Exploring the Untamed Beauty of The Kimberley with Friends

Day 7: Chasing Waterfalls and Celebrity Trees: A Day of Wonders in Kununurra

Experience the majesty of King George Falls and the charm of Celebrity Tree Park in Kununurra. A day filled with natural beauty and local flavor!

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A Day of Kimberley's Charms


Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true testament to the Kimberley's raw beauty and unique attractions. From chasing the majestic King George Falls to strolling through the whimsical Celebrity Tree Park, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. The day was a perfect blend of nature's grandeur and the quirky charm of local culture, leaving me with memories I'll cherish forever.

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.
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.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Wild Mango Cafe in Kununurra. I opted for a classic bacon and egg croissant, a perfect way to fuel up for the adventures ahead. The cafe had a vibrant atmosphere, and it was clear that locals love starting their day there. Fatoumata enjoyed a mango smoothie, which she said was the perfect taste of the Kimberley.

Fueled and ready, we set off for the highlight of the day: King George Falls. Reaching the falls is an adventure in itself, requiring either a scenic flight or a cruise. We chose the cruise option, which allowed us to soak in the stunning Kimberley coastline along the way. The journey took us through a dramatic gorge, with towering red sandstone cliffs on either side. The sheer scale of the landscape was breathtaking, a humbling reminder of nature's power.

As we approached King George Falls, the anticipation grew. The falls are actually twin waterfalls, plunging an impressive 100 meters into the tidal waters below. The sight of the cascading water against the ancient sandstone cliffs was truly awe-inspiring.
The Kimberley's raw beauty is best seen from the deck of a small expedition ship.
We got close enough to the falls to feel the refreshing spray on our faces, an invigorating experience that connected us to the heart of the Kimberley. The local Balanggarra people consider the falls to be the male and female Wunkurr (Rainbow Serpents), adding a layer of cultural significance to this natural wonder.

After the falls, we grabbed a quick lunch at Subway. While not exactly a culinary highlight, it was a convenient and familiar option that allowed us to refuel without wasting too much time. With our bellies full, we headed to our next destination: the Celebrity Tree Park.

Explore the stunning Celebrity Tree Park in Kununurra, where nature and culture intertwine amidst towering trees and breathtaking landscapes.
Explore the stunning Celebrity Tree Park in Kununurra, where nature and culture intertwine amidst towering trees and breathtaking landscapes.The Celebrity Tree Park offered a delightful change of pace. Located on the banks of Lily Creek Lagoon, the park is a tranquil oasis just a few minutes from the center of Kununurra. Since 1984, celebrities who have visited the East Kimberley have planted a tree in the park, each marked with a plaque. We strolled through the park, admiring the trees and reading about the famous figures who planted them, including John Farnham and Princess Anne. It was a fun and quirky way to connect with the history and culture of the region. Aminata and Ibrahim were particularly excited to spot the trees planted by some of their favorite Australian entertainers.

Before dinner, I made a stop at The Sandalwood Shop. As someone who appreciates natural wellness products, I was intrigued to learn more about sandalwood and its uses. The shop offered a wide range of sandalwood-inspired beauty, health, and lifestyle products. I picked up a few items for Fatoumata, knowing she would appreciate the unique fragrance and therapeutic properties of sandalwood. I also learned about the history of sandalwood cultivation in the region, a fascinating insight into the local economy and culture.

For dinner, we enjoyed a delicious meal at the Kununurra Country Club Resort. The resort is home to Kelly's Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant known for its modern Australian cuisine and use of local ingredients. I savored a perfectly cooked steak, while Fatoumata opted for a vegetarian dish that highlighted the fresh produce of the Kimberley. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, the perfect way to end a day of adventure.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm struck by the diversity and beauty of the Kimberley. From the majestic King George Falls to the quirky Celebrity Tree Park, every attraction offered a unique perspective on this remarkable region. The local cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, added another layer of richness to our experience.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges and Adcock Gorge. I'm eager to discover more of the Kimberley's hidden gems and share them with you all. I am particularly excited about the prospect of seeing some ancient rock art, a tangible link to the region's rich Aboriginal heritage. We'll start the day with breakfast at Kimberley Croc Motel , followed by lunch at Gullivers Tavern , and end with dinner at El Questro Homestead. We might even check out the Gourmet Camp Oven Experience !

Before I close, I wanted to share a small mishap that occurred earlier in the trip. As I mentioned in my first post, I forgot to pack a portable phone charger and a first aid kit. This oversight came back to haunt me today when my phone battery died halfway through our adventure at King George Falls. Luckily, one of my friends had a spare charger, but it was a good reminder to always double-check my packing list. I've since purchased a portable charger in Kununurra, ensuring that I won't be caught off guard again.

The Kimberley continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. Its rugged landscapes, unique attractions, and warm hospitality make it a destination unlike any other. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my friends and with all of you. Until tomorrow, safe travels!

As they say in Mali, Ka tile be si! (Until tomorrow!)
Go to day 6 Untamed Kimberley: El Questro and the Majesty of Cockburn Ranges
Go to day 8 Chasing Waterfalls and Outback Stars: A Day of Kimberley Wonders
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Exploring the Untamed Beauty of The Kimberley with Friends

Join us as we explore the wild landscapes of The Kimberley, Australia, with friends, experiencing adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Moussa Traoré
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Software Developer
  • Country icon Country: Canada
  • Age icon Age: 41

Bonjour and welcome to my travel blog! I'm Moussa Traoré, a software developer by day and a passionate traveler by night (and weekends!). Originally from Mali and now living in Montreal, I'm on a mission to explore the world with my amazing wife, Fatoumata, and our two wonderful kids, Aminata and Ibrahim. This blog is where I share our family's adventures, cultural discoveries, and practical travel tips, all while trying to balance work, family, and a serious case of wanderlust. Join us as we navigate the globe, one exciting destination at a time!

Interests:
  • Technology
  • Cultural heritage
  • Global affairs
  • Photography
  • Trying new cuisines
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