The 14 most incredible things to do in the Kimberley

Within Purnululu National Park are the Bungle Bungles – 20-million-year-old sandstone cone karst structures. If you’re not a geologist and had no idea what that meant (like us), it's a result of tectonic plates colliding, the sand beneath them being compressed and eventually eroding to reveal dome-shaped structures that, frankly, are hard to believe are real. Even more surreal? Despite the Bungle Bungles sprawling a mammoth 450 square kilometres, no one other than First Nations people knew they existed until the 80s. You can explore the well-signed walking trails that are entwined among the domes. Or if you’re (literally) up for it, take a helicopter flight to admire them from above.

While Echidna Chasm isn’t as famed as the Bungle Bungles, it’s a dire shame to miss it. Also located in Purnululu National Park, the two-kilometre rocky trail that leads into the chasm asks visitors to clamber over giant boulders, passing gargantuan red-orange chasm rock walls and pre-historic livistona palm trees. 

There’s something about swimming in nature that feels so human. And even more so when in a cave. Dimalurru, a 750-metre-long natural tunnel, offers an escape from the Kimberley’s heat in the form of freshwater swimming. It’s in the outdoors, sure, but it feels like nature’s very own version of an indoor swimming pool. 

Even if you’re not a camper, we highly recommend it in the Kimberley. Whether that’s in a standard tent, a mid-range safari tent with stretcher beds, or a glamping tent, get as close to nature as possible by waking with the sun and sleeping under a sky full of stars.

Discover the endless beauty of Australia’s untamed Kimberley region from this expansive 700,000 acre property, housing a maximum of only 20 guests. The Homestead opens seasonally from April to October, offering a relaxed escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Along with feather-topped beds and double deluxe baths, guests are treated to gourmet meals daily, the finest local beverages and selected tours, such as a river cruise, exclusive use of Zebedee Thermal Springs, a sunset trip to Buddy’s Point, and guided walks through the rugged gorges and tranquil rainforests of the Kimberley region.

These cascading waterfalls are one of the region’s greatest natural gems. The wet season is the best time to view the falls from a helicopter, while in the dry season, they can be accessed by 4WD.

When it’s not full of water, you can walk into Cathedral Gorge, a famed spot tucked in the Bungle Bungles. After passing through a narrowing of sandstone structures, a grand, almost amphitheatre-like space reveals itself. Sure, if you tested the acoustics in here, they’d be fantastic. However, we advise you don’t. Instead, take a seat – you might even want to lie down – and enjoy being held by the earth in silence as you admire the gorge’s towering walls.

Deepen your insight into the Indigenous cultures of the Kimberley by visiting one of its art galleries. You’ll see how stories, traditions and beliefs are captured through arts of multiple mediums, using traditional and modern techniques. A visit and purchase of local art supports communities in this remote part of the country.

Step inside this natural labyrinth, part of the 350-million-year-old Devonian coral reef system. Walk among limestone stalagmites with a local First Nations guide, marvel at the glimmering calcite crystals and freshwater pools as you hear Dreaming stories and how First Nations people inhabited the caves.

In the wet season (October to May), a river runs through Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) meaning, for the most part, it’s inaccessible. While in the dry season (April to September) the riverbank greenery comes to life. Stroll along the gorge’s tranquil paths and look out for birdlife. If you’re lucky, you might see a bowerbird or its nest. As tempting as it is, know that swimming is not recommended here, given the number of crocodiles in this spot.

Back in Broome, beachgoers ought to head to the town’s postcard-perfect Cable Beach. You can even take a camel ride along the shore, particularly special as the sun rises or sets.

Discover the ancient seafaring traditions of the Jawi people, the traditional owners of Sunday Island (Ewuny), on a water adventure with Oolin Sunday Island Cultural Tours. Step aboard a boat with Jawi woman Rosanna Angus as she shares stories of the ‘Tide Drifters,’ who once navigated Pearl Passage to hunt and trade. Pack your swimmers for a dip in Middle Beach’s pristine waters and keep an eye out for dolphins, dugongs, manta rays and sea turtles.