Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

Kimberley's Lasting Impression

As our Kimberley adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've undertaken. From the rugged gorges to the serene waterholes, this corner of Australia has captured a piece of my heart. It's a bittersweet feeling, knowing our time here is up, but the memories we've made will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Today, our final day, was a fitting culmination of everything the Kimberley has to offer. We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Wild Mango Cafe in Kununurra. Liam and I both opted for their breakfast bruschetta, fueling up for a day of exploration and reflection. The cafe had a vibrant atmosphere, and it was the perfect spot to start our last day in the Kimberley. I made a mental note to try to recreate the dish when we're back home in Canmore – perhaps with some locally sourced ingredients to remind us of this incredible trip.


Discover Wild Mango Cafe: A delightful culinary gem in Kununurra offering fresh breakfasts, lunch options, and exceptional coffee.

After breakfast, we spent some time at Revive, a local boutique. I was hoping to find a unique souvenir to take home, something that would remind me of our time here. I ended up finding a beautiful hand-painted scarf with Aboriginal art motifs. I am always on the look out for sustainably sourced items, and it felt good supporting a local business that values sustainability. Liam picked up a new hat, essential for the harsh Australian sun.


Revive: Explore Kununurra's beloved op shop, where unique finds and community spirit await every visitor.

With our souvenirs in tow, we set off to explore Drysdale River National Park. Unfortunately, there's no vehicle access into the park itself. However, we took a scenic flight over the park, which was an incredible experience. The vastness of the landscape was simply breathtaking. The open woodlands, rugged cliffs, and the snaking Drysdale River created a stunning panorama. I tried to capture as much as I could with my camera, but some things just can't be fully captured in a photograph; you have to experience them firsthand.


Explore the breathtaking wilderness of Drysdale River National Park, an unspoiled paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts in Western Australia.

The journey, not the arrival, matters; the voyage, not the landing, is what enchants us.

Following our flight, we made our way towards Mornington Sanctuary. This vast nature reserve is managed by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, and it's a haven for numerous bird species and other wildlife. Although Mornington Wilderness Camp is closed for the 2025 season due to flood damage, we were still able to appreciate the beauty of the area from the outskirts. We spent some time birdwatching, spotting several species we hadn't seen before. The vibrant colours of the birds against the backdrop of the rugged landscape was a sight to behold. I was particularly hoping to spot a Red Goshawk or a Gouldian Finch, both of which are known to inhabit the sanctuary, but no luck today.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Mornington Sanctuary, a nature preserve in the King Leopold Ranges, Western Australia, perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers.

For lunch, we indulged in the Gourmet Camp Oven Experience. This was a truly unique culinary adventure set in the heart of the Kimberley outback. Josh Melville, the creator and host, has crafted an unforgettable four-course meal that heroes locally sourced ingredients and bush tucker. We sat under the stars, enjoying dishes like Top End saltwater crocodile and wild-caught barramundi. The experience was made even more special with live music and the warmth of the crackling fires. It was the perfect way to celebrate our final day in the Kimberley, savoring the flavors of the region while surrounded by its natural beauty. Liam was particularly impressed with the sustainability initiatives of the experience. It's inspiring to see businesses that are committed to preserving the environment while providing exceptional experiences.


Discover authentic Australian cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Gourmet Camp Oven Experience in Kununurra.

As the sun began to set, we headed to El Questro Homestead for our farewell dinner. This luxurious retreat is perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Chamberlain Gorge. The setting was magical, and the food was exquisite. The menu changes daily, showcasing modern Australian cuisine with Indigenous ingredients. We enjoyed a private clifftop table, savoring each bite as we watched the sun dip below the horizon. The experience was the perfect ending to our Kimberley adventure, a moment of pure bliss and contentment.


Experience luxury and adventure at El Questro Homestead in Australia's breathtaking Kimberley region.

Reflecting on our 16 days in the Kimberley, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we've had and the memories we've created. From the majestic waterfalls to the ancient rock formations, this region has captivated us with its raw beauty and rich cultural heritage. We've connected with the local indigenous cultures, learned about their traditions, and gained a deeper appreciation for the land. While there were a couple of items we forgot to pack – insect repellent and a portable solar charger – we managed just fine without them. It's a reminder that sometimes the best adventures are the ones where you have to improvise and make do with what you have.

I'm also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Liam. Our shared love for adventure has brought us closer together, and I cherish the memories we've made on this trip. As we prepare to head back to Canada, I know that a part of me will always remain in the Kimberley. It's a place that has touched my soul, and I hope to return someday.

As this leg of our adventure comes to a close, I am already looking forward to planning our next adventure. While I don’t have anything specific in mind yet, I am thinking about exploring more of Australia. Perhaps Tasmania or even venturing into the Outback. For now, it's time to head home, sort through the thousands of photos I've taken, and start sharing more of our Kimberley experiences on the blog. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey! I hope our stories have inspired you to explore the untamed beauty of the Kimberley for yourself.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Canada, filled with memories and stories to last a lifetime. It's time to say goodbye to the Kimberley, but I know we'll carry a piece of it with us wherever we go. Until next time, happy travels!

Oh, and a special note to Revive boutique, please consider opening an online store so that I can still purchase from you when I get back to Canada!

Safe travels everyone!