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Daily commutes, school runs and grocery shopping sprees have more or less made the drive a means to an end. So we’ve put the journey back into the drive on this epic 1-3-5. Set off on the legendary Gibb River Road and drive across the West Kimberley region tackling challenging terrain and taking in five incredible pit stops. And with the road only open from April to September, now is the perfect time to embark on a journey of a lifetime.
the dusty gibb river road
gibb river road
Originally used to transfer cattle during the 1950s, this dusty red gravel road is now the ultimate challenge for many driving enthusiasts. Setting off from Darwin in a 4×4, you’ll tackle rugged terrain avoiding sharp rocks and muddy spots whilst on your way to your final destination, Broome.
spare tires and jerry cans of fuel
Driving across the Gibb is not solely for the off-road Pro, nor is it for those who expect to make it across without a glitch. Don’t know your wrench from your jack? Panic not, we’ll make sure you’re savvy enough to handle any car emergency before you set off. And because petrol stations are few and far in between, we’ll arm you with three jerry cans to top up between stops.
5 jaw-dropping pit stops
the tiger stripe patters of the bungle bungles
1:rumble in the bungle
Make your first pit stop at Kununurra, the beginning (or end) of the Gibb River road. Here, catch a propeller plane for an excursion over the Bungle Bungles National Park. Soar above beehive shaped sandstones with tiger-like stripes, deep chasms and palm trees unique only to this area. It’s hard to believe that this region was only discovered in the mid 1980s by a film crew.
take a refreshing dip at zebedee-springs
2:dips at zebedee
For your next stop, pull off at El Questro for a night of luxury at the Homestead (trust us; you’ll need it after your first day traversing the terrain). A wilderness park spanning over thousands of acres, El Questro is home to butterfly filled trees, Emma gorge and the sparkling soothing waters of Zebedee Springs. How could you resist a cooling (if you’re brave enough, skinny) dip?
3:round up the cattle
hanging out after rounding up the cattle
On your third stop, experience an authentic working cattle station in the heart of the Kimberley. Turn off at the signs to Mt Elizabeth Station, a gorgeous property that offers a comfortable base from which to explore the rugged beauty of the surroundings wilderness, but more importantly the perfect opportunity to learn about the ins and outs of an Australian cattle station. So don your boots and cowboy hat to learn a trick or two before rounding up the cattle.
venture into the darkness at tunnel creek
4&5:gorges and creeks
Before the final run towards Broome, no journey on the Great Gibb would be complete without making a stop at the infamous Bell Gorge. Explore, relax and swim in the cool waters that cascade down the perfectly U shaped cliffs. Absolute bliss. Next, head to Tunnel Creek, a deep winding cave system filled with fresh water. Arm your self with a torch and head into the darkness to make it out the other side. Be warned you will get wet, and be sure not to wake the bats…
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