Considering its size, beauty, and abundance of attractions, there are many places to see in Australia before you die. Perhaps you’re the road tripping kind of traveler who likes to be out on the open highway and stop when you want? Or perhaps you’re the hiker who wants to scale mountains day in and day out, and be provided with some seriously stupendous views. Or are you the nature lover who wants to explore rainforests and splash in the waterfalls?
Australia plays host to numerous incredible attractions, many of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We love this list of the best places to see in Australia before you die. What would you add? If you’re in Australia renting a car would be a great option to explore these sites. And you don’t have to worry about parking because several parking websites have got you covered. When you’re exploring Australia, you’re exploring many places that you just won’t get elsewhere.
If any of this sounds of interest to you, then Australia has your back. You can find all of it here and more. Of course there are some simply stunning beaches studding the entire continent, but I left those for another list. There are some coastal beauties here, but the popular beaches the country holds as well as the huge main cities were left off this collection and saved for another one.
When traversing Australia, it’s natural to want to visit the neighbor, and with all the places to visit in New Zealand before you die, you can’t go wrong. But let me encourage you to take your time during your stay in Australia. There are so many things to see and do, it will really take you years to do it all. Here are just a few of the of the best places to see in Australia before you die.
7. Great Ocean Road
This isn’t so much as an individual destination as it is a continuing adventure. The 300 km long road will surely take you to the famous Twelve Apostles and some cool surfer towns like Torquay, but who knows what else? Driving this road gives you the freedom to stop anytime and anywhere, and trust us when we say there are plenty of things worth detouring for.
6. Daintree National Park
Want some natural history? Look no further than Daintree National Park. This is one of the oldest ecosystems on our planet and it’s humbling to wander through this wet tropical forest. Mossman Gorge brings you clear waters tumbling down granite rocks and heading over Cape Tribulation will show you the way to some white sandy beaches on the Coral Sea.
5. Fraser Island
Love sandy white beaches? Well, Fraser Island has plenty of that. In fact, it’s the largest sand island in the world, so get your beach towel ready. Sandstone cliffs, shipwrecks, and the Champagne pool are some of the places you can bliss out at. The action doesnt stop at the shore though, inland you will find creeks flowing with freshwater, old rainforests teeming with flora and fauna, and even sand dunes.
4. Great Barrier Reef
This is a no brainer. Coming to Australia and missing out on this incredible natural wonder is just not an option. Thousands of coral reefs, a plethora of exotic marine life, and hundreds of little cays and islets, make this phenomenal destination the ultimate places to visit while in Australia. This is considered one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, and certainly one of the best places to see in Australia before you die.
3. Kakadu National Park
Nearly 20,000 sq km of lush wilderness is located in the Northern Territory of the country. This World Heritage Site is the second largest park in the country as well as one of the best wilderness areas in the world. There is a diverse array of wildlife and a rich display of wetlands and rainforests. Make your way through and spot the wondrous waterfalls, rivers and gorges, and even some ancient rock paintings.
2. Blue Mountains
Another UNESCO World Heritage of Australia, and another gorgeous one at that. Just a day trip outside of Sydney is a breathtaking display of blue hazed mountains. Hiking trails galore, waterfalls, gorges, and spectacular views of the Three Sisters, which are incredible sandstone formations, can be had here. The world’s steepest railway, the Katoomba Scenic Railway, is a fun ride through the Jamison Valley. The outdoor activities here are plentiful.
1. Uluru- Kata Tjuta National Park
Uluru Rock is the majestic red rock that is featured here. Here’s yet another World Heritage Site to add to your long list. Meaning “shadowy place,” this magical scene is an iconic landmark for the country and the best place to start your real outback adventures.
We love this list of the best places to see in Australia before you die. What would you add?