There is no end to exploring one of the most beautiful regions on earth. Tropical forests, mountains, beaches, coral reefs, wineries, and exotic flora and fauna are some of the sights that you would enjoy by visiting Australia.
Let us take a look at some of the secret destinations you must visit in Australia:
- The Daintree Rainforest
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, the Daintree rainforest is the oldest tropical rainforest on earth. Exotic species of flora and fauna, which are unique to this tropical paradise, can be sighted in the forest. A cruise along the Daintree River gives you an incredible view of the crocodiles that inhabit the river and you could also explore the forest and be shielded by its evergreen canopies.
To learn the history of the forest and Aborigines who have lived in the Daintree area for generations, visit the Daintree Discovery Centre. The Mossman River, whose source is freshwater, which cascades down the Mossman Gorge is an ideal, crocodile-free place to swim. Also visit the Daintree Village to buy souvenirs and learn more about local arts and craft.
The Daintree forest is a one hour drive from Port Douglas and two-hour drive from Cairns. The best time to visit is during the wet season, between November and April.
- The Great Barrier Reef
This huge reef is home to 1,500 fish species and 450 species of corals. It is said to have one of the highest marine diversity on earth. Although the effect of climate change can be seen on the bleached corals, a lot of work has been done to preserve the reefs.
Take a tour guided by a marine biologist to know more about marine life and its habitat.
The best time to visit is during the humpback whale season, between September and December.
- Noosa
Pristine beaches, quaint backwoods villages, beautiful rivers, and lakes are some of the reasons why you should visit this town. Taking a walk through the headland part of Noosa National Park is a perfect way to spot whales, dolphins, and turtles, as well as koalas. The Botanical Gardens and Majestic Theatre are also great places to visit. The theatre is the oldest silent movie theatre on the planet. The climate is perfect all through the year and the atmosphere is clean and inviting. Noosa can be accessed via the Sunshine Coast Airport. Find out more about exploring Noosa here.
- Hamilton Island
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, you will enjoy diverse activities such as cultural exhibitions which run throughout the year, water sports, sailing, and golfing. Although this area is pricey, you are going to get value for your money. The waters which are warm enough for swimming all through the year are also a plus, as well as the commercial airport nearby.
- Cape York
This is the northernmost part of the continent and is full of history. Cape York boasts of the most amazing swimming holes, rock art, magical beaches, and indigenous culture. If you enjoy fishing and learning about the Aboriginal culture, then you must visit Cape York. Most of its swimming holes are freshwater pools which are formed from the cascades of Fruit Bat Falls. It is also in Cape York that the biennial Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival which features dance groups, performers, and a lot of spectators hold.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months of June to October. Cape York is easily accessed by driving from Cairns.
- Flinders Ranges
This is the archetypal Australian outback landscape. Also known as one of the oldest landscapes on the planet, it is home to the Brachina Gorge which houses 150 million years of the history of the earth. Kangaroos, emus, and yellow-footed wallabies can be found here. The colors of the ranges change during the day, painting a picturesque scene. It also features the Blinman Pools whose source is the natural spring waters of Blinman Creek. The best time to visit is between the months of April and October.
- Clare Valley
According to expert movers, AusMove.co.nz, Australia has some of the best wineries in the world, with quite a number located in Clare Valley; a beautiful area rich in the art of wine making. The family-run wineries, which characterize this town produce some of the finest Shirases and Cabernets. It is also a great place to find great restaurants. The area which is a deeply divided plateau provides amazing scenery that would look great in photos. It is a two-hour drive from Adelaide; the best time to visit is during autumn or spring.
- Eyre Peninsula
Featuring picturesque coastline and some of the most amazing beaches in Australia, this is one place you must visit. The people are very friendly and the seafood is the best in Australia. Here, you can stimulate yourself with physical activities such as cage diving with sharks and swimming with dolphins and sea lions.
The best time to visit is during winter when the scenery is green and seafood is in abundance. It is a thirty-five-minute drive from Adelaide, find out more about Eyre Peninsula here.
- Kakadu
If you are interested in nature and history then you must visit Kakadu. Its people have lived there for over 5,000 decades. You would have an amazing time listening to their stories, checking out their ancient art, or simply watching the picturesque landscape. Sights like billabongs, orchids, water lilies, and exotic wildlife are common and you would see a lot when walking through the parks, especially during the monsoon period. About three hours’ drive from Darwin, it is perfect for year-round visits.
- Katherine
A small town, which is rich in both local and European history, Katherine is home to the Jawoyn people and has been used for mining, exploration, and farming activities in the colonial times. Home to the awe-inspiring Nitmiluk Gorge, which is located in Nitmiluk National Park, it is a wonderful place to visit. Explore the gorge with local tour guides who tell interesting stories. It also houses Cicada Lodge, a luxurious boutique hotel, which has won many food and tourism awards. A three and a half hour’s drive from Darwin, the best time to visit is between May and September.
