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Discover Purnululu National Park in Western Australia
Words Hema Maps Editorial and Julija Zivanovic Pics Supplied
On the outskirts of the Kimberley is the otherworldly Purnululu National Park, which is home to the famous domes of the Bungle Bungle Range. Keep reading to learn more about this incredible part of WA.
(Credit: Glenn Marshall)
Set in the heart of Purnululu National Park in the Kimberley region of Western Australia are the iconic black and red domes that are known as the Bungle Bungles. It doesn’t matter how these UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites are viewed — by land or by air — they will not fail to amaze and delight the 4WD enthusiast.
What makes this expanse all the more astounding is that while this area has long been known to the Traditional Owners, the Gija and Jaru people, as well as to local stockmen, it only came to the attention of the rest of the world in the early 1980s when a muster pilot tipped off a documentary film crew about the striking geological feature.
Whether you take a scenic flight, four-wheel drive vehicle or plan to explore on foot, the unique landscape of this region is sure to impress. Plus, covering 2397 square kilometres, Purnululu National Park is teeming with activities and natural attractions to explore.
Read on to get our full breakdown of the area just in time for the 2025 dry season (May to October) — otherwise known as the best time to visit the northern regions of our country.
What to expect
The distinct domed towers of the Bungle Bungles are unmistakable. Formed from sandstone and conglomerates, the domes were created more than 350 million years ago. As time passed, wind and rain began to form them into the shape they are today — and they are truly a sight to behold.
The banding on the rocks — which give them an even more distinct look — is caused by the sandstone itself. It was in 1983 when that documentary film team, passing over the area, observed the distinctive domes and provided visitors with the opportunity to visit the region and see the domes for themselves. Today they are a bucket list destination.
While there are many ways to explore the World Heritage-listed Bungle Bungles, we believe the best way is taking an early morning scenic flight from Kununurra Airport. This way you can truly capture the breadth and beauty of these ancient sandstone formations.
The Spring Creek Track
The Spring Creek Track is perhaps one of the most notorious tracks within the Bungle Bungles. This 53km track stretches from the Great Northern Highway to Purnululu National Park and crosses the Mabel Downs Station as it goes.
The track itself is narrow and rocky, making it very difficult to pass over. The right vehicle (a high clearance 4WD) is imperative for anyone attempting to cross this track and because of the conditions and the narrowness of the track itself, caravans are not permitted.
Those looking to visit the area with a caravan have the option of leaving it at the caravan park at the start of the track. It is advised that visitors allocate at least three hours to complete this track. And always remember to drive to the track conditions.
Piccaninny Gorge
Those visiting Piccaninny Gorge should be aware that there are no marked tracks leading to the area, which makes navigational skills all the more important. The track to the gorge’s entrance is about 7km in length and the entire trip, which takes visitors through the length of the gorge system, is about 30km long. The track changes from easy to relatively difficult when visitors arrive in the gorge. It is here where travellers will need to navigate trickier aspects, such as loose or fallen rocks and boulders.
Visitors need to be fully prepared for the trip in the form of self-sufficiency, including having their own water on hand and a fuel stove in order to prepare their meals.
The Piccaninny Creek Lookout is situated about 1.4km from the car park and boasts spectacular views of the Bungle Bungles. Here visitors will find picnic tables, toilets and shade.
Walking trails
There is a wide range of walking tracks available within the Bungle Bungles that will allow visitors to get a good feel for the area, including the Cathedral Gorge Walk, the Domes Walk and the Piccaninny Gorge Walk. Always remember to check weather conditions before setting off.
(Credit: Jill Harrison)
Camping in Purnululu National Park
Those looking to camp in Purnululu have two options to pick from: Kurrajong (Contact: 08 9949 2808) and Walardi (Contact: 08 9168 7300). The former is located in the north, while the latter is situated in the south. Walardi boasts around 25 campsites and astounding views. Situated on the Bellbourn Creek banks, the site offers walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
After being kept secret for so long, the Bungle Bungles are inviting visitors to experience some of the most astounding views that nature has to offer. For four-wheel drive enthusiasts, the area not only represents the chance to see the natural wonders of Western Australia but also allows you to really test your driving skills, making it a must-see for any offroad adventurer.
Recommended products
Below you can find some fantastic resources for exploring Purnululu National Park and the surrounding region/s.
Australian Geographic Travel Guide: The Kimberley — usually $14.99, currently $10.95
The Kimberley Map — $15.95
Savannah Way – Cairns to Broome Map — $15.95
Western Australia State Map — $15.95
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5 Kimberley Destinations Worth Experiencing
Free and budget campsites: Western Australia
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1 comment
Hello,
Can you drive a small motorhome of 6m length and 2.8m height into the Bungle Bungle Purnululu NP ?
Kind regards
Francois