Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

Beneath the Surface: Unveiling the Kimberley's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of exploration and wonder, a true testament to the raw beauty and unique geological formations of The Kimberley. Liam and I ventured into the heart of the region, ready to immerse ourselves in its ancient landscapes. From the towering gorge walls of Windjana to the mysterious depths of Tunnel Creek, every moment was filled with awe and discovery. It's days like these that remind me why I love adventure photography – capturing the essence of places that feel untouched by time.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Spilled the Beans Cafe in Fitzroy Crossing. Energized by coffee and a delicious meal, we set off towards Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park. The drive itself was an experience, the landscape transforming into the iconic Kimberley terrain of rust-red dirt, boab trees, and endless skies. It's a stark contrast to the lush forests of Canmore, but equally captivating. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation as we approached the park, eager to witness the natural wonders that awaited us.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Windjana Gorge National Park, a hidden gem in Western Australia, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Windjana Gorge is truly a sight to behold. Carved by the Lennard River, the gorge walls rise dramatically from the floodplain, reaching up to 100 meters in places. As we walked along the 3.5-kilometer trail, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and grandeur of the place. The walls are made of ancient limestone, remnants of a Devonian reef system that existed here millions of years ago. It's incredible to think that this entire area was once submerged under the ocean.

Of course, Windjana Gorge is famous for its freshwater crocodiles, and we weren't disappointed. They were basking in the sun along the riverbanks, seemingly unbothered by our presence. It's always a thrill to see these ancient creatures in their natural habitat, a reminder of the wildness and resilience of nature. Liam, ever the cautious one, kept a watchful eye as I got closer to capture a few shots. I made sure to keep a safe distance, though; even though freshwater crocs are generally less aggressive than their saltwater cousins, it's always best to respect their space.

The Kimberley is a place where ancient landscapes and unique wildlife converge, offering a glimpse into a world untouched by time.

As we continued our walk, I couldn't help but notice the diverse birdlife that calls the gorge home. Corellas squawked overhead, while smaller birds flitted among the trees lining the riverbank. The gorge is also an important cultural site for the local Bunuba people, who have a deep connection to this land. It was once the base for Jandamarra, a Bunuba man who led an armed rebellion against European settlers in the 1890s. The history and spirituality of this place are palpable, adding another layer of depth to its already stunning natural beauty.

After exploring Windjana Gorge, we hopped back in our trusty 4WD and headed towards Tunnel Creek National Park. The drive was a bit rough, with the unsealed Fairfield-Leopold Road testing our suspension, but it was all part of the adventure. Tunnel Creek is located about 30 kilometers southeast of Windjana Gorge, making it easy to visit both in a single day.


Explore Dimalurru National Park, a natural treasure in Western Australia featuring stunning geological formations and rich Aboriginal heritage.

Tunnel Creek is unlike any place I've ever been. It's a 750-meter-long tunnel carved through the Napier Range by a creek. To explore it, you have to wade through the creek itself, which can be quite an experience. We parked the car, grabbed our torches, and prepared to enter the darkness. I had read that you need to wear shoes that can handle getting wet. I was glad I had my sturdy hiking boots. Liam opted for his waterproof sandals.

As we entered the tunnel, the temperature dropped noticeably, and the sunlight faded behind us. The darkness was almost absolute, broken only by the beams of our torches. The creek gurgled beneath our feet, and the air was thick with the smell of damp earth. It felt like stepping into another world.

We waded through the cool water, our torches illuminating the walls of the tunnel. The rock formations were incredible, with stalactites hanging from the ceiling and strange shapes carved by the water over millennia. Bats flitted overhead, their silhouettes dancing in the torchlight. It was a bit eerie, but also incredibly exciting. I felt like an explorer venturing into the unknown. I made sure to keep my camera protected in my waterproof bag, but I managed to snap a few shots of the tunnel's interior.

About halfway through the tunnel, the roof collapsed, creating an opening that let in a stream of sunlight. It was a welcome respite from the darkness and a chance to see the towering walls of the Napier Range above us. We took a moment to rest and soak in the surreal atmosphere.

As we continued through the tunnel, we encountered a few more pools of water, some of them quite deep. Liam, with his sandals, fared better than I did, as I had to be careful not to slip on the submerged rocks. Despite the challenges, it was an exhilarating experience, and we were both thrilled to have made it through to the other side.

Tunnel Creek is also significant in Aboriginal history, as it was used as a hideout by Jandamarra in the late 1800s. Knowing this added another layer of intrigue to the experience, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of respect for the man who had once sought refuge in this very place.

After our subterranean adventure, we emerged from Tunnel Creek, blinking in the sunlight. We felt a sense of accomplishment and awe at what we had just experienced. It was a reminder of the hidden wonders that lie beneath the surface of our world, waiting to be discovered.

Before heading back to Fitzroy Crossing, we stopped at East Kimberley Mitre 10 to pick up some insect repellent. I realized I had forgotten to pack it. The Kimberley is home to a variety of insects, and I didn't want to spend the rest of our trip swatting away flies and mosquitoes. We also grabbed a portable solar charger, remembering that we had forgotten that too. It's always the little things that can make a big difference on a trip like this.


Explore East Kimberley Mitre 10 in Kununurra for all your gardening and hardware needs, featuring local plants, tools, and expert advice.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a meal at The Kimberley Grande Resort. It was a welcome change from our usual campfire fare, and the food was delicious. We shared stories of our day's adventures, reliving every moment of wonder and excitement. As the sun set over The Kimberley, I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible place with Liam by my side. It's a journey that will stay with me forever.


Experience unparalleled luxury at The Kimberley Grande Resort - your gateway to adventure and relaxation in Kununurra.

Tomorrow, we're heading towards the Wunaamin-Miliwundi Ranges and the Cockburn Ranges Lookout. I'm excited to see more of The Kimberley's stunning landscapes. We'll be having breakfast at the Kimberley Croc Motel, lunch at Subway, and dinner at El Questro Homestead. I'm also planning to check out the Kimberley Hotel bar for a nightcap. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery. I can't wait to share it with you all!

Days like today remind me of why I love what I do. Capturing the beauty of our world and sharing it with others is a privilege, and I'm grateful for every moment of it.