10 Day Kimberley Tours

Day 1 – Depart Darwin 6.30am, Edith Falls, Vic River, Keep River

Your Kimberley experience begins this morning as we collect you from your Darwin accommodation at 6.30am. Our destination for today takes us through the beautiful Victoria River district. En route we visit the gorgeous Edith Falls (Leliyn), part of Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) National Park, one of our great Northern Territory attractions. While at Edith Falls we have time for a refreshing swim and healthy lunch, before departing and heading west along the Victoria River Highway headed for the WA/NT border. The Victoria River district displays some of the most dramatic sandstone escarpment country in Australia, and is one of Australia’s best kept secrets. We arrive at camp just in time for our first of many outback sunsets. Tonight’s camp will be the first under the star filled sky, so sit back and enjoy the camp fire while we cook you up a feast.

We provide fresh healthy meals, however if choosing to stay in hotel style accommodation, you are required to purchase your own dinners and breakfasts onsite. (Unless otherwise stated)

Day 2 – Kununurra, Purnululu National Park

After waking to the early morning sounds of the bush and starting the day with a good healthy breakfast (with real coffee!) we cross the NT/WA border, immediately enter the East Kimberley and stop in Kununurra for some supplies. Kununurra was originally constructed as a support base for the Ord River Irrigation Scheme and today is a thriving East Kimberley community filling a vital role in supporting the surrounding local economy. From Kununurra we continue our Kimberley experience and turn south onto the Great Northern Highway. This drive is through a narrow corridor between the Carr Boyd Ranges on the eastern side, and the Durack Ranges in the West. This is classic Durack country and one of the most picturesque routes in the Kimberley. After a relaxing drive along the highway, we turn onto the Mabel Downs station track to tackle the raw rugged terrain of the Osmond Range and surrounding Bungle Bungle landscape as we continue through Mabel Downs cattle station towards Purnululu National Park. Crossing several creeks and rivers, we stop at some lookout points to admire this uniquely striking landscape, while giving you time to capture it all through the lens. We end today at one of the park’s great vantage points to view the Bungle Bungle Range as the sun sets behind us.

Day 3 – Bungle Bungles Exploration

After an early breakfast we spend the whole morning hiking around and through the famous World Heritage acclaimed beehive formations of the Bungle Bungle Range in the early morning light. We also trek Piccinnini Creek, the main drainage channel of the park, and admire Cathedral Gorge and other outstanding features of this unique semi-arid Kimberley zone. After our morning hiking expedition we have an opportunity for a helicopter flight (optional extra) to view the surrounding Bungle Bungle landscape and get a true perspective of its grandeur and magnitude. An 18-30 minute flight over the Bungle Bungle Range in an open door chopper is an exhilarating experience and definitely the best way to view this incredible land form, particularly after exploring and hiking the area previously. After lunch we head to the northern section of the Bungle Bungle Range for more hiking. The drive to the North of the park is approx. 45 minutes and skirts the Bungles the whole distance, providing more opportunities to admire the changing aspects of this natural masterpiece. The experience in the park’s North is very different to this morning as we explore the changing habitats in and around Echidna Chasm. This afternoon we make a return journey once again through Mable Downs Station and onto tonight’s camp.

Day 4 – Elquestro, Emma Gorge

After breakfast we break camp and head north to the Gibb River Road. Our first stop along the Gibb is Elquestro Station. Upon arrival at Elquestro we begin our exploration with a hike into Emma Gorge. The Emma Gorge hike leads us through towering sandstone escarpments to eventually arrive at a tall waterfall in a lush tropical paradise. This hike is for the fit and adventurous, some rock hopping is required. After a swim we return hike and depart Elquestro. As we travel further along the Gibb, we descend to and cross the tidal section of the mighty Pentecost River. This can be a tricky crossing early in the season; we may even spot a crocodile as we cross! After a short drive, we arrive at our day’s final destination. Home Valley Station is owned and operated by the Indigenous Land Corporation, and is one of the emerging Kimberley indigenous outback experiences. Nestled in the mighty Durack Ranges the station is signalling our arrival into the Kimberley central plateau. The dominant Cockburn Range exhibits the most striking panoramic perspective of this classic east Kimberley Durack country at sunset.

Day 5 – Home Valley Station, King Edward River

After breakfast we break camp and head further west along the Gibb, before turning north onto the Kalumburu road bound for the King Edward River and Mitchell Plateau. We stop at Drysdale River Station, a working cattle station and major supply point for northern Kimberley expeditions, for some lunch. We then continue north on the Kalumburu road and soon enter Wunambal Gaambera country. The local indigenous groups now manage the area, their “Uunguu”, and as an accredited Uunguu operator we have gained the privilege to take our guests through this amazing cultural landscape. As we ascend to the far northern and more remote area of the Kimberley, there is a distinct change in the vegetation and we begin to encounter the thick palm forests that dominate the northern landscapes. After negotiating the depths of the King Edward River we arrive in a lush tropical environment adjacent to the river. This area is rich with native foods, and as such supported large populations in a past era. While at the King Edward River, we make time to explore the many cultural and rock art sites in the area. We finish today with a refreshing swim in the clean cool and croc free waters of the King Edward River before kicking back around the camp fire while dinner is prepared. This is one of the most beautiful camps in the Kimberley!

Day 6 – Mitchell Fall Expedition

After an early rise and 4WD trek to the Mitchell Plateau, we spend most of the day hiking, swimming and exploring the natural and cultural values of this remote Kimberley destination. Striking landscapes, stunning water features and ancient intricate rock art make this complete expedition worth the travel. After passing little Merten’s Falls and viewing more astonishing ancient rock art, we arrive at the Mitchell River to the stunning views of the Mitchell Falls. We have time for a swim and some snacks before our return hike. Alternatively, we also have another opportunity for an aerial adventure (optional extra) around and over the Mitchell Falls area, with drop off back at the start of the walking trail*. After our Mitchell Plateau expedition we return to our King Edward River camp to enjoy sunset over the river with a final refreshing swim for the day.

*Please note: The return hike from Mitchell Falls can be hot and challenging. For safety reasons, participants with insufficient fitness levels will be required to take a scenic helicopter flight back to the trail head.

Day 7 – King Edward River to Manning Gorge via Galvan’s Gorge

This morning we say goodbye to the far north Kimberley and return to the Gibb River Road. We travel to Manning Gorge and the West Kimberley, en route again passing Drysdale River Station and the infamous Gibb River- with an opportunity to view some very different rock art. This afternoon we visit Galvan’s Gorge for a refreshing swim after our travel, while Wandjina figures watch over us and keep us safe. Galvan’s Gorge is a small plunge pool and amphitheatre, nestled in a soft lush environment, quite different to all the other gorges along the Gibb River Road- it’s only a short walk to the pool- the perfect place to chill out before heading to our camp for the night.

Day 8 – Manning Gorge Expedition

This morning we head immediately into Manning Gorge. We prepare for our hike and cross Manning Creek, then spend most of the day exploring this rugged remote gorge while swimming at secluded beaches and viewing obscure Rock Art (Bradshaws). We also make time to visit the falls and have another swim, before our return hike. This expedition is for the fit and adventurous as we take you beyond where others go. After our Manning Gorge expedition, we return to the Gibb River Road and head west over the Phillips Range to our camp, where we enjoy a well deserved hearty dinner and another relaxing night under the stars.

Day 9 – Bell Gorge, Windjana Gorge

This morning after a relaxing breakfast, we continue west along the Gibb River Road, then stop at the Imintji aboriginal community. Our time at Imintji community allows us to visit the community arts centre, grab an ice cream, refreshing drink or even a latte and cake! – a true opportunity to experience remote community life and successful indigenous enterprise. Soon we enter the dramatic King Leopold Ranges, and after a brief stop we head directly into Bell Gorge. Nestled in the rugged sandstone of the King Leopold conservation zone, our Bell Gorge expedition leads us into the gorge revealing a major geological event in the evolution of the Kimberley land forms, and one of the most popular Kimberley waterfalls along the Gibb River Road. After our swim we exit the king Leopold Ranges and leave the central plateau area behind us, as we head towards the changing landscape and environments of the Western Kimberley. On approach the Napier Range abruptly rises from the western plains (Pindan country) to expose a 350 million year old Devonian reef system. The reef system and surrounding plains provide cultural and geological insights spanning millennia. A short late afternoon hike into Windjana Gorge reveals one of the most dense freshwater crocodile populations in the south pacific, and how extreme weather events have created this geological masterpiece and its micro habitat. Once again admire the changing Kimberley colours as the sun sets adjacent to the gorge.

Day 10 – Tunnel Creek, Derby, Broome

After waking to our last Kimberley sunrise, our Kimberley experience continues as we explore Tunnel Creek in the early morning. We travel a short distance from camp, following the Devonian reef system to Tunnel Creek. We arrive at Tunnel Creek nice and early to experience this unique formation and micro habitat. There is often an abundance of early morning wildlife here as we trek through the main tunnel and explore some of the secondary caverns of this amazing protected environment. While at Tunnel Creek we reveal some of the local Bunuba indigenous heritage, important cultural stories and historic events. After our early morning exploration of Tunnel Creek we then make our way back to the Gibb River Road, and soon afterwards we visit the remote town of Derby, home to some of the largest tides in the world. While in Derby we grab some fresh supplies before heading out to the seafront for lunch. After lunch we hit the road for Broome, along the way stopping off to view a Boab tree estimated to be 1500 years old, and believed to have been used as a prison tree during the colonial/aboriginal conflict period of the late 19th century. Upon arrival in Broome we transfer you to your pre-booked accommodation as we conclude our Kimberley tour and say our farewells.

Day 1 – Depart Broome 6.30am, Derby, Boab Tree, Tunnel Creek, Windjana Gorge

Your Kimberley experience begins this morning as we collect you from your Broome accommodation at 6am. Our immediate destination is the heart of the Kimberley as we head towards the Kimberley Devonian Reef. Along the way we visit the remote town of Derby, home to some of the largest tides in the world. Next we head straight for the Gibb River Road, stopping off to view a Boab tree estimated to be around 1500 years old, and believed to have been used as a prison tree during the colonial/aboriginal conflict period of the late 19th century. This afternoon after driving our first stretch of the Gibb River Road, our Kimberley experience deepens as we explore Tunnel Creek at a leisurely pace. On approach, the Napier Range abruptly rises from the Western plains (Pindan Country) to expose a 350 million year old Devonian reef system. The reef system and surrounding plains provide cultural and geological insights spanning millennia. While at Tunnel Creek we take time to experience this unique formation and micro habitat; There is often an abundance of wildlife here as we trek through the main tunnel and explore some of the secondary caverns of this amazing protected environment. We reveal some of the local Bunuba Indigenous heritage, important cultural stories and historic events. In the late afternoon we return to Windjana Gorge just in time to enjoy our first Kimberley sunset. Tonight’s camp will be the first of many under the Kimberley sky so sit back and enjoy the camp fire while we cook up a feast.

Day 2 – Bell Gorge, Galvan’s Gorge

This morning we make our way back to the Gibb River Road and travel deeper into the Kimberley towards the King Leopold Ranges. Our first stop is Bell Gorge, nestled in the rugged sandstone of the King Leopold Conservation Zone. Our hike into the gorge reveals one of the most popular Kimberley waterfalls along the Gibb. After a refreshing swim, further exploration of the gorge and some relaxation time, we head further east for Galvan’s and Manning Gorges. Both of these gorges are uniquely different to each other: Galvan’s is a soft featured, lush tropical oasis only a short walk from the road and perfect for a short swim after today’s drive. From here it’s only a short drive to tonight’s camp at another beautiful spot under the stars.

Day 3 – Manning Gorge Expedition

After an easy relaxing breakfast we prepare to negotiate Manning River as we begin our hike into Manning Falls. We spend the rest of the morning exploring this rugged remote gorge while swimming at secluded beaches, and viewing obscure Rock Art (Bradshaws). We also make time to visit the falls and have another swim and picnic lunch, before hiking back. With an approx. distance of 7km, this hike is for the fit and active as the terrain is rocky and undulating. After one last swim in the river and lunch, we continue further east along the Gibb River road to our next camp on the banks of the Gibb River itself. Upon arrival after setting camp we have some time to explore the local environment and some more quite different ancient rock art.

Day 4 – King Edward River via Drysdale River Station

After breakfast and maybe a quick morning dip in the river, we break up camp and head north along the Kalumburu Road toward Kind Edward River. Along the way, we stop at Drysdale River Station for a comfort stop. Drysdale is a working cattle Station and major supply point for our northern Kimberley expedition. Upon departing Drysdale River Station we continue north on the Kalumburu Road and ascend to the far northern and more remote area of the Kimberley, soon entering Wunambal Gaambera country. The local indigenous groups now manage the area, their “Uunguu”, and as an accredited Uunguu operator we have gained the privilege to take our guests through this amazing cultural landscape. There is a distinct change in the vegetation as we begin to encounter the thick palm forests that dominate the northern landscapes. After negotiating the depths of the King Edward River we arrive in a lush tropical environment adjacent to the river. This area is rich with native foods, and as such supported large populations in a past era. While at the King Edward River, we make time to explore the many cultural and rock art sites in the area. We finish today with a refreshing swim in the clean, cool and croc free waters of the King Edward River before kicking back around the camp fire while dinner is prepared. This is one of the most beautiful camps in the Kimberley!

Day 5 – Mitchell Falls Expedition

After an early rise and 4WD trek to the Mitchell Plateau, we spend most of the day hiking, swimming and exploring the natural and cultural values of this remote Kimberley destination. Striking landscapes, stunning water features and ancient intricate rock art make this complete expedition worth the travel. Today we also have another opportunity for an aerial adventure around and over the Mitchell Falls area (optional extra) with the added advantage of being dropped back at the start of the walking trail*. After our Mitchel Plateau expedition we return to our King Edward River camp to enjoy sunset over the river with a final refreshing swim for the day.

*Please note: The return hike from Mitchell Falls can be hot and challenging. For safety reasons, participants with insufficient fitness levels will be required to take a scenic helicopter flight back to the trail head.

Day 6 – Drysdale River, Home Valley Station

This morning we say goodbye to the far north Kimberley and return to the Gibb River Road en route to Home Valley Station. As we continue eastward we visit Ellenbrae Station for lunch and a swim in a pristine waterhole. After our lunch and swim we head for our day’s final destination. Home Valley Station is owned and operated by the Indigenous Land Corporation, and is one of the emerging Kimberley Indigenous outback experiences. Home Valley is nestled in the mighty Durack Ranges, signalling our arrival to the East Kimberley. Tonight’s camp amidst the dominant Cockburn Ranges is another opportunity to witness a spectacular Kimberley sunset.

Day 7 – Elquestro, Emma Gorge, the Bungles

This morning after breakfast we break camp and continue eastward en route to Elquestro Station. Today’s journey begins as we descend the Pentecost Range and cross the tidal section of the mighty Pentecost River. This can be a tricky crossing if not handled correctly; we may even spot a crocodile as we cross! Upon arrival at Elquestro we begin our exploration with a hike into Emma Gorge. The Emma Gorge hike leads us through towering sandstone escarpments to eventually arrive at a tall waterfall in a lush tropical paradise. This hike requires good fitness and agility with some rock hopping along the way. After a swim at Emma Falls, we depart Elquestro for Purnululu (the Bungles). We travel the remainder of the Gibb River Road before turning south onto the Great Northern Highway. This afternoon’s drive is through a narrow corridor between the Carr Boyd Ranges on the eastern side, and the Durack Ranges in the West. This is classic Durack Country and one of the most picturesque routes in the Kimberley. After the easy highway travel, we turn onto the Mabel Downs Station track to tackle the raw rugged terrain of the Osmond Range and surrounding Bungle Bungle landscape. We end today at one of the park’s great vantage points to view the Bungle Bungle Range as the sun sets behind us.

Day 8 – Bungle Bungles Expedition

After an early sunrise breakfast we spend this morning hiking around and through the famous World Heritage acclaimed beehive formations of the Bungle Bungle Range. We also Trek Piccinnini Creek, the main drainage channel of the park, and admire Cathedral Gorge and other outstanding features of this unique semi-arid Kimberley zone. After our morning hiking expedition we have an opportunity for a helicopter flight to view the surrounding Bungle Bungle landscape and get a true perspective of its grandeur and magnitude (own expense). An 18-45 minute flight over the Bungle Bungle Range in an open door chopper is an exhilarating experience and definitely the best way to view this incredible land form, particularly after exploring and hiking the area previously. Our next destination is the northern section of the Bungle Bungle Range. The drive to the North of the park is approx. 45 minutes and skirts the Bungles the whole distance, providing more opportunities to admire the changing aspects of this natural masterpiece. The experience in the park’s North is very different to this morning as we explore the changing habitats in and around Echidna Chasm. This afternoon we make a return journey once again through Mable Downs Station and onto tonight’s camp.

Day 9 – Kununurra, Victoria River

After Breakfast we break camp and head for the Northern Territory. Before crossing the NT/WA border we stop in Kununurra for a short re-supply. This fascinating East Kimberley Hub was originally constructed as a support base for the Ord River Irrigation Scheme and today is a thriving East Kimberley Community filling a vital role in supporting the surrounding local economy. From Kununurra we continue east along the Victoria River Highway, deep into the Northern Territory to our camp the Victoria River District. This region of the Northern Territory displays some of the most dramatic sandstone escarpment country in Australia, and is one of Australia’s best kept secrets. We arrive at camp in time to enjoy our first NT sunset.

Day 10 – Katherine, Edith Falls, Darwin

After waking to our first sunrise in the Northern Territory and our last breakfast together, we hit the road again and head for Darwin. En route we visit the gorgeous Edith Falls (Leliyn), part of Nitmiluk National Park. This is one of the most popular Top End water playgrounds! At Edith Falls we have time for a swim and picnic lunch before departing and travelling further north up the Stuart Highway to our final destination – Darwin. Upon arrival in Darwin we transport you to your pre- booked accommodation and leave you to reflect on your Kimberley experience with us.

At Charter North 4WD Safaris, we know how important a healthy, balanced diet is for your well-being, and just because our tours are remote that does not mean that you will have to compromise your diet for the duration of your trip. Many of our tour guests still attribute camping to sausages and bread, but thankfully these days are over. At Charter North, we provide freshly prepared meals incorporating all food groups at breakfast, lunch & dinner. In between meals, there will be plenty of healthy snacks to top up energy levels during our activity packed tour days. Ample cool storage space in our tour trailers allows us to carry lots of fresh vegetables & fruits along with all other ingredients for our wholesome meals. All of our guides are great camp fire cooks and you will be surprised at the variety of meals they prepare for you. We cater for a range of diets (vegetarian, gluten free etc.). Read more.

What our tour guests say about our food:

“The day was always started with a fresh cup of percolated coffee and a spread of cereals, breads, fresh fruit and when time permitted damper, eggs and bacon, often with an open fire. We were all surprised at the quality and variety of food prepared; Fresh, organic, delicious and plenty thereof, always thinking of the environment in our use of the camping area, roads and bush.”

“We fully expected 3 nights of BBQ sausage in rolls so it was fantastic to get a really delicious home-cooked meal every evening, from stir fries to homemade pasta sauces. Plenty of snacks and a hearty breakfast (and espresso coffee… no international roast here!) set us up for the day.”

“I was expecting 8 nights of BBQ’ed sausages, but we ended up with everything from stir fries to tacos to pasta, all cooked on an open fire. So the dinners were great, and it would be remiss of me not to mention Alina’s muesli and GT’s coffee, which got the mornings off to a great start.”

“The food was great & all meals other than lunch were cooked over the fire. We enjoyed freshly brewed coffee and cooked breakfasts (eggs and bacon; jaffles); bread cooked in the camp oven (including damper; multigrain and a banana bread); Bbqs, curries, pasta and stir fries for dinner and plenty of chocolate and marshmallows for toasting over the fire while star gazing.”

(Quotes from our recent TripAdvisor reviews)

At Charter North 4WD Safaris, our guests’ safety, comfort and well-being always comes first. Through a number of mechanism, we ensure that you are well looked after, well informed and getting the most out of your valuable holiday at all times. After all, a holiday should be relaxing and enjoyable, and you are in the right hands with Charter North.

Our Tour Guides

All of our tour guides have many years of experience and comprehensive knowledge of our tour destinations. They are personable, responsible and approachable and will ensure that you truly experience and learn about your chosen destination, not just see it. Our guides are accredited, trained in remote first aid and most importantly passionate about their work, people and the environment.

Our tour vehicles & trailers

Charter North’s tour vehicles and trailers are suited to the sometimes rough and often challenging conditions characteristic of our tour destinations, and are equipped with the latest safety features and emergency communications. Our modern luxury 4wds are the most comfortable available in the market, and fitted with upgraded suspension to “smoothen out the ride” even further. They are fitted with air-conditioning and curtain airbags throughout, and designed for quiet acoustics allowing you to converse freely. All vehicles and trailers are serviced and maintained to the highest standards and beyond recommended service intervals to minimise any risk of mechanical issues on tour.

Our camping equipment

Charter North’s camping equipment is chosen with care to provide the most suitable and comfortable options available. We test and approve any equipment we use, with an emphasis on products that are easy to manage, fast to set up, light weight and of course comfortable. On our camping programs, we use standing room dome tents that are easy to set up and cool through warmer nights. Our custom swags are fitted with comfortable high density foam mattresses, sheets and pillows. 

For further tour information, please visit our FAQs.