Argyle Diamond Mine

Deep in the remote East Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Argyle Diamond Mine was once the world’s largest source of rare pink diamonds. Although mining ceased in 2020, the site remains a fascinating destination for travellers intrigued by geology, luxury gems, and outback industrial history. Set amid rugged spinifex-covered hills and ancient gorges, the mine offers a glimpse into a bygone era of diamond fever. Access is via guided tours from Kununurra, combining helicopter flights or 4WD adventures with insights into the mine's extraordinary legacy.

Highlights & What to See

• Argyle Diamond Mine Tour: A full-day guided tour (by air or road) that explores the open-pit mine, processing plant, and sorting facilities. Learn how pink diamonds formed over 1.6 billion years ago and hear stories of the mine's discovery in 1979.
• Pink Diamond Legacy: The mine produced over 90% of the world's pink diamonds. Visit the Argyle Pink Diamonds display at the Kununurra Visitor Centre or the Argyle Pink Diamonds boutique in Perth to see rare stones.
• Lake Argyle: Australia's largest artificial lake, created to support the mine and Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Take a cruise to spot freshwater crocodiles, birdlife, and the flooded sandstone formations.
• Bungle Bungle Range (Purnululu National Park): A World Heritage-listed landscape of orange-and-black striped domes, accessible via 4WD from the mine area.
• Ord River Valley: Scenic gorges, boab trees, and ancient rock art sites that complement the mine's human and natural history.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a full day for the Argyle mine tour itself (typically 8–10 hours including travel from Kununurra). To fully appreciate the region, allow at least three days: one for the mine, one for Lake Argyle and Ord River experiences, and one for a scenic flight or 4WD trip to the Bungle Bungles. Self-drivers should note that the mine is on a private road and accessible only by organised tour.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kununurra – the gateway town with markets, art galleries, and the Argyle Diamond display
• Lake Argyle – swimming, kayaking, and sunset cruises
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles) – hiking and scenic flights over the iconic domes
• Ord River – fishing, boating, and birdwatching along the river
• El Questro Wilderness Park – a vast station with hot springs, gorges, and luxury camping
• Wyndham – historic port town with views over the Cambridge Gulf

Please check official sources for current details.