From deserts and plains, to rainforests and mountains, the great expanse of Australia holds a diverse range of landscapes perfect for exploration. Whether you want to travel across the Never Never, spot dingoes on the world’s largest sand island, or swim with hundred year-old sea turtles at the Great Barrier Reef, Australia has it all!
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Blue Mountains, Australia © Pavel Sigarteu
Blue Mountains
Ninety minutes drive west of Sydney, the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains offer the perfect escape from city life. Go bushwalking, mountain biking or 4WDriving through the National Park, see the Three Sisters rock formation, or try your hand at abseiling, rock climbing, or canyoning. Tour the villages surrounding the Park, play a round of golf, visit the art galleries, or stop off for a spot of afternoon tea.
Fraser Island
As the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island is home to an array of fascinating plant, bird and animal life. Travel through rainforests, up sand dunes, swim in crystal clear freshwater lakes, camp under the stars, book a stay at one of the lovely hotels, or stay in a luxury resort. And keep a lookout for dingoes!
Great Barrier Reef
Running parallel to much of the Queensland east coast, the Great Barrier Reef is considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Swim, snorkel or scuba dive this spectacular reef to see more than 400 species of coral, 1500 tropical fish species, over 20 types of reptile, as well as molluscs, rays and dolphins. Or, if you don’t want to get your feet wet, take a glass-bottom boat tour!
Great Barrier Reef, Australia © eutrophication&hypoxia
Uluru
The big red rock in Australia’s red centre, Uluru is one of the most recognisable rock formations on earth. Walk round Uluru, learn about its Aboriginal significance, take a tour, and get your camera ready for sunrise and sunset. Twenty-five kilometres away is Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), a group of 36 domed rock formations also well worth a visit.
Kakadu
Located in the northern section of the Northern Territory, Kakadu has one of the most impressive landscapes in Australia. Visiting the Top End, you can spot crocs on a cruise down East Alligator River, you can visit the 200m high Jim Jim Falls, you can camp by a billabong, go bushwalking, 4WDriving, or fishing, or take a helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view. As home to one fifth of Australia’s mammals and over 2000 species of plant, Kakadu is the perfect choice for nature lovers.
Bungle Bungles
Located in the Kimberley in Western Australia, the Bungle Bungles are a sight not easily forgotten. Part of the Purnululu National Park, the Bungle Bungle range is a collection of huge orange and black striped domes that stretch over 450 square kilometres. A self-guided tour is possible for the more experienced bushwalkers and 4WDrivers, otherwise an organised tour could be a better option.
Twelve Apostles
Take a drive along the Great Ocean Road on the southern coast of Victoria to see the stunning Twelve Apostles. See the waves crash against these massive limestone structures, take a walk along the coastline, or take a helicopter tour to see the remaining eight apostles from a completely different perspective.