Heli-hike into the Bungle Bungles!

Heli-hike into the Bungle Bungles!

Did you know that Purnululu National Park – aka the Bungle Bungles – only became famous in 1983!

Before then, due to its remote and isolated location, the Bungle Bungles in northern Western Australia remained largely unknown to the outside world, known only to the local Aboriginal communities and the area’s cattle ranchers. This rugged and stunning landscape, with its unique beehive-shaped domes of orange and black striped sandstone, was a hidden gem that few had the chance to experience. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the broader world learned of the Bungle Bungles’ extraordinary beauty, with the area eventually being declared a national park and later a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now, it stands as one of the most remarkable and pristine natural wonders in Australia, offering an unforgettable experience for those who venture into its wild, untouched terrain.

A muster pilot, who was familiar with the area, tipped off a film crew about the unusual and striking geological features of the Bungle Bungles. The crew had originally been in the region to produce a documentary about the Kimberleys, but when they flew over the range and witnessed the unique, beehive-shaped domes of the Bungle Bungles, their film, The Wonders of Western Australia, took a dramatic new focus. The breathtaking, almost otherworldly landscape captivated them, and the film ended up highlighting the Bungle Bungles as one of the Kimberleys’ most extraordinary and unexpected natural wonders. This serendipitous discovery brought the area to global attention and sparked interest in what had previously been one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.

Their documentary generated so much global interest in the Bungle Bungles that it led to the area being protected as part of a new national park in 1987. This marked a significant turning point, as the unique geological formations and rich cultural history of the region were recognised for their extraordinary value. The global spotlight continued to shine on the Bungle Bungles, and in 2003, the area was officially designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, solidifying its place as one of the world’s most remarkable and protected natural wonders. The combination of its stunning beauty, ecological significance, and Aboriginal cultural heritage ensured the Bungle Bungles would be preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Now it’s your turn to see what all the fuss is about on our 6-Day Kimberley, Bungles and Beyond. And with the convenience of a direct flight into the Bungles, you’ll save time and start your adventure with stunning views right from the beginning. Better still for a few extra dollars you can experience our optional heli-hike right into the heart of the Bungles.

 

This heli-hiking experience allows you to access hard-to-reach trails, ensuring you see the spectacular Piccaninny Gorge and other hidden gems from a unique perspective. This thrilling helicopter ride takes you to the breathtaking locations where you’ll hike on foot, navigating through stunning landscapes that feature the striking beehive-like formations, rugged sandstone ranges, and lush rainforest pockets.