Venture into the remote northern reaches of Western Australia, and you’ll find yourself in a region where time seems to have stood still. Here, the vibrant town of Broome and the untamed expanse of The Kimberley offer experiences as unique as the landscapes they inhabit.
Today, more than 30 Aboriginal tribes remain in the Kimberley region, each with its own language and many with unique cultural practices.
Broome
Broome, once the pearling capital of the world, is a multicultural town that has a unique charm unlike any other in Australia. Its history is reflected in the town’s architecture, its multicultural food scene, and the thriving pearl industry that still exists today.
Undoubtedly, one of Broome’s most iconic attractions is the stunning Cable Beach. Stretching 22 kilometers, this beach boasts pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it an ideal place for swimming, sunbathing, or even camel riding at sunset.
Yet, the wonders of Broome extend beyond its beautiful beaches. At Gantheaume Point, you can walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs, with well-preserved footprints embedded in the reef rock visible at low tide. These 130-million-year-old tracks provide a fascinating insight into the region’s prehistoric past.
Broome is also known for the Staircase to the Moon, a natural phenomenon that occurs between March and October. This event happens when the full moon rises over the exposed mudflats of Roebuck Bay at low tide, creating the illusion of a staircase leading to the moon. This spectacle is enhanced by a local night market, where you can shop for local crafts, taste local food, and enjoy live entertainment.
The Kimberley
Beyond Broome, the expansive and rugged terrains of The Kimberley spread out, waiting to be explored. This region, known as one of the last untouched wilderness areas on the globe, showcases a diverse range of landscapes. From dry, barren deserts to vibrant, thick rainforests, and from majestic, high gorges to pristine, clear waterholes, The Kimberley offers a piece of nature’s finest artwork, unblemished and awe-inspiring.
From ancient dinosaur tracks to millennia-old rock art, from geological wonders to natural phenomena, this part of Western Australia offers an exploration into a land that remains as wild and untouched as it was thousands of years ago. It’s a destination for those who yearn for adventure and seek to uncover the secrets of our planet’s ancient past.
A journey to The Kimberley would be incomplete without a visit to the Bungle Bungle Range located in the Purnululu National Park, a prized UNESCO World Heritage Site. The remarkable sandstone domes found here are a breathtaking sight. Colored in alternating bands of orange and grey, these domes have been meticulously carved by nature’s forces over millions of years. Their unique beehive-like shapes beckon visitors to explore on foot, while a helicopter ride offers a mesmerizing bird’s-eye view of this geological wonder.
For those with a passion for art, the ancient rock art on the Mitchell Plateau in The Kimberley is a treasure trove. The intricate Gwion Gwion paintings, believed by some to be as old as 20,000 years, offer a rare glimpse into the life and culture of Australia’s Indigenous communities. These timeless pieces tell tales of a vibrant, rich heritage and connection to the land, making the plateau a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
Adding to the allure of The Kimberley is the Horizontal Falls, an extraordinary natural spectacle deemed by the renowned Sir David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.” This unique phenomenon is created by powerful tidal currents forcing their way through narrow coastal gorges, giving the illusion of horizontal waterfalls. Adventurers can experience this marvel first-hand on a thrilling boat ride, or opt for a scenic flight to appreciate the breathtaking view from above.
The Kimberley is a journey into some of the world’s most pristine and untouched wonders, offering experiences and views that are nothing short of spectacular. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur is on full display, inviting exploration, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
