Ngajarli Art Site

Ngajarli (also known as Tunnel Creek) is one of the Kimberley's most profound cultural landmarks, where ancient Aboriginal rock art meets dramatic outback geology. This sacred site, part of the traditional lands of the Bunuba people, features a remarkable cave system with ochre paintings that date back thousands of years. Walking through the cool, dark tunnel with a torch, you'll see vivid depictions of Wandjina spirits and other ancestral figures on the walls. The experience is both humbling and awe-inspiring, offering a rare window into one of the world's oldest living cultures. To truly appreciate the site's significance, consider joining a guided tour led by Bunuba custodians, who bring the stories behind the art to life.

Highlights & What to See

• Wandjina rock art – Intricate, large-scale paintings of cloud and rain spirits, unique to the Kimberley region.
• Tunnel Creek cave – A 750-metre-long limestone cave that you can walk through; bring sturdy shoes and a torch.
• Bunuba cultural stories – Learn about the creation narratives and the ongoing connection of the Bunuba people to this land.
• Underground creek – The cave is formed by a creek that flows year-round; you'll wade through shallow sections.
• Nearby lookout – After the cave, climb the escarpment for panoramic views over the Napier Range.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate half a day (3–4 hours) to fully experience Ngajarli Art Site. This includes the 30–45 minute walk through the cave, time to admire the rock art, and a stop at the lookout. If you're taking a guided tour, factor in an extra hour. The site is best visited in the dry season (April to October) when the cave is accessible and the weather is pleasant.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Windjana Gorge – A stunning gorge with a permanent waterhole, home to freshwater crocodiles and abundant birdlife; about 30 minutes' drive east.
• Fitzroy Crossing – The nearest town for fuel, supplies, and accommodation; also the gateway to Geikie Gorge National Park.
• Geikie Gorge National Park – A dramatic gorge carved by the Fitzroy River, with boat cruises and walking trails.
• Broome – The Kimberley's main hub, 4 hours' drive west, with Cable Beach, pearl history, and Dinosaur Coast footprints.
• Gibb River Road – A legendary outback route that connects to many Kimberley attractions; start or end your trip here.

Please check official sources for current details.