FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We have put together responses to a few of our most Frequently Asked Questions however if you can’t find your answer below, please feel free to Contact Us

What are the Tour Styles and how are they different?

When choosing the right tour for you, it is important that you understand the differences between our three Tour Styles:

If you have a week’s accommodation booked, our range of Broome Day Tours provide the opportunity to experience Broome and the West Kimberley, while returning to the sanctuary of your hotel in the evening. Be warned… Day Tours will leave you wanting more!

Our traditional specialised Kimberley Expeditions are perfect for those seeking to experience the real Kimberley in depth. Some itineraries offer the option of either comfortable Camping or making the most of basic upgrades where available on the Camping Plus option. The Kimberley is a true wilderness so a keen sense of adventure is vital! Our experienced, informative guides share their secrets and insight into the region’s history, culture, flora and fauna.

The range of budget Wild Expeditions are designed for those seeking a true outback Australian adventure: one without the extra comforts and without the high price tag. These brilliant overland itineraries offer a great opportunity to get back to basics in the outback and explore the remote wilds of Western Australia, with the support of an experienced guide and the fun of a bunch of new like-minded travel mates.

What is the difference between Camping and Camping Plus?

Some of our extended tours offer the option of Camping or Camping Plus accommodation. With Camping, the overnight stays involve either our private safari camps, with pre-erected tourer-style tents with stretcher beds, or ‘pitch your own tent’ style camping with swags (rest assured the tents are very easy to erect!). If you choose Camping Plus however, in some locations we are able upgrade you to more comfortable accommodation when available. This could be as simple as a larger tent, possibly with power, or even a cabin with ensuite – it depends on what options are available at each location. Please refer to the Accommodation tab on the tour page of your chosen itinerary for more details.

Do I need Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is essential for all trips, even if you are an Australian. As we are travelling in a remote area, you should ensure you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation at a minimum. We recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. To ensure you are covered in the event of unseasonal weather and conditions that may cause road and national park closures, please make sure your policy considers costs incurred by any unforseeable tour cancellations.

Most travel insurance providers do now have insurance for COVID-19 related incidents. It is essential that you seek security in the event that either a) you are diagnosed with COVID-19 prior to or during travel, preventing you from completing your trip or b) you are identified as a close contact and your travel is either prevented or disrupted by government isolation requirements.

Where do you pick up from?

If you choose a Kimberley Expdedition, we offer a complimentary pick up from all hotels and caravan parks in Broome. While we generally do not pick up from private residences, including Air BnBs,  we may be able to arrange an alternative pick up at key locations en route, such as rental car depots or service stations.

For those who have opted for a more budget Wild Expdedition, departing from Broome or Darwin, you will need to make your way to the single departure point in town: the Kimberley Travellers Lodge in Broome, or the Melaleuca on Mitchell in Darwin. If your tour departs from Perth, there are three departure points to choose from: the Fremantle YHA, the Perth Bus Bay (corner Riverside Drive and Barrack Square, in the heart of the city), or the Old Swan Barracks in Northbridge.

What size vehicle do we travel in?

These tours are operated in custom-built, 21-24 seat 4WD trucks with a PA system, wide viewing windows and built-in storage (no risky trailers!). These vehicles allow our small groups extra space (including standing room), are fully air-conditioned and, for your comfort are fitted with adjustable air-vents, reclinable seats, map pockets and footrests. Note that some Broome Day Tours may operate in larger 24-seat 4WD trucks.

How long do we spend in the truck?

On all tours, we aim to ensure there is a break from driving and toilet stop at least every two hours. It is important to understand that Australia is a BIG country and long distances are inevitable. Our itineraries are designed to minimise the long stretches of driving and provide regular opportunities to stretch your legs and enjoy the environment!

What are the luggage limitations?

We ask that luggage is kept to a manageable amount in a small soft bag – 15kg max. Hard suitcases are not suitable. When choosing your bag, consider that the storage shelves are 80cm deep x 30cm high – your bag needs to fit within these parameters to be safely stored. You can bring along a day pack that you can use as well for additional luggage.

Where can I store luggage whilst on tour?

If you are travelling on an itinerary that departs from and returns to the same location, extra luggage can usually be stored at your hotel. If you are travelling overland, it is essential that you bear our luggage restrictions – max 15kg in a small soft bag* – in mind when packing. Any excess luggage should be sent home or forwarded to your next destination via Australia Post, Infinity Coachlines, Greyhound or courier.

What camping gear is provided?

For those nights when you are staying in National Parks and not one of our own Private Safari Camps, we provide tents, swags (including 2 – 3 inch mattresses), bottom sheets, pillows and pillow cases. All campsites have shared ablution facilities. Even if you are booked on Camping Plus upgrade option, there may be some nights where you are camping so please ensure you read the Trip Notes on your chosen itinerary.

On all tours you can either bring your own sleeping bag or buy one from us at $50 per person. If you choose to buy one, you are welcome to take it home following your trip or alternatively, donate it to local communities. These are limited and subject to availability – enquire with our office for more details. 

As a Single Traveller can I have my own tent?

Yes, as a Single Traveller you can have your own tent. On the Camping accommodation option, we charge a small optional Single Supplement if you would like to guarantee your own room on an accommodated night. If you choose not to pay this you may share a room with another traveller of the same gender. With or without this Single Supplement, you will have your own tent and equipment on most camping nights throughout the adventure. The only possible exception to this is in the private camp sites, including El Questro and the Bungle Bungles: Kimberley Wild is the only camping adventure tour operator to have our own private permanent camp in the heart of the Purnululu National Park. This privilege comes with capacity constraints and therefore on occasion, Single Travellers will be paired up with a fellow traveller of the same gender for the two night stay. On the Camping Plus accommodation option, the Single Supplement is again, optional! You can choose to pay a Single Supplement to guarantee single accommodation, or opt to save money and travel Twinshare and be paired up with another traveller of the same gender on those nights where upgrade bookings are made with local accommodation providers. The bonus is that on those nights where we are camping in National Parks you can have your own tent with – or without – paying the Single Supplement.

Are there shower / toilet facilities every night?

Overnight campsites are well equipped with ablutions facilities – with flushing toilets and hot showers – including our private Bungle Bungles Safari Camp in Purnululu National Park, exclusive to Kimberley Expeditions.

Do I need to bring my own water?

You will need to provide a large bottle for water – we recommend 1.5 litre. We carry water coolers on all tours, while water tanks are sometimes built in to the vehicles to refill your bottle during the trip.

Can I bring alcohol along?

You are welcome to bring a small, personal supply of alcohol along on our short breaks and extended adventures. We do ask that you avoid glass where possible – even for wine! Note that you cannot purchase cask wine anywhere in the Kimberley so plan ahead and buy it before you travel to Broome. Otherwise cans of beer and/or spirits are fine. Each day, your guide will assist with getting some cold for the evening. You can purchase takeaway alcohol in some remote locations though of course it will be an expensive option.

Can we buy supplies along the way?

Depending which tour you are travelling on, there are a few stops where you can purchase snacks and basic necessities along the way. We do however recommend you stocking up on anything specific you will require prior to commencing tour as the range is limited.

How can I charge my camera during the tour?

Some trucks have an inverter which can handle four batteries at a time. This will need to be shared amongst the group. We recommend you have your camera fully charged prior to departing. Most overnight camp sites also have access to power for recharging batteries. Your guide will advise en route to ensure you are prepared!

Do I get mobile reception during the tour?

Mobile reception is extremely limited throughout the outback Australia. Should a family member need to reach you in case of an emergency, please leave our office number with them – 08 9193 7778. This is attended 24 hours a day (though for emergencies only out of hours). Occasionally you will get windows of reception, depending on your network provider.

Are the trips participatory?

On those nights where we are not staying in one of our fantastic private Wilderness Camps, is important that travellers participate in setting up camp, though the Tour Guide and (where applicable on selected Kimberley Expeditions) the Tour Assistant, will also be on hand to help – it is a team effort! On some days, the Tour Guide may appreciate the assistance of one or two group members in preparing/clearing meals. It is essential that all our groups leave the camps they stay in as they found them for the next travellers – the regions of outback Australia we explore feature pristine wilderness and it is our responsibility to ensure it stays this way.

Do I need a good level of fitness?

Most tours are wilderness camping adventures. There is a reasonable level of activity – hikes over rocky terrain and swimming in waterfalls – so you must be reasonably fit and sure-footed in order to participate fully in the itinerary. Refer to the Fitness Level guide for each tour for more detail.

What is the age range likely to be of my fellow travellers?

Kimberley Wild welcome travellers of all ages. You may be surprised to find that the average age of travellers on our Kimberley Expeditions is 55-60 years. The only requirement for all of our tours is that you are reasonably fit (not a superhero!), able and looking to enjoy a real outback Australian experience with like-minded travellers.

What walking shoes are appropriate?

We recommend you bring footwear that is going to be comfortable for walking over rough terrain and rocky ground – proper trek boots ideally. On tours that visit Tunnel Creek in the Kimberley, it is necessary to bring a pair of shoes you don’t mind getting wet for walking through water – fitted sandals or old runners are ideal. Thongs are not recommended.

How far is the longest walk?

Depending on what tour you are on, the longest walk is 5-6 km return, over rocky, undulating terrain. Some gorge descents can be steep and rocky, though they are generally short.

Can I opt out of any activities if I want to?

Most activities can easily be skipped if you would prefer not to participate – usually you are able to relax under a tree near the vehicle until the group returns.

Do I need to reconfirm my booking?

It is important that you contact our office on 1300 73 88 70 the day prior to departure to reconfirm your tour and pick up time. In the event that we need to reach you we do need you to advise us of both a mobile phone number (if available) and your hotel. Good communication is key to a smooth departure!

Can I bring a child on tour?

Kimberley Expeditions are great for families however we generally advise against younger children (under 6 years) joining our longer itineraries as the travel days can be long, the distances travelled extended and the walks difficult for little legs. We have created the 5 Day Kimberley Family Safari, dedicated to those wanting to share and adventure with their kids, and other like-minded families. Child Rates apply for 4-12 year olds.

Feel free to discuss further with our office if you have any questions relating to a particular tour.

What happens if my tour doesn’t meet minimum numbers?

Most tours are Guaranteed to Depart with a minimum of 2 travellers only. Those itineraries that carry a ‘Minimum 6’ traveller requirement, are identified in The Facts section on each tour. Tour cancellation by Kimberley Wild due to not meeting minimum numbers is very rare. However in the event that this does occur, an alternative tour or full refund will be offered.

What happens if my tour is cancelled due to weather and road conditions?

We reserve the right to cancel or postpone any tour due to unforeseen circumstances, such as road conditions, flooding, mechanical defect, cultural considerations or other reason. In the event of tour cancellation, an alternative tour or full refund for that tour will be offered.

Where do we stay in Broome?

If your tour includes accommodation in Broome, we book you into a private room in a local Broome motel or hotel.

If your tour does not include accommodation in Broome, you are welcome to book any property in Broome or Cable Beach. Note that we cannot pick up from private addresses, including AirBnB. Alternative arrangements can be made however. If you are on a budget, Kimberley Wild reservations can assist with booking The Kimberley Travellers Lodge – Broome YHA.

Can I use a CPAP machine on tour?

Yes, you can. However electricity is not reliably available every night so we recommend that you bring a battery pack for your CPAP machine as the best solution. We also suggest bringing clamps and an inverter to be able to clip onto a truck battery in the event that your battery pack runs out.

What is the Tunnel Creek Walk like?

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions refers to the Subterranean Trail through Tunnel Creek as a ‘Class 4 Trail – these are trails that are “in relatively undisturbed environments and are often rough with few, if any, modifications. A moderate to high level of fitness is required. You need to be prepared and self-reliant.”

Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park
Tunnel View Trail – (Class 2 – 400m return. 30 minutes) Take an easy stroll to the tunnel entrance to observe the patterns, textures, and colours in the limestone at the rock face.
Subterranean Trail – (Class 4 – 2km return. 1.5 hours) The adventurous can scramble over the rocks to take a sometimes chilly and occasionally deep wade through several permanent pools within the tunnel to the other side of the Napier Range. A torch and shoes are required to avoid hazards overhead and underfoot. Near the centre of the cave the roof has collapsed and is an excellent place to observe the colony of flying foxes that roost in the trees during the day.