A visit to El Questro and Emma Gorge

It is clear that we have not given ourselves enough time to sample the delights of Kununurra and Lake Argyle. Celeste and Lesley will return back here after the Bungle Bungles, and will be able to do more, but we three (myself, Marco & Ursala) will have to make do with just a 'taste' of what is on offer.

Apart from the number of attractions in this part of the world, there is also the problem of scale. You look on a map and you think to yourself, Lake Argyle and the Ord River dam are just 'down' the road from Kununurra. Wrong! A day trip at least, with a 70km ride/drive in each direction.

Some tough decisions had to be made and we decided to spend our one day together here in Kununurra by visiting Emma Gorge, with its swimming hole and walk. Lake Argyle will have to wait for another day. Pity!

So a drive of some 70+ km up to the infamous Gibb River Road and we arrive at the Cockburn Ranges and El Questro – a private wilderness park (http://www.elquestro.com.au/El-Questro-Emma-Gorge.aspx) that includes some of the most amazing scenery you'll encounter in this part of the world.


We have a great walk up the gorge to the swimming hole. As this is late in the 'Dry' season, water is scarce and places like Emma Gorge and it's permanent water supply create literally an oasis in a parched landscape.

The water is cold but provides welcome relief from the heat. Alongside the main pool and the waterfall that feeds it, is a small hot spring that feeds warm water into one side of the main pool. Excellent!

Back down the gorge to the parking area where we enjoy a picnic lunch on a well watered lawn, before heading back into Kununurra.


Tomorrow on to the Bungle Bungles ….