The Kimberley region in Western Australia is one of the most beautiful places in Australia – if not the world. Here are some incredible things to do in the Kimberley to experience the magic of this area.
One of the most remote and beautiful parts of Australia, the Kimberley region of Western Australia is considered one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth. This area is roughly the size of Sweden or almost twice as big as the state of Victoria.
With its rugged landscapes, stunning coastlines, magical waterfalls and rich indigenous culture, it’s a dream destination for many travellers.
We spent several weeks making our way through the Kimberley on our recent half lap of Australia, and I can hand-on-heart say that it is one of my favourite places in the country. You could go back here every year and still have more to discover.
I wanted to share my favourite things about this region, so here’s your ultimate guide to the top things to do in this beautiful part of the world.
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1. See the Bungle Bungles
These iconic beehive-shaped rock formations are a sight to behold. Formed over 350 million years, the Bungle Bungle Ranges are the highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park. You can wander through the orange-and-black-striped domes or stop at lookout points to get the best views of these unique formations.
But there’s a lot more to do in the national park. Check out the acoustics in Cathedral Gorge or see the golden glow of Echidna Chasm. Our favourite hike was to Whip Snake Gorge, a roughly marked trail that winds over boulders and waterways and ends at a peaceful, shaded gorge.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: April to September to avoid the intense heat and rainy season.
- What to bring: Plenty of water (at least 3 litres per person per day), a hat, sunscreen and sturdy walking shoes.
- How to get there: Access to Purnululu National Park is via a 4WD track, so be prepared for a bumpy but exciting ride.
- What else to know: There’s very little mobile phone coverage here – we had nothing with Telstra, but others had some coverage with Optus
- Where to stay: There are several campgrounds in Purnululu National Park – book well in advance. We like Walardi Campground.
2. Wander through Mimbi Caves
Hidden away in the heart of the Kimberley, Mimbi Caves are a fascinating glimpse into the region’s geological and cultural history. These limestone caves are adorned with ancient Aboriginal rock art and stunning formations that have been millions of years in the making. The caves are part of the 350-million-year-old Devonian Reef system.
Tours of the cave system are led by a Gooniyandi guide, who provides insights into the cultural significance of the caves, making the experience even more enriching.
Our guide Ronnie was incredibly entertaining. He told us stories, sang songs and was frank in his discussion of issues facing First Nations people. The tour was a really interesting mix of cultural learning and natural discovery. Tours include a hard hat (don’t bump your head!) as well as warm damper and hot drinks around the fire.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: May to October when the weather is cooler.
- What to bring: Comfortable clothing, good walking shoes and a sense of adventure.
- Book online: Book well in advance because tours do fill up. Book online here.
- How to get there: The Mimbi Caves are located off the Great Northern Highway, about 90km east of Fitzroy Crossing. Keep an eye out for the small sign pointing to the turn-off (we missed it and had to circle back).
3. Drive the Gibb River Road
If you love Australian road trips, then driving the Gibb River Road should be at the top of your list. This iconic outback route stretches over 660km on a former stock route and takes you through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in Australia.
This is a bucket list item for many Aussies. The Gibb River Road isn’t just about the destination – it’s all about the journey.
Along the way, you’ll find stunning gorges, crystal-clear swimming holes and a sense of freedom that’s hard to match. Some highlights include Windjana Gorge, Bell Gorge and the epic crossing of the Pentecost River.
The road can be very rough – there are usually a few abandoned caravans along the roadside, fallen victim to the road corrugations! Ensure your 4WD is well-prepared with spare tyres, extra fuel and a comprehensive toolkit. Check for road closures and conditions with local authorities or online resources like Main Roads WA before heading out.
You can start the Gibb River Road from either the east (Kununurra is the closest town) or west (Broome or Derby). It’s the ultimate way to drive from Darwin to Broome!
Practical tips
- Best time to drive: May to September when the road is most accessible. The road is challenging during and after the wet season.
- What to bring: A well-equipped 4WD vehicle, camping gear, spare tyre/s, tyre pressure kit, plenty of water and food, and lots of spare fuel. There are a few fuel stops along the way, but it’s best to make sure you have extra.
- Important note: Check road conditions before you go, as the road can be challenging and unpredictable. If there’s wet weather, parts can be washed out completely.
4. Go stargazing
The Kimberley region boasts some of the clearest night skies in the world. We absolutely loved sitting outside at night when we were staying at Purnululu National Park and gazing up at the Milky Way sparkling above us.
Because the Kimberley is so remote, there’s minimal light pollution, so the stars shine brilliantly here.
Practical tips
- What to Bring: A camera and tripod to capture the night sky.
- Stargazing tours: Astro Tours in Broome runs stargazing tours, led by the self-taught astronomer Greg Quicke.
5. Take a helicopter ride over Mitchell Falls or Purnululu National Park
See the Kimberley from a whole new perspective with a helicopter ride over Punamii-Uunpuu (Mitchell Falls) or Purnululu National Park. While these sights are incredible from ground level, the cascading waterfalls of Mitchell Falls and the unique formations of the Bungle Bungles are even more spectacular from the air.
Companies including Aviair, HeliSpirit and Kimberley Air Tours run scenic flights from Kununurra and Broome to the highlights of the Kimberley.
Trips like this tour even include a stop on the ground at Purnululu for a hike before you’re whisked back by air. This tour includes a scenic flight from Broome, helicopter ride over Mitchell Falls, picnic lunch and dip in the swimming holes.
Practical tips
- Best time to fly: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and visibility.
- What to bring: A camera with a good zoom lens and sunglasses.
- Book online: Book a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungles from Kununurra or Broome.
6. Visit the stunning Cape Leveque
Cape Leveque is where red cliffs meet white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Located on the northern tip of the Dampier Peninsula, there’s no hustle and bustle out here – just the sound of waves crashing and birds chirping. Spend your days snorkelling, fishing or simply relaxing on the beach.
Elsewhere on the Dampier Peninsula, Beagle Bay is an interesting spot, famous for its shell-covered church – the walls and altar inside are covered with shells which is quite beautiful.
The Ardyaloon Community allows visitors for a small entry fee. This includes a guided tour of the hatchery, a fascinating stop to hear about the community’s reliance on the water.
Practical tips
- How to get there: Cape Leveque can be reached by a 2-hour drive from Broome.
- Accommodation options: There are several accommodation options available at Cape Leveque including beachside eco lodges and camping facilities. The facilities at Gumbanan Wilderness Retreat are pretty basic but it’s a lovely secluded spot. Pender Bay Escape and Middle Lagoon get great reviews.
- Best time to visit: May to October for the best beach weather.
- What to bring: Swimwear, snorkel gear, fishing rods, and sun protection.
7. Explore El Questro
El Questro is one of the most iconic places to visit in the Kimberley. This 700,000-acre property has everything from relaxing hot springs to hikes, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking gorges and waterfalls.
Spend the day exploring Emma Gorge, hiking to El Questro Gorge or relaxing in Zebedee Springs.
The Emma Gorge hike is an absolute must-do. This moderate walk leads you through towering cliffs and stunning rock formations. The reward at the end is a beautiful natural spring waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip after the hike.
For those looking for more of a challenge, the El Questro Gorge hike is totally worth it. Just be prepared for a bit of a trek – you’ll need a 4WD with a snorkel to get to the trailhead, but the dramatic landscapes and the unique swimming holes at the end make the trip worthwhile.
For something more chilled, Zebedee Springs is an idyllic spot where you can relax in thermal springs surrounded by lush palm trees. The springs are usually accessible in the morning, so make sure to arrive early for the best experience.
If you love it here and want to stay longer, El Questro has accommodation options from campsites to glamping to 5-star luxury lodgings. Book in advance, though, as accommodation books up very quickly during the dry season.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: April to October to avoid the wet season.
- What to bring: Sturdy walking shoes (water sandals are a good idea), swimwear, drinking water and snacks.
- Hike difficulty: Moderate to challenging; be prepared for some rock scrambling.
8. Marvel at Mitchell Falls
Mitchell Falls – known as Punamii-Uunpuu to the local Wunambal Gaambera people – is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Australia. Located in the remote Mitchell River National Park, the falls cascade down several tiers, creating a stunning natural spectacle.
Punamii-Uunpuu is remote. Prepare for a challenging 4WD trip into the national park, and then a moderate to difficult 8.6km return hike. There’s some rock scrambling required – but the end views are worth it.
Alternatively, take a scenic flight to Mitchell Falls! HeliSpirit operates tours on site.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: May to September to avoid the wet season.
- What to bring: Plenty of water, sturdy footwear, and a camera.
- Travel options: You can hike to the falls or take a scenic helicopter flight for a unique perspective.
9. Go whale watching
Between June and October, the Kimberley coastline becomes a playground for humpback whales migrating through the area. Seeing humpback whales breach and play in the wild is an experience you’ll never forget. Plus, the Kimberley coastline is absolutely majestic.
Whale watching tours offer a chance to see these grand creatures up close. Most whale watching tours operate out of Broome – this Broome whale watching tour gets good reviews.
Practical tips
- Best time to go: June to October during the whale migration season.
- What to bring: Binoculars, a camera and warm clothing for the boat ride.
10. Spot a famous boab tree
The Kimberley region is dotted with iconic boab trees, some of which are thousands of years old. These unique, bulbous trees are a symbol of the Kimberley.
Some of the most well-known boabs are the Derby Boab Prison Tree, which is believed to have been used as a holding cell for Indigenous prisoners in the 1890s, and the Boab Prison Tree in Wyndham, which was also used as a temporary jail.
Take a drive through the Kimberley region and keep an eye out for these magnificent boab trees. They make for great photo opportunities and are an important part of the local landscape.
Practical tips
- Where to find them: Look out for boab trees along roadsides or take a guided tour to visit some of the most famous ones.
- Respect: Some boab trees are sacred sites, so always respect any signs.
Not sure what to pack for the Outback? Check out my Outback Australia packing list, which covers everything you need to take to this iconic part of Australia.
11. Take a camel ride on Cable Beach
Cable Beach is famous for its long stretch of white sand and stunning sunsets. Every night, thousands of people fill the shoreline to catch a glimpse of the sun sinking into the horizon.
However, one of the most unique ways to experience a Cable Beach sunset is on the back of a camel. This is a quintessential Broome experience, and it’s easy to book with one of the three camel tour operators. Book a sunset camel ride here.
Practical tips
- Best time to ride: Sunset – of course! – for the best views and cooler temperatures.
- What to bring: Comfortable, loose clothing and a camera.
- Booking: Camel rides are popular, so book in advance to secure your spot.
12. Visit Lake Argyle
Lake Argyle is one of the largest man-made lakes in the Southern Hemisphere, and a beautiful setting. It’s not only vast but also home to a thriving ecosystem. Over 70 islands emerge when the lake is full, creating a unique habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Take a hike to one of the lookouts for views over the lake to get a sense of just how big this water body is. Head to the dam wall itself to see the sheer amount of water pumping through each day. There are great views over the lake from the road that leads here, as well as a shady picnic spot opposite the power station.
On the water, you can go kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or fishing – but it’s best to know first that there are almost 20,000 freshwater crocodiles living in Lake Argyle! They’re generally very gentle, however, and rarely bite or attack humans.
Sunset cruises are very popular. The sunsets over Lake Argyle are particularly magical, and there’s no better way to spend one than chilling out in the water by the boat, sipping drinks as the sun goes down.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: May to October for the best weather.
- What to bring: Swimwear, fishing gear (if you like) and binoculars for bird watching.
- Accommodation: There are various accommodation options around the lake, from camping to cabins. Lake Argyle Resort is home to the famous infinity pool that overlooks Lake Argyle.
13. Pick up a pearl
The Kimberley is famous for its pearls, so if you’re interested in learning more about these beautiful gems, a visit to one of the working pearl farms is a must-do. Visit Cygnet Bay Pearls or Willie Creek Pearls, and you’ll get to see firsthand how pearls are grown and harvested.
Both farms offer guided tours where you can learn about the history of pearling in the region, see the oysters being opened and even try your hand at shucking an oyster yourself.
You can also purchase some stunning pearl jewellery as a souvenir (although the ones we saw were very pricey!).
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: Year-round, but check tour availability.
14. Have a drink at the Hoochery Distillery
For a taste of the local spirit, head to the Hoochery Distillery. Located near Kununurra, it’s the oldest continuously operating distillery in Western Australia.
The Hoochery makes a range of handcrafted rums and liqueurs made from locally sourced ingredients. The tastings are a fun way to sample different flavours, and the distillery tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at the production process.
There’s also a cafe on site which has a good range of food to enjoy in the spacious outdoor area.
Practical tips
- Opening hours: The distillery is open year-round, with daily tours at 2pm.
15. Time your trip with the Staircase to the Moon
The Staircase to the Moon is a natural phenomenon that occurs along the coast of Broome. When the full moon rises over the exposed mudflats at low tide, it creates the illusion of a staircase reaching up to the moon.
This event is a must-see for anyone visiting Broome if you time your trip right. The best viewing spots are at Town Beach and the Mangrove Hotel, where you can often also enjoy local markets and live music during the event.
Or book a sunset boat cruise around Broome’s coast.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: The Staircase to the Moon can be viewed between March and November. Dates online here.
16. See a church made from pearls
The Sacred Heart Church in Beagle Bay is a unique and beautiful structure made using mother-of-pearl shells. Built by Pallottine monks and local Aboriginal people in the early 1900s, it’s an unexpected find in this remote region.
The church’s interior is stunning, with intricate shell mosaics adorning the altar and walls. It’s a peaceful and reflective place that offers a glimpse into the history and creativity of the local community.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: May to October, during the dry season.
- What to bring: Respectful attire and a camera. There’s also a donation box to enter the church – please drop some money in there before you enter.
17. Take a tour of the Ardyaloon Community Hatchery
Ardyaloon (One Arm Point) community offers tours of their trochus hatchery, where you can learn about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of marine conservation.
There’s a small fee ($22 per adult) to enter the community, which includes a guided Ardyaloon Hatchery tour and access to Jologo Beach, Middle Beach and Round Rock.
The hatchery tour is educational and engaging, providing insights into the community’s efforts to protect their marine environment and the reliance on the trochus to generate income over generations. You’ll also have the chance to see a variety of marine life up close, including one very snappy turtle! This is a little off the radar of many visitors, but it’s one of the most interesting things to do in the Kimberley.
Practical tips
- Best time to visit: May to October during the dry season. Guided tours of the hatchery run twice a day, throughout the year.
- What to know: This is a community, where people live. Follow the guidance provided by the Ardyaloon office and do not go into restricted areas.
18. Camp under the stars
There’s nothing quite like camping under the vast Kimberley sky. There are so many places to go camping in the Kimberley, but consider a Camping with Custodians site.
Camping with Custodians is an initiative that allows travellers to camp on Aboriginal land, with facilities managed by the local communities. The campgrounds are well-equipped, and at some there’s the chance to participate in cultural activities and guided tours.
There are currently seven Camping with Custodians locations, and six of them are in the Kimberley: Imintji, Mimbi, Violet Valley, Doon Doon Roadhouse, Djarindjin and Lombadina campgrounds.
Practical tips
- What to bring: The usual camping gear, food and water.
- Booking: Make reservations in advance (where possible), especially during peak season.
TOP TIP! I recommend renting a campervan in Australia – it’s such an incredible way to see the country. Motorhome Republic is an online aggregator, with plenty of well-known rental brands.
19. Spend the night at an outback station
Experience true outback hospitality by spending the night at one of the many stations in the Kimberley. Some are working stations while others have transitioned to tourism completely.
Lodgings vary from campsites to cabins to glamping tents – but whichever you choose, it’s always a unique experience. There’s usually hearty meals – and possibly freshly made scones – as well as live music or entertainment and the chance to relax under the stars.
Stations like El Questro, Digger’s Rest, Home Valley Station and Drysdale River Station are some of the options available in the Kimberley.
20. Cruise the coastline
The Kimberley coastline is best explored by boat, with its dramatic cliffs, hidden bays and abundant marine life. Boat tours offer a unique perspective of this pristine region – and access to parts that are inaccessible by land.
There are a variety of tours to choose from, ranging from day trips to multi-day cruises. You can also opt for a luxury cruise with all the comforts and amenities on board or a more rustic experience on a smaller vessel.
Practical tips
- Best time to cruise: April to October.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, a hat and a camera.
- Booking: Choose a reputable tour operator and book early to avoid disappointment, as places are limited.
Final thoughts: Things to do in the Kimberley
The Kimberley region in Western Australia is one of the more remote areas of the country to visit – but very much worth the effort. From the striking Bungle Bungles to the serene waters of Lake Argyle, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences. This is one of my favourite parts of Australia and an area I could explore over and over again.
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Which of these amazing things to do in the Kimberley do you want to do?
Related posts
Before you go… you might like these Australia travel guides:
- The ultimate Australia bucket list
- The best things to do in Kununurra
- The ultimate Darwin to Broome road trip – no 4WD required!
- Everything you need to know before visiting Purnululu National Park
- How to plan a half-lap of Australia
- An epic Adelaide to Darwin road trip itinerary
- 10-day Northern Territory road trip
AUSTRALIA TRIP ESSENTIALS
- Book your flight to Australia online with Skyscanner. I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
- Find a great hotel in Australia. Check prices on Booking.com and Expedia online.
- Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Australia on GetYourGuide or Viator. There’s something for everyone.
- A copy of the Lonely Planet guide to Australia will be handy.
- One thing I always purchase is travel insurance! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
- Pack sunscreen (look for SPF50 or higher), a hat and sunglasses because the sun is hot!
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