The Bungle Bungles: Western Australia’s Hidden Secret
Discovering the Wonders of the Bungle Bungles
The Bungle Bungles in Purunululu National Park are Western Australia’s hidden gem. It is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable adventures.
As you venture into the heart of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, prepare to be awestruck by the rugged beauty of the Bungle Bungles. This ancient landscape, sculpted by nature over millions of years, is a testament to the raw power and artistry of the Earth.
This is arguably my favourite place in the Kimberleys, with El Questro in a close second.
History and Geology of the Bungle Bungles
Purnululu National Park, known for the Bungle Bungles, spans over 239,723 hectares. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases an array of geological wonders, including iconic beehive-shaped sandstone domes. These striped formations, with alternating bands of orange and black, result from sedimentary deposits, erosion, and weathering over time. The park’s unique beehive-shaped domes date back 350 million years. Wind and rain erosion sculpted these sandstone formations. The area remained largely unknown until a documentary in 1983 brought it to global attention. The park achieved World Heritage status in 2003 due to its geological and cultural significance.
Cultural Significance to Aboriginal People
The traditional custodians, the Kija and Jaru people, hold Purnululu sacred. The name “Purnululu” means “sandstone” in the Kija language. Aboriginal people have lived here for thousands of years. Their stories and traditions deeply connect with the land. The area is a natural wonder and a living cultural landscape, rich with stories and significant sites that have been integral to Aboriginal culture for generations.
Getting to Purnululu National Park
Getting to the Bungle Bungles is an adventure in itself. The park is located about 250 kilometers south of Kununurra. If you are coming through from Broome it is 872km. The journey involves traversing rugged terrain. The road from the highway is only about 55kms but be prepared to take up to 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This isn’t for the faint hearted.
Most visitors reach the park by road, with a 4WD vehicle essential for the unsealed and often challenging tracks. I travelled following unseasonal heavy rain and there were several water crossings on the way into the park. Be prepared before you come out read 10 Road Trip Basics for Outback Australia, for a comprehensive guide to travelling Australia’s Outback roads.
HOT TIP: When you arrive at the Bungle Bungles you must check in at the Visitors Centre. This is where they keep track of who is in the park for safety reasons, you check into your accomodation and they give you the lay of the land. I booked my helicopter flight from here which was a highlight.
Alternatively, opt for a scenic flight from Kununurra for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape below. The flight provides a unique perspective and highlights the vastness and isolation of this incredible wilderness.
I flew over the Bungle Bungles from within Purnululu Nation Park with Helispirit.
The Bungle Bungles from the Air is magnificent.
Hiking Options in Purnululu National Park
Purnululu National Park offers various accommodation options.
Helicopter-Accessed Hikes
For a unique experience, consider helicopter-accessed hikes. These tours provide breathtaking aerial views. You can land in remote areas for an exclusive hiking adventure.
Embark on the Piccaninny Gorge hike, one of the most captivating trails in Purnululu National Park. This challenging trek starts from the Piccaninny Creek car park and takes you through an awe-inspiring landscape of striped sandstone domes and expansive, sun-drenched plains. As you navigate the 30-kilometer round trip, you’ll traverse rocky creek beds and narrow gorges, surrounded by the park’s iconic beehive formations. The trail offers a true sense of adventure, with breathtaking views and the serene beauty of untouched wilderness. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking for a memorable outdoor challenge, the Piccaninny Gorge hike promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Bungle Bungles. This is for experienced hikers.
Hot tip: Helicopter in and walk out
Cathedral Gorge
This is a must-visit. This 2km return trail leads to a stunning natural amphitheater. Visit in the morning for the best light. This would have been a hot tip to know before I got here although the afternoon is still very pretty.
The towering cliffs create an awe-inspiring acoustic experience, making the walk through the gorge feel intimate and majestic. I had the entire Gorge to myself, which is unusual. A large tour group had just left so this was very special.
HOT TIP: The best light for this light track is to visit in the morning for the best light
Echidna Chasm
Echidna Chasm is another highlight. This 2km return hike features narrow chasms with towering walls. The chasm, named after the echidna, a small spiny anteater, is a stunning display of light and shadow. The sun illuminates the chasm around midday, creating a spectacular display.
Hot Tip: Check with the Visitors center to see when the light will be shining through the gorge. This only happens once a day so plan your day around it.
Shorter Hikes
For shorter hikes, try the Domes Walk. This 1km loop showcases the iconic beehive domes up close. Another option is the Mini Palms Gorge, a 4.4km return walk leading to a palm-filled gorge.
The Main Tourist Attractions in the Bungle Bungle’s
Apart from Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm, the Piccaninny Creek Lookout offers panoramic views. The Northern Escarpment Walk provides a scenic 5km trek along the park’s edge.
Discovering Piccaninny Impact Structure
The Piccaninny Impact Structure is an extraordinary geological feature in Purnululu National Park, Western Australia. This impact crater, approximately 7 kilometers in diameter, formed around 360 million years ago due to a meteorite collision with the Earth.
Geological Significance
The Piccaninny Crater offers a unique insight into Earth’s geological history. Its formation resulted from the immense force of a meteorite impact, which created a significant depression in the landscape. Over millions of years, erosion and sedimentary processes have shaped the crater’s current appearance, blending it seamlessly into the surrounding terrain. This is a similar history to the Wolfe Creek Crater down the road.
You can explore the Piccaninny impact structure by embarking on a hike through the rugged, beautiful landscape or by helicopter. A hike to the crater provides an adventurous journey through the park’s iconic beehive-shaped domes and offers spectacular views of the crater’s unique geological formations.
This is an exciting destination for geology enthusiasts and adventurous travelers alike. Its ancient origins and striking landscape make it a fascinating addition to the Purnululu National Park. Plan your visit today to explore this remarkable natural landmark and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Bungle Bungles.
The Piccaninny Crater is an interesting destination for geology enthusiasts and adventurous travelers alike. Its ancient origins and striking landscape make it a fascinating addition to the Purnululu National Park. Plan your visit today to explore this remarkable natural landmark and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Bungle Bungles.
Accommodation Options
Purnululu National Park offers various accommodation options.
Camping Grounds
Two main campgrounds, Walardi and Kurrajong, provide basic facilities and a rustic experience under the stars. There are toilets, but otherwise, you have to be self-sufficient.
Hot Tip:
I stayed at Walardi Campground, located at the south end of Purnululu National Park. I chose this spot because it’s close to the helicopter pad and the iconic domes, which are situated in the southern part of the park. In the afternoon, I arrived, visited Cathedral Gorge, and completed several shorter walks. Unfortunately, I didn’t tackle the larger walk this time around. Hopefully, I can return with a hiking buddy one day to do it together.
My helicopter ride was scheduled for the following morning. I opted for the 45-minute flight; WOW! it was an experience to remember. Although expensive, I highly recommend seeing the Bungle Bungles from the air. The aerial view is simply breathtaking. Additionally, you can be airlifted into Piccaninny Gorge, stay the night, and hike out, which is another adventure I hope to try in the future.
I later learned that the park’s southern end has better morning light. I wasn’t aware of this initially, but I witnessed some beautiful morning sights during my flight.
From Wilardi, it is a short drive to the northern walks. Remember to time your walks around Echidna Gorge when the sun comes through. When I went, it was around midday. Check at the visitors centre.
Organized Camping
For a more comfortable stay, consider organized camping tours. These tours include meals and guided hikes. The Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge offers eco-friendly cabins with a luxurious touch.
The best time to visit
Visit Purnululu National Park from April to September for the best weather. Prepare for remote conditions and bring sufficient supplies. Respect the cultural heritage and natural beauty of this incredible place. This year, it was extremely hot in the Kimberleys. I was there in August 2024, and the temperatures were hitting 39 Celcius (102 F), which was unseasonably warm for this time of year.
Verdict
The Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park offer a unique and unforgettable adventure. With their iconic beehive-shaped sandstone domes, breathtaking landscapes, and rich Aboriginal culture, this destination is truly one of a kind. The park’s diverse hiking trails, including Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm, provide stunning views and immersive experiences. Whether you opt for helicopter-accessed hikes or shorter trails like the Domes Walk, you’ll be captivated by the park’s natural beauty. Visiting Purnululu National Park allows you to connect deeply with the land’s ancient history and cultural significance. Plan your trip today and discover the timeless beauty of this extraordinary place.
