Explore the exquisite El Questro in the heart of the Kimberley

Branko's Lookout - El Questro Wilderness Park

What’s in a name? In the case of El Questro, no-one knows. The meaning behind the property’s moniker remains a mystery – well, to everyone except Torrance McMicking, who named the property in 1958 when he staked the original claim. Formerly a working cattle station, El Questro is 100 kilometres from the nearest town and commands 700,000 square kilometres of the Western Australian Kimberley region – around the same size of Morocco (yep, the country). While El Questro has changed hands many times, it wasn’t until Will and Celia Burrell took charge that the property’s focus moved from droving to tourism. 

But even though El Questro delivers nature, adventure and luxury experiences by the truckload, it still retains the rugged charm of its outback cattle station heritage.

El Questro is an untamed beauty, and she has so much to offer – deep gorges, craggy mountains, roaring waterfalls, secluded swimming holes and rainforest sanctuaries. If outback adventure is your thing, exploring the Cockburn Range via four-wheel-drive vehicle adventure on the Karunjie Track makes for a great day out among the majestic mountains. El Questro is a hiker’s paradise, and there’s a trek to suit any fitness level, whether you’re up for an exhilarating physical challenge or a leisurely sunset stroll. There are 200 kilometres of established trails traversing the property, taking in shaded gorges, cascading waterfalls, craggy escarpments and spectacular lookouts. If you want the fresh air without the exertion, opt for a tour on horseback.

There are more wildlife experiences on offer at El Questro than you can shake a stick at. Keen birdwatchers are in for a treat with frequent sightings of Rainbow Bee-eaters, Sea Eagles and Brolgas. If you’re lucky, you may even have a chance encounter with the endangered Gouldian Finch. A cruise along Chamberlain Gorge is another must-do for nature lovers; being on the water gives you a unique perspective of the gorge’s lofty burnt-orange walls, and the chance to get on eye-level with flora and fauna. Home to three river systems, El Questro’s waterways are full to the brim with barramundi, and with some of these spots accessible only by helicopter, there are no worries about your fishing hole being crowded out.

Travelling can be hard work, so it’s lucky El Questro offers luxury in spades. Soak your stresses away in the cosy Zebedee Springs; a series of natural thermal rock pools lined with lush Livistonia palms. For the ultimate in bush luxury, enquire with us about a stay at the exclusive El Questro Homestead. Nestled among fragrant frangipanis atop a cliff overlooking the mighty Chamberlain River, The Homestead features baths cantilevered over the cliff’s edge, sunset canapes and fine dining in your private abode. A tour from the air is the only way to access El Questro’s most exclusive and hidden delights. Take a helicopter flight to your own private waterfall and stop for a gourmet picnic lunch, or fly to a mountain top to take in the Kimberley’s rugged vastness over a glass of wine at sunset.

The Homestead too rich for your blood, and camping not your thing? No problems! Accommodation options also include super-comfy safari tents on the doorstep of Emma Gorge, as well as resort-style bungalows lining the banks of the Pentecost River. Imagine waking up to a view like that! Foodies rejoice – there are myriad dining options on offer, from café-style fare to hearty steakhouse meals. You can even get a cup of real espresso coffee to fuel your day’s adventures.

It doesn’t matter how much money or time you want to spend – there’s a unique adventure waiting for every traveller at El Questro. All of Venture North's tours to the Kimberley region include a stop at El Questro Wilderness Park, and we’re the experts at tailoring an experience to suit your budget and interests. Enquire or book today.