The stunning Kimberley region takes pride of place in the northern part of Western Australia and is one of the continent’s earliest settled regions, dating as far back as 40,000 years. Steeped in Aboriginal culture and history, it remains to be one of Australia’s best hidden treasures.
It’s home to over 12,000 kilometres of ruggedly beautiful coastline remaining so unspoiled that the Kimberley Coast has been identified as one of the least impacted marine environments in the world. Healthy reefs and incredible biodiversity make the Kimberley Coast a prime spot for marine wildlife viewing, from sea turtles to blue crabs, manta rays and the planet’s largest population of humpback whales. More than 2,600 islands are also scattered beyond the reefs, serving as nesting grounds to a variety of seabirds, including cormorants, giant Australian pelicans and red-footed boobies, providing breathtaking scenery in one of the world’s most extensive coastal wilderness areas. The region’s major coastal town and gateway is Broome, famous for the 22 kilometere sandy stretch that is Cable Beach and the locally grown Pinctada maxima pearls.
The region’s unique diversity continues inland with a landscape of remote mountains, spectacular waterfalls and majestic wilderness. Lake Argyle is one of the many highlights here with a cruise being the most popular way to take in the surrounding untamed landscape of lakes and inlets. The World Heritage-listed Bungle Bungle Range, located within the Purnululu National Park, is one of the more well-known landmarks thought to be over 350 million years old. The impressive and multi-coloured sandstone formations with their striking beauty are best seen from the air via a scenic flight from the base town of Kununurra.
Another Kimberley icon is of course its extraordinary waterfalls and the unforgettable experience they bring with it. Mitchell Falls is a four-tiered waterfall carved from the surrounding sandstone cliffs located in the Mitchell River National Park, with the Wunambal Gaambera people being the traditional owners and joint managers of the park. The scene of the emerald green waters flowing from one pool to the next amongst the expansive plateau is breathtaking to see. The renowned natural wonder of Horizontal Falls is another must see. The aptly named falls flow sideways creating such a unique scene formed by fast moving waters flowing through two narrow gorges and pushing the water so much so it produces horizontal waterfalls, a true natural phenomenon.
A trip to the Kimberley isn't complete without a stop at the famous El Questro Station - a million acre cattle station and wilderness park - being truly unforgettable for most that visit. Another unique stop being the outback town of Fitzroy Crossing, set on the banks of the mighty Fitzroy River and great base from which to explore the spectacular Danggu Geike Gorge, previously part of an ancient river system.
The location of the Kimberley is not one easily accessible to travellers, which certainly works to the region’s favour by retaining that unspoiled, untouched element. With still quite a conservative amount of visitors each year it is not a destination everyone has been to, but surely when they see it must think why on Earth not?
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Click here for our holidays featuring the beautiful Kimberley region or contact one of our Holidays of Australia team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
