How to get to Fitzroy Crossing

Located in the heart of the rugged and picturesque Kimberley region, Fitzroy Crossing is a true oasis of history and Indigenous culture. This small but significant settlement in Australia serves as the ideal starting point for exploring the famous Geikie Gorge and immersing yourself in authentic outback life. You can get here in various ways, but travellers most often combine a flight with a car or bus journey, enjoying the wild landscapes along the way.

Since there are no regular passenger flights directly to the town of Fitzroy Crossing, travellers are advised to plan a flight to the nearest regional hubs. This is a common practice for trips to remote corners of the continent.

The nearest cities with operating airports are Halls Creek, located approximately 222 km away, and Derby, situated 227 km away. These airports are well connected to the town by ground transport, allowing you to comfortably complete your journey.

Rail transport is not an available mode of travel in this remote region, and there is no train station directly in the town of Fitzroy Crossing. The infrastructure here is focused primarily on road transport, so a classic train journey is not possible.

Tourists wishing to reach the region should consider nearby settlements, such as Halls Creek and Derby, as waypoints for planning their route, but the main leg of the journey will still need to be covered by road.

Bus services are a reliable way to get to the town, allowing you to enjoy views of the Australian nature without the need to drive. The route from the town of Halls Creek takes approximately 3 hours 15 minutes, offering a comfortable journey through picturesque landscapes.

An alternative option is a trip from the town of Derby. The bus covers the distance in an average of 3 hours. This is an excellent choice for those who want to travel to Fitzroy Crossing while enjoying the road and not being distracted by navigation.

A trip by car will give you complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop at the most beautiful places along the way. If you are driving from the direction of the town of Halls Creek, you will have to cover about 289 km, which will take approximately 3 hours of driving on the highway.

Another popular route runs from the town of Derby: the distance is approximately 257 km, and the travel time is about 2.5–3 hours. Traveling by car, especially in an SUV (4WD), is considered the best way to experience the scale and beauty of Western Australia.

Traveling to the Australian outback requires special preparation so that the trip leaves only pleasant memories. Here are some practical tips that will help you spend your time comfortably in this unique region.

1. Clothing and Gear: Given the hot climate, choose light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics in light colours. Be sure to take a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reliable closed-toe shoes.
2. Transport: The best way to get around is a rented four-wheel drive (4WD), especially if you plan to drive off paved roads. Distances here are vast, so always keep an eye on the fuel level.
3. Finance: The official currency is the Australian Dollar. Although cards are accepted in many places, it is always useful to have cash with you in remote areas and small shops.
4. Health and Safety: The sun here is very intense, so regularly use high SPF cream and drink plenty of water. Be careful near bodies of water: crocodiles inhabit the region.
5. Connectivity: Mobile coverage may be unstable or absent outside the town. It is recommended to download offline maps in advance or take a satellite phone for long trips.
6. Local Etiquette: Show respect for the culture and traditions of Indigenous peoples. If you wish to visit sacred sites or take photos of local residents, always ask for permission first.
7. What to Avoid: It is not recommended to drive on highways after dark (at dawn and dusk), as there is a high risk of collision with kangaroos and livestock wandering onto the road.
8. Seasonality: Plan your visit with the seasons in mind: during the "dry season" (from May to October), the weather is most comfortable for tourism.

Following these simple rules will make your trip to Fitzroy Crossing safe and filled with vibrant impressions.