Take a detour off the Gibb River Road to the Kalumburu Mission community in Western Australia’s remote north. The local Kwini, Gambra and Walmbi people invite you to explore the pristine wilderness, enjoy some of Australia’s best fishing, and discover one of the world’s oldest surviving cultures.
Kalumburu is 550 kilometres from Kununurra and 650 kilometres from Derby. You’ll need a high-clearance four-wheel-drive, with sufficient fuel, water, food, mechanical and medical supplies - drive your own or fly from Perth to Kununurra or Broome (a two-hour drive from Derby) and hire a four-wheel-drive.
Alternatively, fly to Kalumburu from Kununurra or Wyndham, or join a four-wheel-drive tour, leaving you free to marvel at the awe-inspiring tropical landscape that’s been 1.8 billion years in the making.
At the mission, learn about the local Aboriginal culture at Kalumburu Museum. Marvel at the ancient Gyorn Gyorn rock art (Bradshaw paintings), the oldest figurative paintings on Earth. Or test your angling and big-game fishing skills.
Campsites, cabins and limited supplies are available at the mission. Please check with Derby and Kununurra visitor centres about road conditions (Kalumburu Road is only accessible from May to October), permits and other accommodation options on the Gibb River Road.
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