King George Falls: The Highlights

The first time you see King George Falls, it doesn’t feel real. The cliffs rise up ahead, red and sheer, split straight down the middle by two white streams of water dropping into the river like smoke. The boat engine cuts out, and for a moment, it’s quiet. Just the slap of the tide against the hull, and the sound of water falling from 80 metres above.

Everyone looks up. No one says much. There’s nothing to say that could match it.

This is one of the Kimberley’s most remote and iconic places. No roads. No tracks. Just river, rock, and sky. For those lucky enough to make it here, it’s a moment that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Where is King George Falls?

King George Falls is located in the remote northern Kimberley region of Western Australia, within the North Kimberley Marine Park. The falls are situated at the end of the King George River, near Koolama Bay, and can only be accessed by boat or air.

This is one of the most isolated destinations in the Kimberley, surrounded by dramatic sandstone cliffs and tidal waterways. The twin waterfalls drop over 80 metres into the river below, making them the tallest twin falls in Western Australia.

To the Balanggarra people, the Traditional Owners of this country, the falls are known as Oomari. They are a deeply sacred site and the resting place of the male and female Wunkurr (Rainbow Serpents), powerful ancestral beings in their Dreaming stories. The cultural and spiritual presence here runs as deep as the river itself.

How to get to King George Falls

By air

You can take a charter flight from nearby towns to see King George Falls from above, but from that distance it’s just a fly-by. You don’t get to hear the falls, nor do you feel the cliffs closing in.

By sea

The only way to get up close to King George Falls is by boat, and a luxury Kimberley cruise with True North is the best way to do it.

Coming in from Koolama Bay, the river begins to narrow and the cliffs rise sharply on either side. Around the final bend, the falls come into view. Twin streams pour from the escarpment straight into the river below. As you drift closer, the roar builds and the mist cuts through the heat. This remarkable approach is only possible because both vessels are custom-built to cross the shallow sand bar at the river’s mouth – no other 50-metre boat can bring you this close or give you a shower on the bow.

Travelling by sea lets you take it all in at the perfect pace. You’re surrounded by towering rock, ancient country, and the quiet thrill of being somewhere that most people will never see. With experienced guides and expedition tenders, True North takes you right into the heart of it.

Learn more about being on board True North and True North II.

Best time to visit King George Falls

March – April: Peak waterfall season

Right after the wet season, the falls are at their most powerful. Water thunders over the cliffs, the river is full, and the surrounding landscape is lush and green. It’s the most dramatic time to see the falls in action.

May – September: Dry season

As the Kimberley moves into the dry season, the weather settles with clear skies, cooler nights, and warm days. The falls begin to slow, but they still flow well into the middle of the year. It’s the best time for river cruises and low-flying heli tours.

Top things to see and do at King George Falls

Cruise beneath the twin falls

Approaching King George Falls by water is one of the Kimberley’s great moments. The twin streams drop more than 80 metres from the cliff above, crashing into the river below. The boat pulls in close, and you can feel the spray on your skin as the sound of the falls fills the gorge.

Take a scenic helicopter flight

From above, you see just how remote this place really is. Red cliffs stretch out in every direction, and the river cuts deep through the land. True North’s onboard helicopter gives you access to low, sweeping flights through the gorge or a full aerial view of the falls from the top down. It’s one of the most unforgettable angles you’ll get anywhere in the Kimberley.

Explore the King George River

Beyond the falls, the river itself is worth exploring. Sandstone cliffs rise high on both sides, and the calm, tidal waters reflect every detail. With no roads, no noise, and no crowds, it feels like a lost world. Guided excursions in True North’s tenders let you take your time and go deeper into the gorge – perhaps to cast a line for a barra, or to spot local birds, crocs, and even dugongs along the way.

Tips for visiting King George Falls

1. Be Crocwise

Saltwater crocodiles are common throughout the Kimberley, including the King George River. While you’ll always be with experienced guides who know the area and keep a close watch, it’s important to stay aware and follow instructions at all times.

2. Pack sun protection

The Kimberley sun hits hard, even early in the day. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses so you can explore comfortably.

3. Book in advance

This part of the Kimberley is remote and in high demand. If you’re planning to visit during peak season, lock in your cruise well ahead to avoid missing out.

It doesn’t get more Kimberley than this

Some places feel like they were made to be seen from the deck of a boat, or the window of a helicopter, with no crowds and no rush. King George Falls is one of them.

From cruising right up to the base of the falls to flying overhead in the onboard helicopter, this is Kimberley wilderness at its most powerful. It’s remote, it’s raw, and it’s only accessible to a few.

King George Falls is just one of the highlights on a luxury Kimberley cruise with True North. You’ll explore ancient landscapes, hidden rivers, and wild coastlines, all with the comfort and access only True North can offer.

Check out our upcoming departure dates. This is one stop you don’t want to miss.