Ord River & Lake Argyle

The mighty Ord River and the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Argyle form one of Western Australia's most dramatic inland landscapes. This is a place where ancient gorges meet a man-made lake of staggering proportions — Australia's largest freshwater reservoir, holding 35 times the volume of Sydney Harbour. The contrast between the arid Kimberley ranges and the deep blue water is breathtaking, and the wildlife is extraordinary. Whether you're cruising the lake's flooded valleys, fishing for barramundi, or simply watching the sunset stain the water orange, this is a quintessential Kimberley experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Argyle Cruise: The best way to grasp the scale of this inland sea. Boats weave through drowned hills, past freshwater crocodiles, rock wallabies, and flocks of waterbirds — keep an eye out for the rare white-bellied sea eagle.
• Ord River Jet Boat Tour: A thrilling ride from the lake upriver through the Ord River Gorge, with sheer red cliffs, ancient boab trees, and plenty of wildlife. It's a fast-paced way to see the rugged river landscape.
• Lake Argyle Swim Platform: A floating pontoon in the middle of the lake where you can plunge into the warm water (no crocs here — they're safely in the shallows) and relax with a drink as the sun goes down.
• Argyle Diamond Mine (historical): Though the mine has closed, the nearby town of Kununurra still celebrates its diamond legacy. You can learn about the region's once-famous pink diamonds at local galleries.
• Birdwatching at Lake Argyle: Over 200 species have been recorded, including brolgas, jabirus, and great egrets. The lake is a haven for birdlife, especially during the dry season (May–October).

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two full days to properly experience the Ord River and Lake Argyle. Spend the first day on a Lake Argyle cruise and a swim at the platform; the second day take the Ord River jet boat tour and explore Kununurra's galleries and markets. If you're a keen angler or birdwatcher, add an extra day to fish the river or explore the lake's quieter arms. The region is best visited from May to October when the weather is dry and the roads are open.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kununurra: The gateway town, just 30 minutes from the lake. It has a lively food scene, with mango orchards, breweries, and a Saturday market. Don't miss the Ivanhoe Crossing — a low-level causeway that floods dramatically in the wet season.
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles): A three-hour drive south, the beehive-shaped domes of the Bungle Bungles are one of Australia's most surreal landscapes. Combine with the Ord River for a classic Kimberley itinerary.
• El Questro Wilderness Park: A sprawling station with gorges, hot springs, and the famous Zebedee Springs. About 1.5 hours west of Kununurra, it's perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.
• Wyndham and the Cambridge Gulf: A historic port town with a five-star view from the Bastion lookout. The nearby Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve is excellent for birdwatching.
• Keep River National Park (NT): Just over the border into the Northern Territory, this park has dramatic sandstone formations and Aboriginal rock art. It's a quieter alternative to the Bungle Bungles.

Please check official sources for current details.