15 Day Kimberley Ultimate Camping Tour

Planning a trip to the remote and breathtaking Kimberley region of Australia can seem daunting—unless you opt for the 15 Day Kimberley Ultimate Camping Tour by Outback Horizons. While we haven’t personally trekked this adventure, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what awaits. From awe-inspiring gorges and waterfalls to Aboriginal art and helicopter flights, this tour promises a comprehensive and authentic Kimberley experience.

What stands out most are the expert guides who navigate you through rugged terrain, the delicious home-cooked meals that keep you fueled for long days, and the unique combination of activities that blend adventure with cultural insights. On the flip side, some travelers note the lengthy driving days—up to 8 hours—can be tiring for some. This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate nature, cultural experiences, and are comfortable with camping and long road hours.

If you’re looking for a truly immersive, well-organized exploration of one of Australia’s most iconic wilderness areas, this tour ticks many boxes. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right fit and what to expect along the way.

Key Points

• All-inclusive Journey: Meals, camping gear, park fees, and even a helicopter flight are covered.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and capable of enriching your understanding of the Kimberley.
• Variety of Experiences: Gorges, waterfalls, Aboriginal art, wildlife, and scenic flights.
• Long Driving Days: Expect up to 8 hours on the road, which is worth noting for comfort and planning.
• Authentic Camping: Quality tents, mattresses, and equipment provided for a true outback experience.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Max 14 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Days 1-2: Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek, and Bell Gorge

The adventure kicks off with visits to Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek—both iconic Kimberley sites. Windjana Gorge’s towering cliffs and Aboriginal significance set the tone for the trip. Reviewers mention being captivated by the gorge’s beauty and the chance to walk through a water-worn tunnel beneath Devonian Reef. It’s a deep dive into the ancient geological past, and the guides are praised for their local knowledge.

Next, the journey continues to Bell Gorge, renowned for its stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. Travelers love the opportunity to swim in the cool waters after a hike through the eroded King Leopold Range. One reviewer called Bell Gorge “one of the most impressive in the Kimberley,” highlighting the perfect blend of scenic views and physical activity.

Days 3-4: Galvans Gorge and Manning Gorge

These days are about relaxing with nature while staying active. Galvans Gorge offers a peaceful spot for swimming and picnicking, with reviews emphasizing the tranquil atmosphere and the delicious, home-cooked lunches. The hike to Manning Falls is a highlight, with many noting it’s a perfect spot for swimming and soaking up the wilderness.

Days 5-6: Remote Campsites and Mitchell Falls

Traveling along the Gibb River Road, you’ll reach Munurru (King Edward River), a favorite for its refreshing river swims. The journey to Mitchell Falls involves some of the most rugged 4WD terrain, but the reward is a helicopter flight over the falls, giving breathtaking views and a perspective you can’t get from the ground. Reviewers rave about the helicopter experience, describing it as “remarkable” and a real highlight.

Following the flight, a 3.5 km hike takes you to the top of Mitchell Falls, where a swim awaits. Aboriginal rock art along the trail adds cultural depth. This combination of land and aerial perspectives makes for an unforgettable day.

Days 7-9: El Questro Wilderness Park

The group moves into El Questro, with days packed with hikes, thermal springs, and stunning canyon views. Highlights include Zebedee Springs, where the thermal pools provide a relaxing break, and Emma Gorge, a 1.2 km hike leading to a beautiful swimming spot. Reviewers comment on the “spectacular sunset views” and the quality of meals prepared at camp.

Days 10-11: Kununurra and the Ord River

Transitioning from wilderness to a more settled town, you’ll visit Wyndham, the Five Rivers Lookout, and enjoy a boat cruise on the Ord River. The cruise is praised for its ecological insights and scenic beauty, with reviews noting the boat tour’s length (about ¾ day) as a good way to see the region’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Days 12-13: Purnululu (Bungle Bungles) National Park

The Bungle Bungles’ iconic beehive-shaped formations are a major highlight. The stunning orange and grey domes have been shaped over millions of years, and the sunset with champagne offers a perfect photo opportunity. Explorations into Echidna Chasm, Cathedral Gorge, and Piccaninny Creek Lookout make these days the geological and visual pinnacle of the tour, with reviews describing these hikes as “unforgettable.”

Days 14-15: Fitzroy Crossing and Geikie Gorge

The trip concludes with a boat tour through Geikie Gorge, renowned for its striking cliffs carved by the Fitzroy River. Reviewers appreciate the final scenic cruise as a fitting end to the adventure, bringing the journey full circle.

The $3,898 price includes not just transportation and meals but also all national park fees, camping equipment, and a helicopter flight, which alone would be a costly addition if booked separately. The inclusion of high-quality tents, mattresses, and pillows means you don’t need to worry about camping gear, and the meals are touted as delicious, often cooked over BBQs by guides who clearly take pride in their culinary skills.

Guests consistently praise the small group size (max 14 travelers), which fosters a friendly, communal atmosphere. With expert guides like Bryce, Clancy, and Phil, you’re in capable hands, learning about the land, its people, and the wildlife in a relaxed, engaging way.

While the long driving hours—up to 8 hours on some days—might not suit everyone, reviews frequently mention that the guides make these days enjoyable with storytelling, stops, and scenic views. The all-inclusive nature reduces stress, letting you focus on the experience rather than logistics or extra costs.

What truly sets this tour apart is its focus on authenticity. Spending time with Aboriginal rock art sites, learning about the local culture, and exploring remote wilderness areas offers a genuine connection to the land. The guided hikes into emerald pools and rugged gorges feel intimate and rewarding, especially with knowledgeable guides sharing stories and insights.

The helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls exemplifies the tour’s commitment to giving you perspectives that are otherwise out of reach. Many reviewers mentioned that the aerial view was a highlight, offering a sense of scale and grandeur that photos alone can’t capture.

The delicious, freshly prepared meals deserve special mention. Reviewers describe the food as “beautifully cooked,” often on BBQs, and a delight after long days of exploration. This culinary effort adds a comforting touch to rugged days.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is perfect for outdoor lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those eager to see the Kimberley’s iconic sights with expert support. It suits travelers who don’t mind camping and enjoy long drives as part of the experience. The small group size makes it ideal for those wanting a more personalized, social journey.

If you love scenery, wildlife, and learning about Aboriginal culture, and you’re prepared for some physical activity, this is a well-organized, value-packed option. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate good food and want a comprehensive itinerary without the hassle of planning each component.

The 15 Day Kimberley Ultimate Camping Tour by Outback Horizons offers a balanced mix of adventure, cultural discovery, and relaxation, all wrapped into a well-organized package. The inclusion of helicopter flights, expert guides, and quality camping gear makes it an excellent value for exploring one of Australia’s most remote regions.

While the lengthy driving days require patience, they’re also opportunities to take in some of the most spectacular scenery the Kimberley has to offer. If you’re after an immersive, authentic journey with small-group intimacy and a focus on natural beauty and cultural richness, this tour ticks many boxes.

In summary, this trip is suited for adventurous, nature-loving travelers ready for a rugged and authentic outback experience, coupled with the comfort of expert-guided organization and delicious meals. Prepare for unforgettable landscapes, stories, and a true taste of the Kimberley wilderness.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves hikes, some short but potentially challenging, like the walk into Emma Gorge or Echidna Chasm. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity, you’ll enjoy it. The guides are experienced in accommodating various fitness levels.

Are meals included?
Yes, all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are provided as per the itinerary. The food is home-cooked and of high quality, often cooked over BBQs, with plenty of snacks and fresh fruit.

What kind of vehicle is used for transport?
The tour uses a 4WD vehicle capable of handling tough terrain, especially on the remote roads like Gibb River Road and Port Warrender Road.

Is camping equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes all camping gear, such as tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, and pillows, so you only need to bring personal items.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows guides to give personalized attention.

Can I book optional extras like helicopter flights separately?
The helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls is included in the tour. Other optional extras, like helicopter flights over Bungles, are not mentioned and would need to be booked separately if available.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 7 days ahead, but securing your spot earlier is always recommended, especially during peak seasons.

To sum it up, if you’re craving an adventurous, authentic, and well-organized exploration of the Kimberley, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to see Australia’s rugged beauty up close. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and memorable experiences, it’s a trip that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come.