Gibb River Road (Central Kimberley)

The legendary four-wheel-drive stretch through the heart of the Kimberley, with Bell, Manning and Galvans gorges, waterfalls and natural swimming pools along the way, and camps that take you deeper into the wilderness.

The Gibb River Road is a gravel road of about 660 km in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. It runs from Derby in the west to the Wyndham and Kununurra area in the east. It was originally a cattle droving route and is now one of Australia's most famous four-wheel-drive routes. This destination covers the middle section: from the Inglis Gap in the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges (formerly the King Leopold Ranges), past Imintji and Mount Barnett Roadhouse, to Mount Elizabeth Station and the Barnett River. Red quartzite gorges, waterfalls and natural rock pools are the main attractions along the way.

The three core sights are gorges. Bell Gorge's stepped waterfall plunges into a deep pool and is the most photogenic spot on the whole route. At Manning Gorge you need to push an inflatable foam box across the river before hiking to the falls. Galvans Gorge lies right beside the main road and is a 10-minute walk, with swimming. If you have time, take side trips: south about 90 km to Mornington Wilderness Camp, where you can canoe and birdwatch in Diamond Gorge, or north to Charnley River Station and Mount Elizabeth Station to see rock art.

The road is passable only in the dry season, roughly May–October. June–August is the coolest. In the wet season (November–April), heavy rain often closes the road. You must use a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle and carry two spare tyres, plenty of water and fuel. Fuel stops are only at Imintji, Mount Barnett Roadhouse and a few others, and their opening hours are limited. Check road conditions with Main Roads WA before departure. Most areas have no mobile reception, so consider renting a satellite phone or a personal location beacon. National parks such as Bell Gorge require a park pass, and popular campsites need booking in peak season. The whole road typically takes 7–10 days, and the middle section alone needs at least 3–4 nights. Freshwater crocodiles live in the rivers and are generally harmless. In the estuaries downstream, saltwater crocodiles are present, so watch for the signs.

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