Why We Love El Questro

Our Kununurra staff visit El Questro at least 5-6 times each season. Not only is ELQ nice and close to Kununurra (Emma Gorge is 50 minutes) but the waterfalls and gorges can be-revisited time and again and there’s always something new to see!

Tucked into the rugged landscape of the East Kimberley, El Questro is one of the region’s best-known wilderness destinations. Spanning around 700,000 acres, the property encompasses sandstone ranges, deep gorges, waterfalls, thermal springs, rivers, wetlands and vast open landscapes.

Located on the eastern end of the Gibb River Road, El Questro is an ideal place to experience the Kimberley’s dramatic inland scenery before or after a Kimberley cruise.

Gorges, waterfalls, fishing, rock art, outback accommodation and camping … everything in one place

One of the remarkable things about El Questro is the variety of landscapes within the property. You can hike through narrow gorges, swim in secluded waterholes, relax in natural thermal springs or take to the water on a river cruise.

Emma Gorge is one of the most popular walks. The trail winds through the rugged Cockburn Range before reaching a large waterhole beneath the gorge’s towering cliffs. The walk takes around an hour each way and includes some challenging sections. Local tip:There’s not much shade along the way, so wear and hat and try to start the walk early in the morning before the sun hits peak heat.

Another favourite is Zebedee Springs, where naturally heated water flows through a series of pools surrounded by lush vegetation and Livistona palms. The thermal water at Zebedee Springs maintains a constant, comfortable temperature of 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F) year-round. It is a very different experience from the dry, rugged landscapes found elsewhere around the property. Local note: These springs get very, very busy mid-season. We really don’t have any suggestions about how to avoid the crowds. Honestly, it’s pretty unavoidable, but your best bet is probably to come as soon as the gates are opened by the Ranger at 7am. School holidays and mid-Winter is busiest.

For a slower-paced experience, the Chamberlain Gorge cruise follows the Chamberlain River through towering cliffs and ancient Kimberley country. Wildlife and birdlife can often be seen along the river, while the gorge provides a completely different perspective on the landscape. A keen eye may also notice some Wandjina rock art on the walls of the gorge.

From cattle station to wilderness destination

El Questro has an interesting history. The property was originally established as a pastoral station, and the name El Questro dates back to 1958, when Torrance McMicking pegged the pastoral claim (El Questro’s prettiest gorge is named after him). The meaning of the name “El Questro” remains something of a mystery.

In 1991, Will and Celia Burrell purchased the pastoral lease and began developing the property as a tourism destination. Their vision was to create a place where visitors could experience the Kimberley in a range of ways, from camping through to luxury accommodation.

Today, visitors can still stay at El Questro Station in riverside bungalows or campsites (close to the Pentecost River), while those looking for a more luxurious experience can stay at the El Questro Homestead. There is also accommodation at Emma Gorge, including safari-style tented cabins.

Connecting with Traditional Owners

El Questro is also a place of significant cultural importance. The 2022 Indigenous Land Use Agreement between G’day Group, the Wilinggin Aboriginal Corporation and the Western Australian Government resulted in 165,000 hectares of pastoral lease land being returned to Traditional Owners, while providing for a 99-year tourism lease.

Visitors can experience Indigenous-led cultural activities, including the Munbula Cultural Cruise and Injiid Marlabu Calls Us, which provide opportunities to learn about Ngarinyin culture, Country and traditional knowledge.

El Questro before or after your Kimberley cruise

For travellers heading to the Kimberley, El Questro can be a wonderful addition to a cruise itinerary. While a Kimberley cruise showcases the spectacular coastline, tidal rivers and waterfalls of the region, El Questro offers a chance to explore the inland Kimberley.

You can spend a few days exploring the gorges and swimming holes, take a 4WD adventure along the surrounding tracks, or simply enjoy the extraordinary scenery from your accommodation. If you don’t have a 4WD, our Kununurra staff of the Kimberley Cruise Centre can arrange a private guided day tour (just ask!)

For visitors who want to experience both sides of the Kimberley, combining an inland adventure at El Questro with a Kimberley cruise from Kununurra, Wyndham or Broome offers an opportunity to see just how dramatically the landscape changes from the red-rock ranges of the East Kimberley to the rugged coastline of the north-west.

Planning a Kimberley adventure?

At Kimberley Cruise Centre, we specialise in helping travellers plan their Kimberley cruise and can help you work out how to combine your cruise with time exploring the East Kimberley, including El Questro, Kununurra and the Gibb River Road. Just drop us a line!