Must-visit attractions in Kimberley for a true wilderness experience

When you think of Australia, you’ll most likely think about its popular tourist destinations like Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and the like. And we end up missing out on the hidden gems. One such hidden gem is the region of Kimberley, located in the northwestern part of Australia. A sparsely populated area, Kimberley, the same size as Germany is home to only 40,000 people. Everything about this place screams rare and remote. You’ll find stunning countryside towns, two billion-year-old rock formations, forest-topped islands, sandstone gorges, cascading waterfalls, rock-art galleries and many more. For a truly Aussie wilderness experience, you must pay a visit to this hidden beauty. We’ve listed out some of the must-visit attractions in Kimberley that you simply can’t say no to! 

Must-Visit Attractions in Kimberley 

Broome

Behold the largest town in Kimberley, Broome. This stunning town would either be a great start to your journey or a perfect end to your visit to Kimberley. There’s literally something for everyone here. If you’re a beach lover craving for some sun and relaxation, then you must hit the Cable beach. Not just that you can also go on camel rides along the beach. 

If you’re looking for something offbeat, you can learn pearl farming at the Willie Creek Pearls. For wildlife enthusiasts, you can visit the  Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park or the Roebuck bay, where you can view Broome’s shorebird population. Broome would definitely top the list of must-visit attractions in Kimberley. 

Also read: Top tourist attractions in Western Australia

Mitchell Falls

Marvel at the cascading Mitchell falls that lies within the Mitchell River National Park. The Mitchell falls formed thousands of years ago when the Mitchell River carved through sandstone cliffs. This Kimberley icon offers visitors a chance to see one of Australia’s most spectacular and scenic waterfalls. If you wish to go for a swim, then you’ll have to take the Punamii-Unpuu Trail to find some amazing swimming holes on the way. 

Besides this, the National Park also offers an abundance of wildlife. Mitchell River National Park is home to 50 mammal species, 86 amphibian and reptile species, and 220 bird species. All you art lovers and history buffs, be sure to visit the Aboriginal heritage sites and rock art here. 

Lake Argyle

Swim in the largest freshwater lake of Western Australia, Lake Argyle. Nestled amongst a billion-year-old landscape, Lake Argyle is the paradise in the outback. The moment you enter this place, you’ll notice the overflow of abundant wildlife and the view of vibrant colours. This stunning beauty is a must-visit attraction in Kimberley.

There are a lot of fun activities that you can consider doing in Lake Argyle. Go on half-day cruises, and sunset cruises to witness the changing colours of the sandstone cliffs. You can also stop for a swim, take part in watersports, and go fishing while on the way. And not to scare you, but Lake Argyle is home to a large population of Johnston River Freshwater Crocodiles. But don’t worry, these reptiles are harmless to humans! 

Bungle Bungle Range

Do you like exploring outback landscapes? If yes, then Kimberley is home to some of the most beautiful outback ranges you’ll ever find in Australia. One such outback range is the Bungle Bungle range located within the World Heritage Site of Purnululu National Park. These bee-hive shaped karst sandstone domes are 350 million years old but they became popular only recently.

The Purnululu National Park is one of the World Heritage Sites in Western Australia. The best way to explore these orange and black striped domes in the national park is via scenic flights. You can also take the guided tours conducted by the local aboriginals if you’re looking for cheaper alternatives. The Bungle Bungle ranges have gone on to become one of the must-visit attractions in Kimberley.

Horizontal falls: 

All of us know of waterfalls that pour vertically. Now, what if I told you, there are horizontally cascading waterfalls? The Horizontal waterfalls located in Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago was considered to be “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world” by Sir David Attenborough. This natural phenomenon is created when intense tidal currents pass through narrow coastal gorges. This horizontally cascading beauty is considered to be a must-visit attraction in Kimberley. 

Getting an aerial view of the horizontal is the best way to experience it. You can do this by taking up a scenic flight tour or a seaplane. If you’re looking for a more thrilling experience, then hop on board the jet boats that through these turbulent waters. 

El Questro Wilderness Park

Kimberley offers a true experience of the Australian wilderness. A must-visit attraction in Kimberley for a wilderness experience is the El Questro Wilderness Park. Comprising 700,000 acres of ancient landscapes, El Questro offers real Australian outback experiences. 

You can explore the wilderness park via guided tours, horseback rides, four-wheel drive, scenic flights and helicopter rides. For all you hikers out there, go hiking on the three popular trails – The Emma Gorge trail, the El Questro Gorge Trail, and the Amalia Gorge Trail. For those of you who don’t prefer any physical activity, you can go relax in Zebedee Thermal Springs. 

Gibb River Road

Do you guys love going on long drives? Then you must visit the Gibb River Road. This 440-mile Gibb River Road, lets you explore the heart of Kimberley. This road connects the Derby town in the west coast with Kununurra and Wyndham in the east. The Gibb River Road is only accessible through Four-wheel-drive. It’s definitely a must-visit attraction in Kimberley.

As you drive through, you’ll witness red sandstone cliffs, boab trees and national parks. One of the popular national parks that you get to visit along the way is the Windjana Gorge National Park, wherein, you get to spot wild freshwater crocodiles. You can also go for a swim at the Bell and Manning gorge. There are several accommodations on the way if you wish to spend a night there.

Looking to visit off-beat places? be sure to visit Kimberley. This list of must-visit attractions in Kimberley should help you plan your itinerary. For more assistance, reach out to our destination experts. They will help you customise and book your itinerary. Alternatively, check out Pickyourtrail’s Australia Packages for some exciting itinerary ideas.