Things To Do
in Kununurra
Kununurra is a picturesque town located in the remote East Kimberley region of Western Australia. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including rugged cliffs, sprawling waterways, and rich red sandstone formations. The town serves as a gateway to many natural attractions, such as Lake Argyle, the Ord River, and the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park.
Kununurra also has a vibrant community with a mix of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures, offering visitors a unique and enriching experience.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the famous Ord River for a relaxing boat cruise. Enjoy the stunning views and possibly spot some local wildlife along the way.
After lunch, head to the Kununurra Visitor Centre to learn about the region's rich Aboriginal culture. Then, take a scenic drive to the breathtaking Mirima National Park.
End your day with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring some of the regional flavors. Consider catching a spectacular sunset over the Ord River.
Begin with a guided hiking tour in the Bungle Bungles to see the iconic striped domes. Breath in the fresh air and enjoy the unique landscapes.
Return to Kununurra and enjoy lunch at a café in town. Spend the afternoon fishing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Argyle.
Dine at a cozy restaurant and share stories of your adventurous day. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank to cap off the night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Ord River and nearby Lake Argyle.
- Rich Aboriginal culture and history, providing unique cultural experiences.
- Great climate for outdoor activities, particularly during the dry season.
- Access to various recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, and exploring national parks.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly locals.
- Remote location can lead to limited access to goods and services.
- High cost of living due to transportation and import costs.
- Extreme heat during summer months can be uncomfortable.
- Limited entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for isolation, as the nearest major city is a significant distance away.
Best Activities in Kununurra
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the stunning scenery of Lake Argyle on a cruise, where you can spot wildlife, learn about the local history, and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Take a guided day trip to the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park, famous for its unique beehive-shaped rock formations and stunning hiking trails.
Rent a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle along the Ord River, where you can enjoy the serene environment and spot local wildlife.
Try your hand at fishing in the Ord River, known for its barramundi and other native fish species. Guided fishing tours are also available.
Explore the beautiful landscapes and walking trails of Mirima National Park, often referred to as 'mini Bungle Bungles' for its stunning rock formations.
Take a scenic helicopter flight over the breathtaking landscapes of the Kimberley region, including the Bungle Bungles, Lake Argyle, and more.
Visit the Kununurra Markets for local produce, handmade crafts, and a taste of the community atmosphere every Saturday morning.
Engage in bushwalking and hiking in various trails around Kununurra and nearby national parks, offering diverse flora and fauna.
Places to Visit in Kununurra
Visit one of these nice places.
Known as the 'Mini Bungle Bungles', Mirima National Park offers stunning rock formations and panoramic views, especially at sunset.
This expansive reservoir provides breathtaking views and opportunities for photography of the water and surrounding landscapes, particularly from the lookout.
The river offers scenic boat cruises with stunning views of the rugged landscape, wildlife, and spectacular sunsets.
This lookout provides a sweeping view of Kununurra and the Ord River, making it a perfect spot for sunrise and sunset photographs.
A bit of a drive from Kununurra, this iconic site features striking beehive-shaped domes and incredible landscapes, ideal for photography during the day.
This unique location not only showcases stunning zebra rock formations but also offers great photo opportunities in a picturesque setting.
Famous for its scenic views, this crossing allows for photos of the river and surrounding landscapes, especially when the water flows over the crossing.
A short drive from Kununurra, this lookout offers breathtaking views of the Cambridge Gulf and the surrounding landscape, perfect for sunset photography.
Food in Kununurra
Kununurra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish, barramundi (Asian sea bass) is often featured in various preparations, such as grilled, pan-seared, or in fish curry. Visit the PumpHouse Restaurant or Zebra Rock Gallery Café for exceptional barramundi dishes.
Must-Try!
Sample the unique flavors of the native Sandalwood nut, often used in chocolate making and as a seasoning. Find Sandalwood nut products at the Hoochery Distillery.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Kununurra Farmers Market to discover fresh local produce, homemade preserves, and artisanal products. Savor delicious snacks like freshly cut mangoes and tropical fruit smoothies.
For an array of street food delights, visit the weekly Kununurra Markets where you can indulge in tasty Asian-inspired dishes, traditional Indigenous cuisine, and fusion street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Kununurra is located in the East Kimberley region, where Indigenous culture is rich and significant. It's important to acknowledge and respect the traditions of the Aboriginal people. Engage with their stories and practices with an open mind and heart, and always seek permission before taking photographs of sacred sites.
The natural environment is paramount in Kununurra, so displaying environmental consciousness is crucial. When visiting natural sites, ensure you preserve the land by following local guidelines, not littering, and respecting wildlife. This reflects a shared responsibility for the beautiful landscapes.
In Kununurra, engaging with the local community with friendliness and respect is highly valued. When interacting with locals, take the time to listen and learn about their experiences. Greet people with a smile and, if possible, learn a few words in the local Indigenous language to show your appreciation for their culture.
Safety
Tipping in Kununurra
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Kununurra is not a common practice and is generally not expected in most settings. However, in certain hospitality situations, such as at restaurants or bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change can be seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service. Tipping may occur more often in tourist-oriented venues, where service staff might appreciate tips due to the nature of their clientele.
Payment practices in Kununurra align with general customs in Australia. Most businesses accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payment methods are widely used. Cash is still accepted, but it is becoming less common, especially in more tourist-focused areas. Many establishments also accept mobile payment options. It is advisable to check the preferred payment methods before dining or making purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kununurra is during the dry season when the weather is warm and dry. Expect clear blue skies, lower humidity, and comfortable temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). This is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring national parks like the Bungle Bungles.
The wet season brings higher humidity and temperatures, with average highs around 36°C (97°F). Expect frequent rain and storms, especially in January and February. While this season can limit certain outdoor activities, it is also a time of lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife, making it a unique experience for visitors who enjoy nature and photography.
Kununurra at Night
Hiking in Kununurra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Also known as the Hidden Valley National Park, it offers a network of walking trails that wind through stunning sandstone formations and lush vegetation, with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A part of the El Questro Wilderness Park, this hike leads you to a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole, surrounded by high cliffs and dramatic scenery.
A short hike to natural thermal pools, which are ideal for relaxing and taking in the area's scenic beauty.
An easy walking trail that follows the banks of the Ord River and offers stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Several trails around the largest man-made lake in Australia provide breathtaking views and opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Aiports
How to reach Kununurra by plane.
The primary airport serving Kununurra, located approximately 4 km from the town center.
Located around 1000 km southwest of Kununurra, it serves as a gateway to the Kimberley region and the beautiful Broome area.
Situated about 300 km from Kununurra, it is the largest airport in the Northern Territory and serves as a key hub for international flights.
Located approximately 600 km from Kununurra, this airport provides access to the Pilbara region and has domestic and limited international services.
Around 1000 km south of Kununurra, it is a major airport servicing central Australia, connecting to several domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Kununurra, representing a rich cultural heritage and history.
Comprising a variety of ethnicities and backgrounds, including people from various parts of Australia.
Residents from overseas, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
Visitors attracted to Kununurra's natural beauty and tourism activities, impacting the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in Kununurra, with local competitions and community participation.
Widely played and a significant part of the local sporting culture, with various age groups participating.
A favored sport during the dry season, with local clubs and informal games regularly organized.
Gaining popularity, with leagues and teams formed to engage the community in this sport.
A popular sport in the region, with a strong following and local matches played.
Not a competitive sport, but a very popular recreational activity, especially in the nearby rivers and lakes.
Encouraged through local clubs and events, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kununurra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Kununurra offer diverse vegetarian and vegan choices, such as flavorful salads, vegetable curries, and plant-based burgers. Check out Waringarri Arts Café and Sandalwood Sanctuary Restaurant for excellent vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free dining options at various eateries in Kununurra. Look for gluten-free pizzas, seafood dishes, and rice-based meals at The Springs Bar & Restaurant and O'Malley's Irish Pub.