The Kimberley region is one of the most remote places on earth. With a population of around 40,000 people, half of which are aboriginal, it is one of the most sparsely populated areas in Australia. The Kimberley region is full of amazing landscapes, from spectacular rock formations, to pure white sandy beaches, breathtaking waterfalls and ancient cave systems. The best Kimberley tours provides a holiday adventure that shouldn’t be missed.
Here are the top five Kimberley experiences:
Trek to Manning Falls
The Manning Gorge is a four-wheel drive adventure off the Gibb River Road in the Kimberley region. To get to the gorge you need to make a 3km trek. The trail to Manning Gorge is mostly easy, however it can get rocky and uneven at some points.
Once you make it to the Manning Gorge you can enjoy a swim in one of the crystal-clear pools, go bushwalking or relax in front of the spectacular Manning Falls. To view the falls at their peak, you need to arrive early in the dry season as they begin to dry up fast. However, the pools are always deep and can be enjoyed all year round.
Cruise the Giant Tides
An experience you will never forget, the Horizontal Falls in the Kimberley is an adventure like no other. The Horizontal Falls are a natural phenomenon constantly changing with the tides. Located within Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago, the Horizontal Falls is like the name suggests, a waterfall that flows horizontally.
The Horizontal Falls occurs due to intense tidal currents that pass through narrow gorges. As the tides move, the water builds up on one side of the gorge (up to four metres high), creating a horizontal waterfall effect as it rushes through the small gap. This process is repeated on the turning tide. You can experience this natural phenomenon by scenic flight, or for the more adventurous, by boat as you speed through the falls.
Explore Tunnel Creek with a Bunuba Guide
Tunnel Creek National Park is located in the Napier Range. This ancient landscape is made out of limestone from the remains of a reef system that existed during the Devonian period around 350 – 375 million years ago. One of the main features of Tunnel Creek is the 750-metre tunnel that the creek has carved out.
The cave system is the oldest in Western Australia and was made famous by Aboriginal leader Jandamarra (and outlaw) who used the cave as a hideout. Jandamarra was eventually found by the police and killed near the entrance of the cave.
You can immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about the rich history of Tunnel Creek with an experienced Bunuba guide.
The Philosophical Experience of Cathedral Gorge
One of the easier gorges to access, Cathedral Gorge is located within the Bungle Bungle Range in the Purnululu National Park. The walk to Cathedral Gorge is about 4km return. This gorge is approximately 500 metres long and the walk is suitable for most ages, being mostly flat.
When you arrive, you will be welcomed by a breathtaking natural amphitheatre with towering red rock walls that form into a concave shape. This was created by water erosion over millions of years. Within Cathedral Gorge is a large pool of water that has accumulated from seasonal rainfall. During the wet season you can enjoy a waterfall cascading from the roof of the gorge into the pool below. Cathedral Gorge is renowned for its acoustics which inspires many visitors to try out their singing abilities.
The Bungle Bungles
While you in the Purnululu National Park, you shouldn’t miss these amazing geological landmarks, the Bungle Bungles. The world heritage listed Bungle Bungle Range is a fascinating landscape of beehive-shaped formations that rise around 300 metres above the grassy plains.
The Bungle Bungles have been around for 350 million years and are deeply respected by Aboriginal custodians for at least 40,000 years. They were formed when sand and gravel was deposited during the Devonian period by rivers flowing from the northeast. The south-easterly winds allowed the sand dunes to form and gravel eroding from the mountain ranges combined and it all compacted together.
As this process continued, it slowly formed the amazing striped formations we see today. You may also enjoy seeing the Bungle Bungle Range from a different perspective during a scenic helicopter flight.
The Kimberley is nothing short of spectacular with its striking untouched landscapes and impressive natural environments. With the best Kimberley tours, you can immerse yourself in these experiences and much more. To find out more about the best Kimberley tours contact Broome Kimberley and Beyond today.