A walking tour is the perfect way to explore the desolate area of Kimberley in Western Australia, which is why a growing number of tour companies are beginning to offer these tours to visitors. Because you do have your selection of companies to choose from, it is important to ask the right questions so that you can be sure that you are about to embark on a memorable journey that is also appropriate for you. The first and most important question is:
How Long Are the Walks?
Kimberley walking tours are usually around 2 weeks in duration, though this may vary depending on how long daily walks are. Depending on the day, travellers may walk anywhere from one to ten kilometres with stops in between. Many tours in Kimberley include stops at reclusive swimming locations which include waterfalls, rapids and hot springs.
Keep in mind that many of these tours are not strictly walking tours. For example, many tour companies will take guests on a 4-wheel-drive bus tour between Broom and Kununurra or will provide transportation to other more distant areas where the terrain is not safe enough for visitors to walk on.
Are the Walks Difficult?
The majority of walking tours throughout the Kimberley area are anywhere from easy to moderate. For extreme hikers, however, there are difficult to extremely difficult excursions available.
What Will We See While on Our Tour?
The tour you take will dictate what you can expect to see. But some spots in Kimberley are “must-sees,” including:
- The Bungle Bungle Range;
- Windjana Gorge;
- The Manning Gorge; and
- Zebedee Hot Springs.
During your walking tour you will be provided with a number of opportunities to take a dip in natural waterholes (such as the Bell Creek Gorge), indulge in glorious sunsets each evening, and unwind in unspoilt tropical oases.
What Kind of Accommodations Do You Provide?
Most of the tours will take guests to comfortable, designated camping spots every night, where guests will be provided with meals, spacious private tents, comfortable camp beds and mattresses. These campsites also have toilets with running water and will have hot showers.
For those who are looking for a more “wild” experience, you may find yourself backpacking in the bush. For those who are into luxury, you may take off on a “glamping” excursion around Kimberley. Ask the tour company if you will be responsible for providing your own materials for either, and if you will be required to carry them yourself during the tour.
How Large Is the Tour Group?
The smaller the group, the more personalised the attention you will receive. Most walking tours will have anywhere from six to fourteen people. Try to avoid going on a tour where there will be more than fourteen people, unless there are going to be several guides present throughout the tour.
How Many Guides Will Be with Us?
Most walking tours will have a minimum of 2 professional guides who know about Kimberley’s unique geography and landscapes.