Extensions - Kimberley 4WD Safari’s
We can offer you a variety of independent and guided 4-Wheel Drive trips amid the stunning interior of West Australia's rugged Kimberley region. The trip below, Kimberley Complete, is one of the most popular with Aurora passengers and gives you an example of what there is to see on a trip like this. Contact us for more details and further options.
A thorough exploration of the remote Kimberley, this 4WD Safari takes in the gorges of the Gibb River Road, the vibrant Aboriginal culture of the Mitchell Plateau, and the spectacular Bungle Bungle domes in Purnululu National Park. Experience a special Aboriginal-guided cruise through Geikie Gorge and enjoy an exhilarating day touring Kununurra and the Ord River.
Day 1. Broome, Prison Tree, Gibb River Road, Tunnel Creek, Windjana Gorge
At Derby, we visit the Boab Prison Tree, believed to be more than 1,000 years old. We then begin our journey on the Gibb River Road, a remote Outback highway that accesses some of the Kimberley's best scenery. We travel to remarkable Tunnel Creek, where, with torch in hand, we wade through the cool waters to view the wonderful oasis that awaits us on the other side. At Windjana Gorge, where sheer cliffs tower above white sands, see the ancient marine fossils embedded in the gorge walls.
Day 2. Bell Gorge, Hiking and Swimming
Back on the Gibb River Road, we travel through Outback landscapes to Bell Gorge, where rugged cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Take a swim below the waterfall which feeds the lower pool or go birdwatching. The energetic can choose from a number of hiking opportunities. This is the perfect place to simply relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Day 3. Galvans Gorge, Barnett River Gorge, Drysdale River
Today we travel through the heart of Kimberley cattle country to discover some of the region's most secluded gorges. At Galvans Gorge, a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole, with Boab trees clinging to the escarpment above. We stop at the Mt Barnett Roadhouse before travelling to beautiful Barnett River Gorge, where we enjoy lunch in a setting of shady paperbark trees. Look out for the birdlife that inhabits the area and enjoy another dip.
Day 4. Mitchell Plateau, King Edward River
Ascending the Mitchell Plateau, we enter a remote world of Livistona palm forests, beautiful lookouts, ancient Aboriginal art, magnificent waterfalls and isolated swimming holes. Today, explore amazing Wandjina and Gwion (Bradshaw) art galleries and swim in the crystal-clear waters at King Edward River Crossing. The region's prolific birdlife includes brolgas, herons, kites and sea eagles, as well as some rainforest birds. You may be lucky enough to see the Monjon, a rock wallaby that is unique to the Kimberley region.
Day 5. EXCLUSIVE! Mitchell Falls, Gwion Art, Included Scenic Helicopter Flight
Today we have a full day to discover the beauty of Mitchell Falls, with a magnificent system of waterfalls and Aboriginal art. When available, local Aboriginal guides will join us for the adventure, imparting their knowledge of the area and sharing their cultural beliefs. Begin with a guided hike to Little Merten Falls to view rarely seen Aboriginal art. Continue on to view Gwion (Bradshaw) art and Big Merten Falls before arriving at Mitchell Falls. With superb scenery and rich culture, you can swim in the pools above the falls, learn of local history and look for the region's stunning flora and fauna. We have included a special helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls back to the vehicle.
Day 6. Mitchell Plateau, King Edward River
Travelling through Livistona palm forests, we view galleries of ancient Aboriginal art before saying goodbye to the awe-inspiring scenery of the Mitchell Plateau. Lunch is at a majestic spot alongside the cool waters of the King Edward River, with time for a swim before continuing to our comfortable wilderness camp.
Day 7. El Questro Station, Emma Gorge
Rejoining the famous Gibb River Road, we ford the mighty Durack River, named after the region's most famous pioneering family. Then, we cross the Pentecost River into El Questro - one million acres in the Kimberley wilderness. Once settled into Emma Gorge Resort, take a hike into the gorge and indulge in a refreshing swim over to the waterfall.
Day 8. El Questro, Wyndham, Kununurra
Enjoy time to explore El Questro. Warm up in the hot pools of Zebedee Springs and visit the station. Farewelling the Gibb River Road, we head to Wyndham and take in spectacular views of the Cambridge Gulf from Five Rivers Lookout.
Day 9. Cruise Ord River and Lake Kununurra
This morning you have some free time to explore Kununurra. Then we travel to Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the southern hemisphere. This afternoon, we join a guided cruise on the Ord River. Admire spectacular scenery and look for local wildlife. Witness a memorable sunset while cruising Lake Kununurra.
Day 10. Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park, Echidna Chasm
Departing Kununurra, we travel to Purnululu National Park. A spectacular wilderness region and home to the unique Bungle Bungle Range. Today we explore the northern part of the park. Hike into Echidna Chasm, a mysterious cleft in the rock massif.
Day 11. Bungle Bungle Range
Hike into Piccaninny Creek and the dramatic Cathedral Gorge. Walk among the unique beehive domes, as your guide brings the natural history of the range to life. Learn about bushtucker, bush medicine and the area's significance to local Aborigines.
Day 12. Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing
Visit Halls Creek, an historic gold mining town. See unusual China Wall, a natural quartz formation, before heading to Fitzroy Crossing.
Day 13. Geikie Gorge Cruise, Broome
Enjoy an active morning exploring Geikie Gorge, where annual flooding has created a bleached effect on the sandstone walls. Our unique cruise is guided by a traditional Bunuba land owner, who will explain the gorge's cultural significance.
