Exploring the Untamed Beauty of The Kimberley with Friends
Day 11: Farewell Kimberley: A Day of Wonders and Diamonds
Discover Echidna Chasm's hidden beauty, explore Mount Elizabeth Station's history, and indulge in Kimberley's local flavors and gems.
A Kimberley Farewell
As our Kimberley adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was a fitting end to our journey, filled with natural wonders, historical insights, and a touch of luxury. It’s hard to believe our 11 days in this stunning region are already over, but the memories we've made with our friends will last a lifetime.
Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at the Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant. The atmosphere was lively, and the food was just what we needed to fuel up for the day's adventures. I opted for a prime cut steak, while some of my friends enjoyed wood-fired pizzas. It was a great way to start the day, reminiscing about our trip over coffee and planning our remaining itinerary items.
Our first stop was Echidna Chasm, a highlight of Purnululu National Park. The chasm is a narrow gorge, in some places only a meter wide, with towering walls reaching up to 200 meters. As we walked deeper into the chasm, the sunlight filtering through the top created a mesmerizing glow on the orange walls. The Livistona palms clinging to the sides added to the prehistoric feel of the place. The hike itself was relatively easy, though the uneven ground and occasional boulders required some careful footing. I couldn't help but think how Aminata and Ibrahim would have loved exploring this place, their curious minds soaking in the natural beauty.
Explore the stunning Echidna Chasm in Purnululu National Park, a mesmerizing natural wonder perfect for photography and nature lovers alike.
The Kimberley has a way of etching itself into your soul, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the raw beauty and rich history of this ancient land.
Next on our itinerary was Mount Elizabeth Station, one of the oldest working cattle stations in the Kimberley. Established in 1945 by the Lacy family, the station is now owned and operated by the Burton family. The station encompasses a vast area of about 500,000 acres, with rivers, gorges, waterfalls, and significant Aboriginal rock art sites. We spent a good part of the afternoon exploring the station, learning about its history and the challenges of running a cattle station in such a remote area. It was fascinating to see the blend of traditional pastoral life and the emerging tourism industry. I was particularly moved by the stories of the Lacy family and their pioneering spirit.
Discover the breathtaking wilderness of Mount Elizabeth Station, a unique camping ground and bed & breakfast along the iconic Gibb River Road in Western Australia.
For lunch, we stopped at the Wild Mango Cafe in Kununurra. This cafe is known for its fresh and modern cuisine, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. I had a delicious Barramundi Sri Lankan style, while my friends tried the spiced chickpea fritters. The cafe also offers a variety of homemade gelato, which was the perfect way to cool down after our morning adventures. Fatoumata would have loved their gelato!
Discover Wild Mango Cafe: A delightful culinary gem in Kununurra offering fresh breakfasts, lunch options, and exceptional coffee.
In the late afternoon, we indulged in a bit of luxury at Kimberley Fine Diamonds. This boutique is renowned for its exquisite collection of Argyle pink diamonds, which are among the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. I must admit, I was tempted to buy a piece of jewelry as a memento of our trip, but the prices were a bit steep. Nevertheless, it was a treat to admire the craftsmanship and the stunning beauty of these unique diamonds. I learned that the Argyle mine, once the world's largest source of pink diamonds, has now closed, making these gems even more precious.
Explore the exquisite world of diamonds and fine jewelry at Kimberley Fine Diamonds in Kununurra, where elegance meets exceptional craftsmanship.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Kelly's Bar & Grill for our farewell dinner. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and the menu offered a variety of classic pub fare. I ordered the fish and chips, while my friends opted for burgers and steaks. We raised our glasses to toast our Kimberley adventure, sharing our favorite memories and promising to return someday. It was a bittersweet moment, knowing that our trip was coming to an end, but also feeling grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared.
Discover Kelly's Bar & Grill: A Culinary Gem in Kununurra Offering Local Flavors and Inviting Atmosphere.
Reflecting on our 11 days in the Kimberley, I am struck by the region's immense beauty and its rich cultural heritage. From the towering gorges and cascading waterfalls to the ancient rock art and the vibrant Aboriginal culture, the Kimberley has something to offer every traveler. Traveling with friends has made this experience even more special, and I am grateful for the bonds we have strengthened and the memories we have created.
As we prepare to leave this remarkable place, I know that a part of me will always remain in the Kimberley. It is a destination that has captured my heart, and I hope to return someday with my family to share its wonders with them.
Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Montreal. While I am eager to see Fatoumata, Aminata, and Ibrahim, I will miss the vast landscapes and the sense of adventure that the Kimberley has provided. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of exploring new places, embracing different cultures, and cherishing the bonds of friendship. Until next time, Kimberley!
The Kimberley region is definitely a must-see for any adventurous traveler. The diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences make it a destination unlike any other. From exploring the ancient rock formations to swimming in pristine waterfalls, the Kimberley offers endless opportunities for discovery and adventure. I hope that my blog has inspired you to add this incredible region to your travel bucket list.
As I sign off on this Kimberley chapter, I am already dreaming of our next adventure. Perhaps we will explore the ancient ruins of Mali or trek through the mountains of Nepal. The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered, and I am excited to continue sharing our journey with you. Thank you for joining us on this incredible ride!
For those planning a trip to the Kimberley, I recommend visiting during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather conditions. Be sure to pack comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water [TripDetails]. And don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unforgettable moments. The Kimberley is a destination that will leave you in awe, and I guarantee that you will return home with memories that will last a lifetime.
Join us as we explore the wild landscapes of The Kimberley, Australia, with friends, experiencing adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation: Software Developer
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Country: Canada
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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!
- Technology
- Cultural heritage
- Global affairs
- Photography
- Trying new cuisines
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