The Kimberley Walk & Camp – 10 Days

Our Walks Are All Inclusive

All Our Walks Include

• Small Group of 10 or less
• Guided walks designed to immerse you in the region’s beauty, history and wildlife
• Two experienced and accredited guides – safety gear equipped and full of knowledge about the region
• Return transport and tour transfers included

Plus, This Walk Includes

• 7 nights camping in comfortable swags
• Breakfasts, lunch & two-course dinners, plus heaps of snacks, fruit & non-alcoholic beverages on & off the trail
• All National Park Entry Fees
• Carbon Offset Program in line with our commitment to sustainability

ITINERARY

DAY 1 – 2.7km, 4 hrs approx.

Echidna Chasm Walk, Purnululu National Park 2.7km – moderate
Approx 3-4 hours walking

Depart Kununurra at 6.30am from the Lakeside Resort and 7am from the Kimberley Grande (please be ready to go just before pickup time). We make our way to the northern end of the Purnululu National Park and stop at a Roadhouse for a delicious breakfast. As we travel onwards we arrive to our campsite, and set up our temporary home, before heading to Echidna Chasm for our first walk.

This is a return walk through a narrow chasm with some large boulders to be scrambled over. Visually stunning as you look up between the narrow gap of tall red cliffs to the brilliant blue sky way above. This walk starts almost right away in a dry creek bed and there are lots of rocks to climb over. Before long you are in the gorge and will notice the sides close in dramatically. The rocky path continues as you weave your way through the tight spaces between the rock walls.

Following we return to camp to prepare for dinner. Your guides will watch the sunset timings closely— tonight we head off to a lookout for an (optional) sunset viewing platform.

Meals—Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Purnululu National Park – Walardi Campground.

The facilities are basic: bush toilets and bore water taps. There are no showers and it is not recommended that you drink the bore water unless you boil or treat it.
Fires are not permitted. There is no mobile phone coverage in the Park.

DAY 2 – 5.3km, 2hrs approx.

Cathedral Gorge and the Dome Walk, Purnululu National Park—5.3km – easy to moderate

Approx 2 hours walking

We get up, have breakfast and pack up camp then make our way to the Piccaninny Creek carpark where we prepare for two walks. This morning we have time for an optional scenic flight over the region (guest own expense) though please choose carefully—flight OR the Cathedral Gorge Walk.

Cathedral Gorge— This is where you start to see those typical rock formations the National Park is famous for and you can’t help but be a little excited when you start this walk.

The trail starts heading towards the domes then turns to follow the dry Picaninny creek bed. You are walking on flat but uneven terrain with a mixture of sand and large rock slabs. When the track turns toward the gorge the sides narrow and there is some stair climbing and descending.
Before long you will sight the cathedral. This is a massive natural amphitheatre that is sure to impress. Apart from other walkers, it’s very quiet and cool. We stop for a snack and relax to enjoy the atmosphere.

We then return almost to the start of the trail and head to the domes for a loop walk. Here you will see some Aboriginal rock art and appreciate the age of the environment.

We’re on the road by lunch time and spend the rest of the day travelling to Halls Creek.

Meals—Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Overnight: Halls Creek Caravan Park—Campground

Featuring hot showers and laundry facilities.

DAY 3 – 6.5km, 3hrs approx.

Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge 6.5km – easy to moderate Approx 3 hours walking

After breakfast we head off, arriving at Fitzroy Crossing for morning tea and a great time to stretch your legs.

By lunch we arrive at Tunnel Creek, then grab our torches and some shoes that can get wet and make our way to Windjana Gorge National Park – one of the most beautiful gorges in the Kimberley.

We start at Tunnel Creek. The walk starts off right near the cave entrance. There is a small descent down to get to the opening then you will get a view of the large smooth boulders you have to straddle. We then duck down under the low roof to enter the cave.

After carefully choosing our path through the smaller rocks and water we turn our head lamps on and start the trail through the dark section of the cave. It’s relatively flat but there are a lot of wobbly rocks to navigate. There is a sandy section in the middle and then we come across the second roof collapse and see some interesting roots growing right through the cave roof. At the end there is a large pool of water.

Please note there are some parts of this walk where you will get wet and some small sections where you may be required to swim depending on the time of year and water levels.

Not far from Tunnel Creek is our next top at Windjana Gorge. We are sure to see dozens of freshwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks of the Lennard River here.

We start by walking through an opening in the rocks that takes us through a small cave like tunnel. We then walk alongside the beautiful limestone cliffs for a bit on flat ground with beautiful eucalypts overhead.

There are no major obstacles to walk over and the path is quite wide in some places. We follow the creek bed for a while and can then pop down onto the sand where to get a good look at some freshwater crocodiles.

The views of the surrounding cliffs are epic and it’s a very pleasant stroll up the creek bed, all the while seeing crocodiles in their natural habitat. The geology here is incredible, some of the best limestone to get a good look at in Australia. An absolutely fascinating place.

We then hop back in the vehicle and travel onwards to our Campground for the night—offering a civilised shower.

Meals—Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Overnight: Bandilgnan (Windjana Gorge) Campground

DAY 4 – 3km, 2hrs approx.

Annie Creek, Dolerite Gorge, Barkers Pool, Sunset Hill
Approx 3km, 2 hours walking

We start off driving to Mt Hart, then start exploring with a short walk at Annie Creek. Here we admire an im-pressive boab tree being strangled by a fig – a great photo opportunity. Close by is Annie Creek Walk and Waterhole. A short easy walk beside a reed filled creek adorned with ghost gums. Bird watchers will love this spot, particularly the red backed fairy wrens flitting amongst the Pandanus. A small waterhole at the end is just large enough for a swim for those that want to refresh.

We then head to Dolerite Gorge. The walk starts off easy, but soon we follow the creek bed where there are lots of small rocks so you need to watch where you’re walking. Soon we reach the gorge and need to start rock hopping to follow the track.

We come to a nice waterhole suitable for swimming. For those that want to continue exploring we can follow the track markers by continuing the rock and boulder hopping following the creek. We need to cross the creek three times before coming to a section of the gorge where it begins to narrow where you will find another waterhole suitable for swimming.

After Dolerite Gorge we have a short stop at Barker Pools, another lovely birdwatching and swimming spot.

We head back to camp at Mt Hart and have some time to relax this afternoon.

Just before sunset we make the 5 minute drive across the airstrip and up to Sunset Hill. We’ll pull out our chairs, nibbles and drinks and relax whilst watching the country change from yellows and oranges to pinks and purples. A wonderful way to celebrate the day.

Meals—Breakfast, lunch. Dinner at guest own expense at on-site restaurant (pre-order may be required)

Overnight: Mt Hart campground

DAY 5 – 6.5km, 3hrs approx.

Bell Gorge & Galvins Gorge
6.5km easy to moderate, Bell Gorge moderate to hard, approx. 3 hours walking

After breakfast we spend most of the day exploring three of the most popular and well-known gorges along the Gibb River Road.

We start with the most challenging walk today – into Bell Gorge, a 2.6km return walk in the King Leopold Range Conservation Park. Most of the walk is quite easy and meanders beside the pretty Bell Creek. Once we get to the Gorge it gets a little more difficult as we cross the creek on slippery rocks, and then scramble down the steep rock wall leading to the water’s edge. Taking it carefully, it is well worth the effort. A waterfall cascades down the U-shaped cliffs into a deep pool perfect for swimming, with large flat rocks alongside that we warm ourselves on after the very refreshing water.

We finish with a walk to Galvins Gorge. About 1.6 km return, this is a lovely place to swim. Afterwards we onward travel via Mt Barnett Road-house and check in to our campground.

Meals—Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Overnight Manning River campground

There is no power here. Facilities include male and female showers and amenities. Hot showers.

DAY 6  – 6km, 4hrs approx.

Manning Gorge Walk 6km – moderate
Approx 3.5-4 hours walking

Departing Manning River campground after breakfast we prepare for the Manning Gorge Walk. The walk is mostly in open rocky grass and woodlands, so can be sunny and hot.

To access the start of the walk we need to cross Manning River. This is an oasis in itself and a lovey spot for a swim before we embark on the walk. For those that want to keep dry, there is a small boat on a rope pully system that takes us across Manning River to the start of the walk. Please note, you may be required to swim across if the boat is unavailable. For those not wishing to join the group, you can stay back at the campground to relax and enjoy life by the
River.
The moderately graded walk is 2.4 kilometres one way to the first pool. Stay here for a swim and relax or walk further, exploring more pools and rock escarpments. Aboriginal rock art can be found here.

Back to the vehicle we journey to Ellenbrae Station. Here we stop for the famous homemade scones with jam and cream. You’ll love the open air homestead with manicured lawns and gardens – a sanctuary amidst the dirt and dust.
The afternoon is at your leisure, and there is a nearby water-hole if you wish to go for a swim before dinner.

We head onto our camp for the night at Ellenbrae Station and then enjoy sunset down at the Pentecost River. We watch the sunset light up the Cockburn Ranges as they stand sentinel over this magnificent country and beautiful Pentecost River. This is a photographer’s dream and you are guaranteed to take away some postcard perfect shots.

Meals—Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: We camp tonight at Ellenbrae Station where there are hot showers.

DAY 7 – 5km, 4hrs approx. including swimming and walking

Amalia Gorge 4.9 km, approx. moderate to hard, Approx 4 hrs in-cluding swimming and walking

This morning we head off to Amalia Gorge enroute to our final destination El Questro Station, crossing the Pentecost River Crossing.

This walk is flat at the start and follows the rocky creek bed around and into the gorge. For the first 500 metres we walk over lots of small but unstable rocks, then you start walking into the gorge itself where there are some large sections of rock slabs to climb down. There is quite a bit of rock hopping before we see water. After a small cave we come across the first major waterhole for swimming. It’s a lovely spot and you can see fish swimming around.

The track abruptly heads uphill and alongside a high rocky area with a small cliff. There is a rocky outcrop that you have to squeeze past that brings you close to the edge so care is needed. If you’re unsure you can stay and swim in the pool rather than continuing on. Optional Sunset drive tonight.

Meals—Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Overnight: El Questro campground.

There are two amenities blocks alongside the camping area. We can swim in the river behind the campsites. The best waterhole is the one right behind the restaurant. There is a shop that has some food items if you wish. There are laundry facilities behind the amenities blocks There is mobile reception here (Telstra) at the station but not on the walks.

Accommodation: El Questro Black Cockatoo campground.

DAY 8 – 6km, 5hrs approx.

Zebedee Springs, and El Questro Trail
6km – easy to moderate—approx 5 hours walking and swimming

We rise early, have breakfast and enjoy a soak in the warm pools of Zebedee Springs. An easy walk through Sand and Livistonia Palms brings us to rejuvenating thermal springs. Truly idyllic, a rich red layered sandstone wall stands guard over the crystal clear pools in which we soak.

Most of this walk is quite flat but it is rocky and uneven underfoot. We wander through some gorgeous vegetation with several types of Pandanus and some very tall Livistona palms.
There are some tricky bits with rocks to climb over for the first half of the walk. We then start to see some bigger pools of water collecting in waterholes and enter a thinner section of the gorge with tall sides rising above you on both sides. This area is very lush and beautiful with gorgeous rainforest species.

We take the group through a rocky section nice and steady and eventually reach the halfway pool. There are some lovely waterfalls here.

The track continues over a large boulder which is possible depending on the fitness level and willingness of the group. Regardless if you push on or stay at the halfway pool it is a sensational walk. Optional scenic flight this afternoon (guest own expense) – Please do not book before 3.30pm.

Meals—Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Overnight: El Questro campground

DAY 9 – 5km, 5hrs approx.

Champagne Springs
Difficult—4.8km, 5hrs approx. walking

Be prepared as hiking to Champagne Springs is a little different and considered a little bit tricky. The walk is a 4.8km riverside trail is long and filled with broken terrain, particularly in the second half of the hike. Upon reaching the top you’ll be rewarded with cooling pools, lush scenery and a cascading waterfall. The only thing left to do is take the much easier walk back down.

The second half of the trail and the top pools offer little shade.

The afternoon allows time for an optional cruise, optional scenic flight or time to relax. Please consult your guides at the beginning of the trip, as pre-bookings recommended.
All bookings for 3pm onwards are appreciated.

Meals—Breakfast and lunch (dinner own expense at El Questro’s Steakhouse restaurant)

Overnight: El Questro campground

There are two amenities blocks alongside the camping area. We can swim in the river behind the campsites. The best waterhole is the one right behind the restaurant. There is a shop that has some food items if you wish. There are laundry facilities behind the amenities blocks There is mobile reception here (Telstra) at the station but not on the walks.

Accommodation: El Questro Black Cockatoo campground.

DAY 10 – 5km, 2.5hrs approx.

Emma Gorge Walk

5km – easy to moderate Approx 2.5 hour return (walking and swimming)

Our last day of tour we pack up and depart the campground.

Today we make our way onto Emma Gorge and Falls. This is a 5km easy to moderate return walk that takes us into a large crevice cut into the Cockburn Ranges.

The deeper we go into the Gorge, the higher the ochre rich walls rise on either side of us. The trail goes from easy and flat to rock scrambling and creek crossing.

It is worth the effort as we arrive at spectacular Emma; overwhelming in both her beauty and her refreshingly cold water. You can swim across the large water hole to where droplets of water fall from a large overhang creating the illusion of rain.

The colours are breath taking as you look up at the walls of the gorge.

Meals—Breakfast and lunch

Flights: Due to long distances and kilometres travelled, it is recommended to book a return flight the day after the tour returns.

Accommodation

Camping facilities:

This tour has swag accommodation so there is no single supplement charge. All swags are single.

Park Trek will supply a swag (canvas bed roll) that contains a mattress. Guests will need to bring along your own sleeping bag that is suited to the local conditions. Your sleeping bag will be rolled in your swag each day. You may also choose to bring a small pillow and camping mat which can also be rolled in the swag during the day.

Camping locations include:

3 nights – El Questro Black Cockatoo campground. There are two amenities blocks alongside the camping area.We can swim in the river behind the campsites. The best waterhole is the one right behind the restaurant.  There is a shop that has some food items if you wish. There are laundry facilities behind the amenities blocks with clothes lines off to the side. These washing machines take 3x $1 coins. There is mobile reception here (Telstra) at the station but not on the walks.

1 night – Purnululu National Park – Walardi Campground. It has its own sunset lookout. The facilities are basic: bush toilets and bore water taps. There are no showers and it is not recommended that you drink the bore water unless you boil or treat it. Fires are not allowed. There is no mobile phone coverage in the Park.

1 night – Halls Creek Caravan Park—Campground – This campground is located at the heart of  Halls Creek, an old mining town. Guests have access to hot showers and laundry facilities.

1 night – Bandilgnan (Windjana Gorge) Campground – There is no power in this campground. Bandilgnan (Windjana Gorge) Campground features hot water showers and toilets.

1 night – Mt Hart campground. The campground is quite a lovely spot next to the Barker river. There is one large amenities building with cubicles on both side that have showers and toilets. There is a a clothesline and washing machine is located in the homestead. Using the washing machine is free for all guests. There is no power at the campground. There is no mobile reception and no wi-fi.

1 night – Manning River campground: There is no power here. Facilities include male and female showers and amenities.

1 night – Ellenbrae Station. This campground features hot water showers and toilets.

Guest Notes

No single supplement applies for this tour.

Park Trek will supply a swag (canvas bed roll) that contains a mattress. Guests will need to bring along your own sleeping bag that is suited to the local conditions. Your sleeping bag will be rolled in your swag each day. You may also choose to bring a small pillow and camping mat which can also be rolled in the swag during the day.

Please be aware that the Kimberley is a vast area and can be subjected to unseasonal weather conditions which can alter our proposed itinerary.

Flights: Due to long distances and kilometres travelled, it is recommended to book a return flight the day after the tour returns.

Accommodation suggestions in Kununurra

The Lakeside Resort is located at 50 Casuarina Way, Kununurra

To book accommodation here P:  08 9169 1092

Pick up time: 6:30am

The Kimberley Grande is located at 20 Victoria Highway, Kununurra

To book accommodation here P: 08 9166 5688

Pick up time: 7:00am