2025 Karijini Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

Stayed at Dales campground, very good nice and clean, not many people around, close to all the gorges, reception at the campground, very humid and lots of insect would come back

For those seeking adventure in Western Australia, the Mt Bruce hike in Karijini is a must. 🏞️ The trail takes about 3 hours round trip, leading you across rugged landscapes with breathtaking views over the national park. The cool wind at the summit can feel surprisingly cold, but it only adds to the sense of being surrounded by raw, untouched nature. ❄️ Every step rewards you with sweeping panoramas and the quiet beauty that Karijini is known for. A challenging yet deeply rewarding experience, this hike is the perfect way to feel connected to Australia’s wild heart. 🌿 📍 Tip: Bring layers—the temperature can drop quickly even under the bright Pilbara sun.

#tesaruonbudget Karijini is a hiker’s dream, with deep gorges, hidden swimming holes, and rust-red cliffs set against a bright blue sky. Park entry is inexpensive, and the value you get from multiple days of exploring is unbeatable. Free or low-cost campsites are available, and trails like Hancock Gorge or Weano Gorge give you adventure without tour fees. Swimming in natural rock pools after a hot hike is an unbeatable reward — and all it costs is your effort to get there.

#holidayitinerary Jamersley Gorge is like nature showing off. It’s tucked in the northwest corner of Karijini National Park and kind of feels like its own little world. The rocks here are all twisted and swirly, with crazy patterns and colors, seriously photogenic. The drive in is a bit rough but manageable with a regular car if the weather’s good. There’s a short but steep path down to the water, and once you’re in, it’s all natural pools, waterfalls, and smooth rocks to lie on. The Spa Pool is the main attraction and totally lives up to the hype. It’s a small, deep, round pool with icy clear water and perfect for a quick dip. No facilities except a toilet near the car park, so bring snacks, water, and good shoes for climbing around. It’s less crowded than some other Karijini spots and feels way more chill. If you want something beautiful and a little off the main track, Hamersley Gorge is a total win.

#holidayitinerary Karijini National Park is hands down one of the coolest places in the Pilbara. It's all red rock gorges, crystal-clear swimming holes, and hidden trails that make you feel like you’re in some kind of adventure movie. We hit a few of the main spots like Dales Gorge, Fern Pool, and Hancock Gorge, each one felt totally different and seriously epic. Some of the walks are super easy and others are more scrambley, with ladders and tight spots, so good shoes are a must. The water is freezing but so refreshing, especially after hiking through that red dust all day. Fern Pool was my fave, peaceful, shady, and you can swim right up to a little waterfall. There are a few campgrounds, but we stayed at the eco retreat which had basic facilities and awesome access to some of the gorges. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection because it gets hot and there’s not much shade. Karijini is wild, rugged, and absolutely unforgettable.

#holidayitinerary Python Pool in Millstream Chichester National Park is such a great little detour if you're cruising around the Pilbara. It's this natural rock pool tucked under big red cliffs, and honestly it feels like a secret swimming spot in the middle of nowhere. The water’s cool and super refreshing, especially after a dusty drive. The walk from the car park is really short and easy, so it’s perfect if you just want a quick swim or chill spot. There are a few shaded areas around the edge where you can sit, have a snack, and soak up the view. The surrounding cliffs light up beautifully in the late afternoon sun. No facilities other than a basic toilet near the car park, so bring your own food, water, and gear. It’s a bit of a mission to get there on unsealed roads, so check the conditions before heading out. If you’re exploring the Pilbara and want a peaceful spot to cool off, Python Pool is a gem.

#summervacay Karijini absolutely blew me away. It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen—deep red gorges, crystal-clear pools, and ancient rock formations. I hiked into Weano Gorge and swam in the turquoise waters of Handrail Pool, which felt like a secret oasis. The descent into Hancock Gorge was a bit of an adventure, with climbing and wading involved, but totally worth it. Everywhere I looked felt untouched and dramatic. If you want remote, rugged beauty, Karijini is pure magic.

#australiatrip Beautiful place, like the other gorges in the area, each is unique and worth visiting. It’s amazing to see the undulating rock formations on slanted angles. It is a good idea to take a waterproof camera, although it can be accessed without swimming it’s easier to see the main attraction if you just swim. Though there are 40+ km unsealed dirt roads, I consider it 100% worth it. Will definitely be coming back here.

#australiatrip Karijini National Park, located in the heart of Western Australia’s Pilbara region, is a treasure trove of dramatic landscapes, ancient gorges, and natural swimming holes. My visit to this iconic destination was a journey into one of Australia’s most breathtaking and rugged wilderness areas. From the moment I arrived, the sheer scale of Karijini’s beauty left me in awe. The red earth, striking rock formations, and vibrant contrasts of blue skies and green spinifex created a vivid palette unique to the outback. The park’s gorges, carved over billions of years, offered a surreal setting that felt like stepping into another world. Exploring the park’s famous gorges was the highlight of my adventure. I began with a trek through Weano Gorge, where the narrow pathways led to the stunning Handrail Pool. The journey involved a mix of walking, scrambling, and climbing, but the reward was a serene natural pool surrounded by towering rock walls. The refreshing waters were perfect for cooling off after the hike, and the stillness of the gorge added to its magical atmosphere. Another standout was Dales Gorge, home to the iconic Fern Pool and Circular Pool. These lush oases, fed by cascading waterfalls, were surrounded by greenery that stood in beautiful contrast to the arid landscape above. Sitting by the pools, I felt an overwhelming sense of tranquility, listening to the sound of water and soaking in the peaceful environment. For a panoramic view of the park, I made my way to the Oxer Lookout. This vantage point offered a breathtaking perspective of where Weano, Hancock, Joffre, and Red Gorges converge—a sight that truly showcased the grandeur and geological history of Karijini. Throughout my visit, the park’s unique flora and fauna added to the experience. I spotted kangaroos, goannas, and colorful birds, as well as the hardy native plants that thrive in this harsh environment. The contrast between life in the arid landscape and the vibrant greenery within the gorges was a testament to nature’s resilience. Camping under the stars in Karijini was equally unforgettable. The night skies, free from light pollution, revealed a dazzling display of constellations and the Milky Way—a fitting end to a day of exploring this unt

#australiatravel Karijini National Park is a stunning outback destination featuring breathtaking gorges, sparkling waterfalls, and dramatic red landscapes. Popular sites include Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, and Fern Pool, all accessible through adventurous hiking trails. Visitors can swim in crystal-clear rock pools or take in panoramic views from Oxer Lookout. The park also offers opportunities to learn about the culture of the Banyjima, Kurrama, and Innawonga people, the traditional custodians of the land. Its remote location and awe-inspiring natural beauty make Karijini an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

#australiatrip Karijini National Park is a strikingly beautiful destination filled with ancient gorges, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear swimming holes. Located in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, the park offers numerous hiking trails that lead to breathtaking sights like Hancock Gorge and Fortescue Falls. The natural rock formations and rich red hues of the landscape provide a dramatic contrast to the bright blue skies and waters. This remote park is perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike, offering opportunities to swim, climb, and explore. Karijini’s rugged beauty and tranquility make it one of Australia’s most spectacular and unforgettable national parks.

#australiatrip Karijini National Park is a natural masterpiece in Western Australia, renowned for its dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and rugged red landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient rock formations, cool off in natural swimming holes, or hike through picturesque trails like Hancock and Dales Gorges. The park offers breathtaking viewpoints and opportunities to spot native wildlife. Camping under a star-filled sky adds to the experience, making Karijini a dream destination for adventure seekers. Its remote location enhances its unspoiled beauty, offering a true escape into Australia’s untamed wilderness and a chance to connect with its awe-inspiring natural heritage.

#australiatrip This is one of our favourite places in all of Australia - and we travel full time so that’s saying a lot! We came in winter (June) and there was an unusual cold snap so the wetsuits came in handy for some of the incredible swimming spots. Others we braved in our swimmers. We camped at Dales Overlfow which was also great. We did all the gorges and hikes and loved them. Kaylene at the visitor information centre gave us a full itinerary which we half followed and it was brilliant. She’s a wealth of knowledge. Don’t miss swimming in Kermit’s - that was awesome! And the hike getting there even better. Absolutely love this place! We will be back next year when it’s a bit warmer.