Kimberley

The Kimberley region in Western Australia is one of the planet's last great wilderness areas, a vast, ancient landscape of rugged gorges, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastline. This is a place where the red earth meets the turquoise Indian Ocean, where Aboriginal rock art tells stories tens of thousands of years old, and where the wet season transforms the land into a thundering spectacle. For the adventurous traveller, a journey through the Kimberley is an unforgettable odyssey into the heart of wild Australia.

Highlights & What to See

• Bungle Bungle Range (Purnululu National Park): Marvel at the surreal beehive-shaped sandstone domes, best seen from a scenic flight or a hike into Cathedral Gorge.
• Horizontal Falls: Experience the incredible tidal phenomenon where water rushes through narrow gorges, creating a 'horizontal waterfall' – a thrilling boat ride is a must.
• Broome: This laid-back pearling town offers stunning Cable Beach, where you can watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean from camelback, and a rich multicultural history.
• Mitchell Falls: A spectacular four-tiered waterfall in Mitchell River National Park, accessible by a challenging multi-day hike or scenic flight.
• Aboriginal Rock Art: Explore ancient galleries at places like the Wandjina art sites in the Kimberley's northwest and the Gwion Gwion figures near the Roe River.
• El Questro Wilderness Park: A million-acre station offering everything from luxury accommodation to rugged camping, with hot springs, gorges, and the famous Zebedee Springs.
• Gibb River Road: A legendary 4WD route that cuts through the heart of the Kimberley, passing through dramatic gorges, cattle stations, and remote communities – allow at least a week.

Suggested Time to Spend

The Kimberley is vast, and to truly experience its highlights you'll need at least two weeks. A classic itinerary involves flying into Broome, spending a few days exploring the town and nearby attractions, then heading north along the Gibb River Road, with stops at El Questro, Purnululu National Park, and the Mitchell Plateau. Many travellers opt for a combination of self-drive (4WD essential) and scenic flights to access remote areas. For a more immersive experience, consider a guided tour or a cruise along the Kimberley coast, which can take 10–14 days.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kununurra & Lake Argyle: Gateway to the eastern Kimberley, with stunning freshwater swimming, boat cruises, and the Ord River irrigation area.
• Derby: A historic town at the western end of the Gibb River Road, known for its massive boab tree and the Prison Tree.
• Drysdale River Station: A remote outpost and a good stopover for exploring the northern Kimberley.
• Katherine & Nitmiluk National Park (NT): A few days' drive east, offering the famous Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) and hot springs.
• Litchfield National Park (NT): Closer to Darwin, with beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes, a great add-on for those continuing to the Top End.

Please check official sources for current details.