Nestled deep within the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Horizontal Falls are one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Often referred to as "one of the greatest natural wonders of the world" by Sir David Attenborough, these falls are unlike any other—created not by cascading water over cliffs but by powerful tidal currents that force water through narrow gorges, creating the appearance of a waterfall turned sideways. For adventure seekers and nature lovers, exploring the Horizontal Falls offers an unforgettable experience of nature’s raw power and beauty. Here’s your guide to discovering this incredible tidal phenomenon.

What Are the Horizontal Falls?

The Horizontal Falls, known locally as Horries, are located in the stunning Talbot Bay, within the pristine Buccaneer Archipelago. They are the result of immense tidal shifts—some of the largest in the world—that push vast volumes of water through two narrow, rocky gorges in the McLarty Range. The tides in this area can rise and fall by as much as 10 meters, and as the water rushes to equalize between the bay and the ocean, it is forced through the gorges, creating a horizontal waterfall effect.

The first of these gorges is around 20 meters wide, while the second, more challenging gorge is even narrower, at just 10 meters across. During peak tidal movements, up to 1,000 cubic meters of water per second can flow through the gorges, creating whirlpools and rapids. Despite the rushing waters and fast-moving currents, boats can navigate these falls, giving visitors the unique thrill of riding through one of the most powerful tidal events on the planet.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

How to Experience the Horizontal Falls

Due to their remote location, the only way to experience the Horizontal Falls is by air or sea. A variety of tour operators offer scenic flights, boat trips, and overnight adventures that allow visitors to witness this incredible natural phenomenon up close.

1. Scenic Seaplane Flights

One of the most popular ways to access the Horizontal Falls is via a scenic seaplane flight from Broome or Derby. These flights offer breathtaking aerial views of the Buccaneer Archipelago, with its turquoise waters, rugged red cliffs, and hundreds of uninhabited islands. As you soar above the falls, you’ll see the water rushing through the narrow gorges, providing a bird’s-eye perspective of this extraordinary tidal phenomenon.

Many scenic flights include a water landing in Talbot Bay, where you’ll board a boat to continue your adventure and experience the falls from the water level.

What we love: The bird’s-eye view of the falls and the surrounding Kimberley landscape is truly breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the region’s rugged beauty.

Good to know: Flights are often combined with boat tours or jet boat rides, allowing you to experience the falls from both the air and the sea.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

2. Jet Boat Ride Through the Falls

For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, take a jet boat ride through the Horizontal Falls. Once you’ve landed in Talbot Bay, you’ll board a high-powered jet boat and head straight for the gorges. The boat will navigate through the rushing waters of the falls, giving you the exhilarating sensation of riding through a waterfall on its side. The powerful tides create swirling rapids and whirlpools, making the boat ride both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

Depending on the tidal conditions, the jet boat may pass through the wider of the two gorges multiple times, allowing you to experience the full force of the tidal currents. The second, narrower gorge is typically navigated when the tides are less extreme, as the rushing water can be too powerful during peak tidal shifts.

What we love: The thrill of riding through the falls, with the powerful tidal currents making for an unforgettable adventure.

Good to know: Jet boat tours are generally led by experienced guides who ensure safety while giving you a front-row seat to this natural spectacle.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

3. Overnight Stays in Talbot Bay

For a more immersive experience, consider an overnight stay on a houseboat in Talbot Bay. Several tour operators offer luxury houseboat stays, allowing you to wake up surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Buccaneer Archipelago. These multi-day tours often include additional activities, such as fishing, shark cage diving, and helicopter flights, providing a full adventure-packed itinerary.

Staying overnight allows you to witness the tides at different times of day and experience the magic of the falls under changing light conditions. As the sun sets over the bay, the landscape takes on a golden hue, and the peaceful surroundings offer a chance to truly connect with the remote wilderness of the Kimberley.

What we love: The opportunity to explore the falls at different times of day and the peacefulness of staying overnight in this remote, pristine environment.

Good to know: Overnight tours often include meals, guided activities, and scenic flights, making them an all-inclusive experience.

The Tides: Nature’s Power in Motion

What makes the Horizontal Falls so extraordinary is the sheer power of the tides that create them. The Kimberley region experiences some of the largest tidal shifts in the world, with a difference of up to 10 meters between high and low tide. This vast volume of water moving in and out of Talbot Bay twice a day is what creates the rushing, waterfall-like effect.

At its peak, the falls can look like a torrent of white water, with the narrow gorges amplifying the speed and force of the water. The water flow reverses with the changing tides, meaning that the falls can flow in both directions over the course of the day. It’s this tidal reversal that makes the Horizontal Falls so unique—an ever-changing natural wonder that is different each time you see it.

What we love: The dynamic nature of the falls, with the tides constantly changing the appearance and intensity of the water.

Good to know: The timing of your visit will depend on the tides, so be sure to check tour schedules for optimal viewing times.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

In addition to the thrill of the falls themselves, the surrounding Talbot Bay and Buccaneer Archipelago offer plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching. The region is home to a diverse array of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and dolphins. Many tours include the chance to swim in a protected shark cage, where you can safely observe the region’s resident tawny nurse sharks up close.

Birdlife is also abundant, with sea eagles, ospreys, and other coastal birds often spotted soaring above the cliffs. The surrounding landscape, with its red rock formations and clear blue waters, provides a stunning backdrop for nature photography and exploration.

What we love: The chance to encounter Kimberley wildlife in its natural habitat, from marine creatures to majestic birds of prey.

Good to know: Some tours offer opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and other water-based activities, so you can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Final Thoughts

The Horizontal Falls are a true testament to the power of nature, offering an experience that is as thrilling as it is humbling. Whether you’re soaring above them in a seaplane, racing through the gorges on a jet boat, or enjoying the peaceful beauty of Talbot Bay at sunset, visiting the Horizontal Falls is an unforgettable adventure that showcases the wild, untamed beauty of the Kimberley.

So pack your sense of adventure and prepare to witness one of Australia’s most incredible natural wonders—an experience that will stay with you long after the tides have shifted.