If you have a car, you have an adventure here in WA. As the largest state and with such incredibly vast and varied terrain, there is much to experience when you get out and about.
The Pilbara’s Warlu Way is one of West Australia’s most special but relatively unknown road trips. It’s a 2,480km self-driving route that follows the path of a giant Dreamtime snake called the Warlu as it zigzagged its way through some of the state’s most breathtaking scenery through the epic Pilbara. Driving the Warlu Way is an eye-opening experience in learning about and understanding our indigenous people’s relationship and connection to the land.
We’ve partnered with Australia’s Northwest to bring you seven must-see experiences on The Warlu Way.
1. Karijini National Park
A surreal and breathtaking place in the Pilbara, Karijini is a national park full of contrasts. You’ll find epic waterfalls, creeks, forest trails, desert plains, mountain ranges, and lush tropical oases just waiting to be explored.
Don’t miss Kalamina Gorge, Fortescue Falls, and for the more adventurous, the Spider Walk to Kermits Pool.
2. Millstream Chichester National Park
Millstream Chichester National Park is the heart of the Yindjibarndi people and home to the Warlu, the Dreamtime snake, and the ride’s namesake. This park is a tropical oasis of lush greenery, beautiful gorges, and tranquil rock pools surrounded by palms.
Don’t miss: swim at Deep Reach Pool (Warlu’s house), watch the sunset at Cliff Lookout, and hike the Camel Trail.
3. The Dampier Archipelago and the Burrup Peninsula
The beautiful Dampier Archipelago is a coastal wonderland of 42 islands off the coast of Dampier. Kick back on the protected beach at Hearson Cove on the Burrup Peninsula and see the thousands of Aboriginal rock carvings, also known as petroglyphs, in Murujuga National Park.
Don’t miss: swim and snorkel at local favorites Shark Cage Beach and Boat Ramp Beach, and follow Red Dog’s famous kelpie trail around Dampier (and see his memorial statue).
4. Roebourne
Explore some of the rich, vibrant histories of the Pilbara region. Step back on a visit to Roebourne, where you’ll find The Ganalili Center (think interactive cultural space, gallery space, gift shop). It is located in the old Victoria Hotel building on Roe Street.
Don’t miss: Continue to Mount Welcome Lookout and enjoy sweeping views of Roebourne, the coastal plains, and surrounding hills. For something a little more active, try the Roebourne Heritage Trail, a 5km or 5 miles walk through some key historic sites.
5. Point Samson Peninsula
An ideal place to bathe in the natural beauty of the Pilbara coast. Here you can meander along the jetty for sunset or sunrise, feel the sand beneath your feet along the beaches of John’s Creek and Honeymoon Cove, find a favorite fishing spot, or walk a heritage trail.
Don’t miss the Emma Whitnell Heritage Trail – near Roebourne.
6. Cossack
Another beautiful place to visit as you stroll through is a place known for its historical buildings, beaches (bring your kayak and fishing gear for plenty of fishing), art exhibitions, and a nice bite to eat in the cafe in the restored Customs building.
Don’t miss the Cossack Art Award, the nation’s richest regional art award, from mid-July to August.
7. The Mackerel Islands and Onslow
A fishing and snorkeling paradise, Mackerel Island comprises ten islands, two of which welcome guests – Thevenard and Direction – with world-class accommodation, facilities, activities and tours, and world-class fishing, diving, snorkeling, swimming, boating, wildlife watching, and relaxation.
Don’t miss: watch the sunrise through Onslow’s spectacular war memorial sculpture based on the ADF’s Rising Sun cap badge symbol.
The Warlu Way self-drive road trip is a magical way to experience the Pilbara region. Visit the website for more information.
