Sign Out
Embarking on a 23-day road trip from Broome to Darwin through the Kimberley region provides ample time to deeply explore Australia's most rugged and breathtaking landscapes. This extended journey allows for a more leisurely pace, ensuring you can fully appreciate the natural wonders and cultural richness of the area while enjoying the convenience of a 4WD campervan. The best time to visit this region is during the dry seasons, from late April to October.
Hire a 4WD camper from Broome such as the CC 4WD Camper, 4WD Adventure Camper, 4WD Maverick Camper and 4WD Safari Camper are recommended for this road trip. Built on the Toyoto Hilux or Isuzu D-Mux chassis, these models are built to handle rugged terrains in the Australian outback.
Here is a detailed itinerary with suggested camping spots for each night.
Day 1-2: Broome - Gateway to the Kimberley
Day 1: Arrival and Preparation
- Explore Broome: Arrive in Broome and spend the first day acclimating to the town. Visit Cable Beach for a stunning sunset, and explore the local markets and eateries.
- Preparation: Stock up on supplies, fuel, and water for the journey ahead. Ensure your 4WD campervan is equipped for the rugged terrain.
- Camping: Stay at Broome Caravan Park.
Day 2: Broome to Derby
- Distance: 220 km
- Highlights: Start early and head to Derby. Visit the famous Boab Prison Tree and the Derby Jetty. Enjoy a meal at a local pub and prepare for the adventure ahead.
- Camping: Stay at Derby Lodge Caravan Park.
Day 3-5: Gibb River Road Adventure
Day 3: Derby to Windjana Gorge
- Distance: 145 km
- Highlights: Begin your journey on the Gibb River Road. Your first stop is Windjana Gorge, known for its stunning limestone cliffs and freshwater crocodiles. Set up camp and explore the area.
- Camping: Windjana Gorge Campground.
Day 4: Windjana Gorge to Tunnel Creek
- Distance: 35 km
- Highlights: Spend the morning exploring Windjana Gorge, then head to Tunnel Creek. This unique attraction allows you to wade through an underground river in a 750-meter cave.
- Camping: Return to Windjana Gorge Campground or camp at a designated spot near Tunnel Creek.
Day 5: Tunnel Creek to Bell Gorge
- Distance: 110 km
- Highlights: Continue on to Bell Gorge, one of the most picturesque gorges in the Kimberley. Enjoy a hike and a refreshing swim in the waterfalls. Camp overnight under the starry sky.
- Camping: Silent Grove Campground.
Day 6-9: Exploring Gorges and Waterfalls
Day 6: Bell Gorge to Silent Grove
- Distance: 20 km
- Highlights: Take a short drive to Silent Grove and spend the day relaxing, hiking, and swimming. This area offers a more tranquil camping experience.
- Camping: Silent Grove Campground.
Day 7: Silent Grove to Manning Gorge
- Distance: 170 km
- Highlights: Travel to Manning Gorge, where you can take a dip in the natural pools and enjoy the stunning scenery. The hike to the upper gorge is well worth the effort.
- Camping: Manning Gorge Campground.
Day 8: Manning Gorge Exploration
- Highlights: Spend an extra day at Manning Gorge to explore more of its beauty. Take your time hiking, swimming, and enjoying the serene environment.
- Camping: Manning Gorge Campground.
Day 9: Manning Gorge to Galvans Gorge
- Distance: 70 km
- Highlights: Head to Galvans Gorge, a smaller but equally stunning location. Enjoy a swim and picnic before setting up camp nearby.
- Camping: Camp at a designated spot near Galvans Gorge or continue to Mt. Barnett Roadhouse for facilities.
Day 10-12: El Questro Wilderness Park
Day 10: Galvans Gorge to El Questro
- Distance: 210 km
- Highlights: Travel to El Questro Wilderness Park. On the way, stop by Barnett River Gorge. Upon arrival, set up camp and enjoy the natural thermal pools of Zebedee Springs.
- Camping: El Questro Station Campground.
Day 11: El Questro Exploration
- Highlights: Spend the day exploring El Questro. Take a 4WD tour to the Explosion Gorge or enjoy a guided hike. Relax at the campsite in the evening.
- Camping: El Questro Station Campground.
Day 12: El Questro - Emma Gorge
- Highlights: Visit Emma Gorge, one of the most beautiful gorges in the Kimberley. Hike to the waterfall and swim in the cool, clear water. Return to camp for the night.
- Camping: El Questro Station Campground.
Day 13-15: Home Valley and Mitchell Plateau
Day 13: El Questro to Home Valley Station
- Distance: 120 km
- Highlights: Journey to Home Valley Station, a working cattle station offering a unique outback experience. Enjoy horse riding, fishing, or a scenic sunset tour.
- Camping: Home Valley Station Campground.
Day 14: Home Valley Station Exploration
- Highlights: Spend a full day at Home Valley Station. Participate in a station tour to learn about cattle farming in the Kimberley, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views.
- Camping: Home Valley Station Campground.
Day 15: Home Valley Station to Drysdale River Station
- Distance: 280 km
- Highlights: Continue your adventure to Drysdale River Station. This remote station offers camping and an opportunity to explore the Mitchell Plateau, a highlight of the Kimberley.
- Camping: Drysdale River Station Campground.
Day 16-18: Discovering the Remote Beauty
Day 16: Mitchell Plateau Exploration
- Highlights: Spend the day exploring the Mitchell Plateau. Visit the Mitchell Falls, a series of impressive waterfalls cascading into crystal-clear pools. Return to Drysdale River Station for the night.
- Camping: Drysdale River Station Campground.
Day 17: Drysdale River Station to King Edward River
- Distance: 150 km
- Highlights: Travel to King Edward River, where you can see ancient Aboriginal rock art and enjoy the serene river environment. Set up camp and immerse yourself in the cultural history of the area.
- Camping: King Edward River Campground.
Day 18: King Edward River to Kalumburu
- Distance: 160 km
- Highlights: Head to Kalumburu, the northernmost settlement in Western Australia. Explore the local mission, enjoy fishing, and learn about the indigenous culture from the community.
- Camping: Kalumburu Campground.
Day 19-23: Journey to the Top End
Day 19: Kalumburu to Kununurra
- Distance: 510 km
- Highlights: Begin the long drive to Kununurra, a town located on the edge of the Kimberley. Visit the beautiful Mirima National Park, also known as the "mini Bungle Bungles."
- Camping: Kununurra Discovery Holiday Park.
Day 20: Kununurra Exploration
- Highlights: Spend the day exploring Kununurra. Take a boat tour on Lake Argyle, visit the Ord River, and explore the Zebra Rock Gallery.
- Camping: Kununurra Discovery Holiday Park.
Day 21: Kununurra to Katherine
- Distance: 520 km
- Highlights: Drive towards Katherine, stopping at the Gregory National Park. Upon arrival, visit the Katherine Hot Springs and enjoy a relaxing soak.
- Camping: Katherine Holiday Park.
Day 22: Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park)
- Highlights: Spend the day exploring Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. Take a boat cruise or canoe along the gorge, hike one of the many trails, and learn about the area's rich indigenous history.
- Camping: Nitmiluk Campground.
Day 23: Katherine Exploration and Final Drive to Darwin
- Distance: 320 km
- Highlights: In the morning, visit the Cutta Cutta Caves or take a dip in Edith Falls. Enjoy a leisurely drive to Darwin, arriving in the late afternoon. Celebrate the end of your epic road trip with a delicious meal and a stroll along the waterfront.
- Camping: Stay at one of Darwin's caravan parks, such as BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park.
Tips for the Journey
- Prepare Thoroughly: Ensure your 4WD campervan is well-equipped with supplies, including sufficient water and food and warm clothes.
- Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles, and respect local wildlife and cultural sites.
- Stay Safe: Inform someone of your travel plans, consider hiring a satellite phone, and be prepared for remote and rugged conditions.
- Embrace Flexibility: The Kimberley is unpredictable, so be prepared for changes in your itinerary due to weather or road conditions.
Embarking on this 23-day road trip from Broome to Darwin through the Kimberley region promises an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the freedom of the open road.
Feel free to reach out to our team [email protected] if you need suggestions, or use our search engine to book your 4WD Camper with live rates and availability.
