An Unforgettable Week in the Kimberley

Has travelling to the Kimberley been on your bucket list for a while but left you feeling a little overwhelmed? We don’t blame you – the Kimberley spans an area over 424,517km² or in other words, is three times the size of England! With so much space and so many things to do and see up here, it’s can be a little daunting to plan a trip without feeling like you’re missing out on something.

We have put together an itinerary that covers the best of the East Kimberley, ensuring you are maximising your time here but also allowing for enough time to explore on your own.

Let us take you on an unforgettable week in the Kimberley!

 

Day 1 – Welcome to Kununurra!

The name Kununurra was derived from the Miriwoong word ‘Goonoonoorrang’ which means ‘river’. An apt name for a town situated by the Ord River! Your courtesy transfer will take you to the immaculate Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments, which will be your base for most of your trip.

The day is at your leisure so why not explore the vibrant town of Kununurra. Take a stroll up Kelly’s Knob for spectacular vistas of Lake Kununurra and surrounds or simply enjoy a quiet afternoon by the pool.

Day 2 – Purnululu National Park

This morning the adventure truly begins! First on the agenda is a stunning scenic flight to the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park. From the comfort of your air-conditioned fixed-wing aircraft, you’ll see incredible views of the expansive Lake Argyle and Ord River before tracking towards Purnululu and the iconic black and orange banded domes of the Bungle Bungle Range.

After landing at Purnululu, you’ll be joined by your guide for a walking tour of the 350-million-year-old landscape, including the intricately striped Bungle Bungle domes and the breathtaking Cathedral Gorge – often said to have natural acoustics that rival the Sydney Opera House!

After your guided walk, you’ll head to your accommodation for the next two nights – the Bungle Bungle Savannah Eco-Lodge. Enjoy a swim in the pool or have sunset drinks at the lookout before indulging in the delicious chef-prepared dinner.

Day 3 – Echidna Chasm and Northern Walks

After rising from your private ensuite cabin, enjoy a delicious breakfast surrounded by nature before heading off to the northern area of Purnululu National Park. Today, your guide will lead you through the extraordinary Echidna Chasm, wherein parts the burnt orange gorge walls narrow to just two shoulders width apart. This beautiful chasm is decorated with bright green Livistona palms, which incredibly thrive in this rugged landscape.

After your hike, head back to the Lodge for a leisurely afternoon to recharge and relax before dinner.

Day 4 – Bungles from Above

Wake up to the serene sounds of Purnululu and enjoy another delicious chef-prepared breakfast. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Bellburn Airstrip for an exhilarating helicopter flight over the stunning Bungle Bungle Range. After walking through the domes, you will have a whole new appreciation for this unusual landscape as you fly low over the black and orange banded domes and Piccaninny Creek.

Don’t get used to being on the ground for long though as you’ll be back up in the air shortly for your scenic flight back to Kununurra! The afternoon is at your leisure, so why not enjoy sunset drinks at the Pumphouse Restaurant or take a stroll through Mirima National Park – often referred to as the ‘mini Bungle Bungle’.

Day 5 – Explore the Ord Valley

Today is a day for your own exploration. Take advantage of your hire car to visit some of the stunning destinations in the Ord Valley. Perhaps a day trip to explore the beautiful El Questro or visit Lake Argyle for a swim in the famous infinity pool, sample some local rum at the Hoochery or visit the Warringarri Arts Centre.

Tonight, you’ll be staying in comfort at Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments.

Day 6 – Discover Mitchell Falls

An exciting venture is on the cards today! You will be exploring the North Kimberley by plane, helicopter, and hiking over an area the size of central Europe. Untouched remote coastlines, cascading waterfalls and picturesque landscapes are all a part of today’s adventure.

Fly by plane over the Ord River Irrigation Area, Wyndham, Berkeley River Gorge and King George Falls before landing at the Mitchell Plateau. You’ll then fly by helicopter to the starting point of your guided walk to the falls. Once you reach the falls, take in the magnificent views while you enjoy a refreshing swim and packed lunch.

Your helicopter will be waiting to transfer you back to the Mitchell Plateau. Be sure to have your camera ready as the departure above and over the falls is absolutely magical!

The plane flight home tracks over El Questro and the Cockburn Ranges which offer stunning scenic views.

Once landed in Kununurra, head back to Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments to rest and recharge for the remainder of your trip.

Day 7 – On the Water

This morning enjoy a late start in the comfort of your self-contained apartment before joining your coach tour to Lake Argyle. From there you will cruise down the Ord River, enjoying the pristine waterway and stunning gorges accompanied by commentary by local experts. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the wide range of birdlife and maybe even spot a croc or two!

Enjoy your final night in Kununurra, perhaps with a delicious meal from the tavern or even take advantage of the poolside BBQ at your accommodation.

Day 8 – Hometime

We are sad to see you go but hope you had an amazing time exploring the East Kimberley! We look forward to welcoming you back soon.