Exploring the Enchanting Bungle Bungle Range

Whispers of the Bungles

Today was a day of immersion in the raw, untamed beauty of the Bungle Bungle Range. The landscape here is unlike anything I’ve ever seen – a symphony of colors and textures that feels both ancient and vibrantly alive. Maximilian and I set out early, eager to explore the wonders that awaited us, and the day did not disappoint. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded my familiar Bonn for this wild adventure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge | Eco Accommodation in Purnululu National Park. The buffet was simple, yet satisfying, fueling us up for the day's adventures. I enjoyed a strong coffee and some toast, while Maximilian opted for a more substantial meal of eggs and bacon. The lodge itself is quite charming, nestled on the banks of Bellburn Creek, offering unique eco-accommodation. It’s amazing to think that we are staying right in the heart of Purnululu National Park.


Discover eco-friendly luxury at Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge in Purnululu National Park—where adventure meets comfort in stunning natural surroundings.

Before heading out, I couldn't resist browsing the small shop at the lodge. They had a lovely selection of local crafts and souvenirs, but I settled on a beautifully illustrated map of the Bungle Bungle Range. I have a weakness for maps, and this one will be a perfect reminder of our time here. Maximilian, ever the practical one, picked up a new hat to shield himself from the harsh Australian sun. We made sure to slather on sunscreen – the Outback sun is no joke, even in November.

Our first stop was the Piccaninny Creek Lookout. The drive there was an adventure in itself, a bumpy ride along the 4WD track, but the views along the way were worth every jolt. The landscape is so vast and open, with the Bungle Bungle Range looming in the distance. It felt like driving through a painting, the colors shifting with every turn.


Experience the stunning beauty of Piccaninny Creek Lookout, a breathtaking observation deck in Purnululu National Park, Western Australia.

The walk to the lookout was relatively easy, a gentle climb through the stony creek bed of Piccaninny Creek. The air was still and warm, and the only sounds were the crunch of our boots on the gravel and the occasional chirping of birds. As we reached the lookout, the view opened up before us in all its glory. The Bungle Bungle Range stretched out as far as the eye could see, the beehive-shaped domes a tapestry of red and black stripes. It was a truly breathtaking sight, one that no photograph could ever fully capture.

To witness such ancient beauty, sculpted by time and nature, is a privilege that humbles the soul.

I spent a long time simply gazing at the landscape, trying to soak it all in. Maximilian, meanwhile, was busy snapping photos, trying to capture the perfect shot. He’s quite the photographer, always searching for the best light and angle. I, on the other hand, prefer to simply experience the moment, letting the beauty wash over me. But I must admit, even I took a few photos – it was simply too stunning not to.

After soaking in the views at Piccaninny Creek Lookout, we decided to venture on to our next destination: Mini Palms Gorge. This gorge is known for its towering cliffs and the abundance of Livistona palms that thrive within its depths. The drive to the gorge took us through more of the rugged terrain that defines Purnululu National Park. We passed several other travelers along the way, all eager to experience the wonders of this remote corner of Australia.


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

The hike into Mini Palms Gorge was a bit more challenging than our earlier walk. The trail led us over loose rocks in a riverbed, and at times we had to scramble over boulders. But the effort was well worth it. As we entered the gorge, we were immediately enveloped by the cool, shady atmosphere. The towering cliffs rose on either side of us, creating a sense of awe and wonder. And everywhere we looked, there were Livistona palms, their elegant fronds swaying gently in the breeze.

The trail gradually ascended to two viewing platforms within the gorge. The first platform offered a view of an arena of rocks and palms, while the second, reached by a staircase, overlooked the deepest part of the gorge. From this vantage point, we could see the full extent of the palm-filled valley, surrounded by cliffs that soared 150 meters high. At the end of the valley, we spotted a cave, adding to the mystique of the place.

We spent a good hour exploring Mini Palms Gorge, marveling at the unique beauty of this hidden oasis. The contrast between the red rock and the green palms was striking, and the silence was broken only by the sound of our own breathing and the occasional rustle of leaves. It felt like we had stepped into another world, a world untouched by time and human interference.

After our hike, we were both feeling quite hungry, so we headed to Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge for a late lunch. The lodge is another excellent option for accommodation in the area, offering comfortable tented cabins and a relaxed atmosphere. We enjoyed a simple but tasty meal of sandwiches and salads, refueling our bodies after our morning of hiking. The lodge also has a licensed bar, which I'm sure we will be checking out later in the trip.


Experience nature's wonder at Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge—your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and serene relaxation in Purnululu National Park.

In the late afternoon, we made a quick stop at the Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Company. We wanted to gather some information about tours and activities in the area, and the staff there were very helpful. They offer a range of accommodations, including cabins and caravan sites, and they also run 4x4 bus tours into the national park. It’s good to know that there are so many options for exploring the Bungle Bungle Range, whether you prefer to self-drive or join a guided tour.


Experience breathtaking landscapes and rich Indigenous culture at Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Company in Western Australia.

For dinner, we decided to try the Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Company. It was a casual affair, with a buffet-style meal served outdoors. The food was hearty and satisfying, perfect for tired hikers. We sat at a picnic table, chatting with other travelers and sharing stories of our adventures. It’s amazing how quickly you can bond with people when you’re all experiencing the same incredible landscape.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge | Eco Accommodation in Purnululu National Park. The sky was ablaze with color, the red rock of the Bungle Bungle Range glowing in the fading light. We sat on the deck of our cabin, sipping a glass of wine and watching the stars begin to appear. The night sky here is simply incredible, so clear and dark, with the Milky Way stretching out like a river of light.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kungkalanayi Lookout for more panoramic views and perhaps take a scenic helicopter flight with HeliSpirit Bungle Bungle. Maximilian is particularly excited about the helicopter flight, as he’s always wanted to see the Bungle Bungle Range from above. I'm a bit more apprehensive, as I'm not a huge fan of heights, but I know it will be an unforgettable experience.

Before drifting off to sleep, I took a moment to reflect on the day. We have seen so much beauty today, so much raw, untamed wilderness. The Bungle Bungle Range is a truly special place, a place that stays with you long after you’ve left. I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it, to walk among its ancient domes and feel its powerful energy. It’s a reminder that there is still so much beauty and wonder in the world, waiting to be discovered. And I, for one, am eager to discover more. Goodnight from the Bungles!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention – I didn’t forget any of the essentials today! I made sure to pack my hiking boots, camera, sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent. However, I still regret not bringing a travel guidebook for local flora and fauna. I’m constantly wondering about the names of the plants and animals we see, and a guidebook would be so helpful. Maybe I can find one at the visitor center tomorrow.