Gibb River Road in the Kimberley's

About the Kimberley
• The Kimberley in Australia is one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth, with rustic unique outback landscapes and landmarks billions of years in the making. Covering app 423,000 square kilometres in north Western Australia and with a population of less than 40,000 people, it’s here you’ll encounter some of the most extraordinary outback adventuresand folks in Australia. Discover ancient gorge country with hikes and trekking a must in planning your Kimberley vacation to enormous cattle stations, pristine coastline and sandy beaches, to one of the oldest cultures on the planet and the world’s only horizontal waterfalls.

Gibb River Road
Self drive along the Gibb River Road from Broome or Darwin is a Australia four wheel drive hire camper or wagon. The Gibb River Road was initially constructed as a beef road to transport cattle from the surrounding stations to the ports of Derby and Wyndham.It spans some six-hundred and seventy kilometres from Derby to the junction of the Great Northern Highway between Wyndham and Kununurra.

The Gibb River road travels some 700 kms through the central Kimberley Plateau from King Sound at Derby to the Cambridge Gulf at Wyndham. The whole road is now the responsibility of Main Roads WA and improvements to creek crossings and jump ups are being made every year. The majority of the road surface is of dirt and gravel construction with only some floodways paved.

The Derby Visitor Centre recommends use of high clearance robust vehicles, preferably 4WD, for DRY season (May to October) travel.

Towing of any type is not recommended. However, well constructed off road trailers may survive the often corrugated conditions in the DRY. Caravans are definitely NOT recommended.

Wet season (November to April) travel can be severely restricted by flooding and road closures as the countryside can become very waterlogged. Access to the gorges is very often not possible and, if travel occurs, is restricted to the Gibb River Road itself and not to the sidetracks into the gorges. A 4WD vehicle equipped with a snorkel is essential once the rains have started. Travellers in breach of official Road Closure and Road Restrictions are subject to fines.

Land Ownership
All of the land along the Gibb River Road is owned, leased and managed by someone. Much is subject to pastoral lease and some belongs to Aboriginal Communities. The Department of Conservation and Land Management manage the national parks, conservation parks and nature reserves. If travellers wish to travel on any roads bar the Gibb River Road, Mornington Road, the Kalumburu Road, or gorge access roads as listed in the Gibb River Road Guide, then they should seek permission of the landholder. All roads other than those listed above are constructed and maintained by the landowner and are not public roads.

Travelling with Dogs:
There are very limited places along the Gibb River Road that will allow dogs. No dogs are allowed in any of the National Parks along the Gibb River & Kalumburu roads. It is not advisable to be travelling with your dog, land on both sides of the Gibb River Road is owned, leased or managed by someone. Frequent aerial baiting is carried out posing a high risk of danger to your domestic pet.
© source and courtesy of www.derbytourism.com.au

When can I travel on the Gibb River Road
Gibb River Road conditions improve greatly after the Derby and Kununurra local roads graders complete the grading from Derby and Kununurra.

Normally from this time onwards the Gibb River road is great to travel on, usually with hardly any corrugation or washouts. Though at the very beginning of the season after the graders please travel carefully as out clients got 2 punctures the day after the grader went through as the shale was chipped from the grader.

Also late in the season the roads becomes corrugated again with dust banks on the verge so again please be careful. The other suggestion is make sure you passenger talks to keep you awake and alert as the long open stretches can mesmerize the driver especially with the sun flickering through the branches of threes on certain stretches

What rivers, springs, creeks cross the Gibb River Road

• Pentecost River - The Pentecost River crossing is in a pleasant setting though very much like the Durack River this is one of the rivers that can be rather tense to 4wd first timers to cross early in the Dry Season. From Derby to the Penecost River it's approximatley 605 klm. (Distance is approx only). Beware of crocodiles and see the offical vistors information centre in either of the Kununurra Visitor Centre, Derby Visitor Centre, Broome Visitor Centre first.
• Lennard River
• Bindoola Creek
• Billy Goat Springs
• Durrack River - The Durrack River crossing can be high at the beginning of the Dry season. It's prone to flooding in wet season so make sure you check road conditions. Also check the road is passable and open. From Derby to the Durrack River it's approximatley 510 klm. (Distance is approx only). See the offical vistors information centre in either of the Kununurra Visitor Centre, Derby Visitor Centre, Broome Visitor Centre first.

What Gorges are on the Gibb River Road

• Following the Gibb River Road you can visit:
• Barnett River Gorge
• Manning Gorge
• Galvans Gorge
• Adcock Gorge
• Bell Gorge
• Silent Grove and
• Lennard River Gorge

What roadhouses are on the Gibb River Road

• Mount Barnett Roadhouse
• Imintji Roadhouse

What Cattle Station with accommodation or camping on the Gibb River Road

• Ellenbrae Station

Ellenbra Station see section E of the map below. +(618) 9161 4325

Ellenbrae Station is primarily a cattle station, however, in recent years we have been adding to our facilities to make sure we can also be a welcome destination for those travelling along the Gibb River Road. Ellenbrae Station covers 1 million acres in the Kimberly, Western Australia. It is approximately 230km from Kununnarra on the Gib River Road. Predominantly a cattle station, it has become a popular stop over for tourists during the dry season. Ellenbrae also invites day visitors to come and enjoy a hot cup of tea in the beautiful gardens and the best home made scones on the Gibb River Road! Ellenbrae’s driveway is only 5km long so it is well worth the trip in to stop off and stretch your legs, play with our homestead cattle or just to marvel at the gardens and surrounds.

The Ellenbrae Station offers the following services for day guests:
• Toilets • Picnic Area •Tyre Repairs • Cold Drinks/Food

The Ellenbrae Station offers the following services for our overnight guests:
• Cabin Accommodation (Ellenbrae Stockmen’s Cabins) • Two Campsites • Toilets • Showers (with Hot water!) • Dinner and Breakfast (for Cabin Guests) • BBQ facilities (for Cabin Guests) • Outdoor Camping Kitchen (for Cabin Guests) • Fishing • Swimming • Bush Walks

• How far is it from Ellenbrae Station to Mt Barnett Roadhouse 180kms (approximately 3.0 hours driving)
• How far is it from Ellenbrae Station to Kununurra 230 kms (approximately 3.5 hours driving)
• How far is it from Ellenbrae Station to Derby 485 kms (approximately 7 hour driving)
• How far is it from Ellenbrae Station to Home Valley Station 110 kms (approximately 2.0 hours driving)
• How far is it from Ellenbrae Station to El Questro Wilderness Park, Station Town Ship 155 kms (approximately 3.0 hours driving)
© source and courtesy of www.ellenbraestation.com.au

• Home Valley Station
Home Valley Station see section f of the map below. +(618) 9161 4322

Home Valley Station is located close to the mighty Pentecost River, at the foot of the majestic Cockburn Range. Experience the exhilaration of an authentic cattle muster, soak in the unforgettable scenery of the East Kimberley and be inspired by the region's Indigenous people.

At Home Valley Station we pride ourselves on providing guests with the ultimate Australian outback experience. Accommodation across the Station provides options for travellers - from those who prefer their rugged outback adventure those seeking a more intimate experience. Our spacious Grass Castles on idyllic Bindoola Creek are generously appointed, providing guests with the ultimate in outback lodging. Guesthouse Rooms provide a comfortable retreat and are perfect for couples and families. The safari-style Eco Tents, located in a quiet bush setting, will impress those seeking to connect with nature. Those wishing to roll out a swag under the stars are invited to enjoy the Gibb River Road's best camping facilities at our Station Campground and the picture perfect Pentecost River Bush Camp.

The Home Valley Station offers the following services for guests:
• Two very different camping options 'see trip advisor' Option 1 - by all the facilities including a well looked after pool. Very popular and hence more crowded. Option 2 - by the river about 5kms from the homestead through two stock gates. Toilets and showers only. No power and lights. A dusty site and very strong winds when we stayed there. However peaceful, less campers and fantastic views to the mountains with the river in the foreground.

• Tyre repairs mentioned by travellers at a cost of $65.

• For facilities offered such as fuel ring first +(618) 9161 4322
© source and courtesy of www.hvstation.com.au

Distances between individual Gibb River Road fuel supply places if travelling to Kimberley Gorges
• How far is it from Mount Barnett Roadhouse to Imintji Roadhouse - it's approximatley 86 klm (Fuel: Diesel & Unleaded) © source and courtesy of outbacktravellers.com.au
• How far is it from Mount Barnett Roadhouse to Imintji Roadhouse - it's approximatley 78 klm (Fuel: Diesel & Unleaded) Other sources
• How far is it from Mt Barnett Roadhouse to Kununurra - it's approximatley 407 klm
• How far is it from Imintji Roadhouse to Fitzroy Crossing (Geikie Gorge) - it's approximatley 296 klm
• How far is it from Broome to Derby - it's approximatley 222 klm (Fuel: Diesel & Unleaded)
• How far is it from Imintji Roadhouse to Derby - it's approximatley 227-232 klm (Fuel: Diesel)
• How far is it from Fitzroy Crossing to Mt. Barnett Roadhouse via Bell Gorge - it's approximatley 365 klm

Milage is approximates only check at these offical visitor centres before leaving on your Kimberley self drive: Kununurra Visitor Centre, Derby Visitor Centre, Broome Visitor Centre.

Where the Gibb River flows in Western Australia
The headwaters of the river rise between the Caroline and Gibb Ranges. The river flows in a northerly direction until merging with the Drysdale River, of which it is a tributary. Gibb River has three tributaries: North Creek, Plain Creek and Russ Creek.The Gibb River drops approximatley 125+m over its approximate 100km length. The 3 following creeks and rivers flow into the Gibb River being the Russ Creek, North Creek and Plain Creek.
© source and courtesy of www.hallscreektourism.com.au/

© source and courtesy of www.hallscreektourism.com.au/
© source and courtesy of www.hvstation.com.au
© source and courtesy of www.ellenbraestation.com.au
© source and courtesy of outbacktravellers.com.au
© source and courtesy of wikipedia.org
© source | courtesy of westernaustralia.com
© source and courtesy of www.derbytourism.com.au

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Darwin to Broome - Bungle Bungle self drive

Broome to Darwin or Darwin to Broome (9 Days and 9 Nights)

Day 1 Broome to Fitzroy Crossing

Head towards Derby, taking time to explore this historical town with its infamous prison boab tree. You will have a 36 km back track to the Northern Highway with directions to Fitzroy Crossing. Don’t worry, you will have lots of time to experience the Gibb River Road later in your journey. Suggested overnight stay - Fitzroy River Lodge.

Day 2 Fitzroy Crossing to Charnley River Station

Mornings start early in the Kimberley so enjoy the fresh clean air with an early morning cruise on the Fitzroy River through Geikie Gorge. Leaving Fitzroy, head back 37 kms to the turnoff to Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge. Take the time to explore these two natural phenomena and marvel at the power of nature. At Napier Downs turn right and you are now on the famous Gibb River Road.We suggest you pack a picnic lunch from Fitzroy and enjoy the outdoor facilities at Windjana Gorge National Park.The Park is an ideal spot to get a close look at the abundance of freshwater crocodiles that line the river banks. After lunch make your way towards Silent Grove and Bell Gorge for a late afternoon swim before arriving at Charnley River Station, a fully operational cattle station. No worries about dinner tonight as it is included in your accommodation. Suggested overnight stay - Charnley River Station

Day 3 Charnley River Station to Mt Elizabeth

After a hearty breakfast (included), again we suggest you stock up for a picnic at the store attached to the station.You are now in the heart of the Kimberley and not much distance has to be covered today so take time to explore Adcock Gorge and Galvin’s Gorge which are within easy reach of the road.The walk into Manning Gorge takes about one hour on a fairly well marked trail.Take your bathers as the water is very inviting and the vista awe inspiring. Have a water bottle with you and don’t deviate from the trail. Once back in your car, its a short drive to Mt. Elizabeth and you can reflect on a truly memorable day by relaxing on the shady verandah. Dinner is again included and take time to listen to the locals describe the many tales of the region. Suggested overnight stay - Mt. Elizabeth Station.

Day 4 Mt. Elizabeth to Home Valley Station

Today you can have a leisurely breakfast (included) as the distance travelled is not all that great and most of the touring can be done from the car. There are still plenty of opportunities for walks but the day can be as relaxed as you desire. You will cross the Gibb River and as with all river crossings, it is best to keep a slow steady momentum and follow the makers in the river beds.Tonight’s accommodation is one of newer facilities along the Gibb River Road.Tonight’s dinner is included with the tour and is an ideal venue to mix with fellow travellers as well as local characters. Suggested overnight stay - Home Valley Station.

Day 5 Home Valley Station to Emma Gorge (El Questro)

A hearty breakfast (included) will give you a good start to the day. Upon arrival at El Questro’s Emma Gorge you will be amazed at the colour of the rock.We suggest you take the 45 minute hike up to Emma Gorge and take a dip in its refreshing pool. Make sure you are back to the poolside area in time to enjoy a relaxing drink and watch the sunset change the colour of the rock so it looks like it is glowing.There are plenty of optional extras to do here from helicopter fishing to horse back riding. Make your plans at reception and there is plenty of time tomorrow to get in what you can’t do today. Suggested overnight stay - El Questro Emma Gorge.

Day 6 El Questro to Kununurra

Within a few kilometres you are back on sealed road and civilisation with a sense of accomplishment as you have conquered one of the world’s last great adventure drives. Kununurra is the capital of the East Kimberley region and the highlights of the area include Ivanhoe Crossing and the Lake Argyle Dam.A jetboat ride (optional) down the Ord River to the dam is a thrilling and interesting way to travel. Stock up on film and supplies as tomorrow will be a big day with an early start. Suggested overnight stay - Mercure Inn Kununurra.

Day 7 Kununurra Bungle Bungles Kununurra

Board your light aircraft for a journey of a life time. You will get magnificent views of Lake Argyle, the dam that creates this lake, 10 times larger than Sydney Harbour, as well as the Bungles themselves.The cost of the flight is included in your tour but for an optional extra, you can leave the fixed wing aircraft at the landing strip in the National Park and board a helicopter for a spectacular trip amongst the errie domes.With either choice you will be taken back to Kununurra after yet another life time experience. Suggested overnight stay - Mercure Inn Kununurra.

Day 8 Kununurra to Katherine

As you pass into the Northern Territory, the terrain becomes a little gentler and the rugged rock formation give way to lush vegetation. Timber Creek and Victoria River Downs are ideal points to stop for lunch or snacks. When you cross the bridge at Victoria River, stop for a look because in the wet season, the river regularly flows over the bridge. Suggested overnight stay - Frontier Katherine.

Day 9 Katherine to Darwin

Another early start but well worth the short drive up to Katherine Gorge. Take the optional boat cruise for a relaxing but spectacular look at this amazing act of nature. Complete this journey in a comfortable pace as your room in Darwin is included in the package and your car will be collected from your hotel. Suggested overnight stay - Mirrembeena.

Map of the Kimberley in Western Australia

About the Kimberley
• The Kimberley in Australia is one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth, with rustic unique outback landscapes and landmarks billions of years in the making. Covering app 423,000 square kilometres in north Western Australia and with a population of less than 40,000 people, it’s here you’ll encounter some of the most extraordinary outback adventuresand folks in Australia. Discover ancient gorge country with hikes and trekking a must in planning your Kimberley vacation to enormous cattle stations, pristine coastline and sandy beaches, to one of the oldest cultures on the planet and the world’s only horizontal waterfalls.

Self drive along the Gibb River Road from Broome or Darwin is a Australia four wheel drive hire camper or wagon. The Gibb River Road was initially constructed as a beef road to transport cattle from the surrounding stations to the ports of Derby and Wyndham.It spans some six-hundred and seventy kilometres from Derby to the junction of the Great Northern Highway between Wyndham and Kununurra.