Exploring the Majestic Bungle Bungle Range with Family

A Day of Refreshing Waters and Silent Nights

The Kimberley has a way of surprising you, just when you think you’ve seen it all. Today, on the ninth day of our family adventure in the Bungle Bungle Range, was one of those days filled with unexpected delights and serene moments. It’s hard to believe we’re already more than halfway through our journey, but the memories we’re making will surely last a lifetime.

Our day began, as many have, with a hearty breakfast at the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge. The staff were incredibly friendly, catering to everyone's needs, and the food was delicious. Fuelling up for the day's adventure was essential, and the buffet-style spread had something for everyone. Lasse, of course, made a beeline for the pastries, while Astrid enjoyed some fresh fruit. I opted for a strong coffee to kickstart my morning.

First on the agenda was Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge), a name that conjured images of cascading waterfalls and refreshing pools. The drive there was an adventure in itself, a 30km journey off the Gibb River Road that tested our trusty four-wheel drive. The road was corrugated, requiring careful navigation, but the anticipation of reaching the gorge kept us going.

The landscape transformed as we approached Dalmanyi. Sun-bleached rocks and vibrant greenery painted a picture of raw, untouched beauty. The walk to the gorge was a bit challenging, a Class 4 trail with a steep initial descent. However, the effort was immediately rewarded as we reached the first water-filled pool. The amber-hued hill in the backdrop created a dreamy, reflective scene, perfect for a family photo. Astrid, ever the photographer, captured the moment beautifully.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) in Western Australia, where stunning waterfalls meet rich Indigenous culture.

The beauty of nature lies not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

We ventured further, eager to reach the waterfall itself. The climb was steep and required some careful footing, but the promise of a refreshing swim kept us motivated. Finally, we arrived at the base of the falls, a deep pool surrounded by majestic sandstone walls. The water was cool and invigorating, a welcome respite from the Kimberley heat. Lasse, never one to shy away from a challenge, immediately plunged into the pool, whooping with delight.

Swimming beneath the cascading waterfall was an experience I won't soon forget. The power of the water, the sheer beauty of the gorge, and the laughter of my family created a moment of pure bliss. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, a hidden oasis in the heart of the Kimberley. We spent a good few hours swimming, sunbathing on the rocks, and simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Leaving Dalmanyi, we felt refreshed and rejuvenated, ready for the next chapter of our adventure. Our stomachs started to rumble, so we stopped for lunch at The Bungle Bungles restaurant. After a satisfying lunch, we decided to visit Bungle Bungle Guided Tours to do some shopping. I couldn’t resist picking up a small, hand-carved wooden replica of the Bungle Bungle domes, a memento to remind me of this incredible landscape. Lasse found a didgeridoo and spent a good half-hour trying to get a sound out of it, much to the amusement (and slight annoyance) of the other shoppers.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Kurrajong Campground, our home for the night. Setting up camp was a familiar routine by now, and we quickly had our tents pitched and our sleeping bags laid out. Kurrajong is a large campground, offering plenty of space and basic amenities like pit toilets and picnic tables. While not luxurious, it provided everything we needed for a comfortable night under the stars.


Experience the serene landscapes and unique geological wonders of Kurrajong Campground in Purnululu National Park, a true nature lover's paradise.

With camp set up, we prepared dinner – a simple but satisfying pasta dish cooked on our portable stove. As we ate, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Bungle Bungle Range. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, a breathtaking spectacle that left us in awe.

After dinner, we gathered around our camping chairs, gazing up at the night sky. Far from the city lights, the stars shone with incredible brilliance. The Milky Way stretched across the heavens, a shimmering river of light. I tried to point out constellations to Lasse, but his attention was soon captured by a shooting star streaking across the sky. We made wishes, shared stories, and simply enjoyed the silence of the outback.

The temperature dropped as the night deepened, and we retreated to our tents, snuggling into our sleeping bags. The sounds of the bush lulled us to sleep – the rustling of leaves, the distant call of a dingo, and the gentle breeze whispering through the trees. It was a peaceful, tranquil night, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Silkeborg. I was glad that we had remembered to pack the insect repellent, as the mosquitoes were out in force.

Reflecting on the day, I realised how fortunate we are to experience such incredible places with our family. The Bungle Bungle Range has a way of stripping away the superficial and reminding you of what truly matters – connection, adventure, and the beauty of the natural world. It's experiences like these that strengthen our bonds and create memories that we will cherish forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Galjiba (Molly Spring) and Zebedee Springs, two more hidden gems in this remarkable landscape. I'm particularly excited about Zebedee Springs, a thermal spring oasis that promises a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Astrid is looking forward to photographing the unique flora and fauna of the area, while Lasse is eager to test his swimming skills once again. We'll also be stopping by the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge for dinner, a treat we're all looking forward to.

As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. The Bungle Bungle Range has captured our hearts, and I know that we will leave here with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet. And perhaps, I will finally convince Astrid that we need to invest in a proper portable phone charger, instead of relying on my increasingly unreliable one!

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” Perhaps that’s why I feel so alive here.

Goodnight from the Kimberley. Until tomorrow!