Kimberley landscape — ancient gorges and red rock

Local's Guide

Explore the Kimberley

Ancient gorges, vast stations, the Bungle Bungles and some of the most remote country in Australia. Here's how to plan your Kimberley adventure.

The Kimberley — ancient, vast and unforgettable

The Kimberley is one of the last great wilderness regions on earth — 421,000 square kilometres of ancient rock, gorges, wetlands and coastline. It's a place that demands time and rewards preparation.

Most visitors base themselves in Broome and explore outward. The key destinations — Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek, Kununurra and Wyndham — each offer their own character and access to extraordinary natural attractions.

Key destinations

Purnululu National Park

The Bungle Bungles — a World Heritage wonder

Purnululu is home to the Bungle Bungle Range — extraordinary beehive-shaped sandstone domes striped in orange and black. The park is about 300 km south of Kununurra and requires a 4WD to access. The drive in takes around 2.5 hours from the Great Northern Highway. Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm are the standout walks. Scenic flights from Kununurra and Halls Creek offer a spectacular aerial perspective.

~300 km south of Kununurra

4WD required. Open April to November. Entry fee applies. Camping available at Walardi and Kurrajong campgrounds.

Kununurra

Gateway to the eastern Kimberley

Kununurra is the main service town for the eastern Kimberley — a relaxed, friendly place with good facilities and excellent access to Lake Argyle, the Ord River, El Questro and Purnululu. The Mirima National Park, sometimes called the 'mini Bungle Bungles', is right on the edge of town. Lake Argyle, Australia's largest man-made lake, is 70 km south and offers cruises, kayaking and swimming.

~1,050 km from Broome via the Great Northern Highway

Sealed road access year-round. Flights from Perth, Darwin and Broome.

Fitzroy Crossing

Geikie Gorge and the Fitzroy River

Fitzroy Crossing is a small town on the Fitzroy River, about 400 km east of Broome. Geikie Gorge National Park, just 18 km north of town, is the main attraction — a beautiful gorge carved by the Fitzroy River, with boat tours available in the dry season. The Fitzroy River is one of Australia's last wild rivers and a significant cultural landscape for the Bunuba people.

~400 km east of Broome

Sealed road access. Geikie Gorge is accessible by 2WD. Boat tours operate April–November.

Derby

Tides, boab trees and the start of the Gibb

Derby is a small town on King Sound, known for its extraordinary tidal range — up to 11 metres, among the highest in the world. The famous Prison Boab Tree, a hollow boab said to have been used as a lockup, is 7 km south of town. Derby is also the western starting point for the Gibb River Road.

~220 km north of Broome

Sealed road from Broome. Derby Airport has regular flights.

Planning your Kimberley trip

When to go

The dry season (April–October) is the only practical time to visit most of the Kimberley. Many roads, parks and attractions close in the wet season (November–March).

Vehicle requirements

A 4WD is essential for most Kimberley destinations beyond the main highway. Check road conditions before you travel — conditions can change rapidly.

Fuel and supplies

Fuel stops can be 200–300 km apart in remote areas. Carry extra fuel, water and food. Check opening hours before relying on remote roadhouses.

Permits and access

Some areas require permits to enter, particularly Aboriginal land. Check requirements for each destination before you travel.

Planning a Kimberley trip?

We can help you put together an itinerary that suits your time, budget and vehicle.

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