Discovering the Wonders of the Bungle Bungles
As you venture into the heart of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, get ready. You will be awestruck by the rugged beauty of the Bungle Bungles. El Questro is a close second.
The Bungle Bungles sit in the heart of the Kimberley. They are often visited as part of a broader Kimberley journey. Many travellers include Purnululu National Park on their Gibb River Road itinerary. Many use Kununurra or the eastern Kimberley as a base before or after visiting the park.
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 1983 documentary brought it to global attention. The park was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 2003 for 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. It is rich with stories and significant sites. These sites have been integral to Aboriginal culture for generations.
Where Are the Bungle Bungles Located?
Getting to the Bungle Bungles is an adventure in itself. The park is located about 250 kilometres 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 hours.
Most visitors reach the Bungle Bungles by road, and a high-clearance 4WD is essential for the unsealed access tracks. Conditions vary year to year — when I visited in 2023 after unseasonal rain, there were multiple water crossings. In 2025, the same route was completely dry. Always check current conditions before you go.
If you’re planning to drive, preparation matters. See Road Trip Basics for Outback Australia for practical guidance on remote road travel.
Important: On arrival, you must check in at the Purnululu Visitor Centre. This is required for safety, accommodation check-in, and orientation.
How to Get to the Bungle Bungles (4WD and Scenic Flights)
While much of this guide focuses on 4WD access, you don’t need a vehicle to experience Purnululu’s highlights. For time-poor travellers, scenic flights and organised tours are an excellent option. These can be arranged through the Kununurra or Broome Visitor Centre, and helicopter flights also operate from Warmun Roadhouse.
HOT TIP: When you arrive at the Bungle Bungles you must check in at the Visitors Centre. This is how they keep track of who is in the park for safety reasons.
Flights over Purnululu National Park provide a unique perspective and highlight the vastness, different landscape and isolation of this incredible wilderness.
I flew over the Bungle Bungles from within Purnululu Nation Park with Helispirit.
Driving to the Bungle Bungles from the Gibb River Road
The Gibb River Road is the most iconic route into the Kimberley. In 2025, I finished the Gibb at El Questro before continuing on to Kununurra to resupply, do laundry, and slow down for a couple of days. From there, I headed south to the Bungle Bungles, before continuing on to Wolfe Creek Crater.
It’s also possible to join the Gibb River Road via the Fairfield–Leopold Downs Road, which connects the Great Northern Highway to the western section of the Gibb. There is a creek crossing on this road, depending on rain it can be high.
What to See Inside Purnululu National Park
Bungle Bungle Northern End Highlights
1. Echidna Chasm Walk
- A narrow, towering chasm with dramatic colour variations and steep walls.
- Start from the Echidna Chasm car park.
- Return walk approx. 2 km; moderate difficulty.
Echidna Chasm is one of the standout walks in the northern end of Purnululu National Park. The hike leads through a narrow chasm with towering rock walls that rise steeply on both sides. Named after the echidna — Australia’s small, spiny anteater — the chasm is known for its striking play of light and shadow. Around midday, sunlight filters down between the rock faces, creating a dramatic glow that makes this walk especially memorable.
Hot Tip: Check with the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre to see the best time to visit the gorge. The light event only happens once a day so plan your day around it.
2. Osmand Lookout
- Short walk from the Echidna Chasm area.
- Provides panoramic views over the dry, rugged Osmand Range.
3. Escarpment Trail
- Links Echidna Chasm and Bloodwoods car parks.
- Around 3.6 km on mostly gentle terrain along the base of the escarpment.
4. Bloodwoods Carpark
- A staging point for walks and a shaded picnic area with basic facilities.
5. Mini Palms Walk
- A moderate walk (approx. 5 km return) that gradually ascends to two lookout platforms with views of palms and gorge scenery.
6. Homestead Valley Walk
Offers rich views of red rock formations and shaded seating at the end.
A 4.4 km return walk following the valley floor into Homestead Valley Gorge.
Bungle Bungle Southern End Highlights
1. Piccaninny Creek Lookout
A short walk from the car park leads to a lookout with panoramic views over the southern Bungle Bungle domes and surrounding ranges. It’s one of the most accessible and rewarding vantage points in the park.
2. Piccaninny Creek Amphitheatre
This area showcases the iconic orange-and-grey striped domes up close, with dramatic geological formations that are immediately recognisable. The amphitheatre forms a natural bowl of rock that’s particularly striking in morning or late afternoon light.
3. 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.
4. Mini Palms Walk (southern approach)
From the southern side, the Mini Palms Walk ascends gradually through a mix of spinifex and pockets of sheltered greenery before opening out to lookout points over the gorge country. It’s a good mid-length option for visitors wanting both scenery and a moderate walk.
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. It takes you through an awe-inspiring landscape of striped sandstone domes. You will also pass through expansive, sun-drenched plains.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking a memorable outdoor challenge, the Piccaninny Gorge hike offers an unforgettable experience. This adventure awaits in the heart of the Bungle Bungles. This is for experienced hikers.
Option: Helicopter in and hike out
Domes Walk
This 1km loop showcases the iconic beehive domes up close.
The Main Tourist Attractions in the Bungle Bungle’s
- Cathedral Gorge
- Echidna Chasm
- Piccaninny Creek Lookout
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 offers an adventurous journey through the park’s iconic beehive-shaped domes and spectacular views of its 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 hikers 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.
Purnululu National Park Accommodation
Camping Grounds
Two main campgrounds, Walardi (south end) and Kurrajong (north end), provide basic facilities and a rustic experience under the stars. There are toilets, but otherwise, you have to be self-sufficient.
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.
Luxury Accommodation
Bungle Bungle Lodge
Location: Near the southern end of Purnululu National Park.
Overview: Bungle Bungle Lodge is a comfortable lodge-style option just outside the park entrance. It offers practical accommodation for travellers visiting the Bungle Bungle region. It is close to the southern park access. This makes it a popular choice for those planning early starts to Cathedral Gorge. It’s also ideal for visits to Piccaninny Creek Lookout and other southern end highlights.
Accommodations: A range of room types are available. These range from standard lodge rooms to family-friendly options. These are all designed for comfort after a day exploring the park.
Why stay here: You’ll have easy access to key walks and lookouts in the southern Bungle Bungle area. The lodge also offers on-site amenities. These amenities help with planning tours, flights, and park entry logistics.
Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge
Location: Purnululu National Park
Overview: Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge is a relaxed, outback retreat. It is positioned in the Southern End of Purnululu National Park.
Accommodations: Options range from standard rooms to more spacious cabins, as well as powered sites for caravans and motorhomes. Facilities typically include a restaurant, bar, pool, and communal areas. Luxury for travellers transitioning into or out of the Kimberley.
Why stay here: A practical and comfortable base when driving the Savannah Way or connecting between Kununurra, Halls Creek, and the Bungle Bungle region. Its location and facilities make it a sensible choice for travellers who want amenities without sacrificing regional character.
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Bungle Bungles?
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.
Is Visiting the Bungle Bungles Worth It?
The Bungle Bungles are unlike anywhere else in Australia. The striped sandstone domes, deep gorges, and scale of the landscape make Purnululu National Park feel both ancient and immediate. Walks such as Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm offer very different perspectives of the park, while scenic flights reveal just how vast and complex the terrain really is.
Visiting the Bungle Bungles isn’t about ticking off highlights — it’s about spending time in a place shaped over hundreds of millions of years, with deep cultural significance and a strong sense of remoteness. If you’re travelling through the Kimberley, this is one destination that genuinely earns its reputation.
