Getting around the North West
Travel by Air
If you have limited time, a quick, easy and scenic way to travel around Australia’s North West is by air.
Nexus Airlines operate a range of scheduled services through the Pilbara and Kimberley. The Inter Regional Flight Network flies between Geraldton, Karratha, Port Hedland and Broome, on a 'milk-run' style flight connecting each of these regional hubs. In additionm flights operate between Geraldton and Perth. On the Northern Route, Nexus Airlines flies between Broome, Kununurra and Darwin, allowing for same-day connections from the East Coast (on different carriers) through Darwin and onto Kununurra and Broome.
Aviair operate scheduled flights between Broome and Derby, from Kununurra to Halls Creek and Balgo, and from Kununurra to Kalumburu.
Airnorth offer scheduled flights between Broome and Kununurra (these flights can also be booked through Qantas).
Skippers Aviation offer scheduled flights from Broome to Halls Creek and Fitzroy Crossing.
Scenic Flight tours are also a great option to see the major attractions including the Bungle Bungle Ranges and Mitchell Falls. There are also options to charter a light aircraft.
Travel by Road
The Great Northern Highway is the main sealed road linking all major North West towns. It stretches from Karratha, at the southern gateway to the Pilbara region, to Kununurra at the eastern gateway to the Kimberley.
Following flood damage in early 2023, the new bridge at Fitzroy Crossing officially opened on 10 December 2023, six months ahead of schedule. Mornington Wilderness Camp, which sustained significant damage to its research and tourism infrastructure during the floods remains closed. Windjana Gorge reopened to day visitors during 2023 and news of the campsites reopening is awaited; Danggu Geikie Gorge remains closed.
To really experience the wild open spaces of Australia’s North West you need to get off the beaten track and onto one of the region’s great four-wheel drive routes.
See the road safety and important travel tips sections of this site to help you plan ahead for a safe trip. Also, check with the local Visitor Centre and get an update on local road and weather conditions from Main Roads Western Australia.
Rental vehicles are available at major towns throughout Australia's North West. Search for hire companies.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are one of the easiest and safest ways to travel around Australia’s North West. There is a huge range of professional and friendly tour operators who will take you around Australia’s North West by land, air or sea.
Search for guided tours and experience the regions’ highlights with a knowledgeable local guide.
If you’re seeking a traditional outback adventure, take a fully guided four wheel drive tour or join a tag-a-long tour and follow an experienced guide in your own four-wheel drive. Search for guided four wheel drive tours.
Cruising the Coast
Enjoy a cruise and beach camping safari or charter a private catamaran with an experienced crew. Board a luxury Kimberley cruise tour with a private onboard helicopter, or a 5-star Kimberley cruise liner which caters for extended travel with every modern comfort. Search for cruise tour operators.
Travel by Coach
Whether you’re planning a holiday in the Kimberley or the Pilbara, both regions are serviced by major coach operators, Greyhound Australia and Integrity Coach Lines. Contact a Visitor Centre for a timetable and booking assistance, or visit Greyhound Australia or Integrity Coach Lines website.
