Destination Spotlight: Untamed Kimberley

When you think of the Kimberley region of Western Australia what comes to mind? Maybe the words rugged, wild, and sparse? Weird and wonderful? Located in the northernmost region of Western Australia, we guarantee The Kimberley region will be one of the most spectacular places you may ever visit in the world. Described as one of the remotest, wildest and most beautiful places on Earth, if you haven’t already, it is time to move it to the top of your to do list.

Covering over 423,000 square kilometres, the region is three times larger than England and has a population of less than 40,000. From the majestic canyons to sprawling areas of endless wilderness and some of Australia’s most stunning freshwater swimming holes and gorges, the Kimberley is a land of magnificent contrast and is flourishing with life despite its iconic remoteness.

Each destination and sight will top the last, and you will be wondering how you had never heard of this place before! Here are our top picks for the Kimberley’s highlights to get you inspired to visit this wild land so close to home:

1. El Questro – Chamberlain Gorge

Cruising along the calm waters of Chamberlain Gorge may just be the perfect introduction to the El Questro Wilderness Park of the Kimberley. The 3km long fresh waterhole is fringed by tropical vegetation and soaring escarpments that highlight the sheer sparseness of the area. Relax in the serenity while you enjoy a sparkling wine, and watch the natural paradise come alive around you. Spot freshwater crocodiles, archer fish and barramundi in the depths of the Gorge.

 

2. El Questro – Emma Gorge

Arguably one of Australia’s most glorious waterfalls, Emma Gorge is something out of a dream that we never want to end. Enjoy the picturesque and peaceful walk over rocky terrain before reaching an oasis that heroes a crystal-clear swimming hole framed by the rugged, foliage covered cliff face. Be warned though, the water here is usually freezing cold. But if you head the right side of the waterfall, there hides a thermal spring that will warm you right up. Set in the million-acre wilderness of El-Questro, Emma Gorge would have to be the definition of serenity.

 

3. Broome – Cable Beach & Gantheaume Point

While Bondi might be Australia’s most famous and most popular beach, Cable Beach in Broome surpasses it in beauty and tranquillity. The 22km stretch of pristine white sand and the turquoise gentle clear waters of the Indian Ocean make Cable Beach the perfect spot for a relaxing day appreciating the beauty of Australia’s West Coast. But wait until you witness the spectacular Indian Ocean sunset. We can’t think of anything more beautiful than this…

 

 

The deep red rock cliff face that overlooks the turquoise waters of Cable Beach is strikingly beautiful and is recognised as being formed by the footsteps of dinosaurs. That’s right, dinosaurs! Preserved in the reef rock are said to be the footprints of long-extinct dinosaurs and plant fossils, which in fact makes it one of the best paleontological sites in the world. This section of Cable Beach is an absolute dream and is certainly what we would call life imitating art.

 

4. Bungle Bungle Ranges – Purnululu National Park

We can say with confidence that experiencing a helicopter flight over the remarkable series of natural wonders that make up the Bungle Bungle Ranges is one of Australia’s most iconic experiences. Located within the Purnululu National Park, the series of orange and black striped sandstone beehive domes are recognised as one of the world’s most fascinating geological landscapes. Shaped by millions of years of weathering and exposure to the elements, the Bungle Bungles have been home to the traditional Aboriginal owners of the area for thousands of years, yet only became widely known to the rest of the world in the mid-1980s.

If you choose the 4WD tour option, you will become immersed in the magic of the natural landscape, while your guide describes to you the history, culture and the spectacular geological significance of the area.

 

If you are looking for an escape from the rush of the city, the Kimberley region couldn’t be more perfect for your next adventure. Discover the wonderful world of the Kimberley on AAT Kings’ 11 Day Untamed Kimberley Guided Holiday. The countless adventures await…

If you have experienced the magical Kimberley region with AAT Kings, be sure to share your photos and videos with us on Instagram by using our hashtags #aatkings and #smilekings. Or, email us at marketing@aatkings.com.au.