DRIVING THE GIBB RIVER ROAD: WHAT TO EXPECT & HOW TO PREPARE
The Gibb River Road is one of Australia’s great outback adventures. From rugged river crossings and corrugated tracks to spectacular gorges, waterfalls and vast Kimberley landscapes, the journey is every bit as much a part of the experience as the destination.
But the Gibb River Road is a 660km unsealed road in one of Australia’s most remote regions - a little preparation goes a long way towards making your adventure a memorable one for all the right reasons.
Be Prepared for Remoteness and Expect Genuine Outback Driving
The remoteness is part of what makes the Gibb River Road so special, but it also means being prepared to travel self-sufficiently. Mobile reception is limited or non-existent, services can be hundreds of kilometres apart.
Before leaving the bitumen, make sure your vehicle has been properly serviced and is ready for remote-area travel. Plan ahead, carry the essentials and be prepared to manage minor vehicle issues yourself along the way.
Know the Conditions Before You Leave
Road and river conditions can change throughout the season, so always check the latest information before setting out.
Here’s what to expect through the season however always stay up to date with road closures and conditions from Main Roads WA.
October to Late April: Roads are generally closed for the off season.
Late April: Roads generally start to open to high-clearance 4WDs first, with heavier vehicles permitted as conditions dry. River crossings can still be high after the wet season, so a snorkel and recovery equipment are recommended.
May: The Kimberley dries quickly. River levels drop and road conditions generally become easier to navigate. Snorkels still recommended for some sections. Check with local operators before driving out to them.
Mid-June onwards: Peak Gibb season begins. Roads are generally dry and road graders are active, although increased traffic can quickly create corrugations and dust clouds. This is a great time for less experienced 4WD travellers to travel the Gibb however its important to still be prepared and take it easy on the roads.
Off Road 4WD Checklist for Australian Roadtrips
Before hitting the Gibb, make sure you're carrying the essentials for remote 4WD travel:
Two spare tyres (check your jack and other equipment before leaving!)
Tyre repair kit
Air compressor & tyre pressure gauge
Suitable jack & wheel-changing tools
Recovery gear – snatch straps, rated recovery points & recovery boards
Satellite phone or starlink
Basic tool kit & essential vehicle spares
First aid kit
Plenty of drinking water
Emergency food supplies
Adequate fuel & planned fuel stops
Most importantly, know how to change a tyre and how to use your equipment before you leave. Being able to change a tyre, repair a basic puncture, check tyre compressions and safely use your recovery gear is an important part of being prepared for the Gibb River Road.
Local Service Providers Along The Gibb River Road
Even the best-prepared travellers occasionally encounter unexpected problems. For mechanical problems, assistance can take time to arrange. Here are some local operators that can assist:
Derby Stock Supplies offer a tow truck service.
Over the Range Mechanical Repairs offers services near Mt Barnett Roadhouse
El Questro offers tyre replacements
All other mechanical services are located in Derby or Kununurra. That's simply one of the realities of travelling through a region as remote as the Kimberley so please remember to be prepared when travelling.
Planning Your Gibb River Road Adventure
With these 4WD essentials packed and ready to go, you will be better prepared to take on your Gibb River Road adventure. For a more in-depth guide on how to complete the Gibb River Road, check out Mount Hart's 10 Day Gibb River Road Trip Itinerary and Guide so you don't miss any breathtaking locations.
Want to Experience the Gibb but Not Confident to Drive?
You don't have to tackle the Gibb behind the wheel to experience it. Mount Hart's ‘Choose Your Adventure’ 1-3 Day Packages offer a taste of the best of the Kimberley, with return charter flights from Broome, guided 4WD adventures that travel the famous Gibb River Road, helicopter experiences, accommodation, dining and more.
Explore iconic landscapes by land and air, then return to the comforts of Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge each evening. It's the ultimate Gibb River Road taster - with all the adventure, all the comforts and none of the driving stress.
