Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

Chasing Waterfalls in the Kimberley

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true testament to the Kimberley's untamed beauty. Liam and I set out early, eager to witness the majestic waterfalls this region is famous for. It's days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable comfort of a 9-to-5 for the unpredictable thrill of chasing light and landscapes. The air is thick with humidity, a constant reminder that we're deep in the tropics, but the promise of cascading water kept our spirits high.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant. Fueling up is essential for the adventures we undertake, and the Grande's reputation for a solid breakfast held true. I opted for something simple but satisfying, while Liam, ever the adventurous one, went for the full Aussie breakfast. The atmosphere was buzzing with fellow travelers, all gearing up for their own Kimberley explorations. It’s always a good feeling to be surrounded by like-minded people, sharing stories and travel tips over coffee.

First on our itinerary was Kings Cascade, a name that evokes images of royalty and grandeur. Reaching it involved a scenic cruise, where the anticipation built with every twist and turn of the Prince Regent River. The Kimberley's landscape is a masterclass in contrasts – the vibrant green mangroves against the stark red rocks, all under a sky that seems to stretch on forever.

As we approached Kings Cascade, the sight was simply breathtaking. Water cascaded down terraced rock formations, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of white against the ancient stone. The Wunambal Gaambera people, the Traditional Owners of this land, call it Maamboolbadda, the place of the Kingfisher, a name that resonates with the spiritual significance of this place.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kings Cascade, a stunning waterfall nestled in the heart of Western Australia, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
We had the opportunity to take a bushwalk to the top of the cascades, a steep but rewarding climb. From above, the view was panoramic, the vastness of the Kimberley stretching out before us. The natural swimming pool at the top was an irresistible invitation. The water was cool and refreshing, a welcome respite from the tropical heat. Swimming there, surrounded by lush ferns and the sounds of nature, felt like a true immersion into the heart of the Kimberley.

The Kimberley is a place where the raw beauty of nature meets the rich tapestry of indigenous culture, creating an experience that is both humbling and inspiring.

After Kings Cascade, we set our sights on King George Falls, Western Australia's highest twin waterfalls. The journey there was an adventure in itself, a reminder of the Kimberley's remote and untamed nature. There's no land access to the falls, so a cruise or scenic flight is the way to go. We opted for the cruise, wanting to experience the falls from the water.

As we approached King George Falls, the sheer scale of it was awe-inspiring. The King George River plunges over an ancient sandstone cliff, creating a spectacle that is both powerful and serene. The Balanggarra people hold this place in high cultural significance, viewing the falls as the male and female Wunkurr, the Rainbow Serpents.


Experience the awe of King George Falls, a stunning natural wonder in the heart of the Kimberley region of Western Australia, where adventure meets breathtaking beauty.
We nosed the bow of our boat close to the falls, allowing us to shower under the cascading water. The force of the water was invigorating, washing away the dust and heat of the day. It was a moment of pure exhilaration, feeling the power of nature so intimately.

I took some time to reflect on the immense beauty and cultural significance of this place. The Kimberley is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a place that touches the soul. The ancient landscapes, the vibrant colors, the rich indigenous culture – it all comes together to create an experience that is both humbling and inspiring.

For lunch, we grabbed a quick bite at Subway. Sometimes, amidst all the gourmet adventures, a familiar sandwich is just what you need. It was a chance to recharge and prepare for the afternoon’s activities.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Kununurra for dinner at PumpHouse Kununurra. This restaurant, originally a pump station for the Ord River Irrigation Scheme, offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of Lake Kununurra. The setting was perfect for a relaxing evening, watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.


Experience exquisite dining at PumpHouse Kununurra with breathtaking views and delightful local cuisine.
The PumpHouse focuses on locally grown produce, and the menu was a testament to the region's bounty. I savored every bite, appreciating the fresh flavors and creative dishes. Liam and I shared stories from our day, reliving the awe-inspiring moments at Kings Cascade and King George Falls.

After dinner, we decided to check out the Kimberley Hotel bar. It's always interesting to see the local watering holes and get a feel for the community. The Kimberley Hotel, known locally as 'The Pub', has been a mainstay since the early 1960s. It was a great spot to unwind, enjoy a drink, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.


Discover the Kimberley Hotel, where comfort meets fun in Halls Creek, Western Australia—your perfect getaway for relaxation and entertainment.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. The Kimberley has a way of captivating you, of making you feel small yet connected to something much larger than yourself. It's a place that challenges you, inspires you, and leaves you in awe of the natural world.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Little Mertens Falls and Secret Springs. I’ve heard whispers of their hidden beauty, and I’m eager to uncover their secrets. We'll start the day with breakfast at Spilled the Beans Cafe, followed by lunch at Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant, and end with dinner at Kelly's Bar & Grill. We might even do some souvenir shopping at Walkabout Souvenirs.

But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of Kimberley adventures. And, of course, I need to remember to buy some insect repellent and a portable solar charger, two essentials I foolishly forgot to pack! This trip has been incredible, and I can’t wait to see what other wonders this region holds. Goodnight from the Kimberley!

The weather in Kimberley in December is hot, with average temperatures between 68°F and 89°F. You can expect about 3 to 8 days of rain, so it's a good idea to bring an umbrella.