What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Australia? Our guess is probably kangaroos, koalas, surfing, and giant spiders. To be fair, those are some great associations, but Australia has so much more to offer, that’s why it attracts so many tourists annually. If you are planning on traveling to Australia, or perhaps you even live there, but you want to experience some of the hidden gems you haven’t until now, you should stick around, because we’re going to take a look at some of the things that you can only experience while in the land down under.
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1. The Twelve Apostles
Source: aboutaustralia.com
This magnificent tourist attraction is a part of the Great Ocean Road experience. What’s interesting about these breath-taking, rugged, limestone formations is that there are not actually twelve of them. As of 2005, there are only 8 left standing for us to see. Due to the relentlessness of water and other natural processes, in time these marvellous rocks will cease to exist, so it’s best to see them while they’re still with us. If possible, it’s best to visit this place during sunrise and sunset, since the colours and the way light strikes upon them provides for two completely different experiences.
2. Uluru
Source: aomevents.com.au
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a sandstone formation in the heart of northern Australia. It is a sacred place for native Aboriginal people. Even though it has been a tourist attraction for some time now, it’s very well preserved and it still feels very unaffected by people. As of lately, hiking and climbing Uluru has been disallowed to honour indigenous people and to preserve the place itself. Even though hiking can no longer be part of your Uluru experience, there are lots of other things to do around here. A great way to start this whole journey would be from Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre where you would learn about the culture and traditions of Anangu people and get acquainted with the rest of the activities this journey has to offer. Enjoying both sunrise and sunset will make for a great memory and some beautiful photographs. A helicopter tour is also possible, allowing you to see the whole thing from a bird’s perspective.
3. Great Barrier Reef
Source: goeco.org
This is probably the most famous coral reefs in the world and it is rightfully so. Being one of the world’s seven natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef is a place that has to be experienced, it just cannot be described. Visiting this place should be at a top of your priorities if you visit Australia. Ranging over 1400 miles, it has over 400 different types of coral and over 1500 species of colourful fish and it would take you ages to see it all. Some numerous cruises and ships will take you to any part of the reef, but if diving or snorkelling is what you want to do, visiting Agincourt Reef is the thing to do. It has more than a dozen different dive sites which will allow you to experience its divine colourfulness at its best.
4. Kangaroo Island
Source: wildlifetours.com.au
One of Australia’s largest islands, located near Adelaide – a city with over a million people, is the perfect example of natural harmony. Everything about this place is magical. If you want to see kangaroos in their natural habitat, this is the place to visit. The untouched nature of this island is home to many native Australian animals, not just kangaroos. However, diverse wildlife isn’t the only thing about this island that makes it differ from how we usually depict Australia. This place is packed with wetlands, bushes, large grass-covered areas and peaceful, gorgeous, white-sand beaches. And if you just want to party a little when you get back to Adelaide, before you get back to exploring nature, you can check out Kev’s Best and find out which nightclubs are the best.
5. Fraser Island
Source: eurong.com.au
If you’re in the mood for camping, but you don’t like mountains and rain, thick forest and moss, you should check out Fraser Island. Why? Well, it completely made of sand. It will certainly be a different experience than you would expect it to be.
6. Cage Diving with the Great White Shark
If you’re in the mood for something more thrilling, this is the thing you have to do. If you go down to Port Lincoln, which is located in the south part of Australia, you can experience a full day of diving while surrounded by one of the world’s most respected predators. Aside from sharks, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful coral reefs and the rest of the sea life. Of course, this is completely safe, so if safety is one of your concerns, it shouldn’t be, sharks are unable to hurt you in any way. It will certainly be an unforgettable experience and the pictures you bring home with you will be awesome.
7. Aurora Australis
Source: smithsonianmag.com
If you think this sounds familiar, it’s because it is. Unfortunately, it’s not as popular as its northern sibling, but that just means that you will have a more intimate experience and an awesome story to share. It can be usually seen around September if you’re in Tasmania.
8. Sydney Opera House
Source: archpaper.com
One of the world’s most recognizable architectural wonders, the Sydney Opera House is a place you just have to visit and snap a couple of pictures of. It is open for tourists at almost all times, you can visit to have a drink or lunch and if you’re lucky maybe even see a performance if there is one at a time. A great time to visit would be during Vivid Sydney, the annual festival, so you could enjoy these wonderful light installations.
9. Bondi Beach
Source: travelandleisureindia.in
Since we’re talking about Sydney, we cannot forget to mention the world-famous Bondi beach. Aside from being one of the most popular destinations for surfers in the world, this beach offers everything for everyone. You could scuba dive, swim, surf, walk along the beach and enjoy the scenery, go for a steady swim in Iceberg baths, enjoy a meal with a view at any of the restaurants and so on.
This quick guide was hopefully enough to get you familiar with the most popular things and places in Australia if you decide on a trip.
