Added: 10/24/2006 |
Kalbarri NP is the Perfect Holiday RetreatThe ideal weather is just one of the many reasons why Kalbarri NP really is the popular and perfect place to be for holiday travelers. In addition, Kalbarri is also the location for the famous shipwreck of the Batavia in the 1600s. During the months from July to October the almost 200,000 hectares of Kalbarri NP is transformed into the most beautiful and stunning carpet of wildflowers.
Maritime history
Established in 1951,the Kalbarri village has quite a unique history of maritime mishaps. For example, there have been several shipwrecks along the coastline of this park. In addition, Kalbarri is also the location for the famous shipwreck of the Batavia in the 1600s. Mutiny, murder, execution and punishment all play a role in this part of the Batavia history. After the shipwreck, Jeronimus Cornelisz took the Batavia over by mutiny, and was executed after terrorizing and eventually murdering 125 members of the surviving crew,
Beautiful carpet of wildflowers
During the months from July to October the almost 200,000 hectares of Kalbarri NP is transformed into the most beautiful and stunning carpet of wildflowers. This carpet of flowers comes in the colors of gold, orange, white, yellow, red, and green. All these flowers combine to form a magnificent pattern that only nature can shape. There are 21 species of plants on the cliff tops, along the coast, and in the gorges that can only be found in this park. These 21 species does not include the orchids that only abound in Kalbarri NP. Among these rare orchids are the Kalbarri spider orchid and the Murchison hammer orchid.
Most of the animals that live in Kalbarri NP are nocturnal. However, the western grey kangaroos do come out during the day. You will also notice the male emus out taking care of their little broods. They will raise the chicks until they are 18 months old. There is also a little creature around called the thorny devil that feeds off the ants.
Spectacular and yet frightening
The coastline of this remarkable national park in Western Australia is spectacular and frightening at the same time. Standing on the cliffs, some 100 meters directly above the rocks and water below seems almost scary. The scary part is the lack of handrails along the cliff. At times, while standing on the cliffs, you can almost feel yourself swaying back and forth, almost to the point of falling to the rocks below. Be cautious when approaching these cliffs.
There is a seemingly endless supply of activities to participate in at Kalbarri NP. One of these activities you will enjoy is horseback riding along the beach. You can also swim in the Murchison River. If you do not like swimming, go on a canoe safari. On the other hand, maybe you would like to watch the whales as they migrate past.
If you want to take a tour, try a coach tour of the Murchison Gorge, or you can take a tour of the other attractions that Kalbarri has to offer. For an unusual experience, take a camel ride or go windsurfing on the river. Alternatively, you can charter a scenic flight around Kalbarri NP. You also need to visit the Wildflower Centre and the Rainbow Jungle.
No camping allowed
Camping is prohibited in Kalbarri NP. In the village of Kalbarri, you will find all the services and accommodations you need to make your visit complete. All the tours that are available are booked from the Kalbarri village.
Remember, as you leave the Kalbarri village and venture out into this national park in Australia to use common sense. Please take your garbage with you, stay on the designated trails and pathways. There is no drinking water available in the park, so you will need to take all of your water with you. Please be respectful of the plants, animals and human that call Kalbarri NP their home. Have a great stay.
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