What to See When in Australia
For anyone planning a trip, be you a regular world traveler or a casual vacation go-er seeking an exotic change of pace, a trip to the land down under is be an ideal destination. Australia is not just a nation, but an entire continent unto itself. As the world’s largest island, this fabled English-speaking country contains many wonders, be it the landscape, the history, or the strange animals found throughout the continent.
Kakadu is one of the best national parks in Australia and offers some of the most stunning wildlife you can find on the continent. Saltwater crocodiles can be found all over the park so be careful where you swim. This is an ancient home to many of the native Aborigines so you’ll be able to learn a lot about their culture and see ancient cave paintings. Moreover, there are stunning vistas and gorges to traverse.
Uluru (Ayers Rock) is probably the best known natural icon in Australia, and no list of could be complete without it. The iron content in the rock makes its colors change through the course of a day from bright to dark red. Sacred to the local aboriginal people, it is also of great cultural significance as well as natural significance. Often overlooked, nearby Kata Tjuta is actually higher than Uluru, but has been eroded into several pieces.
Tasmania is the most unspoiled wilderness in Australia. In addition to its pristine beauty, it is home to many unique species of plant and animal including the threatened Tasmanian Devil. There are many great hikes here, including a famous 4 day trek across the island. The famous Wineglass bay is great for sitting in the sun. Just be careful during the winter as it gets very cold.
The Great Barrier Reef is so big, the scope of it can really only be appreciated from the air. By far the largest coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef extends almost the entire length of the coast of Queensland. It is one of the top wonders of the natural world and has many of the greatest dive spots and sea creatures in the world. If you love the ocean, you need to visit.
In addition, to the animal life, this part of Australia is known for its isolation and remoteness. The native aboriginal peoples often spoke of the “walkabout” a solitary journey into the bush of the outback in order to find one’s self. Today, modern travelers from the west often attempt to emulate this ancient ritual in an attempt to connect with nature and to leave the rat race fully behind them. Whether you make the journey alone, like the natives once did, or whether you choose to bring along your friends or loved ones, you are sure to find an excursion into the outback rewarding and therapeutic.