Three times the size of England, this vast area at the very north of Western Australia has been topping bucket lists for years. Almost impenetrable by road, the Kimberley is an explorer’s dream come true; rife with a complex network of gorges, canyons, ridges, cliffs and horizontal falls, not to mention 16,000-year-old rock art and local Aboriginal culture, the Kimberley is both unforgiving and unforgettable.
Being so vast, land navigation through the Kimberley can prove to be difficult, which is why access from the sea, particularly from small, nimble ships is the best way to discover into the region.
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HIGHLIGHTS
Wildlife: The Kimberley features an extraordinary array of fauna both on land and in its surrounding marine ecosystems. This remote and pristine area is renowned for its population of saltwater crocodiles, some of the largest reptiles on Earth, residing in coastal waters and rivers. The Kimberley's skies are adorned with diverse birdlife, including majestic sea eagles and ospreys, while its rocky landscapes host agile Rock Wallabies. In the marine realm, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales frequent the coastal waters.
Landscape: The Kimberley offers a visual feast of contrasts, blending ancient rock formations with the raw beauty of the Australian outback and coastal splendour. Highlights include the iconic Bungle Bungle Range, characterised by its striking beehive shaped dome; while the towering cliffs and waterfalls of places like Mitchell Falls and King George River Gorge showcase the sheer natural beauty of the area. The vast wilderness is intersected by meandering rivers, not to mention the dramatic coastline along the Indian Ocean, including the stunning Horizontal Falls, Montgomery Reef and the Buccaneer Archipelago.
Indigenous Culture: The Kimberley is home to several Indigenous communities, and their art is a significant cultural highlight. Traditional Aboriginal art, including rock art, is found throughout the region.
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KIMBERLEY FACTS:
Price Guide: AU$5K to $50K. Expedition to luxury.
When to Travel: April to September. Within this: Apr-May is best to view the waterfalls at
their most powerful; Jun-Jul has the most pleasant weather and cruising conditions; Aug-Sep features the humpback whale migration.
Duration: 4 to 21 days.
When to Book: As early as possible, especially for clients wanting to go in waterfall season.
Pre-/Post- Cruise Options:
- Most voyages depart and end in Broome and Darwin or vice versa. Both trip options use the same itinerary.
- Some itineraries operate from Broome to Wyndham
- Explore Darwin and the Top End (Waterfront, WWII history, national parks)
- Fly via Perth to enjoy this vibrant city
- Train journey. The Indian Pacific runs Perth to Adelaide and Sydney; The Ghan, runs from Darwin to Adelaide
Useful Information:
- There are trips to suit all fitness levels, and within this, travellers can usually opt in or out of certain activities depending on their abilities
- Pack lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and closed-toe shoes for sun protection, along with a swimsuit (but only for vessels with pools), warm layers, and quick-drying clothing for comfort in the diverse and remote environment
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KIMBERLEY QUICK LINKS:
- Kimberley Itineraries >>>
- Kimberley vessels >>>
- Article: Why the Kimberley?
- Article: Kimberley aboard Heritage Adventurer
- Article: Kimberley with PONANT
