Kimberley Region

The Kimberley is one of Australia's last great wilderness frontiers, a vast and ancient landscape of dramatic gorges, towering waterfalls, and rugged coastlines. This remote region in Western Australia's north offers an immersive outback experience that feels like stepping into the prehistoric past, with some of the world's oldest rock art and geological formations. For the adventurous traveller, it's a destination defined by raw beauty and a deep sense of isolation.

Highlights & What to See

• Bungle Bungle Range (Purnululu National Park): The iconic beehive-shaped sandstone domes are a must-see, best explored on a scenic flight or via the challenging but rewarding walks into Cathedral Gorge.
• Horizontal Falls: A natural phenomenon where tidal currents force water through narrow coastal gorges, creating a 'horizontal waterfall' – experience it on a thrilling boat ride or seaplane tour.
• Broome: The region's laid-back gateway town, famous for Cable Beach's camel rides at sunset, pearling history, and the red cliffs of Gantheaume Point.
• Mitchell Falls: A spectacular four-tiered waterfall in the remote Mitchell River National Park, accessible by 4WD and a scenic helicopter flight that offers breathtaking aerial views.
• El Questro Wilderness Park: A million-acre cattle station turned eco-wilderness park, offering everything from hot springs and gorges to station life experiences and luxury camping.
• Aboriginal Rock Art: The Kimberley is home to some of the oldest and most significant rock art galleries in the world, with sites like the Wandjina figures at the Kimberley coast and Gwion Gwion paintings in remote gorges.

Suggested Time to Spend

The Kimberley is vast and distances are huge, so allow at least 10 to 14 days for a self-drive itinerary that covers the highlights from Broome to Kununurra. Most travellers choose a one-way route, either from Broome to Kununurra or vice versa, with plenty of time for detours to gorges and waterfalls. If you're short on time, consider a guided tour or scenic flight to see the Bungle Bungles and Mitchell Falls in a few days, but for a true Kimberley experience, two weeks is ideal.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kununurra: The eastern gateway to the Kimberley, with the stunning Lake Argyle and Ord River cruises offering wildlife and scenery.
• Derby: A historic pearling town with the famous Boab Prison Tree and a jumping-off point for the Gibb River Road.
• Gibb River Road: The iconic 4WD route that traverses the heart of the Kimberley, connecting remote stations, gorges, and Aboriginal communities.
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle Range): A combined visit with the surrounding park offers deeper exploration of the range's hidden gorges and palm-filled valleys.
• Mitchell River National Park: Often combined with the Kalumburu Road and the Mitchell Plateau, this area is a highlight for waterfall chasers.

Please check official sources for current details.