Adventures in the Kimberley Region

The Kimberley region is located in the most northern area of Western Australia. This wild and beautiful area has fewer people per square kilometre than nearly any other place on Earth. The Kimberley region is known for it’s dramatic and unique landscape, with amazing waterfalls, caves, gorges, and an abundance of wildlife.

The Kimberley region has a sub-tropical climate experiencing distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season between May and October is the most popular time for tourists due to the warm, clear days and cool nights. During the wet season (November to April), the region experiences a lot of heavy downpours, monsoonal weather and humid days.

The main route through the heart of the Kimberley is the 660km unsealed Gibb River Road. If you’re not an experienced 4x4 driver then the safest and most enjoyable way to see this spectacular area is with a guided 4WD adventure tour.

Culture and History

The Kimberley region has a rich culture. Approximately half of the population is Indigenous and represents over 30 traditional Aboriginal language groups. In 1688 the first British explorer was credited with arriving on the Kimberley shore. Dutch, Portuguese and French people also visited the area in the 17th and 18th centuries.

In the mid-19th century the Europeans drove cattle on the vast grasslands of the area, and the gold rush in 1886 saw an influx of Chinese and Europeans to Halls Creek. Japanese and Malay divers contributed to the unique multicultural mix Broome is known for, and the pearl fishing industry was born in the late 19th century.

During this time the Indigenous people were moved from their traditional areas. Missionaries introduced new cultural beliefs which brought about some benefits, but also many problems which have shaped the heritage of the Kimberley region.

What to See in the Kimberley

Cable Beach (located in Broome), is a popular attraction with it’s contrasting red rocks, white sand and clear blue water. Or the Bungle Bungle Range Tour where you can experience the amazing striped beehive-like formations which formed over a period of 20 million years. Another unique location is the Boab Prison Tree located in Derby. This large hollow tree is 1,500 years old and is said that it was used as a temporary lockup in the 1890’s for Indigenous prisoners on their way to Derby for sentencing.

There is so much more to see and experience in the Kimberley region. From striking gorges and water falls, to incredible rock formations and World War II crash sites. You can experience spectacular national parks and oceans all while travelling with an experienced guide in a luxury 4WD.

Fun Facts About the Kimberley Region

• The Kimberley area is 423,517 square kilometres, roughly 3 times the size of England.• The Kimberley has thousands of ancient rock paintings.• The Broome coastline is closer to South-East Asia than it is to Perth.• The first people to settle in the Kimberley region arrived from Indonesia 40,000 years ago.• During the wet season monsoonal rains flood the region, making large areas impassable.• 90% of the region’s rain falls during the wet season.• The average temperature is above 28 degrees Celsius for the majority of the year.

A Kimberley tours will give you the experience of a lifetime as you travel through this unique and spectacular wilderness. The Kimberley region is a magical place with some of the most remote landscapes in the world. But regardless of the Kimberley’s remoteness, you will find luxury accommodation, tasty food, beautiful beaches and friendly locals. And don’t forget, one of Australia’s best 4x4 adventure tours you’ll ever experience. Bring your camera and a sense of adventure.