The Bungle Bungle Range, in Purnululu National Park, situated in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is a 240,000-hectare group of cone karst sandstones. The drive takes approx. 5 hours from the nearest airport in Kununurra. Thousands of stars are able to shine brightly each night, far, far away from the competition of civilisation. The incredible landscape and remoteness are what make it such a special place to visit.
It is a place that needs to be seen with your own eyes to be believed, both from the ground and the air. There are several popular walks, including the Piccaninny Creek Walk and Cathedral Gorge, a giant hollowed-out rock with acoustics so amazing that the Sydney Symphony Orchestra played a concert in the gorge in 2016. A ride over the range in a doorless helicopter provides uninterrupted views that allow one to grasp the sheer size of the domes in height and the area they cover.
I explored the area on a small group 4WD tour with accommodation in Glamping tents. Think comfortable beds, quality linen, and ensuite bathrooms. The trip would be suitable for those looking for a lovely way to enjoy being in the remotest of areas.
1. The thousands of stars I was able to see at night
2. The open-door helicopter ride over the Bungle Bungles
3. The Cathedral Gorge Walk
4. Having a warm bed, shower and gourmet meal to come home to after each day's activities.
1. The road in is bumpy. A 4WD is the only way to make the drive comfortable, and unless you are an experienced driver with this terrain, it may be best to join a small group (12 person) tour as I did.
2. The road there is interesting the first time, but not so much the second time. Drive one way and fly back to Kununurra the other.
3. If you do self-drive, consider engaging an experienced guide to take you on the walks. The area is vast and remote; it can be hot, and it would be easy to get lost. Plus, you'll learn much more about the area from the stories the guide has to tell.
4. Seeing the Bungle Bungle range from the air is a must. It is the only way you can see how vast the area of the domes is. The open-door helicopter experience allows for uninterrupted views, but if this sounds a bit scary, it's not really; you will be able to see it from the plane if you take my suggestion #2 above.
5. Book as far in advance as possible if you choose to join a small group tour. With only 12 spots, they sell out quickly.
For assistance booking your incredible journey to this special part of the world, please get in touch.
