What are the Horizontal Falls?
The Horizontal Falls are a natural phenomenon in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, where huge tides rush through two narrow gaps in the McLarty Ranges, creating waterfalls that flow sideways.
The falls are in Talbot Bay, part of the Buccaneer Archipelago north of Derby. The tidal range in the area can exceed ten metres, among the largest in the world.
As the tide rises and falls, water builds up on one side of the narrow gorges faster than it can flow through. This creates a difference in water level, producing a powerful horizontal waterfall.
Seeing the falls
The naturalist David Attenborough described the Horizontal Falls as one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Most visitors see them on scenic flights or seaplane tours from Broome or Derby.
Fast boat rides through the gaps were once a popular experience. After a boat accident in 2022, rules changed, and the Western Australian government announced that boats would no longer travel through the gaps from 2028, out of respect for the area's Traditional Owners.
The falls are part of Lalang-gaddam Marine Park, managed jointly with the Dambimangari people. Visitors are encouraged to view them from boats and aircraft without passing through the gaps. The remote location adds to the sense of adventure.