After a turbulent start to the year marked by record flooding and global economic uncertainty, the Kimberley tourism sector is entering its peak dry season with cautious optimism.

Heavy rainfall across the north, combined with rising fuel costs linked to the conflict in Iran, disrupted travel earlier in the year and damaged key infrastructure, including parts of the Great Northern and Victoria highways.

In remote areas where diesel prices are already high, global supply shocks have pushed some self-drive tourists to shorten trips or stay closer to major hubs.

While most major roads have reopened, some sections are still under repair, creating ongoing access challenges.

Despite these setbacks, operators say the wet season has positioned the region well for a strong year.

Kununurra Visitor Centre chief executive Vivienne McEvoy said the rain had transformed the landscape into a lush environment expected to stay green into winter.

“Once it got going, we saw really good rain right across the Kimberley,” she said.

“That brings challenges for roads, but it sets us up for an amazing dry season, the landscapes are looking incredible. The Kimberley has some really exciting cultural experiences that you are not going to find anywhere else in Australia.”

The region is also preparing for the 25th Ord Valley Muster in Kununurra this May a major tourism drawcard, while the town is also in the running for a coveted tourism title after being named a finalist in the 2026 7NEWS Top Tourism Town Awards.

“It’s an amazing achievement from a group of local volunteers in the region to have brought the Ord Valley Muster to the region for 25 years; we are excited to have the event on our Kununurra doorstep,” Ms McEvoy said.

Tourism remains a key part of the Kimberley’s economy, which the Kimberley Development Commission has valued at about $563 million annually.

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures general manager Anthony Cleary said traveller confidence was returning after a slow start.

“We’re in full operation and looking ahead to a strong season,” he said. “We’re seeing people rethink overseas trips and explore their own backyard. People are absolutely still booking . . . I encourage everyone to holiday at home, and particularly in the Kimberley.”

Cultural tourism is also gaining momentum, with a $5 million allocation in the 2026–27 State Budget supporting the Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation to develop new experiences at Horizontal Falls ahead of the planned closure of boat tours in March 2028.

“Visitors really want to know whose country they’re on and hear those stories,” Mr Cleary said.

“We’ve been working with the Dambi tour guides and look forward to continuing to work with them to develop a product that is authentic Indigenous touring for our guests.

“The funding is great news and will help get young Dambi folk get out in their country to experience JUtourism, develop their skills and enable us to develop our skills and deliver an authentic product.”

Dambimangari cultural guide Robyn Mungulu said the investment would improve visitor experiences.

“As cultural guides, we are very excited for guests to come and experience the falls and surrounding attractions in a way that highlights the cultural significance of the area,” she said. “It also gives us a chance to share the correct stories and give guests a more genuine cultural experience, which has been missing in previous years.”

Further inland, operators are adapting to access issues and financial pressures.

Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge is offering fly-in packages to bypass damaged roads, as fuel costs have had an effect on early bookings.

Mount Heart marketing manager Carine Sayegh said the region’s appeal remains strong, though the cost of travel has been a factor for some.

“Definitely with the fuel situation we have seen an impact with our early bookings, which is unfortunate . . . Hopefully people can still get out here and explore because its such a beautiful side of the world,” she said.

“It’s a really unique outback experience, there’s so much to see out here — people always come back.”