—especially corrugations. If you're unlucky and hit the road just before another grade is due, the surface can be rough and uncomfortable, though not particularly difficult to drive. Slowing down is usually enough to manage safely.
Unsealed sections range from well-maintained gravel to heavily corrugated or rocky tracks. Floodway’s can also change quickly in both depth and surface condition depending on recent weather.
Road quality depends on the season, when a section was last graded, and how many vehicles have passed since. Heavily used areas, including some side tracks, tend to deteriorate faster as the dry season progresses.
To ensure you have the most up to date road reports, please visit the links below, and if you feel the need to talk to someone, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 08 9168 1177.
Main Roads WA - including Gibb River Road
Driving in Western Australia - A Guide to Safe Stopping Places
Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley - includes Kalumburu Road and Port Warrender Road (to Mitchell Plateau)
Shire of Halls Creek - includes Tanami and Duncan Roads
Shire of Derby West Kimberley - including Leopold Downs Road
Where is a Dump Point and access to potable water in Kununurra?
During your stay at any of the seven caravan parks in Kununurra, you’ll have access to both water and dump point facilities.
Alternatively, potable water is available from a tap located next to the Kununurra Visitor Centre.
For waste disposal, the Agricultural Showground Caravan Park offers a dump point for a small fee to help with maintenance.
The nearest free dump point can be found at the Main Roads Cockburn Rest Area, approximately 45 km west of Kununurra.
Where can you swim in Kununurra?
There are several great places to swim in and around Kununurra:
- Most commercial accommodation providers have their own swimming pools available for guest use.
- In town, Swim Beach on Lake Kununurra offers a large, cleared area for river access. Freshwater crocodiles are present in the water, so we advise visitors to avoid the reeds along the edge, as this is their natural habitat. They are generally not aggressive unless provoked.
- Molly Springs, located in the Ngamoowalem Conservation Area about 30 km west of Kununurra, is accessible via a 3 km gravel road. It features a year-round spring-fed waterfall and a small waterhole that’s easy to reach.
- While the town swimming pool is currently closed for major renovations (expected to reopen in 2026), the nearby Splash Park—located next to the Kununurra Visitor Centre—is a modern facility with free entry and plenty of fun for families.
Where can you see Crocodiles in Kununurra?
While Kununurra isn't widely known for frequent crocodile sightings, there are a few places where you might spot one:
- Guests staying at Lily Lagoon Resort, Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park, or Discovery Lake Kununurra may see freshwater crocodiles in the nearby lagoon or river.
- At the Pumphouse Restaurant, keep an eye on the river—freshwater crocodiles are often seen sunning themselves in the river.
- If you're on a fishing tour along the Lower Ord River, there's a good chance you'll encounter saltwater crocodiles in their natural environment.
- Freshwater crocodile sightings are also possible during a Lake Argyle Cruise or a Triple J Ord River Cruise.
- The Diversion Dam Lookout provides a scenic view of the water flowing into the Lower Ord River, where a resident saltwater crocodile—affectionately nicknamed ‘The Gate Keeper’—is often seen patrolling the area.
- Marlgu Billabong, on the way to Wyndham, is another fantastic spot where you might catch a glimpse of the elusive saltwater crocodile.
Is there any free camping in Kununurra?
Free camping is not legally permitted in the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley or along the Gibb River Road, except in designated 24-hour rest areas. Roadside camping or setting up near riverbanks often means trespassing on private property, and many Kimberley waterways are home to dangerous saltwater crocodiles. Campfires in these areas also pose serious risks, including bushfires and harm to others.
Kununurra offers seven well-equipped caravan parks, catering to all budgets and providing the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Accommodation is also available at Lake Argyle, in Wyndham, and at various stations and national parks along the Gibb River Road—ensuring options for every type of traveller.
Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Camping Guidelines
Do we need to pre book for our time in the East Kimberley?
The dry season—from April to September—is the most popular time to explore the Kimberley, attracting visitors from all over. To make sure you don’t miss out on those must do tours and accommodations, it’s wise to book early—some experiences fill up weeks in advance! Once your travel dates are locked in, reach out to the friendly local team at the Kununurra Visitor Centre on 08 9168 1177 or email [email protected]. They’re passionate about the region and eager to help you plan, explore, and book unforgettable Kimberley adventures.
For those travelling further afield:
- Everything you need to know about the Gibb River Road is available to download here - our Greatest of All Time Gibb River Information Book!
- For more information on the Bungle Bungle Range (Purnululu) why not download a copy of The G.O.A.T. Bungle Bungles - Everything you need to know.
What services are there in Kununurra?
With a population of less than 5,000, Kununurra is a small town that offers a charming, laid-back atmosphere—but that also means fewer services compared to bigger cities. During the busy season, things like haircuts, doctor’s appointments, or car servicing can fill up quickly, sometimes with waits of several weeks. So, if you already know your travel dates, it’s a smart idea to book ahead and secure your spot.
Despite its size, Kununurra has everything you need to feel right at home. You’ll find a hospital, pharmacy, two supermarkets, a well-stocked homeware store and several unique gift shops, plus electrical stores to cover all your tech and appliance needs.
Where can we get a cultural experience?
A wide range of tours across Kununurra and the greater Kimberley region offer unforgettable cultural experiences—from immersive “Camping with Custodians” stays to guided tours on Country with Traditional Owners. Each journey provides a unique opportunity to connect with the land, stories, and people of this remarkable region.
For more information on Cultural Experiences
Where can we find waterfalls near Kununurra?
If you're chasing waterfalls, the Kimberley won't disappoint! Black Rock Falls and Middle Springs are at their most stunning during the wet season, when heavy rains transform them into powerful cascades. But keep in mind—wet season rains can also make roads impassable.
That’s where a Waterfall Helicopter Tour comes in. Soar above the landscape for a truly unforgettable view of these remote, roaring waterfalls in full flow.
Looking for something you can visit year-round? Just 30 km west of Kununurra, Molly Springs is a spring-fed gem that usually runs all year. With easy access and a peaceful setting, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing dip, even in the dry season.
What are the quarantine restrictions going into the Northern Territory?
While Western Australia enforces strict quarantine rules for those leaving the state, travellers heading into the Northern Territory won’t pass through quarantine checkpoints and will not be stopped.
When is the best time to visit Kununurra and the East Kimberley?
The best time to visit Kununurra and the East Kimberley region is during the dry season, from May to September. This period offers warm, sunny days with low humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the area's stunning natural attractions like Lake Argyle, Mirima National Park, and the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park. Roads are more accessible, and tour operators are in full swing, offering flights, cruises, and 4WD adventures. It's also the season for local events and markets, providing a great opportunity to experience the vibrant community and culture of the region.
Visiting Kununurra and the East Kimberley during the wet season (roughly November to April) offers a completely different, but equally breathtaking experience. This is when the region bursts to life — dramatic thunderstorms sweep across vast skies, waterfalls flow with full force, and the landscape transforms into a lush, vibrant green. However, it’s important to be prepared: many roads and remote sites can become inaccessible due to flooding, and the weather can be extremely hot and humid, often exceeding 40°C. While the wet season brings fewer tourists and a unique, powerful beauty, it's best suited to those comfortable with unpredictable conditions and limited access. Always check local updates and plan carefully if travelling during this time.
What walks can we do in the area?
Kununurra and the East Kimberley offer a range of incredible walking and hiking opportunities, showcasing the region's unique landscapes, gorges, and cultural sites. In Kununurra itself, Mirima National Park—often called the “mini Bungle Bungles”—features several short walks like the Demboong Banan Trail and Lookout Walk, offering panoramic views of the ancient sandstone formations just minutes from town. The Kelly’s Knob Lookout walk provides a stunning vantage point for sunrise or sunset over Kununurra and the surrounding ranges.
Further afield, El Questro Wilderness Park has some of the region's most popular hikes. The Emma Gorge walk is a moderately challenging 3.2 km return trail leading to a stunning waterfall and crystal-clear plunge pool. El Questro Gorge and Amalia Gorge offer more adventurous treks, with some rock scrambling and river crossings rewarded by beautiful swimming holes.
In Purnululu National Park, walking trails through the iconic Bungle Bungle Range are a must. The Cathedral Gorge, Echidna Chasm, and Piccaninny Creek Lookout walks take you through towering beehive domes, narrow gorges, and open savannah, offering an unforgettable experience of this World Heritage-listed landscape.
Always carry plenty of water, start early to avoid the heat, and check local conditions—especially during the wet season when many trails or access to these locations can be closed.
