The Bungle Bungles
It's hard to believe that something that's been around for over 350 million years could only have been 'discovered' in the mid-1980s, however the incredible Bungle Bungle Range (affectionately known as the Bungle Bungles) was a hidden gem known only to its Aboriginal caretakers for at least 40,000 years. The Gija and Djaru Aboriginal people are the guardians of the Purnululu National Park, Purnululu, meaning 'sandstone' - a nod to the incredible natural attractions found within.
Since 1983, these striking natural attractions situated within the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park have been one of the most loved attractions in The Kimberley region of Western Australia. One of the world's most outstanding examples of naturally sculpted rocks rising 250m tall, the Bungle Bungles are one of the most fascinating geological landmarks in the world. Featuring a maze of naturally occurring black and orange striped sandstone domes, these cone karst formations resemble giant beehives rising up out of the semi-arid grass-covered savanna plains.
For a true sense of the magnificence of the range, you can explore on foot and discover narrow long chasms and large hidden gorges where they even hold full-scale opera concerts at times. The Bungle Bungles are located at the park's southern end along with Cathedral Gorge, while Echidna Chasm is situated at the northern end. Getting around the park is easy thanks to a number of walking trails of varying lengths to guide you. Along your travels you're likely to encounter some of the local wildlife that call the park home including up to 130 bird species and unique natives like the short-eared rock wallaby and the nailtail wallaby.
The Kimberley region takes up the entire north-west of Australia's continent and the Purnululu National Park is situated in East Kimberley, approximately 100km from Halls Creek and 250km from Kununurra. One of the most remote regions in the country, you can fly from Perth or Broome into Kununurra. There is also the option of flying into Broome and driving to Purnululu National Park along the Great Northern Highway. This route takes you through some of the most iconic outback landscapes and showcases Australia's famous wide, flat red earth however the drive takes approximately 10 hours and requires a 4WD vehicle as the last 50km of the track to the park entrance is unsealed.
A $15 National Park Entry Fee applies per private vehicle to fund park management, maintenance of visitor facilities and environmental protection.