Into the heart of the Kimberley
Wild, rugged, ancient, majestic – there are so many ways to describe Western Australia’s Kimberley region.
This vast, diverse area in Australia’s far north-west is twice the size of Victoria and almost as big as California. And what better way to enjoy it than from the comfortable seat of a custom-built four-wheel-drive?
Sandstone beehives
Within Purnululu National Park sit the 300m-high black and orange-striped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range. One of the Kimberley’s most popular attractions, this world heritage listed sandstone rock formation is home to the towering, sunlit walls of Echidna Chasm and the natural red-rock amphitheatre of Cathedral Gorge.
A bushwalker’s delight, the Bungle Bungle Range features about 130 bird species, including the elusive, white-quilled rock pigeon and the Australian bustard. You may also spot goannas, echidnas and perhaps a shy nail-tail wallaby or short-eared rock wallaby.
Nothing beats the Bungle Bungles at sunset. Watch the sunset make the orange rocks sparkle and dance while you sit back, a glass of bubbles in hand, to enjoy Mother Nature’s spectacular show.
Kimberley’s crown jewel
Spread over four craggy sandstone tiers, Mitchell Falls – known as Punamii-Uunpuu to the Wunambal people – are one of the Kimberley’s most loved and photographed tourist attractions. The old saying, ‘getting there is half the fun’ rings true in this remote region. A trip to the falls off the legendary, red-dirt Gibb River Road gives you an up-close look at some stunning scenery, including the seemingly upside-down baobab trees and peaceful, freshwater gorges.
For something truly spectacular, jump aboard a helicopter for a bird’s-eye view. Get a sense of Mitchell Falls’ true majesty from your seat in the sky and take in the surrounding gorges, emerald-green water pools, and lofty crimson rock faces.
Soak away your troubles
Spoil yourself at the serene, calming oasis of Zebedee Springs, a group of thermal pools and waterfalls on the untamed, million-acre region of El Questro. Set among a secluded, prehistoric forest of Livistona and Pandanus palms, the warm, calm waters of Zebedee Springs are fed by deep underground reservoirs.
Pushed through ancient fault lines and warmed by hot rock deep within the earth’s crust, the water remains at about 30C year-round. Sit back, relax and let nature’s bathtub provide solace as the hectic world melts into the background.
Wetland wonders
Known for its fish, freshwater crocodiles, wallabies and for being home to nearly a third of Australia’s recognised bird species, Lake Argyle is the biggest man-made lake in the southern hemisphere.
The lake was formed by the Ord River Dam (the Ord River flows through Lake Argyle and Lake Kununurra) and is classified as an inland sea. At its peak, Lake Argyle holds more than 32 million cubic metres of water, an astonishing 20 times more than Sydney Harbour.
An Ord River wildlife cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy these spectacular waterways. Wind your way through creeks and calming lagoons, and the red rocky ledges of the Carr Boyd Range. Then, enjoy the view from Lake Kununurra and watch the amber sun descend below the horizon. Now that’s hard to beat.
Stories set in stone
The incredible Mimbi Caves are set among the 350-million-year-old Devonian Reef system. These caves are a star attraction for geologists and adventurers from around the world. Step through the gnarled limestone formations and crystal-clear freshwater pools and see the beautifully preserved fossilised reefs.
Mimbi Caves are an ancient haven for the Gooniyandi people. A knowledgeable local guide can show you the various rock formations, including speleothems, stalagmites, shawls, flowstones and sparkling calcite crystals that’ve formed over millions of years. The caves are also adorned with ancient rock paintings that each tell a unique story about the connection between the land and local people.
See the Kimberley in style and comfort with APT
An APT Outback 4WD Tour is the perfect recipe for an unforgettable Kimberley trip. Sit back (or recline) in comfort in climate-controlled, custom-built four-wheel-drive vehicles and listen to friendly, expert guides explain the stunning surroundings.
Enjoy exclusive access to unique landscapes and locations and be informed and entertained by live maps, documentaries and cameras showing the road ahead. It’s all been designed to help make your visit to the Kimberley even more special and memorable.
Keen to see the Kimberley?
Book an APT Outback 4WD Kimberley tour with an RAA travel agent.