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From the Gold Coast's sun-kissed beaches to the Outback's rugged wilderness, each tour offers a unique tapestry of adventures, cultural encounters, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. Join us as we delve into the vibrant mosaic of Australia's landscapes, history, and heritage.
- Viewing Uluru (Ayers Rock), Australia's best-known landmark and sacred to the aboriginal people, as the sandstone formation deep in the Outback glows red at dawn or sunset
- Cruising along the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge on a thrilling bridge climb
- Discovering the ancient rock art at Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef and marveling at the thousands of fish and coral species and the beautiful colors
- Witnessing the stunning landscapes of the Kimberley region from a scenic flight
- Encountering native wildlife on Kangaroo Island, home to seals, koalas, and kangaroos
- Sailing through the pristine waters of the Whitsunday Islands aboard a luxury yacht
- Stargazing in the clear skies of the Australian Outback, away from city lights
- Visiting the boutique Australian wine region and tasting local varietals
- Hiking through Tasmania's diverse terrain
- Touring Sydney's Opera House and its multi-bay harbor, both considered among the most beautiful representatives of their kind in the world.
- Camping under the stars in the heart of the Red Centre
- Exploring the vibrant cultural scene of Adelaide, known for its festivals and events
- Exploring the city of Melbourne
- Sampling delicious seafood at the famous Sydney Fish Market
- Venturing into the ancient rainforests of the Daintree National Park in Queensland
- Taking a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road, marveling at the Twelve Apostles rock formations
- Taking a crocodile-viewing safari down a river in the Daintree Rainforest in Far North Queensland, Australia
- Exploring the vibrant street art scene in Melbourne's laneways
Australia Tours & Travel Guide
Australia Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Australia — the smallest continent and the largest island — is many travelers' dream destination. From Sydney's famous Opera House to the vast and rugged Outback, this country-continent is incredibly diverse geographically.
Filled with friendly people and stocked with unusual animals, Australia holds a special place in the imaginations of those who live on the other side of the world.
Australia's Cultural and Geographical Diversity
Home to British descendants living a seemingly incongruous, often sun-burned existence in the faraway Pacific, intriguing indigenous cultures, and immigrants from Asia and Oceania, Australia has a reputation as a modern society with frontier-like rough edges.
In Australia, the vast, mostly deserted Outback begins on the fringes of the thickly populated eastern coast and stretches west, seemingly forever.
Australia is amazingly diverse. It has well-populated east and southeastern coasts, with world-class cities like Sydney and Melbourne, the arid Outback, which constitutes much of the country, northeastern rainforests, southeastern mountains, trendy vineyards, frontier-style cattle ranches, urban and rural icons like the Sydney Opera House and Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), and often overlooked far-western and far northern cities like Perth and Darwin.
Then, there's the unique wildlife — bounding kangaroos, shy koalas, wombats, and the impossible-to-make-up duck-billed platypus, which scientists once thought must be a hoax.
Australia also has a colorful history as a repository for English criminals, whom many modern-day Australians are descendants of. Native aborigines, much in evidence in some parts of the country, add further to the Australians' reputation as untamed, fiercely independent people.
From Desert to Rainforest
Australia's landscape covers every end of the spectrum: hot rainforests in the northeast, arid hills in the south, coastal waters, and the epic Outback right in the middle. As you tour Australia's states, you will find yourself in a completely different ecological system.
While this may pose challenges about what to pack, it offers travelers a chance to experience the different adventure activities Australia has to offer. You can hike in the Great Dividing Range in the west or go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef off the coast.
Each region offers the chance to learn how the environment shaped the local people and the development of Australia.
Read more about Daintree Forest, one of Australia's most beautiful forests, and other enchanting forests worldwide.
Australian States and Territories
Australia has six different states and a few territories. Each was originally one of the Australian colonies and, as a result, has its own look and feel.
- New South Wales:New South Wales is the most populated state and includes the major city of Sydney. Visiting the Blue Mountains is a popular activity to do in New South Wales.
- Victoria: It's the second smallest state where football, coffee, and graffiti thrive. The laidback city of Melbourne calls this state home and is where you can feel the cultural convergence in Australia.
- Queensland: Queensland is the golden area of Australia where you can find the Gold Coast, sunny Brisbane, subtropical forests, and the Great Barrier Reef.
- Western Australia:The largest of the states, Western Australia's main city is Perth. This area of Australia is known for the drastic changes in the landscape and quieter beaches and cities.
- South Australia:Known as the "Festival State," South Australia is the center of the Australian wine industry and is where many members of the aboriginal tribes live.
- Tasmania: Tasmania, Australia's smallest state, is a highly mountainous area with numerous natural parks to explore.
- Territories:The three main internal territories (on the mainland) are the Northern Territory, Jervis Bay Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory.
The Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory are the most visited. The Northern Territory is where you can find the most famous Australian landmark, Uluru, and other stunning attractions. The Australian Capital Territory includes the national capital of Canberra and other national museums and institutions.
Top Activities To Enjoy on Australia Tours
With six vastly different states, Australia will ignite every traveler's wanderlust. Just make sure you don't get too worn out trying to cram everything in! Following are a few experiences you must enjoy on your trip to Australia.
- Swim the Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef has been an iconic attraction for the country for decades. The reef is a biodiversity haven for coral and sea life. You'll be able to swim closely with sea turtles and angelfish that call this place home and capture some fantastic photos at the same time.
- Drive the Great Ocean Road:The Great Ocean Road begins in Melbourne and takes you through Otway National Park and the famous natural formation of the 12 Apostles across Australia's southeastern point.
- Cruise the Kimberly:You can choose from many overland tours of the Kimberly, but another great way to see this untouched area is by cruise. A Kimberly cruise takes you through the teal waters, where you can see sandy cliff faces and waterfalls from your small cruise ship.
- Go Skiing:Australia is more than just the turf of surfers and volleyball players. The country has several mountains, the most famous of which is the Great Dividing Range, where you can hike, ski, or snowboard to your heart's content.
Wine Tasting in Australia
When most people think of wine, they envision the Tuscan hills of Italy, the Medoc region of France, or the rolling wineries of Napa Valley. However, another region of the world also produces top-notch wine.
Australia's wine region is located in and around the major cities of Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne.
You can visit these regions either on day trips from the major cities or by taking a tour of all of them and staying in hotels right in the center of the vineyards.
Australia produces all types of wine, with Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay being some of the most popular.
Besides good food and wine, the vineyards also take you into the vast landscape, where you may encounter wildlife with kangaroos, often visiting the vines.
Wildlife Encounters on Australia Tours
It may seem like a joke, but it's true—everything can kill you. The wildlife in Australia is extreme. Home to hundreds of venomous species of snakes, spiders, ants, and other creepy crawlies, plus crocodiles and even Kangaroos that can do massive damage, it's important to respect nature to the highest degree in Australia.
That said, wildlife is one of the top reasons to visit this expansive country. So, don't hang up your explorer hat just yet. Plan with proper attire and go on a guided tour with a reputable tour company to ensure your safety and that of the native flora and fauna you encounter.
Some of the wildlife you must see in Australia includes the following:
- Kangaroo:The national symbol of Australia, the country has over 45 species of kangaroos and wallabies. They're fascinating, extremely powerful animals that can withstand incredible heat. Their enormous tail and hind legs help them jump distances of over 25 feet in a single bound. It's highly unlikely that you will see a kangaroo in the wild, but they are a regular fixture in zoos and protected areas.
- Koala Bears: Another popular symbol of Australia, koalas are not actually a type of bear. Instead, they are a species of marsupial. Known to hang out high in eucalyptus trees, Koalas are somewhat difficult to spot in the wild. You can find them on a nature walk with an experienced guide!
- Tasmanian Devil:Popularized by a particular cartoon, this Australian native is common in zoos and other wildlife experiences throughout Australia. Hailing from the island of Tasmania, it is a carnivorous mammal known to be mean! It was once the subject of an eradication attempt in the 1800s. Since then, conservationists have been trying to keep its population size above extinction levels.
- Wombat:Australia has over 140 species of marsupials, including the adorable wombat. These roly-poly, fluffy animals are a delight to spot.
Things To Do on Australia Tours for Adventurers
Australia has plenty of activities for adventure seekers. There's no shortage of strenuous adventure activities, but you will also find many family-friendly and "soft" adventure opportunities in the country.
Some of the top adventure travel experiences in Australia include:
- Surfing: Australians love the ocean, and many tours of the country feature a beach day or two. Some tour companies offer surf lessons as an excursion or additional activity. It's a great way to feel like a local out in the sun and surf.
- Snorkeling: One of the most popular activities in Australia's Great Barrier Reef, snorkeling is calm and easy and is great for family outings. It's best to plan a whole day to get far enough out to explore deeper waters and the shallower areas.
- Sydney Harbor Bridge: The harbor is the top destination when you visit Sydney. Boat tours of the harbor leave from here, the Opera House is a prominent fixture, and Circular Queue is a fantastic area for shopping and eating.
For those looking for something a bit more adrenaline-pumping, consider the Sydney Bridge walk. Snapped into a jumpsuit and harness, you'll climb to the very top of the bridge for stunning views of the entire harbor and a brag-worthy photo op. While the activity is very safe, it is not recommended if you're afraid of heights!
Overland Tour Through the Outback: If you're enthusiastic about roughing it, camping, pitching in, and generally enjoying the outdoors for an extended period, then the overland tour is a perfect fit! Australia is one of the most popular destinations for overland tours, partly due to the climate and the flat landscape. Prepare for a challenging trip through which you'll forge strong community ties with your tour mates.
Uluru: Uluru (Ayers Rock), about 200 miles from Alice Springs, is Australia's best-known natural landmark. Since it's sacred to the aboriginal people, climbing it is now discouraged, but it's still worth the trip. Australia's unusual wildlife is also a massive draw to Uluru, especially the ever-present kangaroos and cute but reclusive koalas hiding in eucalyptus trees.
Ready to head Down Under but need help figuring out where to turn first? Try Travelstride's handy tools and filters to quickly help you find which tour or tours suit you.
Iconic Australian Cities To Explore on A Trip
Australia's main cities are primarily on the southeastern coast. This area is known for its amazing weather and was where the country first developed as a shipping and penal colony.
- Sydney:The most significant Australian city, Sydney is a hub for finance, tourism, and the arts. Most tours begin and end in Sydney, the country's principal port, where many prominent happenings occur.
- Melbourne:The funky, hip, and laidback city of Melbourne stays true to Australia's well-known calm and relaxed vibe. The city is the country's cultural capital, is considered one of the world's coffee capitals, and is voted one of the best places to live!
- Brisbane: The city at the heart of the famous Gold Coast, Brisbane is the jumping-off point for Australia's sun and beach culture. The weather in Brisbane is perfect all year round, and surfers, sunbathers, and beach volleyball players thrive there.
- Perth:Considered the most isolated major city in Australia, Perth is located on the southwestern side of the country. While Perth may be isolated from the rest of the country, you won't be bored with the Outback and the Indian Ocean being right outside your front step.
Other possible destinations include Australia's capital, Canberra, and the far north city of Darwin. Consider taking a train across the width of southern Australia for an unforgettable ride through the Outback.
Visiting Nearby Countries on Australia Tours
The Land Down Under sits between the Indian and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors often check out nearby countries or include them in their tours when visiting Australia.
- New Zealand and Australia Tours: One of the closest countries to Australia and a typical tour combo, New Zealand is an island nation just east of Australia. It's known for its remarkable landscape, hiking, and role as the setting for The Lord of the Rings movies. While Australia has a primarily friendly rivalry with neighboring New Zealand (each believing itself to be the friendlier of the two), they have much in common. Together, they feature several world-class cities and some of the world's best hiking trails, deserts, rainforests, coastlines, and mountains, so if you choose to see both in one tour, allow plenty of time.
- Papua New Guinea: Just north of Australia is Papua New Guinea. This country occupies half an island and is commonly visited for its volcanic and Pacific atmosphere. The island nation boasts many natural wonders and an opportunity to witness and learn about local Pacific Island cultures.
- Indonesia: Only a short flight from Australia, Indonesia has been an island nation at the center of the backpacker and luxury travel world for years. The main area of Indonesia, Bali, draws in digital nomads, yogis, and anyone looking to relax and unwind on the beach.
Souvenirs from Australia
Buying souvenirs from a destination allows us to take a piece of our vacation home. While Australia may appear similar to the U.S. or England, this vast country has its own unique features you may want to take home with you.
- Opals:Australia is known for having some of the best opals in the world. They are of high quality and make for a great gift.
- Tim Tams:A true Australian treat, Tim Tams are chocolate-covered biscuits often paired with Australia's favorite beverage, coffee.
- Vegemite:One of Australia's more interesting food choices, Vegemite is a thick black spread used for toast. It is an acquired taste, and those who have never tasted it may find it tart and tangy.
- Boomerangs:We all have seen the movies of Aussies throwing boomerangs, but they are one of the country's most famous icons and a pretty neat object to take home with you.
- UGG Boots:The most famous souvenir is sheepskin UGG boots worn around the country. They are primarily used indoors in Australia as slippers and not for outdoors, but wear switched when they gained popularity in other parts of the world.
Different Ways to Tour Australia
Explore Australia through various means of travel, each offering a unique perspective on this vast and diverse land.
- Cruises:Embark on a scenic cruise along Australia's coastline, exploring destinations like the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney Harbour. Companies like Princess Cruises offer itineraries that visit iconic ports such as Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns.
- Driving Tours:Hit the open road on a self-drive adventure, traversing iconic routes like the Great Ocean Road or the Red Centre Way. Rent a car from reputable companies and explore at your own pace, stopping to admire natural wonders like Uluru or stunning coastal vistas.
- Train Journeys:Experience the beauty of Australia's landscapes from the comfort of a train carriage. The Indian Pacific train journey traverses the continent from Sydney to Perth, offering luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of the Outback. Alternatively, explore the lush rainforests of Queensland aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, winding through the UNESCO-listed Barron Gorge National Park.
Australia Reviews & Ratings
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Trusted Customer
Aug 2024
Written on
North Queensland Adventure
I loved meeting new people and the various activities including snorkelling diving etc. I just don't want to give 5 stars on account of me waiting excessively long f...
E
Emma King
Jul 2024
Written on
North Queensland Adventure
Snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef and exploring the Daintree Rainforest ar...
T
Trusted Customer
Sep 2024
Written on
Untamed Kimberley and West Coast
An interesting and enjoyable trip. Tour director and driver (Carolyn & Rhys) both excellent. A fabulous way to see some fantastic landscapes and meet some great ...
T
Teodozyj Kolasa
Aug 2024
Written on
Untamed Kimberley and West Coast
Australia is a really beautiful country and the environment we observed was spectacular. However, the acomodation was average and food was average as well. I hate in...
L
Lachlan Rae
Oct 2024
Written on
Uluru Explorer
It's a modular trip your joining part of a bigger group
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