Hidden in the heart of Western Australia’s Pilbara region, Karijini National Park is a place where ancient landscapes, dramatic red rock gorges and unforgettable adventures come together.
With towering cliffs, crystal-clear rock pools, cascading waterfalls and some of WA’s most spectacular hiking trails, Karijini is best experienced slowly. A five-day stay gives you time to explore the park’s iconic gorges, discover hidden corners of the landscape and unwind each evening at Karijini Eco Retreat — surrounded by nature and some of Australia’s best night skies.
Here is the ultimate five-day Karijini itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival
Your Karijini adventure begins as you arrive at Karijini Eco Retreat.
After settling into your Eco Tent, take some time to slow down and enjoy your surroundings. Listen to the sounds of the bush, take in the incredible views and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Afternoon
Join the Arrival to Karijini experience with Hike Collective and let it set the stage for an unforgettable experience, with a short stroll to Joffree Gorge – you will get to enjoy the sunset with bubbles in hand.
Evening
End your first night with dinner at the retreat’s restaurant, followed by a spectacular Pilbara stargazing experience. With minimal light pollution, Karijini offers some of the clearest night skies in Western Australia.
day 2: hancock & weano gorge
Start your Karijini adventure with one of the park’s most iconic areas — the Weano Recreation Area.
Known for its dramatic red cliffs, narrow passages and incredible geological formations, this area showcases why Karijini is considered one of Australia’s most spectacular national parks.
Morning: Hancock Gorge
- Take on the unforgettable Hancock Gorge adventure
- Explore narrow gorge passages and ancient rock formations
- Experience one of Karijini’s most famous walks: The spider walk
Afternoon: Weano Gorge
- Explore Weano Gorge
- Visit Handrail Pool (conditions permitting)
- Take in the views from Oxer Lookout, where four spectacular gorges meet
Tip: Gorge walks can involve steep sections, uneven terrain and water crossings. Always check conditions before heading out and wear suitable footwear.
Return to Karijini Eco Retreat for a well-earned rest after a day of adventure.
day 3: dales gorge, fortescue falls & fern pool
Day three is dedicated to one of Karijini’s most iconic landscapes — Dales Gorge.
Begin your day with a visit to the Karijini Visitor Centre, where you can learn more about the region’s ancient geology, Aboriginal culture, wildlife and the history of the national park.
Then continue to Dales Gorge, home to two of Karijini’s most loved natural attractions.
Explore:
- Fortescue Falls — the only permanent waterfall in Karijini National Park, cascading into a beautiful natural swimming hole
- Fern Pool — a peaceful oasis surrounded by lush vegetation and towering gorge walls
Take your time walking through the gorge, swimming in the pools and enjoying a picnic surrounded by the ancient Pilbara landscape.
After a full day exploring, return to the retreat to relax and enjoy dinner.
day 4: hamersley gorge
Today’s adventure takes you to the western side of Karijini National Park to discover the spectacular Hamersley Gorge.
Before heading out, make sure you are prepared for the journey — stop in Tom Price to refuel, grab supplies and explore the town before continuing towards the gorge.
Hamersley Gorge is known for its incredible colours, layered rock formations and the famous spa pool, making it one of the most photographed locations in Karijini.
Allow plenty of time for this experience, as the drive itself is part of the adventure through the vast Pilbara landscape.
Return to Karijini Eco Retreat for another evening surrounded by nature.
DAY 5: KNOX & KALAMINA GORGE
For your final day in Karijini, discover two lesser-known but equally spectacular gorge experiences.
Knox Gorge
Located within the Joffre Gorge area, Knox Gorge offers dramatic views into one of Karijini’s most impressive landscapes.
Take in the sheer scale of the gorge system and enjoy the lookout views before exploring further.
Kalamina Gorge
Finish your Karijini adventure at Kalamina Gorge, a beautiful and accessible gorge featuring layered rock walls, a seasonal waterfall and a peaceful atmosphere.
Return to Karijini Eco Retreat for your final evening, reflecting on five unforgettable days exploring one of Western Australia’s most unique destinations.
