1. Choose your season
The Kimberley has two seasons. The dry (roughly May to September) brings clear skies, warm days and cooler nights; most tours, roads and parks are open. The wet (roughly November to March or April) brings heat, humidity, storms and flooding. Many unsealed roads, including access to Purnululu and much of the Gibb River Road, close. April and October are transition months. See best time to visit and the wet season.
2. Get to Kununurra
Kununurra has an airport with flights from Perth, Darwin and Broome (routes vary). By road, Kununurra is on the Victoria Highway, about 830 km from Darwin and over 1,000 km from Broome. See getting to Kununurra.
3. Decide: self-drive or tours?
Sealed highways link Kununurra, Wyndham, Lake Argyle and the Purnululu turn-off, so a regular car covers the basics. But the 53 km track into Purnululu, the Gibb River Road and Mitchell Falls require a high-clearance 4WD and experience — and hire-car conditions often restrict where you can go. Many visitors combine a hire car with tours and a scenic flight. See East Kimberley without a car.
4. Prioritise the highlights
- Bungle Bungle Range — fly over and walk in.
- Lake Argyle — cruise and swim at the resort’s famous infinity pool.
- Ord River cruise — the classic day trip.
- El Questro — gorges and springs.
- Mirima National Park — mini-Bungles on Kununurra’s doorstep.
- Wyndham and the Five Rivers Lookout — sweeping views over the Cambridge Gulf.
5. Book the essentials early
Scenic flights, Ord River cruises and accommodation fill up in June to August. Book flights and car hire as early as possible, especially 4WDs.
6. Prepare for the conditions
- Carry plenty of water — at least 4–5 litres per person per day in the heat.
- Saltwater crocodiles live in many Kimberley waterways. Only swim where it is signed safe. See safety.
- Fuel up whenever you can — distances between stops are long.
- Mobile coverage is limited outside towns; consider a satellite communicator or PLB.
7. Pick a base
Kununurra has hotels, motels, caravan parks and holiday apartments. Lake Argyle has a resort and caravan park. Purnululu has campgrounds and a few seasonal safari camps. El Questro offers camping through to luxury. See where to stay.
Suggested trip lengths
- 3 days: Kununurra, Ord River cruise, Bungle Bungle flight. See 3-day itinerary.
- 7 days: add Lake Argyle, El Questro, Wyndham and Purnululu overnight. See 7-day itinerary.
- 2 weeks+: add the Gibb River Road or Mitchell Falls.
What to pack
- Lightweight long-sleeved clothing, a hat and sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- Sturdy walking shoes and sandals for creek crossings.
- A refillable water bottle and hydration pack.
- A torch or headlamp for campgrounds.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a 4WD in the East Kimberley?
Not for the main sealed roads, but you do for Purnululu, the Gibb River Road and Mitchell Falls. Many visitors use tours or scenic flights instead.
How many days do you need in the East Kimberley?
At least three days for the essentials and a week to see the main highlights at a comfortable pace.
Is the East Kimberley safe?
Yes, with sensible preparation: respect crocodile warnings, carry water, plan fuel stops and avoid driving at night.
