Gibb River Rd – Everything You Need to Know

There are many wondrous things to see along the 660-kilometre Gibb River Road in Western Australia’s Kimberley but, no matter which way you do it – whether you sleep under the stars or at five-star homesteads – it promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Neither saltwater crocodiles nor the blazing sun can put travellers off what many consider is Australia’s ultimate drive holiday. It leads to turquoise gorges, vast cattle stations and crosses ranges that were once coral reefs on the seabed.

Named after geologist Andrew Gibb Maitland, the Gibb traverses the traditional lands of many Kimberley Aboriginal people, including the Njikena, Bunuba, Ongkomi, Ngarinyin, Gedija, Worrorra and Wunumbal language groups.

The Gibb was constructed as a beef road in the 1960s but the history of the track stretches back some 60 years. Pastoralists had cut rough paths in the area to move cattle between the ports of Derby and Wyndham and outlying stations.

Today, most of this road between Kununurra in the east and Derby in the west is still unsealed, which means you will come across long stretches of road with heavy corrugations. It’s all part of the fun.

Gibb River Road main attractions

Windjana Gorge

To visit Windjana Gorge is to visit the bottom of a tropical sea – or what was one, some 380 million years ago. A walk into the valley reveals fossilised remnants of an ancient sea-dwelling creature – the nautiloid – etched into the gorge wall alongside you, and an olive-green valley of prehistoric proportions.

But the highlight is in the middle of it all; a bottle green stillness where dozens of freshwater crocodiles lie stationary. It feels like a land lost in time – and perhaps it is.

a freshwater crocodile at Windjana Gorge, Windjana Gorge National Park — Watch out for freshwater crocodiles along the gorge trail. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Bell Gorge

This gorge is considered the most beautiful of the Gibb, and with good reason: there are not one, but two Olympic-sized silken black pools here, cupped by an ochre amphitheatre and multi-tiered waterfall, which can be followed downstream to another waterhole, and another, and another.

Though that means you’ll usually be surrounded by other visitors – a good 15 people were there when we visited; practically crowded by Kimberley standards – it’s nothing a swim downstream can’t fix. And let me tell you, little in life compares to sitting back and staring at the sky, as some of the world’s purest waters slide over your shoulders from the waterhole above.

water flowing downstream from above the Bell Gorge — Some of the world’s purest waters slide down the Bell Gorge. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Adcock Gorge

Most Kimberley guidebooks don’t have a lot to say about Adcock Gorge so it’s a bit of a secret gem. The short, five-kilometre trip off-road leads you to a fairly ordinary scene – a small, cloudy billabong, filled with a few plants – but follow the creek away from the grassy ‘car park’, over an easy scramble up rocks, and you’ll find a network of well-worn paths leading to a best-kept national secret.

The waterhole here – a beautiful, deep, shockingly turquoise pool – is a lush little den, framed by the majestic red-black swirl of rocky cliff face and lit by sunshine as soft and light as cotton wool. When you’re lying on your back, swimming in that water, take a moment to think about how fantastic outback life can be.

Manning Gorge

The path to Manning Gorge, an hour-long journey through the bush, is defined only by a smattering of painted rocks and strategically placed bits of plastic. There are no council-posted signs. No boardwalks. Just to access the track you need to cross a 100-metre wide creek – but the journey’s worth it for the adventure alone.

Once at your destination you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, deep pool that you can jump into from several ledges on the waterfall; climb the waterfall to its top and there is another pool above that. Alternatively, turn left when you arrive, and you’ll find waterhole after waterhole downstream.

a tranquil river pool in Manning Gorge — Dip in the tranquil pools of the Manning River. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Gibb River Road tours

An undeniable benefit of travelling the Gibb on an organised group tour is you don’t have to worry about driving, changing your own tyres, carrying enough water or getting lost. Here are some of the best Gibb tours on offer.

Kimberley Wild Expeditions

Family-owned and operated Kimberley Wild Expeditions offers excellent value tours along the Gibb in their custom built vehicles. Accommodation is in pre-erected tents and swags and all meals are included. Choose from the shorter five-day tour or go all out and jump on the 14-day Kimberley trail, which includes a journey to the Mitchell Plateau.

APT Touring

Get off the bitumen and jump on a 4WD adventure with APT , which boasts experienced driver-guides.

the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park — Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park is awe-striking. (Image: Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd)

Their 15-day Kimberley Complete departs from Broome and travels along the Gibb, staying at comfy properties, including their Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge and Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge.

a couple sitting outside their tent at Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge — Stay in a luxury tent at Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge. (Image: Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd)

InStyle Adventures

For a truly intimate touring experience, opt for an adventure along the Gibb with InStyle Adventures .

Their tours are offered as private departures, ideal for couples, families and friends, which are tailored to your interests, abilities and time frame. Alternatively join a scheduled small group shared departure.

a couple hanging out outside their luxury tent, InStyle Adventures, Kimberley — Experience outback luxury. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Sleep along the way in stylish outback accommodation, from remote wilderness lodges, to working cattle stations and motel style rooms.

a luxury tent at InStyle Adventures, Kimberley — Sleep under the stars in a luxury tent. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Gibb River Road accommodation

Accommodation along the Gibb River Road is as diverse as its waterholes, so you can really choose your own adventure. Whether you’re looking to bunker down at the classic cattle stations of Birdwood Downs, Mount Hart, Mount Barnett, Mount Elizabeth, Drysdale River or Ellenbrae Station, or under the canvas at one of APT’s perfectly positioned lodges, here are some of the best accommodations options.

El Questro Wilderness Park

This swathe of wilderness is home to several different kinds of accommodation, including basic camping and air-conditioned bungalows, but it is the luxe ultra-retreat, The Homestead, that draws travellers from across the globe.

With an upper limit of 20 guests at any one time – media moguls, music legends and movie stars often among them – the civilised microcosm of The Homestead sits in perfect contrast to the wilderness around it: a gentle blend of silver service and the rugged outback.

The Homestead at El Questro Wilderness Park — Stay by the side of the river at The Homestead. (Image: Delaware North Companies)

Ellenbrae Station

An English garden in the middle of the outback: why not? But the owners of Ellenbrae Station weren’t satisfied that they’d done enough to create an outstanding Kimberley experience with their verdant oasis: their locally famous scones, served with jam and cream on the homestead’s balcony, have made this a required pit stop along The Gibb.

APT’s Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge

In an enviable position just 200 metres off the Gibb River Road, Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge is located on an Indigenous-owned site close to the Imintji Aboriginal community. Although you’re right in the bush, you won’t be roughing it here. Think tented cabins with ensuites, three-course dinners and packed lunches.

the APT Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge at dusk — The APT tour package includes an exclusive stay at Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Gibb River Road itineraries

The Gibb is a 660-kilometre track accessible between April and October, weather dependent. Allow a week up to 14 days to experience all the Gibb has to offer, or choose your must-see locations for a shorter trip.

Derby to Kununurra in 11 days

Call into Derby before beginning your journey along the iconic Gibb River Road. During this 11-day odyssey you will discover the West Kimberley Gorges, the Mitchell Plateau and El Questro Wilderness Park.

a scenic view of the Mitchell Falls, Kimberley — The four-tiered Mitchell Falls is a sight to behold. (Image: Sarah Duguid Photography)

Derby to Kununurra in 14 days

Add on a couple of days to the 11-day itinerary by driving to the remote Mitchell Plateau and venture into Purnululu National Park to explore the Bungle Bungles and witness the vast waters of Lake Argyle.

an aerial view of Lake Argyle — The majestic Lake Argyle is teeming with diverse flora and fauna. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Western Gorges Loop

Plunge deep into the rugged, red reaches of the Kimberley with its majestic caves and cavernous gorges 350 million years in the making. Highlights of this itinerary include Broome, Derby and Fitzroy Crossing.

an aerial view of the Geikie Gorge National Park — Explore Geikie Gorge on a boat tour. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Start by travelling from Broome to Derby and on to Windjana Gorge and Fitzroy Crossing. From Fitzroy Crossing take the 20-kilometre drive north to Geikie Gorge National Park and the 90-kilometre journey east to the Mimbi Caves. Either return to Broome or drive on to Kununurra.

an aerial view of the Mimbi Caves, Kimberley — See striking limestone formations and fossilised reefs at Mimbi Caves. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Start planning

Fuel and basic supplies are available at a small number of roadhouses and stations along the Gibb River Road. Travellers are advised to carry jerry cans with extra fuel.

a man standing with a bonfire setup at sunset, the Kimberly and Gibb River Road trip — Prepare for a journey of a lifetime. (Image: Sean Scott)

Fuel along the Gibb River Road

Derby – Imintji Store – 227km
Imintji Store – Mt Barnett Roadhouse – 80 kilometres
Mt Barnett Roadhouse – El Questro – 320 kilometres
El Questro – Kununurra 81 kilometres

Fuel along the Kalumburu Road/Mitchell Plateau

Drysdale River Station

FAQ: The Gibb River Road

Where does the Gibb River Road start and end?

Just a few kilometres outside Derby (a two-hour drive from Broome) and 51 kilometres from Kununurra.

driving along Cockburn Ranges, Gibb River Road — The iconic Gibb River Road starts from Derby to Kununurra. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

How long does it take to drive the Gibb River Road?

Allow 7-14 days to experience all the Gibb has to offer. If you want to zoom along the 660-kilometre track without hardly any stops it would take 10 to 11 hours.

driving along Gibb River Rd at dusk — Buckle up and get ready for the long drive. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

How difficult is the Gibb River Road?

The majority of Gibb River Road is unsealed, which means you will come across long stretches of road with heavy corrugations, loose gravel, potholes and rocks. Be prepared for a bumpy and sometimes slow journey for most of the trip.

an aerial view of a vehicle driving along the red dirt on Gibb River Rd — Red dirt stretches across the remote Gibb River Rd. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Is Gibb River Road 4WD only?

To get the most out of the Gibb River Road you need a 4WD. If the Pentecost River level is high you won’t be able to go through it without a 4WD. For a taste of the Gibb without a 4WD you can travel from Kununurra to El Questro’s Emma Gorge, which is 25 kilometres on a sealed section of the Gibb River Road and just 2 kilometres on a gravel driveway.

a 4WD crossing the Pentecost River along the Gibb River Road — The drive across Pentecost River along the Gibb River Road. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Time your visit to Margaret River just right, and you can spend the ultimate weekend wining, dining and exploring the region with Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover.

Wine, world-class produce, surf, sun and beaches: it’s an alluring combination. And the reason so many pin the Margaret River region high on their travel hit-lists. There’s drawcard after drawcard to the southwestern corner of Western Australia, and the Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover food and wine festival showcases the best of it over the course of one weekend in November. It’s never been easier to sip, see and savour the Margaret River region.

In partnership with Pair’d Margaret River Region, Range Rover invites you on a seven-day itinerary of refined adventure, where luxury and exploration go hand in hand. It’s the perfect WA road trip, and there’s no better way to do it than in a Range Rover.

Day 1

the pool at Pullman Bunker Bay — Check into Pullman Bunker Bay.

There’s no more popular West Australian road trip route than that between Perth and the Margaret River Region. It’s an easily digestible, three-hour drive, with worthy pit stops along the way.

Make the first of them one hour and 15 minutes in, at Lake Clifton. Here, find a 2000-year-old living thrombolite reef. Drive for a further 40 minutes and chance meeting some of Bunbury’s dolphin population at Koombana Bay.

Pullman Bunker Bay is the final stop, just over three hours south of Perth. This beachfront, five-star resort is the ultimate base for exploring the Margaret River Wine region.

Day 2

After a leisurely morning breakfast with an ocean view, start your Range Rover and head towards the Dunsborough town centre. Browsing the decidedly coastal-themed goods of the town’s many independent boutiques is a great way to while away the hours, breaking up the sartorial with an artisan gelato snack stop, or some good old-fashioned Australian bakery fare.

Leave room; you’ll need it for the Good Natured Gathering dinner at Wayfinder. Indulge in a four-course feast by chef Felipe Montiel, which uses produce from the winery’s market garden to enhance a selection of sustainably sourced seafood and meat. But food is just the support act. It’s organic wine that’s the star of the show, generously poured and expertly paired to each dish.

Day 3

Settle in for cabernet at Cape Mentelle Winery.

With a grand total of 20 wines from vintage 2022 to try, it’s a good thing Cape Mentelle’s International Cabernet Tasting kicks off early. Make your way to the estate for a 10:00 AM start, where a global selection of wines will be poured blind, before a long lunch by Tiller Dining is served.

Given that the Margaret River is responsible for more than 20 per cent of Australia’s fine wine production, it’s only right to delve into it while in the area.

Continue exploring the region via taste and terroir aboard Alison Maree, a whale-watching catamaran, as you cruise Geographe Bay . Admire the rolling green hills and crisp white beaches of Quindalup in sunset’s golden light, all the while sipping through the Clairault Streicker catalogue and dining on canapes.

For a more substantial dinner, venture into Busselton for a seven-course British x Australian mash-up , courtesy of Brendan Pratt (Busselton Pavilion) and Oliver Kent (Updown Farmhouse, UK). They’ll be putting their rustic yet refined spin on the likes of local marron, wagyu and abalone – championing the simple beauty of the world-class ingredients.

Day 4

Wrap your fingers around a wine glass and wiggle your toes into the sand at Pair’d Beach Club x Range Rover on Meelup Beach. Sit down to an intimate wine session with sommelier Cyndal Petty – or a four-course feast by Aaron Carr of Yarri – and revel in the open-air beach club, bar and restaurant’s laidback coastal vibe. It’s a whole new way to experience one of the region’s most renowned beaches.

Follow up a day in the sun with a casual Italian party at Mr Barvel Wines . Purchase wines –including the elusive, sold-out Nebbia – by the glass and enjoy canapes with the towering Karri forest as a backdrop.

If you’d prefer to keep it local, head to Skigh Wines for the New Wave Gathering , where the region’s independent wine makers and their boundary-pushing wines will be on show. Street-style eats, a DJ and complimentary wine masterclasses complete the experience.

Day 5

pair'd Grand Tasting — Taste your way through Howard Park Wines. (Image: C J Maddock)

Spend the morning at your leisure, driving the winding roads through the Boranup Karri forest in your Range Rover. Soak in the views at Contos Beach, and call into the small cheese, chocolate and preserve producers along the way.

Make your next stop Howard Park Wines for The Grand Tasting presented by Singapore Airlines . Numerous wine labels will be pouring their catalogues over four hours, accompanied by food from chefs Matt Moran and Silvia Colloca, with live opera providing the soundtrack.

Cap off a big weekend with one last hurrah at Busselton Pavilion. Six ‘local legends’ – chefs Brendan Pratt (Busselton Pavilion), Mal Chow (Chow’s Table), Aaron Carr (Yarri), Ben Jacob (Lagoon Yallingup), Corey Rozario (Dahl Daddies) and Laura Koentjoro (Banksia Tavern) – will be preparing a dish each. Dance the night away as vinyl spins and the sun sets on another day.

Day 6

Ngilgi Cave western australia — Head underground. (Image: Tourism WA)

After a busy few days of wining and dining, it’s wise to observe a rest day. There’s no easier task than unwinding in the Margaret River Region, also famous for its high concentration of world-class beaches.

Relax on the grassy knoll as you watch the region’s most experienced surfers braving the World Surf League break at Surfer’s Point, or don your own wetsuit and try out one of Gracetown’s more beginner-friendly waves. Swimmers will find their Eden at Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay, or Point Piquet, where the sand is brilliantly white and the water as still as a backyard swimming pool.

Not into sun, sand, and surf? Head underground at Mammoth Cave, just one of the region’s many stalactite-filled caves.

Day 7

Burnt Ends event at Pair'd — Farewell the Margaret River.

Pack up your Range Rover with new favourite wines and newfound memories, ready for the three-hour journey back to Perth.

Prebook your discovery journey through the south-west corner of Western Australia with Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover.