The Kimberley Travel Guide: Is the Kimberley Worth Visiting? (+ Best Time, Tours & Planning Tips)
The Kimberley is one of the most remote and spectacular regions in Australia — and one of the hardest to plan.
Located in the far north of Western Australia, the Kimberley is defined by vast distances, ancient landscapes, dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and outback roads. It’s not a destination you casually “drop into.” But for travelers who plan it well, the Kimberley offers an experience unlike anywhere else in Australia.
This Kimberley travel guide covers everything you need to know before you go — where the Kimberley is, what to see, the best time to visit, how to get around, and whether you should do a guided tour or self-drive.
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Where Is the Kimberley & Why Visit?
The Kimberley is located in far northern Western Australia, stretching from Broome to Kununurra and east toward the Northern Territory border.
What makes the Kimberley unique is its scale and remoteness. This is a region of:
- Ancient sandstone ranges
- Deep gorges and waterfalls
- Red dirt landscapes
- Very few towns and services
The Kimberley is not about ticking off attractions — it’s about experiencing raw, remote Australia.
👉 Western Australia Travel Guide
Is the Kimberley Worth Visiting?
Yes — if you understand what you’re signing up for.
The Kimberley is worth visiting if you:
- Love nature and wide-open spaces
- Are comfortable with long distances
- Want something more remote than the east coast
- Are open to guided tours or 4WD travel
It may not be ideal if you:
- Have very limited time
- Don’t want to drive or take tours
- Prefer city-based travel
For many travellers, the Kimberley becomes the highlight of their entire Australia trip.
Best Places to Visit in the Kimberley
The Kimberley is made up of vast regions rather than compact towns. These are the key bases and highlights.
Broome
Broome is the most common gateway to the Kimberley.
Why visit:
- Cable Beach sunsets
- Easy access to tours
- Relaxed coastal vibe
Gibb River Road
One of Australia’s most iconic outback routes.
Highlights include:
- El Questro
- Bell Gorge
- Windjana Gorge
Access usually requires a 4WD or a guided tour.
El Questro Wilderness Park
A Kimberley highlight featuring:
- Gorges
- Thermal springs
- Hiking and swimming
Often included on Kimberley tours.
Kununurra
A base town near the WA–NT border.
Why it matters:
- Access to Lake Argyle
- Eastern Kimberley tours
- Flights in and out
Mitchell Falls (Kalumburu Road)
One of the Kimberley’s most iconic waterfalls.
Good to know:
- Very remote
- 4WD access only
- Often accessed via scenic flight
How Long Do You Need in the Kimberley?
Time is critical when planning a Kimberley trip.
- Minimum: 5–7 days (Broome + tour)
- Ideal: 10–14 days (Broome to Kununurra route)
- Extended: 2–3 weeks for deeper exploration
Trying to rush the Kimberley usually leads to too much driving and missed experiences.
Best Time to Visit the Kimberley ⭐
✔ Best Time: May to September (Dry Season)
The Kimberley is highly seasonal.
During the dry season:
- Roads are open
- Waterfalls are accessible
- Temperatures are manageable
- Tours operate regularly
⚠️ Wet Season (October to April)
- Many roads closed
- Extreme heat and humidity
- Limited access
The wet season can be beautiful but is not suitable for most visitors.
👉 Best Time to Visit the Kimberley
How to Get Around the Kimberley
This is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Option 1: Guided Kimberley Tours ⭐ (Most Popular)
Best if you:
- Don’t want to drive
- Want expert local knowledge
- Have limited time
Tours range from:
- Small-group 4WD tours
- Luxury guided experiences
- Scenic flight combinations
Option 2: Self-Drive (4WD Only)
Best if you:
- Have 4WD experience
- Are comfortable with remote travel
- Have plenty of time
Self-driving requires:
- Careful planning
- Road condition checks
- Appropriate insurance
👉 Renting a Car in Western Australia
👉 2WD vs 4WD in WA
Option 3: Flights + Day Tours
Some travelers:
- Fly into Broome or Kununurra
- Book local day tours or scenic flights
This is a good compromise for shorter trips.
Kimberley Tours vs Self-Drive: Which Is Better?
For most visitors, guided tours are the better option.
Tours offer:
- Access to remote areas
- No driving stress
- Knowledgeable guides
- Safer logistics
Self-drive works best for:
- Experienced outback travelers
- Long trips
- Travelers comfortable with isolation
Where to Stay in the Kimberley ⭐
Accommodation options are limited and highly seasonal.
Common options include:
- Hotels in Broome and Kununurra
- Wilderness lodges
- Station stays
- Camping (with a 4WD)
Booking early is essential during the dry season.
👉 Where to Stay in the Kimberley
Kimberley Travel Costs & Planning Tips
The Kimberley is not a budget destination.
Costs are higher due to:
- Remoteness
- Fuel prices
- Limited accommodation
- Tour logistics
However, tours often include:
- Transport
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Activities
Which can offer better value than self-driving.
Safety & Practical Tips for the Kimberley
- Distances are long
- Mobile reception is limited
- Wildlife on roads is common
- Fuel stops can be far apart
Never underestimate the environment — preparation is key.
How the Kimberley Fits Into a WA Trip
The Kimberley is usually:
- A standalone trip, or
- Combined with Broome, or
- Linked to the NT (Darwin)
Most travelers fly in and out, rather than driving from Perth.
🔒 Ready to Plan Your Kimberley Trip?
The Kimberley is one of Australia’s most unforgettable regions — but only if you plan it properly.
👉 See the Best Kimberley Tours
👉 Find the Best Places to Stay in the Kimberley
👉 Check the Best Time to Visit the Kimberley
Choosing the right season and travel style will make all the difference.