Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

Conquering Currents and Capturing Vistas

Today was a day of contrasts, from the adrenaline of a river crossing to the serene beauty of a vast lake. Liam and I embraced the Kimberley's rugged charm, navigating its waters and marveling at its engineering feats. It's moments like these that remind me why I love adventure photography – capturing the raw essence of a place and sharing it with the world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Kimberley Croc Motel. The name itself is quite the conversation starter, and the promise of a good meal was enough to get us going. Fuelled up, we set off towards our first challenge: Ivanhoe Crossing.


Discover the breathtaking views and rich wildlife at Ivanhoe Crossing, a stunning bridge in Kununurra, Western Australia - a must-visit for every traveler.

Ivanhoe Crossing: A Splash of Adventure

Ivanhoe Crossing, a concrete causeway over the Ord River, was originally part of the main road to Wyndham. It’s one of those places that sounds straightforward on paper but feels like a different beast entirely when you’re standing at the water's edge. As we approached, I could feel a familiar mix of excitement and trepidation. Liam, ever the steady hand, gave me a reassuring smile. Ready for this? he asked, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. I nodded, took a deep breath, and we plunged in.

The water surged around the 4WD, and for a moment, time seemed to slow down. I gripped the camera, ready to capture the moment, while Liam expertly navigated the crossing. The roar of the engine, the rush of the water – it was exhilarating. I couldn't help but think about the saltwater crocodiles that inhabit the area, adding a touch of primal fear to the adventure. We made it across without a hitch, and a wave of triumph washed over us. It's safe to say Stacey from Love Your Travels isn't the only one to tick Ivanhoe Crossing off their Aussie bucket list.

The best views come after the hardest climbs and the most daring crossings.

After the thrill of Ivanhoe Crossing, we decided to grab lunch at Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park. We opted for a relaxed meal taking in the views of Lily Creek Lagoon. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge before our next destination.


Discover tranquility at Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park in Kununurra – your perfect escape into nature's beauty.

Lake Argyle Dam Wall: Engineering Marvel and Scenic Splendor

Our afternoon was dedicated to Lake Argyle Dam Wall. The sheer scale of the dam wall is astounding. Stretching over 3.5 kilometers, it holds back the vast expanse of Lake Argyle, an inland sea created by damming the Ord River. As we walked along the dam wall, the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape were simply breathtaking.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Lake Argyle Dam Wall, a must-see destination in Western Australia for every traveler.

I couldn't resist snapping photos of the rugged terrain meeting the serene waters. The light was perfect, casting long shadows and highlighting the textures of the rocks. Liam pointed out various bird species, his binoculars glued to his eyes. He's always had a knack for spotting wildlife, a skill I greatly admire.

Lake Argyle is massive, holding more than 18 times the volume of Sydney Harbour. It's hard to fathom the impact this dam has had on the region, both environmentally and economically. We learned that the dam was completed in 1971 as part of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we found ourselves at Uncle Tony's Jungle Bar, a quirky spot that promised a perfect end to the day. Surrounded by lush greenery, we enjoyed a couple of drinks, reflecting on our adventures. The bar had a laid-back vibe, and we chatted with some locals, swapping stories and laughter. It’s these unexpected connections that often make a trip truly memorable.


Discover the unique charm of Uncle Tony's Jungle Bar, a tropical oasis in the heart of the King Leopold Ranges, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

For dinner, we headed to the Kimberley Hotel, known for its hearty meals and welcoming atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal, reminiscing about the day’s adventures and planning our final day in the Kimberley. The Kimberley Hotel also serves breakfast, and Gabi's Restaurant offers takeaway.


Discover comfort and local flavor at the Kimberley Hotel in Halls Creek, your gateway to Western Australia's stunning landscapes.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Kimberley adventure, and we’re planning to make the most of it. We’ll be exploring Drysdale River National Park and Mornington Sanctuary, hoping to capture more of the region's unique beauty before heading back to Canada.

As I write this, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we’ve had. The Kimberley has challenged us, inspired us, and left an indelible mark on our souls. It’s a place of raw beauty and untamed wilderness, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to explore it.

Before drifting off to sleep, I double-checked our gear and mentally prepared for our early start tomorrow. I also reminded Liam to pack the insect repellent and portable solar charger, two items we foolishly forgot to bring.

Good night from the Kimberley. Until tomorrow!