Exploring the Bungle Bungles: A Guide to Purnululu National Park

Tucked away in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia lies Purnululu National Park, home to the world-famous Bungle Bungle Range. With its striking, beehive-shaped domes, deep gorges, and ancient landscapes, the park offers an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and intrepid explorers. Whether you’re hiking through its stunning landscapes or taking in the view from above, Purnululu is a must-visit for those looking to experience one of Australia’s most unique and awe-inspiring destinations. Here’s your guide to exploring Purnululu National Park and its iconic Bungle Bungles.

A Brief History of the Bungle Bungles

The Bungle Bungle Range was largely unknown to the outside world until the early 1980s, despite being a significant cultural site for the local Kija and Jaru Indigenous people for thousands of years. The range’s distinctive dome formations, with their orange and black banding, were formed over 350 million years ago through natural erosion, and they now stand as one of the most remarkable geological features in Australia.

In 2003, Purnululu National Park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List for its outstanding natural beauty and cultural significance. Today, the park draws visitors from around the world to marvel at its stunning landscapes and learn about its rich Indigenous heritage.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Getting There

Purnululu National Park is located about 300 kilometers south of Kununurra and 160 kilometers north of Halls Creek. Access to the park is via a 53-kilometer unsealed road that branches off the Great Northern Highway, and it’s recommended to use a 4WD vehicle due to the rough terrain and creek crossings along the way.

For those looking to skip the drive, scenic flights from Kununurra or Halls Creek offer breathtaking aerial views of the Bungle Bungle Range, allowing you to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the landscape from above. Helicopter and fixed-wing tours are available, and they provide an unforgettable perspective on the park’s unique formations.

What we love: The dramatic, aerial view of the Bungle Bungles from a scenic flight, giving you a true sense of the park’s scale and beauty.

Good to know: The park is typically open from April to November, as the wet season (December to March) can make the roads impassable.

Exploring the Beehive Domes

The most iconic feature of Purnululu National Park is the Bungle Bungle Range itself, with its beehive-shaped, striped domes that rise out of the desert landscape like a natural fortress. These sandstone formations are unlike anything else in the world, with their distinctive orange and black bands caused by the presence of cyanobacteria on the rock surface.

There are several walking trails that allow visitors to explore the domes up close, ranging from short walks to more challenging hikes. The Domes Walk is a relatively easy 1-kilometer loop that takes you through the heart of the beehive formations, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to experience the scale of these natural wonders.

For a longer hike, the Cathedral Gorge Walk is a 3-kilometer return trail that leads into a massive natural amphitheater, where towering rock walls form a dramatic setting. The acoustics inside Cathedral Gorge are incredible, and it’s easy to see why this location is considered one of the park’s highlights.

What we love: The opportunity to walk among the beehive domes and explore the incredible Cathedral Gorge, a truly magical natural setting.

Good to know: The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when the light enhances the vibrant colors of the domes and the temperatures are cooler for hiking.

Echidna Chasm: A Stunning Walk Through Narrow Gorges

While the Bungle Bungle domes are the park’s most famous feature, the dramatic narrow gorges and chasms of Purnululu are equally breathtaking. One of the most spectacular walks in the park is the Echidna Chasm Walk, a 2-kilometer trail that winds its way through a narrow, 200-meter-deep gorge.

As you walk through Echidna Chasm, the walls tower above you, narrowing to just a few meters apart at certain points, creating an immersive and otherworldly experience. The chasm is particularly stunning when the sunlight filters through, casting a golden glow on the rock walls. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Purnululu National Park.

What we love: The towering rock walls of Echidna Chasm and the way the light plays on the narrow gorge make for an awe-inspiring experience.

Good to know: The trail involves some scrambling over rocks, so sturdy shoes and plenty of water are recommended.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Indigenous Heritage and Cultural Significance

Purnululu National Park is not only a place of natural beauty but also a site of deep cultural significance for the local Indigenous people. The Kija and Jaru people have lived in the area for thousands of years and consider the Bungle Bungle Range to be a sacred site, rich with stories from their Dreamtime.

Visitors to the park have the opportunity to learn about the Indigenous culture and history through guided tours led by Traditional Owners. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the spiritual connection the Indigenous people have with the land and offer insights into the ancient stories, rock art, and cultural practices that are tied to the landscape.

What we love: The chance to connect with the rich Indigenous heritage of the region and learn about the cultural significance of the Bungle Bungles from Traditional Owners.

Good to know: Participating in an Indigenous-led tour is a great way to support the local community and gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s cultural history.

Scenic Flights: A Bird’s Eye View of the Bungle Bungles

For those who want to fully appreciate the grandeur of Purnululu National Park, taking a scenic flight is highly recommended. Whether by helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft, flying over the Bungle Bungles offers an unparalleled perspective on the park’s vast, rugged landscape. From the air, you can see the full extent of the beehive domes, deep gorges, and sprawling desert plains that make this area so unique.

Scenic flights depart from both Kununurra and Halls Creek, with options for short flights or longer tours that include a landing in the park. Many visitors choose to combine a scenic flight with a ground tour, giving them the best of both worlds—an aerial overview and an up-close experience with the park’s natural features.

What we love: The breathtaking views of the Bungle Bungle Range from above, offering a true sense of the park’s scale and beauty.

Good to know: Flights operate seasonally, so it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak tourist months.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Camping and Accommodation

For those looking to spend more time in Purnululu National Park, there are several camping options within the park. The Walardi and Kurrajong campgrounds offer basic facilities, including toilets and picnic tables, and are located close to the park’s main attractions. Camping under the stars in this remote, rugged landscape is an unforgettable experience, with clear night skies providing incredible stargazing opportunities.

If camping isn’t your style, Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge offers comfortable, eco-friendly accommodation within the park, providing a convenient base for exploring the area. The lodge offers meals, showers, and guided tours, making it a great option for those seeking a bit more comfort during their stay.

What we love: The opportunity to camp in the heart of Purnululu National Park and experience the beauty of the Kimberley region under the stars.

Good to know: The campgrounds are basic, so come prepared with plenty of water, food, and camping gear.

Final Thoughts

Purnululu National Park and its iconic Bungle Bungle Range offer an unparalleled adventure for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re hiking through the beehive domes, exploring the dramatic Echidna Chasm, or learning about the rich Indigenous heritage of the area, Purnululu is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose to explore the park by foot, 4WD, or from the sky, a visit to Purnululu National Park is a must for anyone seeking to discover the true beauty of the Kimberley.