The Kimberley region stuns with its spectacular scenery. This is a remote and wild region of soaring cliffs, mountains, gorges, beaches and thundering waterfalls on Australia’s northwestern tip. Hike in ancient mountain ranges, cruise through a deep gorge and swim in secluded waterholes.
The only way to travel through the region is by road. Set off from Broome and drive along the Great Northern Highway. It extends all the way to Wyndham, the Kimberley’s northernmost town. Before departing, check out some of Broome’s attractions. Enjoy a camel trek on Cable Beach and study the colonial and Asian architecture in Broome’s Chinatown. Then travel farther up the coast for a snorkeling or diving expedition at Rowley Shoals Marine Park.
Come back to Broome to start your road trip. The first major stop is Fitzroy Crossing, a small outback town that has easy access to Geikie Gorge National Park. Hike or take a boat cruise through the 98-feet (30-metre) deep gorge. Next, head to Purnululu National Park, home to the Bungle Bungle Range, striking orange and black striped rocky mounds shaped like beehives. Nestled among them is the colossal Cathedral Gorge. Explore the park on foot or on a four-wheel drive tour.
Approximately 180 miles (290 kilometres) north of the national park is Kununurra. Travel to nearby waterfalls, such as the Grotto. Swim in the clear water pools at Harry's Hole and navigate the gorges and canyons of El Questro Wilderness Park. Stay overnight in a riverside campsite.
Conclude your tour of the Kimberley at Wyndham, the region’s oldest and northernmost town. Among its numerous attractions are horse riding and walking trails and the Boab Prison Tree, which is believed to be between 2,000 and 4,000 years old.
Broome is the best-connected town in the Kimberley with flights to Perth, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. There are no international airports in the region. Other towns with domestic airports include Derby and Kununurra. Get around by car or book four-wheel drive tours with local operators.
Beautiful scenery, challenging hikes and wilderness solitude make The Kimberley a must-see destination.
