If you’re looking for hidden gems in Australia, the whole Pilbara is the place for you. Compared to Australia’s other more popular tourist destinations, the Pilbara region is a lesser-known destination. Even for locals, not much may be known about what’s there to see and do in Pilbara.
Often labelled as the oldest place in the world, being in the Pilbara will bring you back to the world that once was. Taking the road less travelled comes with its perks, starting with immersing in the best of what nature has to offer. You don’t have to compete against a crowd of so many other tourists when you’re in a hidden location.
When in Australia’s Pilbara region, be sure to visit the following sites.
1. Dales Gorge Campground
If you’re travelling to the Pilbara region on your campervan or RV, make that advanced online booking at the Dales Gorge Campground. It’s the perfect place for you to stay and camp as you explore the rest of the Karijini National Park. Many visitors would use the Dales Gorge Campground as their starting point before visiting Karijini.
Before exploring the national park, there are activities you can engage yourself in at Dales Gorge to make the most out of the area:
Walk around the rim of the gorge for a view of the Circular Pool.
If you like to go for a swim, you may also go down the Circular Pool for a dip.
See the Fortescue Falls, which is just on the opposite end of the gorge.
Apart from the Dales Gorge Campground, there are other sites for you to sleep or rest in, too. Pilbara region is also known for mining and its caves. If you fancy a mining camp accommodation, such arrangement is available as well.
2. Karijini National Park
When you’re in the Pilbara region of Australia, the Karijini National Park is a must-visit. This is Australia’s second-largest national park spanning 627,422 hectares. Visit during early spring, autumn, and winter to experience the best climate as the summers can get excruciatingly hot.
When at the Karijini National Park, be sure not to miss out on doing these activities:
– Stay at an eco-retreat owned by the Aboriginals;
– Swim in spring-fed pools at the Fortescue falls;
– See the amazing and breathtaking views at Oxer Lookout.
3. Hancock Gorge
Going down to the Hancock Gorge isn’t for the faint of heart. This can be a tough hike and climb, so it’s best reserved for those who are able: non-beginner mountain climbers or hikers. But, if you’re up for an adventure, you can give this a try, too – just be sure to have a guide with you. Challenging it may be, but the views and experience are just one off the books.
The trail along the Hancock Gorge itself is short. But, it’s also the most exciting one. First, you have to make it through a narrow canyon, which will take you to a natural amphitheatre. This will lead you to the beautiful Kermits Pool.
4. Murujuga National Park (Burrup Peninsula)
The Murujuga National Park is best known for holding the highest concentration of rock engravings worldwide. These engravings are called petroglyphs, believed to be about 40,000 years old, dating back to when Aboriginal people inhabited the area for 50,000 years.
When visiting the area, you have to be very careful to show respect for those rock engravings. For the aboriginal people, they are considered sacred. Keep to the pathways if you want to have a perfect view of it – and don’t walk above it.
5. Mount Nameless
Are you looking to end the day with a perfect sunset? You can have that at Mount Nameless. The sunset views are just majestic. To the Aboriginal people, Mount Nameless is also known as Jarndunmunha.
One of the convincing reasons to visit Mount Nameless is that it is great for families and non-hikers. You don’t have to walk on foot, per se. It is Western Australia’s second-highest accessible mountain by four-wheel drive, giving you a chance to enjoy the spectacular views without sweating it out.
Be ready with your picnic gear, so you can set camp and enjoy an easy afternoon picnic while waiting for the sunset.
Conclusion
Pilbara may not be as well-known as the other destinations in Australia, but it simply doesn’t disappoint. No matter where you roam and travel around the Pilbara, you’re sure to be delighted at all the sites the region has to offer.
Particularly if you’re the type of traveler who enjoys an outback, nature holiday, then the Pilbara is here you’ll have the time of your life. With the list above, now you can start building your itinerary for your Pilbara holiday.
