Purnululu National Park

Deep in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia, Purnululu National Park is a surreal landscape of striped beehive domes, deep gorges, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. This UNESCO World Heritage site, also known as the Bungle Bungle Range, is one of Australia's most extraordinary natural wonders. Accessible only by four-wheel-drive or scenic flight, it rewards intrepid travellers with a raw, otherworldly beauty that feels millions of years old.

Highlights & What to See

• Bungle Bungle Range: The iconic orange-and-black striped domes are best appreciated from a scenic flight or a walk to Piccaninny Creek viewpoint.
• Cathedral Gorge: A dramatic natural amphitheatre with towering walls and a permanent pool – arrive early for the best light and fewer crowds.
• Echidna Chasm: A narrow, 200-metre-deep cleft where sunlight filters through at midday, illuminating the red and orange walls.
• Domes Walk: A short, easy trail that winds among the beehive domes, offering close-up views of their banded sandstone layers.
• Aboriginal Rock Art: Several sites around the park contain ancient paintings and hand stencils, providing a glimpse into Indigenous culture spanning over 20,000 years.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend two to three full days in the park to explore both the southern and northern sections. A scenic flight (around one hour) is a must-do for a true sense of the scale and patterns. If you only have one day, combine a flight with a walk to Cathedral Gorge and the Domes Walk. Note that driving within the park is slow – allow at least an hour to travel between the two main walk areas.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kununurra: The nearest town (about 250 km north), a good base for supplies and the start of many Kimberley tours.
• Lake Argyle: Australia's largest artificial lake, famous for freshwater crocodiles, birdlife, and stunning sunset cruises.
• El Questro Wilderness Park: A vast station offering gorge walks, hot springs, and a touch of outback luxury.
• Warmun (Turkey Creek): A small Aboriginal community known for its art gallery and as a fuel stop on the way to the park.
• Mitchell Plateau: Home to the Mitchell Falls, a spectacular four-tiered waterfall accessible by 4WD and a challenging hike.
• Purnululu Scenic Flights: Many operators fly from Kununurra or the park airstrip – book ahead for the best views.

Please check official sources for current details.