The great continent of Australia is an explorer’s wonderland. Around the world, few places rival Australia for its unique sense of adventure. The landscape varies from lush forests to barren desert. No matter where you are, you will find exhilarating activities on both land and sea. We’ve put together these adventures to get your heart pumping during your next Aussie outing.
Go Four-Wheeling on Fraser Island, Queensland
As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Fraser Island offers one of the most unique 4-wheel drive adventures. Cruise down 75 Mile Beach along the wave-crashed shores on the world’s largest sand island. Some interesting landmarks along this seemingly unending stretch of land is the Maheno shipwreck, and the red-streaked cliffs of the Cathedrals. On the trip, you will also drive through subtropical rainforest and along aquamarine lakes. When the fun drive is over, fishing, birding, hiking and swimming are popular pursuits here.
Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge
To stand atop one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks and survey everything around you, sparks the senses. Below you, the shimmering harbor will enthrall you, and the gentle saltwater breeze will whisk around you. Everywhere, the splendor of Sydney surrounds you. A guide will take you up this splendid walk, with a pre-climb safety talk, safety gear, and even have your photo taken as a memento. The ascent is 134 meters, and you will get an interesting history of the bridge along the way. Numerous tours are available throughout the day and evening, for different perspectives.
Visit the Oodnadatta Track in South Australia
In the red hot heart of South Australia that is the Outback is a great spot for exploring the 620-kilometer track which takes you through ancient aboriginal trade routes, an inland seabed, and past the remnants of the Old Ghan railway. Visit the tiny outpost of William Creek, which has a whopping population of 10 people. Or drive through Ana Creek, which is the largest cattle station in the world and is the size of Belgium.
See the Penguins at Phillip Island
Just south of Melbourne off of Australia’s southeastern shore is Phillip Island. Each night at sunset, hundreds of the world’s smallest penguins, the Little Penguins, emerge from a days fishing at sea and waddle ashore to their sand dune burrows. Phillip Island is home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Little Penguins. Join the penguin parade and observe the busy penguin rookeries from elevated boardwalks, so as not to disturb the nests. Explore the visitor centre and learn all there is to know about the lives of their daily commute.
Go On a Bushwalk at UNESCO Heritage Sites
You can bushwalk from anywhere in Australia, but choose a Heritage Site for an unforgettable experience. One of the most iconic spots in the country is Kakada National Park. Some of this land is undeveloped Aboriginal land and will remain as such. You will find creeks, waterfalls, stunning mountain canyons and lush forests that are wild and untamed. There are also 4×4 tours that are self-guided, or tours that are guided by an aboriginal native who is happy to share with you their unique culture. Other iconic tours are to the famous Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Ayers Rock.