There are over 7.69 million square miles to explore in Australia. Australia is both a continent and a country, and it boasts snowy mountains, 10 deserts and over 22,000 miles of coastline. Every year, millions of international tourists travel to Australia to explore this diverse country. There are many notable popular and obscure places that every Australian should also plan to visit.
1. Great Barrier Reef
Photo Credit: Unsplash
You do not need to be an expert scuba diver to appreciate the 3000 individual reefs that make up the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors can explore marine life with a snorkel, boat or helicopter. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia and ranks as one of the 7 natural wonders of the world.
2. Take a Train Trip Through the Red Center
The Ghan journeys through the heart of Australia. Passengers spend 4 days covering over 1800 miles from Adelaide to Darwin via Alice Springs. Traveling by train is convenient; you don’t have to worry about your vehicle breaking down in the desert heat and can sit back and dine as you take in the wildlife and natural wonders of Australia’s Red Center.
3. Fraser Island
Photo Credit: Unsplash
There are only a handful of beaches in the world longer than the 75-mile beach you can explore on Fraser Island. This island offers plenty to keep visitors busy. There are shipwrecks on land that can be explored. You can also go scuba diving and see some of the wrecks beneath the water. While on the island be sure to visit the sand dunes and see if you can spot a dingo.
4. Perth
Perth is the most remote city on earth, located on Australia’s west coast. It’s a thriving city that offers visitors plenty of creature comforts, with access to breathtaking scenery and exciting outings. Visit local vineyards and beaches. Explore one of the largest urban parks in the world. See quokkas on Rottnest Island. You can also head offshore to go whale watching.
5. The Kimberley
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Australia’s northwestern region is remote and sparsely populated, with just 40,000 residents in an area that’s over 163,000 square miles. It boasts breathtaking beaches and plenty of rugged wilderness. You can cruise through canyons and gorges to see dolphins, crocodiles, and whales. You can also opt to survey the region by helicopter.
6. Undara Lava Tubes
Undara Volcanic National Park is located in North Queensland. You’ll have a chance to explore the local flora and the lava tubes themselves, which were formed almost 200,000 years ago when a nearby volcano erupted. Be sure to add good hiking boots to your luggage when you travel and plan to take a wildlife tour to see kangaroos, Cockatoos and more.
7. Great Ocean Road
Photo Credit: Unsplash
The Great Ocean Road is 243 kilometers of road that stretches along the coast of the south-eastern state of Victoria. This is an easy day trip that offers a chance to see the 12 Apostles, which are limestone stacks that stretch along the shore. You can plan to spend some time at one of the breathtaking beaches and visit rainforests along the way.
8. Daintree Rainforest
Visit Daintree’s 1200 square kilometers of ancient rainforest. Indigenous guides from a local tribe offer Dreamtime walks where you will have a chance to participate in Indigenous ceremonies and learn about the local history. Pythons, frogs, and ants are just some of the natural fauna you can see on a walk or cruise in this World Heritage Site.
9. Melbourne
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Nicknamed Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne is home to several museums and galleries. If you like art and history you will find plenty to appreciate in this charming city. Melbourne was incorporated in the early 1800s and boasts cobbled lanes and renowned cafes and bakeries. The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant offers visitors the unique option of seeing the city while dining.
Travel Tip
Before you go, search for Travel insurance with iSelect. Securing medical coverage through a reputable insurance company will ensure you’re prepared for emergencies and have peace of mind while you travel.
