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The West Kimberley Crossing The West Kimberley Crossing

4WD

(+1)
2WD
 in North West
(+3)
The Kimberley, The Pilbara & Karijini, Broome & Dampier Peninsula

  • Multiple day
  • 1135 km
    • 4WD More Difficult

      Low Range 4WD vehicles required with standard clearance. 4WD experience or training required.

In the West Kimberley, a 350-million-year-old reef system has created a trio of spectacular natural treasures - Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek and Geikie Gorge.  Venture into one of the last true wilderness areas on earth to experience all three, and get a taste of the Kimberley’s pioneering spirit on the legendary Gibb River Road.

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Leg 1 Broome to Derby 222km. Visit the Boab Prison Tree, Wharfinger's House Museum, Mowanjum Art and Cultural Centre, the Royal Flying Doctor Base and School of the Air.  Take a scenic flight over the world's only Horizontal Waterfalls and the islets of the Buccaneer Archipelago.

Leg 2 Derby to Fitzroy Crossing 295km. Visit Windjana Gorge National Park., Tunnel Creek National Park is WA's oldest cave system. Take a torch lit walk through the 750metre tunnel and its subterranean world of bats and fresh water crocodiles.

Leg 3 Fitzroy Crossing to Geikie Gorge 40km (return) Join the local Bunuba people for a river cruise and cultural tour of the dramatic 30-metre deep Geikie Gorge. 

Leg 4 Fitzroy Crossing to Broome 396km (+180km return to Mimbi Caves) Venture into the enchanting labryinths and cultural sites of Mimbi Caves with an indigenous guide.  Explore the exotic pearling town of Broome. Take in the beauty of a Cable Beach sunset from a camel train and witness the natural phenomenom of the Staircase to the Moon.

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Be trail ready for The West Kimberley Crossing

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

4 - 5 days

Length

1135km return

What To Pack

Group D (Drive trails) required.

Trail Start

Broome, 2200km north of Perth

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Trail End

4WD

More Difficult

Low Range 4WD vehicles required with standard clearance. 4WD experience or training required.

Visit Trail Tips for further information.

Best time of year

May to September

Fees

National Park and camping fees apply.

Trail Access

Drive from Perth to Broome, or fly from Perth to Broome.

Prohibited Items

No pets in National Parks.
More tips for being Trail Ready
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Complete The West Kimberley Crossing to earn badges and points!

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1 trail goers have rated The West Kimberley Crossing as 4 out of 5!

We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.

Profile photo for Martin Hadley
Martin Hadley

Reviewed 10 Sep 2023, 11:38pm

This is a very long drive that should be spread over a few weeks at least to get the best enjoyment from it. The Great Northern Highway has long stretches of fairly monotonous scenery interspersed with areas that really are worth stopping for a break and maybe some photos. So anytime you see somewhere attractive just stop and enjoy it. Also be aware that because the Great Northern Highway isn't exactly a busy one at times you can on occasions come across foreigners who have forgotten which side of the road they should be driving on so if you see a car coming at you on the wrong side of the road, believe it and pull over. Broome and Derby are both very interesting towns with lots to offer as well and a diversion from Broome up to Cape Leveque is definitely not to be missed. The final warning is be crocodile aware when you are near water and crocs love dogs so look after your best friend if he or she is travelling with you.

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