Exploring the Majestic Bungle Bungle Range with Family

Reaching New Heights in the Bungle Bungles

Today was a day of exploration that truly took my breath away, both on foot and in the air. The Bungle Bungle Range continues to surprise and delight at every turn, and I feel so fortunate to be sharing these moments with my family. From the intimate embrace of Mini Palms Gorge to the vast expanse viewed from a helicopter, it was a day of contrasting perspectives that painted a vivid picture of this ancient landscape.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mini Palms Gorge in Purnululu National Park, a hiker's paradise in Western Australia.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge, fueling up for our trek into Mini Palms Gorge. The November sun was already beginning to flex its muscles, reminding us to hydrate and reapply sunscreen. As we set off, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this landscape is from the rolling hills of Silkeborg. Yet, both places hold a unique kind of beauty that speaks to the soul. Lasse, ever the teenager, grumbled slightly about the early start, but Astrid and I exchanged knowing smiles. We knew that once he was surrounded by the towering rock formations, his complaints would fade into awestruck silence.

The walk to Mini Palms Gorge was an adventure in itself. The trail gradually ascends, and we soon found ourselves navigating a stony creek bed. It wasn't long before the towering walls of the gorge began to close in, and the air grew noticeably cooler. The kids were fascinated by the conglomerate boulders scattered along the path, each one a testament to the sedimentary origins of the Bungle Bungle Range. I pointed out the various rocks cemented together by hardened mud, a process that took millennia. It was a hands-on history lesson that even Lasse seemed to appreciate.

As we ventured deeper, the gorge narrowed, and we had to scramble over and around huge fallen boulders. It was a bit challenging, but the views were more than worth the effort. Towering Livistona palms clung to the cliff faces, their elegant fronds creating a striking contrast against the red rock. The trail led us to two viewing platforms, each offering a unique perspective of the gorge. From the first, we looked out over an arena of rocks and palms, a hidden oasis in the heart of the Kimberley. The second platform, reached by a staircase, overlooked the deepest part of the gorge, where the palms seemed to reach for the sky. The sheer scale of the escarpment was truly breathtaking.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that require a little extra effort.

After our hike, we returned to the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge for a well-deserved lunch. The lodge provided a welcome respite from the heat, and we enjoyed a delicious meal while recounting our adventures in the gorge. It was then time for the highlight of the day: our scenic helicopter flight with HeliSpirit. I'll admit, I was a little nervous. I'm not the biggest fan of heights, but Astrid and the kids were so excited that I couldn't resist. And I'm so glad I didn't.


Soar above the breathtaking Bungle Bungles with HeliSpirit for an unforgettable helicopter adventure in Purnululu National Park.As we lifted off from the Bellburn Airstrip, the landscape stretched out before us like a giant canvas. The helicopter afforded us a unique vantage point, showcasing the vastness and grandeur of the Bungle Bungle Range. From above, the iconic beehive domes revealed their intricate patterns and textures, a testament to millions of years of erosion. The orange and black stripes, caused by the alternating layers of silica and algae, were even more striking from the air.

Our pilot expertly navigated the helicopter through the valleys and gorges, providing us with a running commentary on the geological formations and the history of the area. We soared over Piccaninny Gorge, the largest in the park, and marveled at the hidden red rock canyons filled with Livistona palms. The experience was surreal, like flying through the pages of a history book. Even Lasse was captivated, his eyes glued to the window as he snapped photos with his phone. I found myself reflecting on my own childhood in Arezzo, and how my father would have loved to see this landscape. His passion for history and craftsmanship would have been ignited by the Bungle Bungles.

The flight also gave us a sense of the sheer remoteness of the Bungle Bungle Range. As we looked out over the vast expanse of the Kimberley, I was struck by the resilience of the people who have called this place home for thousands of years. The indigenous history of the area is rich and complex, and I'm eager to learn more about it in the coming days. Perhaps tomorrow's visit to Mirima National Park will give us some more insights.

After our flight, we celebrated with a drink at the Bungles Bar at the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge. Sipping a cold beer, I watched as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. Astrid and I chatted with some fellow travelers, sharing stories and tips about our adventures in the Kimberley. Lasse, surprisingly, joined in the conversation, animatedly describing his favorite moments from the helicopter flight. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so special.

As the stars began to emerge, we gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter with our new friends. The night sky in the Bungle Bungles is truly something to behold, a vast expanse of twinkling lights that stretches out to infinity. It's a reminder of our place in the universe, and a humbling experience to share with loved ones. I even managed to spot the Southern Cross, a constellation that I had only ever read about in books. It felt like a personal connection to this land, a small piece of the puzzle that is Australia.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Mirima National Park, also known as Hidden Valley, and explore its unique rock formations. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery, and to sharing more of the Bungle Bungles with you all. We'll have breakfast at the Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge before heading out for the day and will be sure to grab lunch at the Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Company.


Experience breathtaking landscapes and rich Indigenous culture at Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Company in Western Australia.Until then, I'll leave you with a quote that seems particularly fitting for our time here:

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Goodnight from the Bungle Bungles! I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings.