Rating: 🏆 Must Visit

Karijini is Western Australia’s wildest natural playground, filled with deep red gorges, emerald swimming holes, cascading waterfalls, and epic outback scenery. Located in the remote Pilbara region, it’s one of Australia's best adventure destinations — raw, rugged, and unforgettable.

How Many Days to Spend

• Minimum: 2–3 full days – Enough time to explore the main gorges and swim in a few iconic spots.

• Ideal: 4–5 days – Add remote hikes, sunrise/sunset views, and enjoy the park without rushing.

• More time? Combine it with a Pilbara road trip or visit the nearby Hamersley Gorge.

Tip: Karijini is remote — plan ahead, carry supplies, and fuel up before entering the park.

Top Things to Do

• Fern Pool – Sacred Aboriginal site and magical swimming spot in Dales Gorge.

• Hancock Gorge – “Spider Walk” through narrow chasms and into Kermit’s Pool.

• Weano Gorge – Incredible short gorge hike leading to Handrail Pool.

• Joffre Gorge – Dramatic amphitheatre-style gorge with a seasonal waterfall.

• Hamersley Gorge – Jaw-dropping swirling rock patterns and perfect photo ops.

• Mount Bruce (Punurrunha) – WA’s second-highest peak with 360° views.

• Oxers Lookout – Iconic viewpoint overlooking four merging gorges.
  

Best Time to Visit

• May–September (Dry Season): Cool nights, sunny days, perfect for hiking and swimming.

• October–April (Wet Season): Too hot (40°C+), risk of flash flooding, and often closed.
  Tip: Visit in June or July for waterfalls + wildflowers, and milder temps.

Where to Stay

• Karijini Eco Retreat – Glamping tents + cabins in the heart of the park (Book early!)

• Dales Campground – Budget-friendly, basic facilities, right near Dales Gorge

• Tom Price (town) – 1 hr drive away, has fuel, supplies, and some accommodation

• Free camping spots – Available further out, but with minimal facilities
  

Food & Supplies

• Karijini Eco Retreat – Onsite restaurant & bar (open in season)

• Self-catered – Bring your own food, snacks, water, and cooking supplies

• Groceries/Fuel – Stock up in Tom Price or Newman before entering

Tip: There are no shops in the park, and fuel is limited — plan ahead!

Top Photo Spots

• Hamersley Gorge – The swirling rock layers are next-level

• Fern Pool at sunrise – Peaceful and sacred

• Spider Walk through Hancock Gorge

• Joffre Gorge from above

• Mount Bruce trail views

• Stars from Karijini Eco Retreat – Unreal Milky Way visibility
  

Getting There

• By Air: Fly into Paraburdoo Airport (Qantas) – 1 hr 45 min drive to Karijini

• By Road:

  • 6 hrs from Exmouth

  • 14 hrs from Perth

  • 2 hrs from Tom Price

• Vehicle: 4WD recommended (especially for Hamersley Gorge & unsealed roads), but 2WD is possible for Dales Gorge & main sites.
  

Budget Breakdown (per day)

• National Park Pass: ~$15 per vehicle per day or ~$60 annual WA Parks Pass

• Accommodation:

  • Campground: $11–$15 pp

  • Eco Retreat: $100–$300+

• Food: Self-catered (no shops inside)

• Fuel: Fill up at Tom Price or Newman

• Tours: Mostly DIY, but some guided cultural and adventure options available