Wyndham

Wyndham, a remote outpost on the eastern edge of the Kimberley, is the Northern Territory’s northernmost town and a historic port on the Cambridge Gulf. Its dramatic setting – a tiny settlement clinging to a rocky hillside above mudflats and mangrove swamps – gives it a frontier feel that few places can match. The main reason to visit is the extraordinary view from Five Rivers Lookout, where you can see five rivers (the Ord, Pentecost, Durack, King and Forrest) emptying into the gulf. Wyndham is also the gateway to the vast, ancient landscapes of the Kimberley and the Argyle Diamond Mine region.

Highlights & What to See

• Five Rivers Lookout: The iconic viewpoint – a short, steep drive to the top of a rocky hill – rewards you with a 360° panorama of river systems, mudflats and distant ranges. Best at sunrise or late afternoon.
• Wyndham Port & Historic Precinct: Explore the working port, the old Wyndham Meatworks (a major employer until the 1980s) and the historic buildings, including the 1890s Wyndham Hotel (the local pub).
• Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve: A wetland sanctuary just south of town, home to hundreds of bird species, especially during the wet season. It’s a peaceful spot for a walk or picnic.
• King River Road & Boab Trees: The drive along the King River Road is lined with giant, ancient boab trees – some reputedly used as prisons by early explorers. Stop for photos.
• Rock Art & Aboriginal Culture: The surrounding area has significant Indigenous sites, including rock art galleries (best visited with a local guide).

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers use Wyndham as a quick stopover – an hour or two is enough to take in the lookout and wander the historic precinct. If you’re a keen birdwatcher or want to explore the nature reserve, allow a half-day. For those continuing into the Kimberley, a night at the Wyndham Hotel or a nearby caravan park breaks up the drive from Kununurra to the Bungle Bungles or El Questro.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kununurra (100 km south): The main service town of the East Kimberley, with Lake Kununurra, the Ord River Irrigation Area and the Argyle Diamond Mine (now closed to tourists, but the nearby Lake Argyle is a must).
• El Questro Wilderness Park: A vast, privately-owned station with dramatic gorges, hot springs and luxury camping – about 110 km southwest of Wyndham.
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles): The world-famous beehive-shaped domes are a 250 km drive from Wyndham – a full-day trip or overnight stay.
• Lake Argyle: Australia’s largest artificial lake, offering boat cruises, abundant wildlife and stunning sunsets – 130 km south.
• Gibb River Road: The iconic Kimberley 4WD route begins just west of Wyndham; you can tackle sections from the eastern end.

Please check official sources for current details.