Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

Whispers of the Ancient Land

Today was a day of immersion, a day where the ancient heart of the Kimberley beat in rhythm with our own. We ventured deep into Purnululu National Park, a place where time seems to stand still and the landscape whispers stories of millennia. It's hard to put into words the feeling of being surrounded by such raw, untouched beauty, but I'll certainly try my best to relay the experience.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Purnululu National Park, home to the iconic Bungle Bungles and rich biodiversity in Western Australia.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Kimbercrust Bakery & Top End Ice in Kununurra. I opted for a freshly baked pastry and a strong coffee, while Liam went for a hearty pie. The bakery was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day of Kimberley adventures. It's amazing how a simple pastry can bring people together, sharing stories and excitement for the day ahead.


Experience the best of Kununurra at Kimbercrust Bakery & Top End Ice with fresh pastries, delightful ice creams, and savory pizzas.

With our appetites sated, we set off towards Purnululu National Park. The drive itself was an experience, the landscape transforming from open savannah to the rugged, rocky terrain that characterizes the Kimberley. The anticipation grew with every kilometer, the promise of the Bungle Bungle Range looming large in our minds. As we drove, I couldn't help but think about my family back in Canmore. I imagined telling them all about this adventure, showing them the photos I'd taken, and sharing the stories of the people we'd met along the way.

Reaching Purnululu, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale of the place. The Bungle Bungle Range rose before us, a series of beehive-shaped domes striped in orange and black, a testament to millions of years of geological activity. The park is usually open from April to November, but being December, we were lucky to see it in its wet season glory, joining a guided tour to ensure we could navigate the landscape safely.

The land owns us, not the other way around.

Our first stop was Cathedral Gorge, a vast natural amphitheater carved out of the sandstone. Walking into the gorge was like stepping into another world. The towering walls rose up on all sides, creating a sense of awe and wonder. The light filtered down from above, illuminating the red rock in a warm, golden glow. We spent a long time simply sitting in silence, soaking in the atmosphere and contemplating the immense power of nature.


Explore Cathedral Gorge in Purnululu National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder featuring stunning rock formations and unparalleled acoustics in Western Australia.

As we explored, our guide shared stories of the local Indigenous people, the Kija and Jaru, who have lived in this area for thousands of years. They consider the Bungle Bungle Range to be a sacred site, rich with Dreamtime stories and cultural significance. Learning about their connection to the land gave us a deeper appreciation for the park and its importance.

After Cathedral Gorge, we stopped by the Gibb River Store, a quirky little shop that seemed to sell everything from souvenirs to spare parts. We picked up a few postcards and some snacks, and I couldn't resist buying a small, hand-painted didgeridoo as a gift for my nephew. It's these little mementos that help us remember our travels and share our experiences with others.


Explore the Gibb River Store, your essential stop for supplies and local culture on the stunning Gibb River Road in Western Australia.

Lunch was a delightful affair at El Questro Homestead. The homestead exudes luxury and offered a welcome respite from the rugged landscape. We enjoyed a delicious meal of fresh, local produce, savoring every bite as we looked out over the stunning views. It was the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge before continuing our adventure.


Experience luxury and adventure at El Questro Homestead in Australia's breathtaking Kimberley region.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back towards Kununurra, stopping along the way to capture the changing light on the Bungle Bungle Range. The colors were incredible, the orange and black stripes of the domes glowing in the warm evening light. It was a truly magical sight, one that will stay with me forever.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a meal at PumpHouse Kununurra. The restaurant is located on the banks of Lake Kununurra, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The food was delicious, modern Australian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. I had the grilled barramundi, while Liam opted for the steak. We both agreed that it was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience exquisite dining at PumpHouse Kununurra with breathtaking views and delightful local cuisine.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and special place. Purnululu National Park is more than just a collection of rocks and gorges; it's a living, breathing landscape with a rich history and a deep cultural significance. It's a place that challenges you, inspires you, and leaves you with a profound sense of wonder.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Purnululu, exploring Echidna Chasm and spending more time amongst the Bungle Bungles. I'm particularly excited about Echidna Chasm, with its towering walls lit up by sunlight. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of Kimberley adventures.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel a sense of connection to this ancient land. It's as if the landscape has imprinted itself on my soul, leaving me with a deeper understanding of the natural world and our place within it. The Kimberley is a truly special place, and I am so grateful to be able to share this experience with you all.

And on a lighter note, I must remember to buy insect repellent tomorrow. The mosquitoes here are relentless! Also, a portable solar charger would be a lifesaver, as keeping our camera batteries charged has been a bit of a challenge.

Until tomorrow, safe travels and keep exploring!