Nestled on the banks of the Norman River, where the savannah outback meets the Gulf of Carpentaria, is the remote outpost of Karumba. This is the only place in Queensland where you can watch the sunset over the ocean. And what a sunset it is. Built on the back of a million-dollar fishing industry, Karumba boasts the best barramundi on the planet. And whether you’re keen to try it in a Barra Burger or fish it yourself, Karumba has an option for you. At 2,159km from Queensland’s capital Brisbane, Karumba is ever so slightly closer to Darwin in the Northern Territory. And the laid-back, relaxed nature of the residents couldn’t be further from the big city. Karumba is the perfect place to watch the world go by whilst sipping on a cold one and feasting on freshly caught Gulf crabs and prawns.
Fly into Cairns and ride the Kuranda Scenic Rail marveling at the ancient rainforests, dramatic gorges, and UNESCO World Heritage listed landscapes of Queensland’s tropical north. We then see the outback come to life as we traverse through the heart of the Gulf Savannah regions riding the legendary Gulflander and Savannahlander trains before an unforgettable tour of the Undara Lava Tubes in Cobbold Gorge.
Traverse the state of Queensland through Roma, Barcaldine, Emerald, Longreach, and Cloncurry to the Gulf of Carpenteria to experience an epic Gulf sunset and Sand Island dinner. See the outback come to life, learn about the heritage of mining, discover the indigenous culture, and ride the legendary Gulflander train as touring heads through Cobbold Gorge and Undara to tropical Cairns on this journey showcasing the best of Queensland.
No trip through Queensland’s Gulf Savannah region is complete without visiting Karumba.
Without a doubt, fishing is the big drawcard in Karumba, and there are several Karumba fishing tours that will show you the best spots. Another Karumba tour to add to your list is a visit to the Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only hatchery in the world to breed the Southern Gulf strain of this iconic fish. Learn all there is to know about the industry, adopt a barra and try feeding the big mouth fish yourself.
Karumba’s tropical savanna climate has two distinct seasons.
The 'Wet' from December to March brings extreme heat, humidity, and potentially heavy rains and tropical cyclones, closing roads and making access impossible. The 'Dry' is a more comfortable and visitor-friendly time of year so plan to visit anytime from April to October. The humidity is lower, and temperatures are somewhat milder. If you’re in Karumba in September or October, you have a chance to see the rare Morning Glory clouds roll through in the early hours of the morning.
Several accommodation options await you in Karumba, including caravan parks, camping and motels. The End of the Road Motel is the only absolute beachfront four-star holiday accommodation in the Gulf of Carpentaria; it’s where we like to sip on a cocktail whilst watching the sunset on our Outback Queensland, Central West & Gulf tour.
The nearest airport is Normanton, a 71 km drive away. But this region is so diverse and intriguing that you’ll want to discover as much as possible by road. So go to Karumba by sealed roads along the Matilda Highway and Savannah Way.
Croc and crab tours are big favourites for Karumba tourist attractions. Take a nature cruise to spot birdlife and sunning crocodiles whilst crab pots are hauled up in search of the ultimate catch. Or dine on a feast of fresh seafood on an exclusive sand island. Either option is magical.
Karumba, a hidden gem in Queensland, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant fishing culture. Fishing enthusiasts flock to Karumba for its world-class fishing opportunities, with Barramundi being a prized catch. The laid-back atmosphere, friendly community, and the opportunity to witness the unique Gulf country lifestyle also contribute to Karumba's charm.
Karumba boasts a diverse array of wildlife, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Gulf region. Birdwatchers, in particular, will be delighted by the abundance of birdlife, including migratory shorebirds and stunning species like pelicans, ibis, and sea eagles. In the surrounding waters, marine life is abundant, with the opportunity to spot dolphins, dugongs, and various fish species. The wetlands and mangroves near Karumba also support a variety of reptiles and amphibians. Nature enthusiasts will find Karumba to be a haven for observing and appreciating Australia's unique wildlife in a coastal setting.
Our team is always happy to help if you have any questions about us or our tours. Fill out our form and we will get back to you soon.
.png)
We are a Green Travel Leader. This is awarded to businesses which have consistently proven their commitment to sustainable tourism management over ten years.
As a Sustianable Tourism accredited business, we are proud to offer engaging tourism experiences that follow sound sustainability practices and environmental appreciation.
Quality Tourism accredited businesses like Fun Over 50 lead the way by offering the highest industry standards of customer service, satisfaction, reliability, and ethical practices.
We are committed to operating in ways that respect and reinforce Indigenous cultural heritage and the authenticity and integrity of living cultures of Indigenous communities.
We have incorporated strategic climate change responses across all relevant levels of our planning and operations. We are working towards becoming carbon neutral.
With Advanced Ecotourism certification, we offer outstanding experiences which let you get back to nature, help conservation, and minimise environmental impact.
We are a credible, well trained, and professional business. We conduct business in compliance with Australian Consumer Law and in accordance with ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct.
The Council of Australian Tour Operators represents tour operators and wholesalers. As a full CATO member, we provide authentic and original holidays with sustainable travel.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them, their cultures, and to the elders both past and present.
Powered by EngineRoom
Fill out your details and we will get in touch with you to reserve your place on the tour.
We roll out the red carpet so you can just sit back and relax and know that everything is included in your holiday experience, no surprises, all inclusive!
More on tour inclusions
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
_.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
