Hunter River

Tucked into the north-east corner of the magnificent Prince Frederick Harbour, the sense of grandeur hits you the moment you arrive at the mouth of the Hunter River, where Kampamantiya — a 200-metre-high sandstone escarpment — towers over the water. This is crocodile country, home to one of the largest populations of estuarine crocodiles in the Kimberley, and where barramundi thrive in the mangrove-lined shallows. The river winds inland for around 30 kilometres, fed by two spectacular 90-metre-high waterfalls — Hunter Falls and Donkin Falls.

There’s something timeless about the Hunter River. Sheer cliffs rise straight from the water, waterfalls tumble from height, and the mangroves hum with life. No roads lead here. The only way in is by boat or air, which makes arriving all the more special.

As your expedition vessel glides deeper into the river, the sounds of wildlife take over — birds calling, the splash of a fish, a crocodile sliding off a bank. Every turn of the river reveals another breathtaking scene.

A luxury Kimberley cruise is the best way to experience the Hunter River. With knowledgeable guides on hand, you’ll explore its hidden waterways and discover why this part of the Kimberley remains one of Australia’s most extraordinary natural treasures.

Waterfalls

Upstream, the cliffs come alive with a series of magnificent waterfalls that thunder down after the wet season, when the landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise.

Hunter Falls & Donkin Falls
These spectacular waterfalls plunge from towering cliffs into the river below. Take in the view from the deck of your boat, or see them from above on a breathtaking helicopter flight (if your boat has an on-board chopper — either way, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Jackson Falls
Hidden further inland, Jackson Falls is one of the Hunter’s best-kept secrets. A short guided walk leads you to a crystal-clear rock pool — one of the rare safe places to swim in crocodile country. It’s the perfect spot to cool off and take in the incredible Kimberley scenery around you. The waterfall was named after the son of True North’s owner, Craig Howson.

Wildlife

The Hunter River teems with life. Along its mangrove-fringed banks, saltwater crocodiles bask in the sun while white-bellied sea eagles soar overhead. Kingfishers flash across the water, and herons and egrets wade through the shallows. It’s one of the richest ecosystems in the Kimberley — a photographer’s dream and a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Fishing

For anglers, the Hunter River is a dream come true. The creeks and deeper channels are full of barramundi, mangrove jack and fingermark bream. It’s one of the most remote and rewarding places to cast a line — and the perfect way to end an unforgettable day exploring this incredible wilderness.

Naturaliste Island

Guarding the mouth of the river is Naturaliste Island, which is often used as a landing point for helicopter excursions. The island offers spectacular views across the river system, the towering cliffs of Kampamantiya and the wild coastline of the Kimberley beyond.