Kimberley (County of Australia)

The Kimberley is a county in Australia with an area of 423,517 km², which is comparable in size to Sweden or Norway. Despite its vast size, the population of the region is just 40,000 people. It offers a range of rugged landscapes, stunning waterfalls, lush green reserves, and a rich history.

The Kimberley extends along the Timor Sea, starting from Broome in the west and extending to the state border in the east. Tourists usually visit the region through Broome and Kununarra airports. The Gibbs River Trail runs almost the entire length of the county and connects its most famous attractions, farms, Aboriginal settlements, and rivers where crocodiles are often found.

The best time to visit the Kimberley is from June to August, when temperatures range from 14-32°C. The rainy season in the region starts in November and ends by April.

The Kimberley is often referred to as one of the “last strongholds of wildlife,” and boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, including stunning canyons, lagoons, and river inlets, as well as superb safari routes. Despite its remote location, the region offers authentic local cuisine, luxury lodges and hotels, friendly locals, and some of the most romantic coastal towns on earth.

What to do Kimberley?

19 Reasons to Visit Broome Soon!

Broome is a magical kaleidoscope of colors, where the people have the ocean and the Great Sandy Desert at their doorstep. For over two centuries, the town has been known as the “Pearl Harbor.”

Broome is a popular tourist destination, offering a unique blend of sea and desert landscapes that will enchant and captivate visitors.

Discover the Beauty of the Kimberley Coast with a Cruise

Embark on a journey of discovery along the stunning Kimberley coast, where the rugged and wild landscape of North Western Australia awaits you. From towering cliffs and rocky coastline to serene lagoons and pristine beaches, the Kimberley region is a playground for both the adventurous and the romantic. Experience the diverse beauty of the region with its abundant wildlife, including exotic birds, whales, dolphins and even crocodiles, as well as its ancient Aboriginal rock art and lush forests. With cruises available in different durations, levels of service and ship sizes, including some with helicopter landing sites, you can choose the perfect option for your itinerary. Get a unique perspective of the area with an aerial view of the waterfalls, river valleys, reefs, and backwaters from the sky.

Take a Four-Wheel Drive Adventure Along the Gibbs River Road, ‘The Gibbs’.

The Gibbs River Road, also known as ‘The Gibbs’, offers a breathtaking drive through the heart of the Kimberley. With alternating red, yellow and brown roads, the road winds through rugged terrain with sections that are unpaved. You will traverse through sunken lowlands, cross wide green plains, and ascend into red plateaus. The road branches off to stunning gorges, family-friendly farms, crystal-clear backwaters beneath waterfalls, campgrounds, Aboriginal villages, and national parks and reserves such as Mornington Wilderness Camp. This is one of Australia’s most scenic and popular drives, and a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts. You can rent a car in Broome or Kununarra.

El Questro Homestead: A Must-See Destination.

Located near Kununarra and close to the Gibbs River Trail, the 400,000-hectare farm in the East Kimberley is a sight to behold. With breathtaking canyons, lagoons and creeks near waterfalls, hidden footpaths on hillsides, and the cliffs and ranges painted with stunning sunsets by the local Aboriginal people, you’ll discover something new every day. The estate features camping grounds, cottages for rent, a shop, and an airfield. Stay at the 4-star Emma Gorge Resort or treat yourself to the ultimate luxury of The Homestead, a 5-star deluxe lodge that accommodates a maximum of 18 guests and is often visited by high-profile politicians and celebrities.

Secluded Retreats in the Heart of the Kimberley.

For a truly exclusive and luxurious experience, several lodges located deep in the heart of the Kimberley offer varying levels of service and quality of accommodation. The Berkeley River Lodge is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and is situated on a hilltop overlooking the ocean, accessible only by helicopter or seaplane – with no road access nearby. Other examples of these unique and secluded holiday destinations include Home Valley Station, Kimberley Coastal Camp, Faraway Bay, and Eco Beach Resort.

National Parks.

The Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park is famous for its red domes and black and orange crossbars, resembling beehives. A helicopter tour from Kununarra is a great way to see this site. Find inner peace by hiking in Mitchell River National Park, spending a few nights near the banks of Geike Gorge National Park, exploring the cave system at Tunnel Creek National Park, and walking through picturesque Windjana Gorge. Take a boat ride across the man-made Lake Argyle, and visit some of the largest meteorite craters in the world at Wolfe Creek Crater National Park.

Aboriginal Culture.

Discover the rich and fascinating Aboriginal culture of Western Australia by taking a day trip to Dampier. Explore local national parks for cave art and learn about Aboriginal history and Dreamtime myths at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Experience traditional wilderness fishing, make your own spears, and collect bush food.

Diamonds and pearls.

The Kimberley region is known for its 120-year history of mining and pearl farming. Take a sailing trip for pearls, visit pearl exhibitions and shops in Broome, or go down to the Argyle Diamond Mine, the largest operating diamond mine in the world.