The Ultimate Guide to Windjana Gorge
10 October 2022
Windjana Gorge is one of Western Australia’s most popular traveling destinations. Windjana Gorge, also known as Bandilngan, is a well-known location to the Bunuba people. They believe there are ancient creation spirits who still wander the gorge, making Windjana a significant and valuable place to the Indigenous tribes. Located in the Kimberley region, its walls are as high as 30m and 100m wide. The Lennard River runs through Windjana Gorge, providing a water source for the many wildlife that live in the national park. It is also located right next to the iconic Tunnel Creek, making it a great road trip option to explore both locations in one day. If you’re curious about journeying to Windjana Gorge, this blog will give you the ultimate guide to adventuring into one of Australia’s best national parks.
Why You Should Visit Windjana Gorge
There are many reasons for you to visit the spectacular Windjana Gorge, however, these are our top reasons on why you should go. The importance of Windjana Gorge to one of the oldest tribes in the world, makes this place a special once-in-a-lifetime place to visit and learn about the history and stories.
Cultural Guide
One of the main reasons you should visit is the history and culture you will learn through taking on this experience. Take a guided tour with an insightful Bunuba elder who will take you through a spiritual journey through the heart and soul of Windjana Gorge. You will learn about the history of the Bunuba people and why this place is significant to their culture. Learn about the land that you’re walking through and listen to the famous Dreamtime stories connected to the land.
Windjana Gorge Rock Art
Windjana Gorge rock art is another reason why you should travel to the popular National Park. Explore Jumburrurru (Carpenter’s Gap) and learn about the indigenous rock art created by the ancestors of the Bundu people. This is an incredibly special opportunity to learn about the history of one of the oldest tribes in the world.
Tours
Here is a list of some of the best ways to tour the beautiful Windjana Gorge:
Tour the Gorgeous Gorges
One of the best ways to travel to Windjana Gorge is by booking a tour. Tours are a stress-free option when trying to organise transport whilst on your traveling journey. Popular tours offer a visit to Windjana Gorge along with some of Kimberley’s best tourist attractions. Places like Bell Gorge, Horizontal Falls, Cape Leveque, and King Leopold Ranges. Highlighting the best of Broome, a tour allows you to enjoy and explore without all the stress that travelling on your own can bring. Tours can include things like meals, flights, transfers, and hotel pick up and drop off.
4WD Hire
Looking for something more adventurous? You can hire out a 4WD! Whether it be a famous Landcruiser, or other 4WD vehicles, traveling to Windjana Gorge doesn’t get more exciting than this. Enjoy the view of the Australian outback, while spotting the wildlife as you glide down the road. This is an alternative for those who enjoy a good road trip. You can create your own experiences and go at your own pace. A perfect option for a group of friends or a family.
Windjana Gorge & Tunnel Creek Adventure
The Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek offers breathtaking popular locations to experience. Places like Windjana Gorge National Park, Tunnel Creek National Park, Boab Prison Tree, and Lillimoobana Station. Explore the heart of Windjana Gorge, visit the hidden caves of Tunnel Creek and learn about the history of Lillimoobana Station. These can be done on a day trip if you are looking for an activity for the day.
What can I do around Windjana Gorge?
Walking Trails
No ultimate guide of the Windjana Gorge would be complete without talking about the stunning park trails it has to offer. There are three main walks; the Savannah Walk Trail, the Time Walk, and the Gorge Walk. Each walk is a unique experience as they all have their own focus. The Savannah Walk focuses on giving visitors a taste of what the savannah habitat is about. It is only a short walk that starts and ends at the campground, making it an easy walk for kids and the elderly. The Time Walk is just that, a walk back in time, as you discover the marine life that once swam through the gorge and is now fossilised within the walls. It is perfect for those who are curious about the history of the national park. The Gorge Walk is the most popular. It takes you on a 3.5km walk up around the Gorge, giving the best views of the national park.
Windjana Explorer Helicopter Tour
A Windjana helicopter adventure is a great way to see this amazing area. Experience a thrilling helicopter ride, looking down on some of Kimberley’s best sights including the Pindan cliffs, Roebuck Plains, and Fitzroy River. Once you land in Windjana Gorge, you will be led by your Aboriginal tour guide and explore the rest of the park in a 4WD tour bus. Hop out and explore the trails of this spectacular national park. Spotting the sunbathing crocodiles laying in the pools and learn about the history of the Bunuba people and their stories.
There are so many ways to explore this amazing area. We hope this ultimate guide to Windjana Gorge helps you to plan your journey to this piece of paradise!