Selfdrive Routes in Australia

Starting in Broome
We have put together some popular and most interesting self-drive ideas, starting in Broome. You do your own driving but enjoy the security of the pre-booked accommodation. We can also modify according to your needs. If you require something completely different, please remember that we can still help you pre-plan your own personalized itinerary (ask for a quotation). All itineraries can be done in reverse.

Beside these selfdrives, we have created the following selfdrive around Broome.

Kimberley Circle Drive (6 Days / 5 Nights / 4WD)
Day 1 Broome to Fitzroy Crossing: After lazing on fabulous Cable Beach, it is now time to hit the road and experience the Kimberley. A few basic precautions and common sense will ensure a holiday of a life time: Carry plenty of water and keep a snack box filled. On the dirt sections, do not exceed 80kms per hour and NEVER venture into any water unless it is either a swimming pool or clearly marked as OK! Emma and Manning Gorges, detailed later in the itinerary are completely safe. You will be amazed at how quickly the lush tropical surroundings of Broome give way to the red rock and unusual formations that makes the Kimberley unique. 
Today's destination is Fitzroy and so make sure you take the turn just past the Willare Roadhouse. Carry on through the community of Fitzroy Crossing and cross the mighty Fitzroy River. At the end of the wet season, enough water flows through here to fill Sydney Harbour in 24 hours. Fitzroy is steeped in history and a drive out to the old townsite and the Crossing Inn, built in 1897 will transport you back to harsher times. Make sure you ask to the locals to tell you the story of the Aboriginal outlaw, Pigeon and his gang. Overnight in Fitzroy River Lodge.

Day 2 Fitzroy Crossing to Halls Creek: You will find that the days start early in the Kimberley so after a hearty breakfast (own expense), drive the 20 kms out to Geike Gorge National Park and take the cruise through the gorge. Local rangers will give you an insight to the geographical history and wealth of Aboriginal culture. The Lodge will gladly make the necessary reservation so you don't miss the boat. 

When you have completed the cruise, be sure to look up above the roof of the Information Kiosk to see the high water marks of previous years. Now backtrack to Fitzroy Crossing and head deeper into the Kimberley, heading for the old gold mining town of Halls Creek, gateway to the Bungle Bungle National Park. You will be amazed at the sheer rock cliffs and how they rise from the landscape. The formations you drive past are what remains of the Devonian Reef which was the left by the receding sea, 350 million years ago and have inspired artist and photographers from all over the world. 

On arrival in Halls Creek, before going to the Kimberley Lodge, stop at the Tourist Center and book your time for tomorrow's helicopter flight to the Bungle Bugles (included). While there, get directions to take the short journey to the natural phenomenon known as China Wall, a wall of vertical quartz said to be the largest of its kind in the world. Overnight in Kimberley Lodge.

Day 3 Halls Creek, Bungle Bungle to El Questro: It is best to get the earliest flight available. The drive to Turkey Creek where the helicopters are based is approximately 1.5 hours from Halls Creek. 

Under NO circumstances should you attempt to drive into the Bungle Bungles, there are no facilities, fuel and although the sign says it is only 53 kms, it is the roughest and most treacherous road imaginable. The helicopter is the only way to go and is included in your fare. The ride around and over these eerie domes will be something that will stay with you forever. Make sure you have plenty of film, as there is no chance to pick up any extra once you leave Turkey Creek. 

After you have come back to earth, enjoy a snack and a drink and ensure your vehicle is topped up with fuel and water. Continue north through the heart of the Carr Boyd Range and follow the signs for the Gibb River Road. Once you have reached the dirt road you are now officially on the famous Gibb River Road. The contrast between the yellow spinifex and the red rock is a photographer's delight. 

Tonight's destination is the Emma Gorge complex of the award winning El Questro Station. After this most exhilarating day, relax by the pool with a cool drink and marvel as the sunset turns the cliffs above you to burning red. Overnight in Emma Gorge Bush Camp Resort.

Day 4 El Questro to Beverly Springs: Start the day with an invigorating 45-minute walk to Emma Gorge. Its OK to swim here but beware, the sun only shines on the water for a few minutes each day so it's REFRESHING! Today's journey is 4WD at its best. There are river crossing, most notable the Pentecost and Gibb. All are clearly marked and the simple rule is take your time. There are several roadhouses such as Jack's Waterhole, Ellenbrae and Mt Barnett to get morning tea, lunch as well as stock up on snacks. Make you midday destination the Mt. Barnett Roadhouse. Park you car in the adjacent campground and follow the trail to Manning Gorge. In unique Aussie tradition, the markers are old ¯Coke¯ cans. Be sure to pack a lunch and take your bathers as the swimming hole is one of the most spectacular you can imagine. Several levels of waterfalls spill into a rock gorge and the water is clear and inviting. The walk is a leisurely one-hour in each direction and well worth the effort. Beverley Springs Station is a fully operational cattle station running 15,000 head of cattle and is an ideal base to visit the numerous gorges in the area. You will enjoy the shady verandah of the historic old homestead after the day's drive. Overnight in Beverly Springs Station Dinner included

Day 5 Beverley Springs to Derby: Deep in the heart of the Kimberley, the region is blessed with numerous other spectacular gorges. From the Gibb River Road make sure you visit at least Adcock Gorge, Silent Grove and Bell Gorge, all housed in the King Leopold Range National Park. It's OK to take most of the day to ensure you can fully experience one of the world's last wilderness adventures. 

Another must-do is to visit Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek. At Windjana Gorge there is a pleasant 3.5-km walk and points out primeval life forms fossilized in the gorge walls. You will also see freshwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbank. Tunnel Creek is 30 km off the road but well worth the drive as it is a 750 mtr natural tunnel. For a real Kimberley experience, walk through the tunnel (you might get a bit wet) to see the natural billibong on the other end. Before you know it, you are back on sealed road and into civilization. A long hot shower may wash off the dust but it won't erase the memory or sense of accomplishment as you have now completed what others only dream about. Overnight in King Sound Resort.

Day 6 Derby to Broome: The luxury of a sleep-in this morning! Have a walk around Derby and soak up some of the local history. Derby is home to many aboriginal artists and Ngunga Designs and Reflections and the Kimberley Art Gallery should not be missed. Derby is also home to the world famous Royal Flying Doctor Service and which welcomes visitors at specific times. The infamous Prison Boab Tree is located on the outskirts of Derby towards Broome and worth a stop to appreciate how lucky we are today. 

It is only 222 kms back to Broome so you may wish to time you journey to get in a late afternoon swim at Cable Beach and catch the sunset from the Sunset Bar at Lord Mac's. If you are staying on in Broome, don't forget to take in the open air Sun Pictures and visit Matso's Brewery and Art Gallery, a unique combination.

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