Kimberley Trail
14 Days Starting and ending in Broome
Visiting: Broome / Derby / Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) / Windjana Gorge, West Kimberley Gorges , Mitchell Plateau , Drysdale Station , El Questro Wilderness Park , Kununurra / Lake Argyle , Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles), China Wall / Fitzroy Crossing , Geikie Gorge / Broome
Tour operator:
Tour code:
PKRB
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 20
Age range:
15-99 years
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Discover Australia’s wild west on a 14-day adventure through the Kimberley region. Hike to grandiose gorges, stand in awe of tiered waterfalls, take dips in secluded swimming spots and unwind in natural thermal pools. With time spent in the West Kimberley Gorges, Mitchell Plateau, El Questro Wilderness Park, Lake Argyle and Purnululu National Park, this magical corner of Australia will soon have you under its spell. From the strange beauty of the Bungle Bungles to the sheer size of the Mitchell Falls, landscapes don’t get more vast, rugged or dramatic than this.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Broome / Derby / Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) / Windjana Gorge
Location: Broome / Derby / Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) / Windjana Gorge
Accommodation: Camping (with shared facilities)
Meals Included: lunch, dinner
As we travel through the remote and beautiful Kimberley landscape, our guide shares stories of local history, people and the environment. Enjoy a morning tea break by the Fitzroy River and visit the Derby ‘Boab Prison Tree’ before we hit the Gibb River Road. The Napier Range is over 350 million years old and home to Tunnel Creek, a 750-metre cave system in which we discover stalactites, secret caves and a large variety of wildlife. It is here we also learn the legend of Jandamarra, an Aboriginal freedom fighter who used the tunnel as a hide-out in the late 1800’s. In the afternoon we visit the geological wonder of Windjana Gorge, searching for freshwater crocodiles, local birdlife and indigenous bush tucker beneath the gorge walls that rise 90m. That night we settle into our first night under the Kimberley night sky.
Day 2-3: West Kimberley Gorges
Location: West Kimberley Gorges
Accommodation: Permanent tented camp (with shared facilities)
In the morning we head off to Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge), a hidden highlight of the West Kimberley. This idyllic retreat, considered amongst the most beautiful in the area, boasts cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools formed over millions of years – an easy place to while away a few hours! Spend the day swimming in paradise: further up the Gibb River Road, we discover the cool waters of water lily-laden Galvans Gorge and stunning Adcock Gorge. Amid the rugged beauty of Manning Falls we swim in deep clear pools, relax, explore wandering streams, uncover local wildlife and take a dip in the waterfall pools. Overnight we camp by a billabong on Mt Barnett Cattle Station. (BLD/BLD)
Day 4-5: Mitchell Plateau
Location: Mitchell Plateau
Accommodation: Camping (with shared facilities)
It is a very early start to kick off our two-day diversion to the majestic Mitchell Plateau: a highlight of the trip. The long drive through real 4WD country takes us up the rugged Kalumburu Road then onto the Mitchell Plateau Track – totally worth it! After crossing rivers and passing through ancient Livistonia palm forests, we emerge from the savannah and onto the Mitchell Plateau. With two nights camping in the National Park, we trek to Little and Big Merten Falls, take a dip in pristine plunge pools and view Bradshaw rock art. A return scenic helicopter flight offers a bird’s eye view of this extraordinary landscape.
Day 6: Drysdale Station
Location: Drysdale Station
Accommodation: Camping (with shared facilities)
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Drysdale River Station is an oasis in the outback. This million-acre, family owned and operated cattle station, runs approximately 10,000 head of cattle and lies in the North Kimberley on the Gibb River Road. Hanging out in the true-blue Australian outback means you have all the magical scenery and feeling of isolation you could ask for. On arrival you may wish to explore the nearby surroundings or sit back and enjoy a cold drink in the beer garden, warm yourself around the log fire in the cool night air. (BL)
Day 7-8: El Questro Wilderness Park
Location: El Questro Wilderness Park
Accommodation: Permanent tented camp (with shared facilities)
Our journey up the Gibb River Road continues to the iconic El Questro Wilderness Park. Two nights in our private campsite allows free time to join one or more of the many activities on offer. We include a refreshing dip in the Zebedee Springs and walk into Emma Gorge while a cruise on Chamberlain Gorge, bush tucker walk or bird watching tour are amongst the many optional activities. You may choose to simply explore this beautiful wilderness park at your own leisure.
Day 9-10: Kununurra / Lake Argyle
Location: Kununurra / Lake Argyle
Accommodation: Permanent tented camp (with shared facilities)
Emerge from the Gibb River Road for a few hours free time in Kununurra: sample locally-made rum at the Hoochery and pick up some local sandalwood inspired beauty, health and lifestyle products at the Sandalwood Factory. After lunch, travel on to the shores of the expansive Lake Argyle, the heart of the Ord River Irrigation System which has transformed this dry region into a lush agricultural oasis. Enjoy a refreshing afternoon swim in the Infinity Pool, with a magnificent view across the lake. In the morning, take up one of the many optional activities on offer such as including scenic flights and kayak hire. Alternatively, join our guide to visit the historic Durack Homestead Museum or take on one of the many bush trails to explore the area. A sunset boat cruise on the lake is highly recommended (approx AU$120pp, own expense).
Day 11-12: Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles)
Location: Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles)
Accommodation: Eco safari camp (with shared facilities)
Journey south down the Great Northern Highway to Purnululu National Park, home of the magnificent Bungle Bungles. Two nights here, staying in our private Bungle Bungle Safari Camp in the heart of the park, allows a full day to explore the highlights of this extraordinary National Park, the most famous of which, are the Bungle Bungle domes. Rivers created this landscape of unique orange and black striped ‘beehive’ geological formations over a period of 20 million years. Unbelievably, only the locals knew it existed until the early 1980s; once discovered by others, the area was made a national park in 1987. We explore Echidna Chasm (2km), known for its towering Livistonia Palm trees, and take a short walk (2-3km) into stunning Cathedral Gorge, where towering rocks create a natural amphitheatre.
Day 13: China Wall / Fitzroy Crossing
Location: China Wall / Fitzroy Crossing
Accommodation: Camping (with shared facilities)
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner
Enroute to Fitzroy Crossing, we break the long journey with a visit the gold rush town of Halls Creek to see the remarkable China Wall. We also enjoy lunch at Marys Pool and visit the remote Laarri Aboriginal Art Gallery, before an evening by the Fitzroy River at Fitzroy Crossing.
Day 14: Geikie Gorge / Broome
Location: Geikie Gorge / Broome
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
This morning we join a Darlgunya Cultural Walk where our local Indigenous guide greets us with a smoking ceremony and billy tea, then leads a stroll through the remnants of the old postal settlement. Learn about the wild Fitzroy River: its plants, wildlife and significance to local culture. We return to Broome in the afternoon.
What's Included
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Accommodation
: Camping: shared facilities (5nts), Manning Gorge Camp: shared facilities (2nts), El Questro Camp: shared facilities (2nts), Lake Argyle Camp: shared facilities (2nts), Bungle Bungles Safari Camp: shared facilities (2nts) -
Meals
13 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 10 dinners -
Derby - Boab Prison Tree
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Derby - Mowanjum Aboriginal Art & Cultural Centre
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Tunnel Creek - Cave visit
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Bell Gorge - Windjana Gorge
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Bell Gorge - Visit and walk
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Galvans Gorge - Visit and swim
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Adcock Gorge - Visit and swim
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Manning Gorge - Bushwalk
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Mitchell Plateau - Merten Falls
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Mitchell Plateau - Mitchell Falls helicopter flight
What's Not Included
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International Travel
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Tipping and Gratuities
Transport
- 4WD tours are operated in custom-built, 21-25 seat 4WD trucks with a PA system and built-in storage. These comfortable, strong remote area vehicles allow our small groups extra space (including standing room), are fully air-conditioned and fitted with adjustable air-vents, reclinable seats, map pockets and footrests. It is important that when booking a 4WD outback adventure in the Kimberley, you understand that the roads we travel on can be heavily corrugated, which can be a bit uncomfortable at times. Rest assured, these are the conditions for which our 4WD trucks are designed.
Accommodation
- Nights 1, 4, 5, 6, & 13 Camping in National Parks and on Cattle Stations involves dome tents (single/twinshare), swags with fitted sheets & pillows with pillow cases. Some on site ablutions have hot showers and flush toilets however on those nights in which we are camping in National Parks, the ablution facilities can be relatively basic.
- Nights 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 & 10 Camping in one of our private KWE Safari Camps features tourer-style tents on platforms with twin beds and share ablution facilities nearby.
- Nights 11 & 12 In the heart of Purnululu National Park, our eco safari tents at the Bungle Bungles Safari Camp boast views of the Bungles Massif from your door. The camp features modern facilities, a covered dining deck with panoramic views and an open air campfire around which you can relax beneath a sparkling Kimberley night sky: chatting, star-gazing and sharing the adventure with like-minded travellers.
- SLEEPING BAG
- This trip requires a sleeping bag.
- SINGLE TRAVELLERS
- A Single Supplement is not available on this trip. As a single traveller you will have a tent to yourself on most camping nights. In the permanent tented camps you will be paired up with another single traveller of the same gender.
- BEDDING
- All accommodation will be provided with twin bedding. If you would prefer double bedding please advise Intrepid as early as possible. Double bedding is on request and is determined by the availability at the accommodation on your trip.
Important Information
- START & END TIME
- This trip starts in Broome with an early pick-up at 7:00am on day 1 at our default pick-up location, unless you request an alternative pick-up location well ahead of departure. The trip finishes at around 6:30pm on the last day. We recommend you arrive a day prior to the trip's departure date and onward travel should not be booked until the following day.
- SLEEPING BAG
- This trip requires a sleeping bag.
- SINGLE TRAVELLERS
- A Single Supplement is not available on this trip. As a single traveller you will have a tent to yourself on most camping nights. In the permanent tented camps you will be paired up with another single traveller of the same gender.
- OPERATOR
- This trip is operated by our partners Kimberley Wild Expeditions.
- BEDDING
- All accommodation will be provided with twin bedding. If you would prefer double bedding please advise Intrepid as early as possible. Double bedding is on request and is determined by the availability at the accommodation on your trip.
- MINIMUM NUMBERS
- Please note this trip requires a minimum number of booked customers to guarantee the departure. Your Booking Agent will advise at time of booking if the departure has met minimum numbers. If minimum numbers are not met, you will be advised no later than 56 days out from departure (prior to full payment due). We recommend arranging flights and related travel services once your departure is guaranteed. In the event that your departure is cancelled due to minimum numbers not being met, a full refund will be provided of monies paid.
Check out our Q&As
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No
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Is this trip right for you
This trip is operated and run by our trusted partner, Kimberley Wild Expeditions. You will be travelling with a mixture of both Kimberley Wild Expeditions customers and Intrepid customers. Intrepid works closely with Kimberley Wild Expeditions to ensure that all of our customers enjoy their time away.
On some days of the trip, you’ll spend several hours driving through very sparse areas of Australia. Sit back and enjoy landscapes that you would miss in any other form of travel. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. Think of it as a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. The drive days can be long, but it’s as much about the journey as the destination, and half the fun is the camaraderie.
Our leaders are the classic do-it-all Aussie – they know the best spots to watch the sunset, can drive you to your next destination, take you on a guided hike or even whip up dinner for the group on some trips. While they won’t always do all these jobs on every trip, be aware they will be juggling many things on your tour and may have less time to spend with you. They will always be working hard to ensure you and your group have a fantastic time exploring Australia.
This trip involves plenty of walking over varied terrain, including wading through water and clambering over rocks, and is best suited to travellers with a great level of fitness and mobility. Good footwear and comfortable clothing are recommended.
This is a camping trip for those who are looking for the basics. Simple facilities and lack of emphasis on creature comforts make this an authentic experience of the Australian outback.
Temperatures in Western Australia are extreme. During the day the weather can be hot (and the Australian sun is strong) so please bring appropriate clothing, use sun protection and drink plenty of water. In the evenings temperatures really drop, so ensure you have base layers and warm clothing. -
Are international flights included in this tour?
No
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Yes if aged 15+ and accompanied by an adult
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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