Question 1

Where is Berkeley River Lodge?

Accepted Answer

Berkeley River Lodge is located on the remote northeast Kimberley Coast of Western Australia, positioned between Darwin and Kununurra. The lodge sits high on a sand dune where the Berkeley River meets the Timor Sea, offering breathtaking views over both the river and the ocean. On a map, you'll find us by locating Wyndham and the Cambridge Gulf, then following the coastline northwest until you reach the Berkeley River. There is no road access to the lodge. Guests arrive via private charter flights from Darwin (included in our packages), or by private aircraft or boat charter. For perspective, a boat journey from Wyndham to the Berkeley River takes approximately 3–4 hours, depending on vessel type.

Question 2

How do I get to Berkeley River Lodge?

Accepted Answer

All guests travel to Berkeley River Lodge by private charter flights from Darwin Airport, included in our five-night itineraries. Flights depart Darwin at 3:00pm (ACST) daily, arriving at our private airstrip by approximately 2:45pm (AWST). On departure day, flights leave the lodge at 8:30am (AWST), arriving in Darwin by 11:15am (ACST), allowing plenty of time to connect with onward flights or continue your journey. There is no road access to Berkeley River Lodge. If you wish to travel privately or combine your stay with other Kimberley destinations, charter flights from Darwin or Kununurra can be arranged at additional cost.

Question 3

What connectivity is available at Berkeley River Lodge?

Accepted Answer

Mobile phone coverage is not available at the lodge due to its remote location. However, guests can access Wi-Fi in the main lodge at any time, which allows for Wi-Fi calling, messaging, and internet use. Please note there is no Wi-Fi in the villas, making them ideal for a truly disconnected and peaceful retreat. For essential communications, a satellite telephone is available through reception. The lodge also offers a reference library and a book exchange in the library.

Question 4

When is the best time to visit the Kimberley?

Accepted Answer

Berkeley River Lodge is open from May through August, the heart of the Kimberley dry season. These four months offer the most stable and enjoyable conditions for exploring the region. May – A spectacular transition month, when the landscapes are still green and lush after the wet season. Waterfalls are flowing strongly, and days are warm with cooler evenings. June – Clear blue skies become the norm. Daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm, while evenings are cool — perfect for stargazing and dining outdoors. July – Typically the coolest month, with mild, dry days and crisp nights. Ideal for those who enjoy slightly cooler conditions while still basking in plenty of sunshine. August – Warm, settled weather returns, with long days of sunshine and gentle coastal breezes. A wonderful time for cruising, hiking, and soaking up the Kimberley's dramatic landscapes. The lodge is closed from September to April during the Kimberley wet season.

Question 5

What to bring?

Accepted Answer

Baggage: Due to aircraft requirements, baggage is limited to 10kg per person (a soft bag is preferred). Excess luggage can be stored at Darwin Airport and arrangements can be made prior to departure for Berkeley River Lodge. Weather: The lodge operates during the Kimberley dry season (May–August), which offers the region's most stable and enjoyable weather. Days are typically warm and sunny, while evenings and early mornings can be cooler, especially in the mid-winter months (June–August). Conditions are generally very pleasant, with minimal rainfall and low humidity. Clothing: Guests are encouraged to travel light — a laundry service is available upon request, with items collected in the morning and returned to your villa later the same day. Recommended items include: A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and mornings; long cotton shirts and trousers (comfortable in all seasons, with the added benefit of sun and insect protection); swimwear, sarong, and relaxed poolside attire; comfortable walking sandals or shoes that can get wet; a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses; smart casual wear for evenings. While dinners are relaxed, many guests enjoy dressing up a little for degustation evenings — think 'Kimberley formal': a casual dress, collared shirt, or neat resort wear, never formal attire. Other Essentials: Camera or smartphone for photography; personal items such as medications and toiletries; lightweight daypack for excursions.

Question 6

What is included in my stay?

Accepted Answer

Our five-night itinerary is designed so you won't need to reach for your wallet during your stay. Everything is included. Your package includes: Private charter flights between Darwin and Berkeley River Lodge; twin-share accommodation in our luxury villas, featuring unique outdoor bathrooms and breathtaking views; all meals crafted by our world-class chefs; unlimited beverages: premium wines, top-shelf spirits, handcrafted cocktails, and a fully stocked in-villa minibar; all lodge activities and experiences, such as: river cruises and beach drives, guided hikes and four-wheel-drive safaris, fishing adventures on the Kimberley coast, visits to ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, sunset drinks and canapés in spectacular locations, and a 60-minute spa treatment per guest. The only optional extra is a scenic helicopter tour with True North Helicopters, which may be booked as a morning or afternoon experience.

Question 7

What are the accessibility options?

Accepted Answer

Berkeley River Lodge provides facilities for guests with disabilities, and our team is happy to assist wherever possible. However, the remote location and natural environment mean that a general level of mobility and fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the experience. Guests should be aware that: Access to the lodge is by small aircraft, requiring boarding and disembarking; many activities involve getting in and out of boats and four-wheel-drive vehicles; walking surfaces are often uneven, sandy, or rocky, with no paved paths. While some experiences, such as river cruises, are suitable for most guests, others (like guided hikes) require greater agility and stamina. Our staff are always available to advise on the suitability of activities and to provide support where possible.

Question 8

What do the private villas include?

Accepted Answer

Each of our luxury private villas is designed to showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Kimberley, with every villa offering spectacular views — some overlooking the Berkeley River, others the Timor Sea. No matter which you are allocated, every outlook is unforgettable. Your villa includes: Lavish king bed or twin bedding with premium linens; unique open-air bathroom featuring a rain shower and freestanding bathtub; private outdoor deck with lounge seating to soak up the views; air-conditioning for comfort year-round; daily housekeeping service; complimentary minibar fully stocked with premium beverages and snacks; tea and coffee facilities, including a Nespresso coffee machine and water chiller; luxury amenities in the bathroom; laundry service available upon request.

Question 9

Can I swim in the river and ocean?

Accepted Answer

For safety reasons, swimming in the river and ocean is not permitted due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles. While they are not frequently seen, they are always present in the Kimberley, even along open beaches. Guests are welcome to walk along the beach, but we recommend keeping at least five metres back from the water's edge at all times. To cool off, our guides will take you to some truly special spots where you can swim safely in freshwater rock pools and under waterfalls. The lodge also features a stunning swimming pool overlooking the coast, offering the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view.

Question 10

What sort of services should I expect?

Accepted Answer

Berkeley River Lodge offers a style of service that is both attentive and relaxed, reflecting the spirit of the Kimberley. While we provide many of the comforts you'd expect at a luxury property — such as a restaurant, bar, infinity pool, daily guided activities, and villa servicing — our approach is different from a traditional five-star city hotel. Here, service is personal, friendly, and laid-back, giving you space to enjoy the wilderness while knowing that our team is always nearby to assist with anything you need. Guests often describe it as 'Kimberley luxury' — an easygoing balance of world-class hospitality and genuine Australian warmth. Our restaurant showcases fresh, seasonal cuisine prepared by talented chefs, with all meals and beverages included in your stay. To ensure the best possible experience, please let us know of any dietary requirements at the time of booking, as our remote location makes it difficult to source speciality items at short notice.

Question 11

What happens in case of an emergency?

Accepted Answer

Berkeley River Lodge has comprehensive measures in place to ensure guest safety in the event of an emergency. We have access to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) 24 hours a day. A fully stocked RFDS medical chest is located on site, and key staff are trained in Remote Area First Aid. Should an evacuation be necessary, an aircraft may be required to transfer guests to the nearest hospital in Kununurra. Given the lodge's remote location, evacuation and medical costs can be significant. For this reason, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended and should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip disruptions.

Question 12

What if I have dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

At Berkeley River Lodge, we take pride in catering for a wide range of dietary needs. Our in-house chef team is highly experienced in accommodating individual requirements — from allergies and intolerances to personal preferences or lifestyle choices. To ensure we can provide the best experience, we ask that you let us know your dietary needs at the time of booking. With this information, our chefs will thoughtfully tailor menus so you can dine with confidence and enjoy every meal during your stay.

Question 13

What if I don't drink alcohol - What's included?

Accepted Answer

While Berkeley River Lodge is renowned for its premium wine list, craft beers, and top-shelf spirits, we place just as much care into our non-alcoholic offerings. Guests who prefer not to drink alcohol can look forward to a wide selection of beverages, including: Freshly pressed juices; specialty teas and barista-made coffees; Kimberley-inspired mocktails, crafted with the same creativity and flair as our cocktails; a variety of sparkling and still non-alcoholic options. Beverages are an important part of the Berkeley experience, and whether you enjoy fine wines or prefer innovative non-alcoholic choices, you'll be well looked after and fully included in the indulgence.

Berkeley River Lodge

Why book

Overview

At a glance

What you'll catch

Amenities & features

Amenities

Activities

Fishing styles

Water types

Seasons

Skill level

Best for

Themes

Dining & diets

Getting there

Climate

Lodging style

What's included

Included

Not included

Rooms

Seasons

Trip planning

Getting there

Gear

Where you are

Nearby destinations

Frequently asked

Guest reviews

Berkeley River Lodge

Why book

Overview

At a glance

What you'll catch

Amenities & features

Amenities

Activities

Fishing styles

Water types

Seasons

Skill level

Best for

Themes

Dining & diets

Getting there

Climate

Lodging style

What's included

Included

Not included

Rooms

Seasons

Trip planning

Getting there

Gear

Where you are

Nearby destinations

Frequently asked

logisticsWhere is Berkeley River Lodge?

logisticsHow do I get to Berkeley River Lodge?

lodgingWhat connectivity is available at Berkeley River Lodge?

generalWhen is the best time to visit the Kimberley?

logisticsWhat to bring?

generalWhat is included in my stay?

generalWhat are the accessibility options?

lodgingWhat do the private villas include?

activitiesCan I swim in the river and ocean?

lodgingWhat sort of services should I expect?

generalWhat happens in case of an emergency?

lodgingWhat if I have dietary requirements?

lodgingWhat if I don't drink alcohol - What's included?

Guest reviews