Adventuring El Questro
Meet Karen Hawkes, a Territorian who recently took her teenagers on an adventure holiday to El Questro in the Kimberley. They joined some friends in a 4WD convoy at the end of the wet season to explore El Questro at it's finest.
"The best thing about getting out into nature is switching off from technology and appreciating all that the world has on offer".
Where’s your favourite place to go in the Kimberley?
El Questro. This private wilderness park is a cattle station that diversified into tourism. It has a range of accommodation options from the luxury homestead to affordable camping.
What is there to do in El Questro?
There is so much to do and see at El Questro, but the key is to remember to pack your swimsuit and hiking shoes. Visits to Emma Gorge, El Questro Gorge and Amalia Gorge are tough going several hour walks with rocky climbs, but the swim at the end is well worth the effort.
What are the best things to do in El Questro?
At El Questro it's all about getting back to nature. Swimming, fishing, bush walking are the key. There are a number of guided activities, including fishing, history and nature tours. At the right time of the year there are horse riding treks for the whole family. We would also recommend the Chamberlain River Cruise, where you meet the cheeky Archerfish that shoot water at you to entice you to feed them.
What’s the best time of year to visit El Questro?
We visited right at the end of the wet season in 2021, which recorded one of the biggest rain falls in years. We were lucky as the roads had only just opened, but it also meant that the waterfalls were fast flowing and the swimming holes full. If you travel in the wet you need a 4x4 vehicle and need to be comfortable with water crossings.
How long should you spend in the Kimberley?
We spent a week in El Questro before heading back to Darwin, but that was not long enough to venture further than the park itself. I would recommend longer to be able to head to Lake Argyle. The drive from Darwin along the Victoria Highway is actually very pleasant, so we could see ourselves taking another short trip in that direction and exploring more of the region.
Things not to miss
If you're comfortable with four-wheel driving, then taking a trip up to one of the sunset spots is worth the effort. You will have fun on the journey up there, and be rewarded by 360 degree views over the Chamberlain Gorge and Pentecost River.
Describe El Questro in 3 words
Wild, secluded and rewarding.
