A Guide to Purnululu National Park | Australian Traveller

Wild-at-heart Western Australia is home to Purnululu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where fascinating geological landmarks and ancient rock art weave a tapestry of unforgettable experiences.

Located 300 kilometres south of Kununurra, Purnululu is home to the burnt orange and black striped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range, an unmissable icon in the Kimberley region. Until the early 1980s, few people had heard of these bulbous sandstone mounds. Tucked up against the Northern Territory border, with a rough dirt access track and located about 150 kilometres from Halls Creek, the curved peaks and spinifex-dominated sand plains were mostly hidden from the world’s view.

Bungle Bungle Range from above — Traverse through the valleys that wind through the Bungle Bungle Range. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

It wasn’t until an airborne documentary crew captured this 2400-square-kilometre slice of wilderness in 1983 that the Bungle Bungle Range was introduced to the world. No doubt the Gija and Jaru peoples were surprised to hear the Bungle Bungles had been “discovered". In 1987, this treasure was declared a national park, and about two decades ago it was inscribed on the UNESCO list for its “outstanding universal natural heritage values."

Top Purnululu National Park sights to see

This enormous swathe of wilderness offers a diverse range of experiences, from tranquil nature walks to adrenaline-pumping helicopter adventures.

Bungle Bungle Range

Walk among ancient sandstone formations that have been shaped by the elements over 350 million years, resulting in a unique landscape of valleys and ridges.

Cathedral Gorge

Cathedral Gorge is a natural amphitheatre of red rock located within the Bungle Bungle Range. The acoustics within this chamber are extraordinary, and the towering rock formations create a cathedral-like atmosphere that is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

Echidna Chasm

Echidna Chasm is a narrow gorge with walls up to 200 metres high that offers a moderately challenging but rewarding hike. The pathway leads to a secluded area where the sunlight dances off the walls, creating a mesmerising display of light and shadow.

Piccaninny Gorge

The largest of all the gorges in Purnululu National Park, in the wet season, water flows along the creek between the red and black beehive domes. In the dry season, visitors can walk along the dry creek bed to see more of the Bungle Bungle Range and the interesting shapes created in the creek bed by the flow of the water.

Mini Palms Gorge

Mini Palms Gorge is a hidden gem within the park, offering a moderate hike that leads to a secluded palm grove. The trail winds through a narrow gorge, flanked by towering cliffs, before opening up to reveal a tranquil oasis, complete with a natural pool and a grove of Livistona palms.

Top tours in Purnululu National Park

Guided tours offer an enriching way to explore the park’s many wonders, from its unique geological features to its rich Indigenous heritage.

4WD tours

APT Tours are led by experienced guides who offer valuable insights into the park’s diverse ecosystems and geological formations.

driving along Purnululu National Park — Journey through Purnululu National Park on a 4WD tour. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

After a full day exploring highlights including Piccaninny Creek and Cathedral Gorge, you can finish the day watching the sunset over the Bungle Bungle Range with a glass of bubbly in hand.

sunset at Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park — Fiery hues colour the sky over the Bungle Bungle Range. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Scenic flights

A scenic flight over Purnululu National Park offers a bird’s-eye view of the iconic Bungle Bungle Range, providing a new perspective on the sheer scale and beauty of this natural wonder.

a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungle Range with Aviair — Get a bird’s-eye view of the monolith on a scenic flight.

Departing from Kununurra, Aviair offers short two-hour trips up to full-day tours that include walks to Cathedral Gorge, Piccaninny Gorge and Echidna Chasm.

Aviair Bungle Bungle Adventurer scenic flight — Aviair offers a range of tours within Purnululu National Park.

Helicopter tours

For those looking for an even more intimate aerial experience, helicopter tours offer the opportunity to hover over key landmarks and even land in some otherwise inaccessible areas.

a helicopter adventure with Helispirit, Purnululu National Park — Book a memorable helicopter adventure with Helispirit. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Helispirit has knowledgeable guides who can provide in-depth information about the park’s geology and history.

a helicopter tour above Purnululu National Park with HeliSpirit — Hover above Purnululu National Park on a HeliSpirit helicopter tour.

Guided hiking tours

Guided hiking tours offer a more grounded way to explore the park’s natural beauty. Led by experienced guides, locally owned Bungle Bungle Guided Tours offer guests visits to hidden gorges, secluded waterholes and ancient art sites. But to truly feel connected and understand this remarkable living landscape, book in with Kingfisher Tours to be led by a Gija guide.

a local guide at Purnululu National Park — Head guide Rebecca Sampi of Kingfisher Tours. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Choose from day tours from Kununurra, walks from Purnululu and Bungle Bungle overnight tours.

a guided walking and hiking tour at Purnululu National Park — Get an up-close view of the park’s natural wonders. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Accommodation and Camping

Purnululu offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all preferences, from the rustic allure of bush camping to the luxurious comforts of air-conditioned cabins. See our handy guide to Purnululu National Park accommodation.

an aerial view of two people walking at Purnululu National Park — Camp near Purnululu National Park’s iconic attractions. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Bungle Bungle Caravan Park

Located just off the main highway, Bungle Bungle Caravan Park offers a range of accommodation options, from cabins and safari tents to powered and unpowered sites. The park also offers 4WD bus tours and scenic helicopter flights, adding an extra layer of adventure to your stay.

Walardi Campground

Walardi Campground is a public facility managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife. It offers basic amenities like bush toilets and bore water taps, but its real charm lies in its proximity to some of Purnululu’s most iconic attractions.

Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge

If you want luxury and a top location, then make a beeline for the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge .

The 27 hard-walled cabins with timber flooring have ensuite bathrooms with eco-friendly products and the lodge is home to the only swimming pool in the park.

Pool at Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge — A stay at Savannah Lodge means you will get access to the only pool in the park. (Image: CJ Maddock)

Plan your trip to Purnululu National Park

How to get there

The journey to Purnululu is an adventure in itself. The park is accessible only by 4WD, and the drive offers numerous opportunities for scenic photography and wildlife spotting. Fly into Kununurra Airport, hire a car and drive three hours south to Purnululu National Park or join a land-based or air tour.

riding a helicopter on top of Purnululu National Park — Opt for a helicopter tour to get the most of your trip. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit Purnululu is during the dry season, from May to September. During these months, the weather is more accommodating, and the park’s various attractions are easily accessible.

two people exploring The Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park — Explore the park’s top attractions like The Bungle Bungle Range. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Fuel and supplies

Before setting off, make sure you’re well-stocked with fuel and essential supplies. The nearest fuel stations and grocery stores can be quite a distance away, so it’s always better to be prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the entry fees for Purnululu National Park?

A: The entry fee for Purnululu National Park is $15 per vehicle, which is valid for one day.

scenic landscapes in Purnululu National Park — Step into the remote wilderness of Purnululu National Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Q: Are pets allowed in the park?

A: No, pets are not allowed in Purnululu National Park to protect the native wildlife.

Q: Is it safe to swim in the gorges?

A: Swimming is generally not recommended due to the presence of freshwater crocodiles in some areas.

a group of tourists resting on the rocks at Cathedral Gorge, Purnululu National Park — Freshwater crocodiles inhabit some of the gorges within the park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Q: Do I need a 4WD to access the park?

A: Yes, a 4WD vehicle is required to access Purnululu National Park due to the rugged terrain.

Q: Are guided tours available?

A: Yes, there are several guided tour options available, ranging from 4WD adventures to scenic flights.

Bungle Bungle Guided Tours in Purnululu National Park — Explore the majestic domes with Bungle Bungle Guided Tours.

Note: an earlier version of this article incorrectly included a picture of Kingfisher Tours without reference to the tour. This has since been amended.

For more insider tips and unforgettable experiences, read our guide to the Kimberley.

Blend the addictive energy of dance, creative cinematic movies, captivating theatre, and energising music during Perth Festival.

Perth Festival has extraordinary roots. Born as a summer community experiment back in 1953, the brainchild of Professor Fred Alexander, it’s now Australia’s longest-running international art-based festival. From its first event at University of Western Australia, it now spans across Noongar Boodjar country (Perth City) bringing worldclass performances into the hearts of ardent festivalgoers. Hundreds of curtain calls, including numerous free events, are set to linger and leave a lasting impression on those who seek thrills that fill life’s in-between spaces. Featuring unmissable highlights from 6^th February to 1^st March, we’ve done the legwork for you – here’s what’s on, and where:

1. East Perth Power Station

East Perth Power Station during Perth Festival — See East Perth Power Station come alive. (Image: Jessica Wyld Photography)

Abandoned, run-down and shutdown in 1981, East Perth Power Station , located on the banks of the stunning Swan River, was reinvented in 2025 as an entertainment venue for the Perth Festival. Pack a picnic, bring the family and kick back under paperbark trees at Casa Musica – a free event featuring a melting pot of world-class musicians from Australian shores and around the globe. The diversity will have you bopping until the final encore.

A decade after David Bowie’s passing, his powerful music lives on in the electrifying show, Rebel Rebel . Powerhouse vocalists join Perth Symphony Orchestra for one incredible night showcasing the singer-songwriter’s iconic hits. Illuminate your world through the eyes of First Nation Noongar artist, Lance Chadd Tjyllyungoo in a free event. His distinctive paintings and Dreamtime stories decorate the Power Station’s walls depicting spiritual beliefs. Or settle in to watch British indie pop singer-songwriter, Nilüfer Yanya .

2. St Mary’s Cathedral

Take in Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth. (Image: Anja Schutz)

Step into the lofty ceilings of Perth’s grandest cathedral, St Mary’s, and soak up choral harmonies. Dating back to 1865, the stained-glass reproductions of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper are a talking point, add talented maestros, and the stage is set to enthral.

The international line-up is impressive. Master Irish fiddler, Martin Hayes takes to the stage with exquisite lyrical compositions from his native land. Åkervinda , an award winning Swedish quartet, weave stories of love, loss, and resilience into harmonious Nordic folk songs. The USA Grammy Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth , break all the rules. Hear their voices echo through the arched vaulted ceilings.

3. Lotterywest Films

guests at Lotterywest Films as part of Perth Festival — Discover the Lotterywest Films program. (Credit: Jessia Wyld Photograpghy)

One of the festivals longest-running favourites, Lotterywest Films run a rich tapestry of cinematic features showing until 29th of March. Pack a picnic, cushions, popcorn and pop a cork under a Somerville Pine Tree as the sun sets and screenings begin. Cinema lovers, choose your poison from thrillers, deep-dive documentaries, tearjerkers, raunchy rom-coms and side-splitting comedies. The program is fantastically full, the filmmakers the best in the business, and the outdoor setting, unequalled.

4. The Embassy

guests at The EMbassy as part of Perth Festival — Step into the old world glitz of The Embassy. (Image: Franz Bato)

Modelled on Perth’s historic Embassy Ballroom, a devilish dance venue that operated in the 1900s, The Embassy in Perth Town Hall , serves sophistication in its A-list shows. Set your sequins a’sparkle at the, What’s TINA Got to Do With It extravaganza where guest artists play tribute as they belt out the glitzy star’s hits. The returning act, Ali Bodycoat & The Embassy Big Band, will have you jiving as you take to the dance floor reimagining a bygone era. Who doesn’t like chocolate? Black-bearded drag sensation, La Gateau Chocolat puts the raw in cacao. World-renowned for his feisty range of storied songs, he reveals the inner-man come artist through his deliciously sweet and intimate act.

5. Unusual locations

still from The Trial theatre — Watch a star-studded cast in The Trial. (Image: Cole Baxter)

We’ve all heard of the hit show, The Office, but a spinetingling operatic thriller acted out in disused office space? Philip Glass’ nail-biter, The Trial , has a star-studded line-up. Together they deliver a dramatic ordeal showcasing Oscar-winner Christopher Hampton’s libretto; the suspense lingers after the final bow.

Sit back under starry skies and soak up dynamic dance at Ballet at the Quarry: Incandescence . Four exclusive classical and contemporary acts illuminate the amphitheatre’s stage as Perth City twinkles at nightfall. Mystery excites the mind. West Australian Opera returns again with another ‘secret opera’. Be led from an undisclosed meeting point and let the music lead to the secret.

6. A View From A Bridge

A View From A Bridge special event at Perth Festival — Share your innermost thoughts at A View From A Bridge.

Free, connecting strangers, and inclusive to everyone, artist, Joe Bloom’s collaborative project, A View From A Bridge has one prop – an old red telephone. Talk into the receiver , share thoughts, innermost feelings, memories, hopes and dreams as Bloom captures you from afar. The freedom to speak through the telephone movement has a worldwide following. A range of clips will be shown online.

What else to do in Perth

Shadow Wine Bar in perth — Taste the best of Perth at eateries like Shadow Wine Bar.

Endless blue skies crown Perth during February, making it the perfect time to explore Australia’s most western capital city. The city might be compact, but it packs a punch when it comes to what’s on. Perth Cultural Centre houses the city’s art-scene venues: Western Australian Art Gallery, WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA).

After exploring the city’s alleyways, hidden corners, and main hub, savour worldclass food in Perth’s vibrant eateries. Award-winning restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes can be found throughout; the leisurely eat-and-drink scene is literally mouthwatering, so book extra nights.

Start planing your 2026 trip to Perth Festival at perthfestival.com.au .