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HORIZONTAL FALLS GUIDE

Discover Horizontal Falls in the Kimberley. Learn what makes this natural wonder unique, how to visit, what to expect and why it remains a highlight of Kimberley cruises. to visit on a Kimberley cruise.

We have put together this Horizontal Falls Guide, because there are few natural attractions in Australia are as instantly recognisable as the Horizontal Falls. On top of this, BlueSun Travel is the number one company in the country for booking tours to the Horizontal Falls too. In short...you are dealing with the best!

Located in the remote Buccaneer Archipelago of Western Australia's Kimberley region, Horizontal Falls is often described as one of nature's greatest spectacles. Rather than a traditional waterfall flowing vertically, Horizontal Falls is created by enormous tidal movements forcing seawater through two narrow coastal gorges.

The result is a powerful horizontal rush of water that changes throughout the day as the tides rise and fall.

For many travellers, witnessing Horizontal Falls is one of the defining moments of a Kimberley cruise.

WHAT ARE THE HORIZONTAL FALLS

An outline in brief

Horizontal Falls is a unique tidal phenomenon located within Talbot Bay on the Kimberley coast. If you were flying from Broome in a north-easterly direction, you would reach there in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. 

The falls occur when massive Kimberley tides push seawater through two narrow sandstone gaps.

Because the water levels on either side of the gaps are temporarily different, water surges through the openings, creating the appearance of a waterfall flowing sideways.

Nature's Horizontal Waterfall

Unlike conventional waterfalls that flow downhill, Horizontal Falls flows horizontally due to tidal pressure.

It is this unusual movement that makes the phenomenon so famous.

The Power of Kimberley Tides

The Kimberley experiences some of the largest tidal movements in the world.

Tidal ranges exceeding 10 metres are not uncommon, creating the forces that drive the Horizontal Falls.

CASCADING WATER at Montgomery Reef Silversea image

WHERE ARE THE HORIZONTAL FALLS

Where to find Horizontal Falls

WHERE ARE THE HORIZONTAL FALLS LOCATED? 

Horizontal Falls is located within Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago, north of Derby and east of Broome.

Due to its remote location, access is generally limited to:

Kimberley Expedition Cruises

Many Kimberley cruise itineraries include a visit to Talbot Bay and Horizontal Falls.

Cruise guests typically experience the falls from nearby viewing locations and Zodiac excursions.

Scenic Flights

Aerial viewing remains one of the most spectacular ways to appreciate the scale of Horizontal Falls.

Helicopter Experiences

Some cruise operators offer optional helicopter flights that provide breathtaking views over Talbot Bay and the surrounding islands. However, BlueSun Travel also deals with all scenic flight operators in the Kimberley. Tours can be booked out of Broome, Cygnet Bay or Derby for:

  • Helicopter
  • Fixed wing
  • Float plane

❖ View all: Scenic flight tours.

WHY IS THE HORIZONRAL FALLS FAMOUS?

The power of nature and outstanding beauty

WORLDWIDE INFAMY

Horizontal Falls gained international attention because there is simply nothing else quite like it.

The combination of:

  • Extreme tides
  • Narrow sandstone gorges
  • Powerful water movement
  • Remote wilderness scenery

creates one of Australia's most unusual natural attractions.

A Constantly Changing Experience

No two visits are ever exactly the same.

The appearance of the falls changes according to:

  • Tidal phase
  • Time of day
  • Weather conditions
  • Seasonal variations

David Attenborough's Famous Description

Naturalist Sir David Attenborough once described Horizontal Falls as:

"One of the greatest natural wonders of the world."

That description helped introduce the attraction to a global audience after he visited the Kimberley region and the Falls in 2002. 

CAN YOU STILL VISIT THE HORIZONTAL FALLS

Rumours and truths answered

ARE YOU STILL ABLE TO VISIT THE HORIZONTAL FALLS?

For the forseeable future, yes.

Horizontal Falls remains one of the Kimberley's premier attractions and continues to feature on many cruise itineraries and scenic flight experiences.

However, visitor experiences have evolved in recent years as tourism operations adapted to new regulations and management approaches. The famous "thrill ride" boat trips directly through the narrow gorges are being permanently phased out. 

The Western Australian government, in partnership with Traditional Owners (the Dambimangari people), has reached an agreement on tour access and cultural protection:
  • Current Access: You can still take seaplane and boat tours to the site, where you can ride right up to the entrance of the falls and safely view them. 
  • Tours THROUGH the Falls: Under the latest licensing agreement, 13 licensed tour operators (including major providers) will have their licenses to actually pass through the falls extended until the end of the 2028 season. 
  • The Future: After 2028, all boat traversal through the falls will stop completely, shifting the tourism experience entirely toward scenic viewing, cultural education, and Talbot Bay cruising.

Today, the emphasis is increasingly on appreciating the falls through guided viewing experiences, Zodiac excursions and scenic flights.

Viewing the Falls from the Water

Many Kimberley cruises offer excellent opportunities to view the falls from nearby waterways.

Viewing the Falls from the Air

Aerial perspectives reveal the full scale of the tidal movements and surrounding archipelago.

❖ Reivew all Scenic flight tours.

WILDLIFE AROUND THE HORIZONTAL FALLS

Marine and land wildlife to be seen

HORIZONTAL FALLS WILDLIFE

The waters and islands surrounding Talbot Bay support a rich variety of wildlife.

Saltwater Crocodiles

The Kimberley's famous crocodiles are regularly seen in surrounding estuaries and mangrove systems.

Marine Life

Dolphins, fish species and other marine creatures inhabit the waters around the falls.

Birdlife

Sea eagles, ospreys and numerous coastal birds are commonly observed in the area.

HORIZONTAL FALLS ON A KIMBERLEY CRUISE

The best way to see the Horizontal Falls

WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR CRUISE

For many travellers, a Kimberley cruise provides the most relaxed and immersive way to experience Horizontal Falls.

Rather than visiting for a few hours, cruise passengers experience the attraction as part of a broader exploration of the Kimberley coastline.

Included on Many Kimberley Itineraries

Horizontal Falls is featured on numerous:

  • Broome to Darwin cruises
  • Darwin to Broome cruises
  • Expedition cruises
  • Small ship voyages

Part of a Bigger Kimberley Experience

Most itineraries combine Horizontal Falls with other highlights including:

  • Montgomery Reef
  • King George Falls
  • Prince Regent River
  • Raft Point

HORIZONTAL FALLS vs MONTGOMERY REEF

Comparing the two most popular Kimberley attractions

WHICH ONE TAKES THE GLORY

Travellers often ask which attraction is more impressive.

The reality is that they offer very different experiences.

Horizontal Falls

Known for powerful tidal movement through narrow gorges.

Montgomery Reef

Known for an entire reef emerging from the ocean as tides recede.

Many visitors consider both to be essential Kimberley experiences.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT THE HORIZONTAL FALLS

What months to visit

THE MOST POPULAR TIME TO VISIT THE FALLS

Horizontal Falls can be experienced throughout the Kimberley cruise season. Tides affect the movement of water which can rise and fall up to 10 metres twice a day except on neap tides. 

Early Season (April–May)

  • Strong waterfalls throughout the Kimberley
  • Lush landscapes
  • Excellent photography

Mid-Season (June–August)

  • Comfortable temperatures
  • Peak cruising season
  • Excellent wildlife viewing

Late Season (September–October)

  • Warm weather
  • Beautiful light for photography
  • Fewer departures

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs

Massive Kimberley tides force seawater through narrow sandstone gaps, creating horizontal water movement. This can be up to 10 metres a day, twice a day. However, there are also "neap tides" when very little water moves between the inner lagoons and Talbot Bay. These occur twice a month two and may last from 4 to 6 days. 

Within Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago of the Kimberley region.

If you fly from Broome in a north easterly direction, you would likely be there 1 hour and 15 minutes later, or from Derby it would take 35 minutes. 

Yes. Almost all Kimberley expedition cruises and charter boats visit Montgomery Reef. This is pretty much true of every cruise lasting 9 days or more. 

Absolutely. It is widely regarded as one of the Kimberley's signature attractions and is the #1 tour booked through BlueSun Travel in Australia. 

Yes. It is widely known that the West Australian goverment, in conjunction with the Aboriginal Native Title Holders, will close access to boats going through the gap in the Horizontal Falls in 2028. Until then, it is business as usual. 

READY TO EXPERIENCE THE HORIZONTAL FALLS FOR YOURSELF

Speak to our Horizontal Falls and Kimberley Cruise experts now.

GET READY TO BOOK NOW!

Witnessing the immense tidal forces of Horizontal Falls is one of the defining moments of any Kimberley expedition cruise. Whether viewed from the water, from the air or as part of a broader Kimberley itinerary, it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression on almost every traveller.

The challenge isn't deciding whether Horizontal Falls is worth seeing—it's choosing the right cruise to get you there.

With dozens of itineraries, departure dates and ships operating throughout the Kimberley season, finding the best option can be overwhelming.

Our Kimberley cruise specialists can help you compare itineraries, explain which ships visit Horizontal Falls, and recommend departures based on your travel dates, interests and budget.

Need Help Choosing the Right Kimberley Cruise?

✔ Compare cruise lines and ships
✔ Find departures that include Horizontal Falls
✔ Get expert advice on the best time to travel
✔ Access current availability and special offers

Speak with a Kimberley cruise specialist today and start planning your adventure to one of Australia's most extraordinary natural wonders.

CONTINUE EXPLORING THE KIMBERLEY

❖ Montgomery Reef Guide – Discover the Kimberley's incredible tidal reef system.

❖ King George Falls Guide – Explore one of Western Australia's tallest waterfalls.

❖ Kimberley Cruise Routes & Itineraries – See where Kimberley cruises travel.

❖ Best Time to Cruise the Kimberley – Find the ideal month for your journey.

❖ Kimberley Cruise Wildlife Guide – Learn about crocodiles, whales, turtles and more.

To learn more about this natural phenomenon, or to ask more questions about our Horizontal Falls Guide call our office now,

1300 799 758

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