Did you know Cunnamulla is home to approximately 950 kangaroos per person? This charming outback town, perched on the banks of the Warrego River, offers one of Australia’s most authentic bush experiences. Located 780 km west of Brisbane where the Matilda Way and Adventure Way meet, Cunnamulla combines natural beauty, rich heritage, and genuine outback hospitality that will capture your heart from the moment you arrive.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Cunnamulla sits 780 km west of Brisbane and 140 km north of the New South Wales border. While remote, reaching this outback gem is part of the adventure.
By Air
Regional Express (REX) operates flights from Brisbane to Cunnamulla with stopovers in Toowoomba and St George. Flights run on Sundays and Wednesdays, taking approximately 3 hours total. This “milk run” service gives you beautiful aerial views of the changing landscape.
Ready to book your flight to the outback? Check available dates and secure the best rates today.
By Road
Driving to Cunnamulla is the most popular option, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. The roads are sealed, making it accessible for standard vehicles, though some sections feature single-lane roads where you’ll need to share with oncoming traffic.
- From Brisbane: 780 km (8-9 hours) via the Warrego Highway
- From Sydney: 985 km (11 hours) via Bourke
- From Melbourne: 1,350 km (15 hours) via Mildura
Explore the outback at your own pace with a reliable rental car.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Like most of Outback Queensland, Cunnamulla experiences extreme temperature variations between seasons. The most comfortable time to visit is during the cooler months.
April to September (Winter/Dry Season)
The ideal time to visit with pleasant temperatures ranging from 5°C to 28°C (41°F to 82°F). Days are sunny with clear blue skies, and nights can be cool to cold. Rainfall is minimal (22-30mm over 3 days per month), making outdoor activities enjoyable.
October to March (Summer/Wet Season)
Temperatures soar to 36°C-40°C (97°F-104°F), with hot, dry days. While rainfall increases slightly (25-53mm over 4 days per month), the heat can make outdoor activities challenging without proper preparation.
Local Tip: If you’re planning to visit the Cunnamulla Hot Springs or Charlotte Plains Station’s artesian baths, the cooler months provide the perfect contrast between the crisp air and warm mineral waters.
Getting Around Locally
Cunnamulla’s compact town center is easily walkable, but you’ll need transportation to explore the surrounding attractions.
Walking
The town center is perfect for exploring on foot. Follow the Cunnamulla Art & Sculpture Trail to discover local artwork while getting your bearings. The 1.6 km Warrego River Walk offers a pleasant stroll along the riverbanks.
Driving
Having your own vehicle is essential for visiting attractions outside town like Charlotte Plains Station (40 minutes away) or Eulo (69 km). Fuel up whenever possible as service stations can be far apart in the outback.
Cunnamulla town center and surrounding attractions
Where to Stay
Cunnamulla offers a range of accommodation options from historic pubs to caravan parks, each providing a unique outback experience.
Hotels & Motels
The town features classic old Queenslander hotels with wide verandas and country charm, alongside modern motels. Prices typically range from $80 to $180 per night for two adults.
- Warrego Hotel Motel – Central location with attached restaurant and bar
- Club Boutique Hotel – Renovated heritage building with modern amenities
- Cunnamulla Riverside Motel – Peaceful location near the Warrego River
Station Stays
For an authentic outback experience, Charlotte Plains Station offers accommodation in historic shearers’ quarters or camping beside artesian baths under the stars.
Caravan Parks
Two main options are available: Warrego Riverside Tourist Park (peaceful riverside location) and Cunnamulla Tourist Park (central location with easy access to town amenities).
Secure your outback accommodation early, especially during festival periods and the popular winter months.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Cunnamulla’s dining scene offers hearty country meals with a focus on local ingredients and traditional outback cooking.
Pub Meals
The local pubs serve generous portions of classic Australian fare including steaks, burgers, and seafood. Don’t miss trying the Cunnamulla Fella or Cunnamulla Sheila beers, brewed specially for the region.
Cafés
Several cafés in town offer breakfast and lunch options, homemade baked goods, and excellent coffee. The Cunnamulla Bakery is a local favorite for fresh bread and pastries.
Bush Tucker
Look for menus featuring native Australian ingredients like quandongs, wattleseed, and saltbush. These traditional bush foods offer unique flavors that connect you to the land’s indigenous heritage.
Local Tip: For a truly memorable experience, book a riverside campfire dinner where you can enjoy traditional bush cuisine under the stars while listening to stories from local elders.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
1. Cunnamulla Hot Springs
Opening in late 2023, the Cunnamulla Hot Springs offers a wellness retreat on the banks of the Warrego River. The complex features multiple geothermal mineral pools at varying temperatures, cold plunge pools, saunas, and steam rooms. The mineral-rich artesian water, drawn from the Great Artesian Basin, is known for easing muscle tension and improving overall wellbeing.
2. Cunnamulla Fella Centre & Artesian Time Tunnel
Your first stop should be the Visitor Information Centre, home to the iconic Cunnamulla Fella bronze statue commemorating Slim Dusty’s famous song. Inside, explore the fascinating Artesian Time Tunnel, an interactive experience that takes you millions of years back in time to discover the formation and significance of the Great Artesian Basin, which provides life-giving water to much of inland Australia.
3. Warrego River Experiences
The Warrego River is the lifeblood of Cunnamulla and offers multiple activities:
- Fishing for yellowbelly, Murray cod, and yabbies
- Birdwatching with over 200 species in the area
- Kayaking along peaceful stretches of water
- Walking the 1.6 km Warrego River Walk to spot local flora and fauna
- Swimming in designated areas during warmer months
4. Charlotte Plains Station
Just 40 minutes from town, this historic sheep station offers one of the region’s most authentic experiences. Soak in the open-air artesian baths filled with mineral-rich water from the Great Artesian Basin while gazing at the star-filled outback sky. Stay in renovated shearers’ quarters or camp beside the baths for the full experience.
Experience the best of Cunnamulla with guided tours that bring the outback to life.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Cunnamulla Museum
Located in the old Railway Station, this museum houses an impressive collection of local artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of Cunnamulla’s pastoral heritage and development. Don’t miss the “All Aboard” 3D audio-visual experience featuring holographic storytelling about the railway’s importance to the region.
Art & Sculpture Trail
Follow the Cunnamulla Art & Sculpture Trail to discover local creativity throughout town. Highlights include the painted water tower by renowned artist Guido van Helten featuring local children, the Railway Station Band Statuary, and various murals and sculptures depicting local wildlife and heritage.
Festivals & Events
Time your visit to coincide with one of Cunnamulla’s vibrant events:
- Cunnamulla Fella Festival (August) – A celebration of outback heritage featuring rodeo events, whip cracking competitions, live music, and the Cunnamulla Fella Challenge
- Outback River Lights Festival (Easter) – A spectacular celebration with light displays, live music, and arts along the Warrego River
- Stockman’s Show (Daily at 3 pm during peak season) – Watch impressive displays of horsemanship, sheep herding, and working dogs at the Warrego Riverside Caravan Park
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Wildlife Encounters
Cunnamulla boasts the largest kangaroo and emu population in Outback Queensland, with approximately 950 roos per person. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot these iconic Australian animals in their natural habitat. Drive carefully, especially at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.
Sand Dune Adventures
Experience the thrill of the region’s vibrant red sand dunes. Whether you’re running down the slopes or simply admiring the striking contrast against the blue sky, these natural formations offer both adventure and spectacular photo opportunities.
Stargazing
With minimal light pollution, Cunnamulla offers some of Australia’s best stargazing. The clear outback skies reveal the Milky Way in all its glory. Charlotte Plains Station is particularly popular for astronomy enthusiasts, combining stargazing with a soak in the artesian baths.
Eulo Mud Baths
Just 69 km from Cunnamulla, the Eulo Mud Baths offer a unique wellness experience. Soak in claw-footed outdoor baths filled with mineral-rich mud drawn from ancient springs, known for its therapeutic properties for skin conditions and muscle pain.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Outback Safety
The Australian outback requires some special precautions:
- Carry plenty of water (at least 4-5 liters per person per day)
- Wear sun protection including hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Inform someone of your travel plans if heading to remote areas
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full at all times
- Drive carefully at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active
Cultural Respect
Cunnamulla sits on the traditional lands of the Kunja people. Show respect for Indigenous culture by:
- Asking permission before photographing Indigenous people or artwork
- Learning about the cultural significance of sites you visit
- Supporting Indigenous-owned businesses and tours
Outback Etiquette
Outback communities have their own customs that visitors should observe:
- Wave to passing vehicles on remote roads (the “outback wave”)
- Offer assistance to broken-down vehicles
- Remove hats when entering buildings
- Engage with locals – a friendly chat is part of the outback experience
Practical Travel Tips
Communications
Mobile coverage can be limited outside town centers. Telstra offers the best coverage in outback areas. Consider downloading offline maps and information before your trip.
Banking & Services
Cunnamulla has basic services including an ATM, post office, and small supermarket. Stock up on supplies in larger towns if you have specific needs.
Packing Essentials
- Reusable water bottle and container for refills
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night)
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Insect repellent
- Basic first aid kit
- Camera with extra batteries (you’ll want to capture the spectacular landscapes)
Local Lingo
Familiarize yourself with some outback terms to better connect with locals:
- Ringer – A stockman or cattle worker
- Billabong – A waterhole
- Tucker – Food
- Yakka – Work (hard yakka = hard work)
- Fossick – To search for something valuable
Experience the Heart of the Outback
Cunnamulla offers a genuine Australian outback experience that goes far beyond the typical tourist trail. From soaking in mineral-rich artesian waters under star-filled skies to encountering abundant wildlife and connecting with the rich pastoral heritage, this remote gem rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or an authentic connection to the land and its people, Cunnamulla delivers with its warm hospitality and diverse attractions. As you plan your journey to this outback treasure, remember that the remoteness is part of the charm – slow down, embrace the laid-back pace, and allow yourself to be immersed in the timeless beauty of outback Queensland.
Ready to experience the magic of Cunnamulla for yourself? Start planning your outback adventure today!
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
