Ord River

The Ord River, a lifeline carving through the Kimberley’s ancient landscapes, offers a raw and mesmerising encounter with Australia’s wild northwest. This mighty waterway, harnessed by the iconic Ord River Dam, feeds the lush irrigation areas around Kununurra and the vast Lake Argyle. For travellers, it’s a gateway to dramatic gorges, abundant birdlife, and a rich Indigenous heritage tied to the Miriwoong people. Whether you’re cruising its calm waters or exploring its rugged banks, the Ord River delivers an unforgettable taste of the outback’s power and beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Ord River Dam & Lake Argyle – Marvel at the engineering feat that created one of the largest man-made lakes in the Southern Hemisphere; take a cruise to spot freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, and over 200 bird species.
• Upper Ord River Cruise – Drift through the stunning Carr Boyd Range gorge, where towering sandstone cliffs and boab trees frame the river; keep an eye out for the elusive purple-crowned fairy-wren.
• Miriwoong Cultural Tours – Join a guided walk with local Indigenous custodians to learn about bush tucker, traditional uses of plants, and rock art that tells stories thousands of years old.
• Kununurra Township – Just a short drive away, this vibrant town offers art galleries, the Ord River Distillery, and the annual Ord Valley Muster festival.
• Ivanhoe Crossing – A historic low-level crossing that becomes impassable during the wet season; a great spot for a photo and a picnic (check conditions before crossing).

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to experience the Ord River properly. Start with a morning cruise on the upper river (2–3 hours) to soak in the gorge scenery and wildlife, then spend the afternoon exploring Lake Argyle by boat or from the lookout. If you’re self-driving, combine it with a stop in Kununurra for lunch and a stroll along the riverfront. For a deeper dive, consider an overnight stay at a lakeside resort or campground to catch the spectacular sunset over the water.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle Range) – A World Heritage site with striking beehive-shaped domes, about 3 hours’ drive south; accessible by 4WD or scenic flight.
• El Questro Wilderness Park – A vast station offering hot springs, gorges, and luxury camping, roughly 1.5 hours west along the Gibb River Road.
• Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater – One of the world’s best-preserved impact craters, a 4-hour drive south-west; best visited in the dry season.
• Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park) – A stunning series of sandstone gorges about 3 hours east, perfect for canoeing and hiking.

Please check official sources for current details.