Breathtaking sights, natural wonders and once-in-a-lifetime adventures – there is truly no place in the world like the Land Down Under, Australia.
© Tourism and Events Queensland
Exploring the Great Barrier Reef
This natural wonder off the coast of Queensland seems like a separate world beneath the waves. Roughly the same size as 70 million football fields, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the largest and most diverse ecosystems in the world. The Reef is home to thousands of unique species and hundreds of different kinds of colourful coral. With so much life and natural beauty just below the surface, you can grab a snorkel and dive straight in! Or you can take a ride on a glass-bottom boat to explore the reef while staying nice and dry!
© Visit Victoria
Driving the Great Ocean Road
Some people say the journey is the destination, and that is certainly true on Australia’s Great Ocean Road. Spanning almost 250 kilometres, this road gives travellers the chance to take in some of the most spectacular views Australia has to offer. You can set your own pace as you drive along Victoria’s coastline. Pass through lovely seaside towns and taking the time to enjoy the golden beaches you’ll find along the way. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll also get the chance to admire the famous Twelve Apostles limestone formations. Alternatively, you can cycle the Great Ocean Road or hike the 100m Great Ocean Walk for another way to experience the iconic coastline.
© Ben Goode
Visiting Kangaroo island
Kangaroo Island is often referred to as ‘zoo without fences,” and with good reason. Encounters with wildlife on Australia’s third-largest island are plentiful. Koalas, sea lions, wallabies, and of course, kangaroos, are just a few of the island’s many animal inhabitants. Go on animal sighting adventures with hikes and bike tours. Or simply relax and observe the stunning scenery as you connect with the island’s natural beauty. With so much to do and see, Kangaroo Island offers a unique and iconic experience with Australia’s wildlife.
© Destination NSW
Experiencing the Sydney Opera House
Of course, no list of iconic Australian experiences would be complete without a visit to the Sydney Opera House. It is one of the most famous and recognisable buildings in the world. Being one of Australia’s most popular attractions, it received by millions of people every year. If see the breathtaking building up-close isn’t enough for you, you can attend a performance in one of the opera house’s theatres. You can also take a guided tour to explore the building and learn more about its incredible history. (While the Sydney Opera House is currently closed, a digital program with weekly recordings is being offered on the Opera House’s website and a virtual tour is available on its YouTube channel)
© Ocean Eco Adventures
Swimming with Whale Sharks in the Ningaloo Reef
A phenomenon occurs all the time in the Ningaloo Reef. On the northwest coast of Western Australia you can spot and swim with whale sharks, the world’s largest living fish. The Ningaloo Reef is one of the only places in the world where whale sharks can regularly be found. Don’t worry – while adult whale sharks are often over 10 metres in length, they are completely harmless to humans. In fact, these massive creatures are incredibly gentle, and younger whale sharks will even be playful with divers! Several tours can offer you the once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with these gentle giants off Western Australia’s coast.
© Visit Canberra
Visiting the Australian War Memorial
Located in Canberra, the Australian War Memorial is dedicated to commemorating the Australians who died serving their Country. Spend a day in the Memorial’s extensive museum, which houses galleries detailing Australia’s wartime experience. In the commemorative area at the heart of the Memorial, you’ll find the Roll of Honour. Which shows a series of bronze panels that record over 100,000 fallen members of the Australian armed forces. Visitors can insert poppies in the gaps between panels as a tribute to those commemorated. There are few experiences that will connect you to the history and character of Australia’s ANZAC history.
© Tourism NT
Riding The Ghan
The Ghan offers riders one of the greatest train journeys in the world. Taking you through the heart of the outback, it will definitely not disappoint. The train’s full route spans 2,979 km and crosses the whole of Australia from Darwin to Adelaide. Which gives travellers plenty of time to take in the gorgeous landscapes from the comfort of the train. Riding through the Red Centre on The Ghan is a truly unforgettable experience. Shorter journeys are also an option. Stop along the way in Alice Springs and explore Outback Australia at your own pace.
© Tourism NT
Watching the Sunset or Sunrise at Uluru
You can’t think about exploring the outback without appreciating the sun setting behind Uluru, Australia’s most unique landmark. The sandstone monolith stands at a massive 348 metres high. Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta, a nearby rock formation, are greatly significant to the local Aboriginal tribe, the Anangu people. Tours are offered to learn more about the history of the tribe. Go at sunset or rise, to witness Uluru glow bright red, a truly iconic experience in the heart of Australia.
