Seven Natural Highlights of the Kimberley and the Coral Coast
The Kimberley and west coast of Australia is an ancient land of wondrous and awe-inspiring wilderness. Thanks to the region’s remoteness and naturally fortified terrain, a Kimberley cruise or remote land journey offers unique experiences along stunning coastlines and otherworldly landscapes. Unsurprisingly, this boundless paradise is one of Australia’s most coveted and exclusive holiday destinations. Whether navigating pristine waters or venturing on outback roads less travelled, natural wonders are the unforgettable hallmarks of a voyage through this dynamic corner of the earth.
Spectacular Waterfalls
From facing the majestic sight of King George Falls on a Zodiac cruise, to soaring over Mitchell Falls on a helicopter, experiencing the thunderous waterfalls of remote Western Australia will leave you spellbound. Under a boundless blue sky, be awed by jaw-dropping walls of rust-red sandstone, as foaming white water erupts spectacularly from jagged openings into dreamy valleys and crystal-clear rock pools.
Majestic Gorges
From the secluded oasis of Windjana Gorge to the dreamy palm-clad creeks of El Questro, the northern reaches of Western Australia are teeming with magnificent gorges. A rejuvenating outback paradise, Bell Gorge is in the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges Conservation Park. APT’s exclusive Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge is enviably positioned just 200 metres off the Gibb River Road and features a stylish open-air bar, and luxurious tented cabins with ensuites and private decks.
Pristine Islands
Beautifully at odds with the wild outback of the nearby mainland, the northern stretches of Australia’s west coast and the Kimberley are peppered with sublime archipelagos and pristine islets. The aqua waters of stunning Dirk Hartog Island lie at the southern cusp of Ningaloo Reef/Nyinggulu, while the Dampier Archipelago in the Pilbara Region is graced by crystal-clear emerald sea. Daily Zodiac excursions on APT’s small ship expedition cruises offer ample opportunities to swim and snorkel, or you may simply relax on board, admiring the gorgeous scenery with a refreshing cocktail in hand.
World Heritage-listed Landscapes and Outback Wonders
From Karijini National Park and the Pinnacles Desert, to Home Valley and Dimalurru National Park, Western Australia’s remote inland is home to an array of unique settings. The striking sandstone domes of the Bungle Bungle Range are nestled in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park. APT’s Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge offers guests unparalleled outback luxury. Enjoy three-course dinners and spacious accommodations with private ensuites.
Exhilarating Wildlife Encounters
Western Australia is teeming with extraordinary wildlife. Kangaroos, seals, quokkas, whales, emus, and more native species call the vast expanses of Australia’s largest state home. A range of unique experiences offer exhilarating up close encounters on APT’s small ship expedition cruises. In the outer waters of Ningaloo Reef, you will cruise in search of a mighty whale shark and be transfixed by the majestic beauty of this gentle giant. Discover an impressive sea lion colony at Little Sandy Island, and at Monkey Mia, witness local rangers feeding adorable wild dolphins.
Unspoilt Beaches
Finding a coveted spot to park a beach umbrella is often a strategic hurdle to overcome when arriving at Australia’s most popular beaches on a glorious day. Thankfully, the masses are nowhere to be seen on the heavenly beaches of northern Western Australia. Turquoise Bay is found along Ningaloo Reef in Cape Range National Park, and when visiting this secluded stretch of paradise, it’s hard not to see why TripAdvisor often ranks this beach as one of the best in the world.
Underwater Wonderlands
The mesmerising underwater world of the Ningaloo Reef is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. On APT’s west coast cruises and land journeys, you may discover this marine haven on a snorkelling adventure, from a Zodiac or a glass-bottom boat. Exhibiting every shade of blue, the picturesque reefs and shallows of the Kimberley are remarkably transcendent.
Small Ship Expedition Cruising
APT’s intimate Kimberley and Coral Coast cruises allow you to explore the wonders of northern Western Australia aboard luxury vessels that are custom-built to navigate waters inaccessible to larger ships. Daily Zodiac adventures offer up-close experiences, and our knowledgeable expedition team will be there to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment at all times.
Explore the spectacular coastline of the Kimberley and the Top End on a luxury 10-night cruise aboard Le Soleal with daily Zodiac excursions. Visit the incredible Horizontal Falls/Garaanngaddim, explore Montgomery Reef, be awed by King George Falls, and more.
Remote Journeys
On an APT remote journey, you will venture off the beaten track on a custom-built 4WD vehicle, discovering rugged outback landscapes while enjoying unforgettable stays at our Bell Gorge, Mitchell Falls and Bungle Bungle wilderness lodges. Be immersed in the rich Aboriginal culture and history of the Kimberley as you traverse rugged outback terrain.
Cape Leveque and Kimberley Complete
Over 17 unforgettable days, discover the Kimberley and remote regions by land, staying at APT’s exclusive Wilderness Lodges. Join a local expert to discover how the world’s finest pearls are produced at Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, see the sun set over the spectacular Bungle Bungle Range, soar over the incredible Mitchell Falls on an included helicopter flight, soak in the thermal waters of Zebedee Springs, and admire the Gwion Gwion rock paintings.
Over 15 days, journey by land from Broome to Perth, discovering the remote highlights of Western Australia. Enjoy a full day to discover the impressive landscapes of Karijini National Park, visit one of the world’s most beautiful beaches at Turquoise Bay, spot wild dolphins at Monkey Mia and wander through the otherworldly Pinnacles Desert.
Words: Alexander Simpson