Kimberley August 2022

Darwin

Disembark in the morning and enjoy a free day to explore Darwin.

Overnight in Darwin

Darwin to Bungle Bungles

Transfer to the Darwin airport for your flight to Kununurra.

This morning we will travel south from Kununurra to Purnululu National Park, home to the ‘Bungle Bungles’. Purnululu’s landowners, the Kija tribe, occupied the Bungle Bungle Ranges throughout the wet season to take advantage of the abundance of food and material resources. Only few Europeans knew of its existence until the late 1980’s. Today Purnululu is World Heritage listed and is globally recognised for its incredible landscapes.

To enter Purnululu we turn of the Great Northern Hwy and make our way along a 50km 4wd track crossing several creeks and valleys which offer breathtaking views over the spinifex ranges.

This afternoon we have time to explore the famous orange and black beehive domes before finding a secluded area to watch the sunset illuminate the Bungles.

Overnight: Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge (luxury tented cabin)

Bungle Bungles

After breakfast we will set off on an hour hike to one of the parks most famous landmarks, Cathedral Gorge. The walk takes us along Piccaninny Creek and the beehive domes before arriving at a huge naturally formed amphitheatre (hence the name Cathedral Gorge).

This unique rock formation has amazing acoustics carrying voices and sounds in a circular direction throughout the gorge. This makes an ideal spot for some morning tea and a relax in the shade.

In the afternoon we explore the northern end of the park and escape the heat by entering Echidna Chasm. The beginning of the walk is along a palm filled gorge which becomes narrower and narrower as you make your way through.

The second half of the track you will find yourself walking through towering red sandstone walls with a gap less than a few meters wide. For those keen for further adventure, you can scramble your way over rocks right to the end of the chasm.

Optional scenic helicopter flights are available today. Cost approximately AUD $230.00- $420.00 per person.

Overnight: Bungle Bungles Caravan Park (safari tent, with en-suite)

El Questro Station

Today we make the journey north to El Questro Wilderness Park, our station stay for the next two nights. Formerly a working cattle station known as El Questro Station, this million acre land hold is pristine, rugged country which offers opportunities to swim, hike, fish, four wheel drive and more.

Late afternoon we will join the Chamberlain Gorge cruise along the Pentecost River system. Your local guide will provide commentary on the amazing geology of the area as well as interpret the Aboriginal art, flora and fauna.

Overnight: El Questro Station (riverview room)

El Questro Station

This morning, first thing we will travel to Zebedee Springs, where small thermal pools (32 degrees all year round) are situated in a pocket of lush and tropical Livistona and Pandanus Palms. As this is the coolest period of the day it makes it the perfect time for a morning bathe, all without the crowds!

Next, we will travel to Emma Gorge. Emma Gorge is a spectacular gorge that can only be reached by an invigorating 1 hour walk along a shaded creek bed. Set at the base of a 70m high cliff, this unique gorge has quite a mystical feel about it, with both cool and warm springs which are great for swimming.

After the walk enjoy a freshly cooked lunch at the Emma Gorge Resort restaurant.

This evening we will have sunset drinks overlooking the Pentecost River and Cockburn Ranges from the top of Branco’s Lookout.

Overnight: El Questro Station (riverview room)

Lake Argyle

This morning we say farewell to El Questro Station and continue north to Wyndham; the oldest town in the northern Kimberley. Here we’ll visit the Five Rivers Lookout on top of the Erskine Range. From here you can see the 5 rivers entering the sea, these include; the King, Durack, Pentecost, Forrest, and Ord.

Next, we’ll travel back through Kununurra and further east to our last stop in the Kimberley region; Lake Argyle.

Lake Argyle is Australia’s largest freshwater lake, encompassing an area of 2000 square kilometres. Home to an abundance of wildlife, including 25,000 freshwater crocodiles, Lake Argyle is also the energy source for the East Kimberley region and home to the world’s largest diamond mine.

Upon arriving at Lake Argyle we will check into our accommodation before boarding a sunset boat cruise. This cruise is not only scenic but very informative as you’ll learn more about the rich history of the region from your knowledgeable guides.

Overnight: Lake Argyle Resort (lake view villa)

Katherine

This morning we will depart Lake Argyle for Keep River National Park where we will cross the border into the Northern Territory.

Keep River is well known for its spectacular geology and hosts notable species of birds and marsupials within the sandstone environment. The Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people have also lived here for thousands of years. As a result there are various sites scattered throughout the Park containing evidence of their occupation. This includes 2 rock-art sites which we will hike to this morning.

Next, we will begin to make our way east along the Victoria River to Katherine. Once in Katherine we will travel straight to Nitmiluk National Park, home to Katherine Gorge and our luxury accommodation for the night.

Overnight: Cicada Lodge (lodge room)

Darwin

After breakfast enjoy a leisurely morning as we explore Katherine Gorge by canoe. Canoeing through this pristine wilderness area enables you to experience the gorge at its best. Enjoy the whole morning paddling through the first gorge at your own pace.

Next, we will depart Katherine and make one more stop on our way back to Darwin visiting Edith Falls for a swim and afternoon tea.

Arrive in at your Darwin accommodation at approximately 06:00pm. Overnight in Darwin

Darwin to home

Make your own way to the Darwin airport for your homeward journey.