THE MUST DO'S in AUSTRALIA
Adventure travel comes in many forms, and you can find it in every corner of the world. That being said, there definitely are some destinations that have a little more oomph when it comes to adrenaline.
QUEENSLAND
THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
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One of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts, the Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. The reef contains an abundance of marine life and comprises of over 3000 individual reef systems and coral cays and literally hundreds of picturesque tropical islands with some of the worlds most beautiful sun-soaked, golden beaches. The Great Barrier Reef is located in the north of Australia, which means travellers will experience a tropical climate.
The most popular tour to see the Great Barrier Reef is to book a day tour or a 2day/1night boat cruise or you could decide to stay around for a few days to learn to dive to new depths by completing your Open Water Dive Course. SNORKELLING is one of the many activities included in your day out to the Great Barrier Reef and is one of the best ways to view the incredible underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. INTRODUCTORY Scuba diving is a safe and fun Great Barrier Reef adventure that allows you to get up close to turtles, giant clams, clown fish, and a variety of colourful corals. All introductory scuba divers start from the safety of the boat and dive in a calm, shallow lagoon full of marine life CERTIFIED Scuba divers have an amazing range of exclusive reefs to dive with a selection of drift dives, wall dives and swim throughs. With our extensive choice of reef destinations, we will take you to the best locations on the day for a fully guided dive with all your equipment, including wetsuits and computers, provided. Explore the depths of the Great Barrier Reef Looking for a SCENIC FLIGHT over the GREAT BARRIER REEF in a HELICOPTER OR PLANE - please enquire directly via email [email protected] for live availability & prices. |
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CAIRNS ISLANDSFrankland Islands is surrounded by vibrant fringing reefs, it’s home to many species of marine life, including turtles, octopus and the ever-popular anemone clownfish, Nemo. During this amazing one day tour you have up to 4 hours to explore and enjoy this natural paradise, above and below the water.Your day includes coach transfers from Cairns CBD accommodation, a guided Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour, guided island walk, buffet lunch and morning and afternoon tea. Optional activities include the adventure snorkel safari, or grab a kayak or stand up paddle board and explore the beauty of this pristine island.
Fitzroy Island is an unspoilt tropical paradise of rainforest and beaches within the calm sheltered waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Fitzroy Island is a National Park, discover spectacular walking trails, abundant marine life and local wildlife. The gentle, hilly terrain inland makes for great walking throughout the whole island, including to the two main beaches, Welcome Bay and one of Australia's most iconic beaches - Nudey Beach. Take a hike up to the Summit, the highest vantage point on the island and the historic lighthouse at the Eastern end with views all the way to the Great Barrier Reef. At Fitzroy Island, it’s all about rainforest, beaches and high reaches, with just as much to explore on land as in the sea. Have some fun on the water as well as in it, with activities including diving, snorkelling or kayaking. Head across for the day or stay overnight at the boutique resort. Aussie Ecotourism can also organise unique camping experiences on the island. Green Island is a beautiful 6000 year old coral cay located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, just 27km offshore from Cairns. A ferry trip to Green Island only takes 45 minutes, it makes for a great day out or convenient half day experience. There are so many activities and things to do on Green Island. These include snorkelling, swimming, and scuba diving, parasailing or exploring the island further with a self-guided island walk.If you are unable to swim or have small children, you can view the reef by glass bottom boat or semi submarine. If you want a less active day, perhaps visit the Marineland Melanesia which is home to Cassius the world’s largest Crocodile in captivity. |
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50 METRE BUNGY JUMPAustralia's only Bungee Jump is located on the doorstep to the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns. Teetering 50 metres above a deep natural lagoon, the AJ Hackett Bungy Jump is the most epic experience. With 16 jump styles unique to AJ Hackett's, theres a jump for everyone! Theres even a bar on-site if you feel you need a little dutch courage or to celebrate with a cold beer after your jump. Happy to organise your free transfers from Cairns to the AJ site.
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GIANT JUNGLE SWINGFlying on the multi-person Giant Jungle Swing and reaching speeds of up to 120kph in 3.5 seconds is the AJ Hacketts way of experiencing extreme speed and acceleration together! With 1, 2 or 3 mates the Jungle Swing takes you above the rainforest canopy and with one almighty tug on the release cord, swingers soar through the trees down to only 2 metres above the ground - before swinging high over the building to take in the glorious views of the ocean. Another adrenaline rush thats located in Cairns and can be combined with a Bungy Jump
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14000FT SKYDIVE OVER THE GREAT BARRIER REEFGet your heart racing in one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations by jumping out of a plane strapped to your newest best friend (after all, you’re trusting ‘em with your life). You will experience free falling at over 200 km/h from up to 14,000 feet and gliding through the sky for up to 1 whole minute, followed by a stunning parachute ride, the beaches from above will blow you away! And you can land on the beach at either Mission Beach or Etty Bay. The Skydive instructors are qualified by the Australian Parachute Federation, with thousands of jumps each, and equipped with gear that incorporates the latest safety features in the market.
When you're not chasing adrenaline, the pristine beaches are waiting for you with their untouched natural beauty. You do not necessarily have to stay in Mission Beach as we can organise your free skydive transfer, leaving from Cairns with daily departures. |
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DAINTREE RAINFOREST & CAPE TRIBULATIONThe Daintree Rainforest is a breathtaking natural marvel estimated to be around 135 million years old, the oldest living the rainforest on earth and the most unique ecosystem in the world. It is the only place in the world where two World Heritage-listed sites meet, the rainforest and the reef. Meander along Daintree Rainforest boardwalks, eyes peeled to glimpse a southern cassowary and his chicks. Be dwarfed by king ferns, cruise the river for prehistoric crocodiles. Join a Daintree Rainforest tour and learn about the rich biological diversity and evolutionary history as you venture deep into the forest. Seek out adventure in secret swimming holes and ride or hike your way through the Daintree Rainforest by day, then relax in luxury in your off-grid rainforest retreat by night. You can experience Experience pristine untouched reef from Cape Tribulation on a half-day snorkeling adventure. Book a day trip, a 2day/1 night or a 3day/2night tour with all transfers included. Free self drive itineraries available via email.
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ATHERTON TABLELANDS & WATERFALL CIRCUITThe Atherton Tablelands is a natural wonderland filled and one of the most beautiful and diverse regions of North Queensland. It is a collection of towns, natural landmarks, and beautiful National Parks. The waterfall circuit is a playground of dramatic mountains, lush rainforest, secluded waterholes, long hiking trails, Australian wildlife, fruit and dairy farms and coffee plantations. Arguably the most magical, awe-inspiring and famous waterfalls in Australia, spend your visit admiring the view, immersing yourself in the surrounding lush rainforest and swimming below the falls. Spend the day visiting natural crater lakes, sliding down natural rockslide, swimming, rock hopping and full of tropical adventures. This is a must do experience. waterfalls, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes and views in all of Queensland, the Atherton tablelands should not be missed from your Queensland itinerary. If you have time we highly recommend turning this trip into a 2day/1 night adventure and stay the night at the world famous sustainable lodge in Yungaburra. If time is fleeting a 1 day tour will get you to the hotspots with memories that last a lifetime and a new social profile picture! Free self drive itineraries available via email.
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MAGNETIC ISLANDMagnetic Island is a nature lovers paradise, with kilometres of bushland hikes and an abundance of wildlife, just a short 20 minute ferry ride from Townsville. The landscape of Magnetic Island features distinctive granite rock shapes, picturesque beaches, and coral reefs just offshore. Rock wallabies are a common sight, especially at twilight, as well as possums, echidnas, and a large population of koalas.
Seeing koalas in a zoo is great and all, but how about witnessing them in their natural habitat? Magnetic Island is the perfect place to watch these guys chilling out in the gum trees. Hire a 4x4 and take it for an adventurous drive up to Forts Walk, which will take you through historic military sites that have the best views of the ocean below. We highly recommend booking 2 nights at Magnetic Island to ensure you get to explore the natural beauty of the island and cuddle a koala at the koala wildlife park. Make sure to stay at Base, consistently rated the best hostel in Australia! Beach parties happen every night here, but try to catch a Full Moon if you can! |
WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS
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The Whitsunday Islands form a large archipelago that consists of 74 islands and is located in the northeast of Australia, which means travellers will experience a tropical climate. The Whitsundays are your typical postcard islands: white-sand beaches, the lush vegetation, and the translucent water of the Coral Sea are what backpackers’ dreams are made of. The most popular way to see the Whitsunday Islands is to book a 2day/2night boat cruise with all meals, activities and transport included. Step onboard your yacht or catamaran and set sail for an incredible Whitsundays adventure. Drop the anchor in a secluded cove, take a dip or snorkel over fringing reefs with myriads of colourful fish and corals. From the minute you first step aboard your vessel you will feel invigorated with the anticipation of your sailing adventure. Let the crew look after you as they prepare your meals, man the helm, hoist the sails and guide you through The Whitsundays making this the journey of a lifetime. If you stop by between June and September, you might even spot some whales on their annual migration. We can recommend tours to cater for everyones needs, from budget day-trips to multiple-night tours. The most popular way to see the Whitsundays is onboard a 2day/2night catamaran that includes all accommodation, meals and snorkelling. This trip really gives you the time to explore Whitehaven beach and the islands. The stunning natural landscape of the islands and the coast teeming with coral and marine wildlife will make this a trip you’ll never forget.
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FRASER ISLAND - K'gari
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Otherwise known as paradise, Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world and a true bucket-list destination for Australians and visitors alike. It's known for its stunning lakes, creeks, beaches and abundant wildlife. It has a lot more than just sand, however. Spend the day exploring the island’s lush rainforests before basking in the sun on Indian Head, the most easterly point of Fraser Island, offering panoramic views of the ocean. Highlights include Lake McKenzie, a stunning perch lake located in the heart of the island, with clam, clear blue waters and beautiful white sands. Its the perfect place to go for a refreshing swim, take a stand-up paddleboard out, or soak up the sun on the sand. Relax from your day of exploring by taking a dip in the Champagne Pools - These unique natural rock formations create shallow swimming holes that are filled by waves crashing in from the ocean, creating a fizzing 'champagne' effect. It's the perfect way to cool off after taking the boardwalk down from the headland, which also offers incredible views. You'll also visit Lake Wabby, the deepest lake on the island with its green waters and abundant fish life. It's fed by a natural spring and sits adjacent to the Hammerstone Sandblow. As you drive along 75 Mile Beach, you visit Eli Creek, the largest creek on the eastern coast. It pours four million litres of water into the ocean every hour. Take a stroll along the boardwalk then hit the water and float back out towards the coast. A little further along is the Maheno Wreck, K'gari's most famous wreck. It ran aground on the coast during a cyclone in 1935, and it is now one of the island's most iconic attractions. We can recommend tours to cater for everyones needs, from budget day-trips to multiple-night tours. The most popular way to see Fraser Islands is with a 3day/2night 4 wheel drive tour that includes all accommodation, meals and activities. This trip really gives you the time to explore the island and its stunning natural landscape.
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NEW SOUTH WALES
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BYRON BAYByron Bay is a coastal town located on the far-north coast of NSW, Australia. Home to Australia's most easterly point and the iconic Cape Byron lighthouse, the region is known for its spectacular beaches, unique shopping and dining experiences, world-class festivals, and vibrant community spirit.
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SPOT X - ARRAWARRASpot X, a place totally devoted to the surf lifestyle. Located in a National Marine Park, Spot X Surf backpackers provides a unique opportunity to spend time in one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal areas. Long days in the sun and waves leading to memorable nights around the camp fire, Spot X is truly a place you don’t want to miss. Great food, awesome staff and comfortable clean accommodation.
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SOUTH WEST ROCKSSouth West Rocks is a haven for people looking for quietness and coastal relaxation. It has beautiful foreshores, pleasant beaches, and particularly beautiful stands of Norfolk pines. Scuba diving at Fish Rock is one of the highlights. The thrill of entering a 125 metre long cave and travelling right through the centre of a small island is one dive that you will not want to miss. As well as the cave itself, Fish Rock is home to such an amazing array of marine life that you will easily understand how the island came to be named. This is a dive location that must be included in your east coast journey if you are a scuba diver!dive itinerary!
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BLUE MOUNTAINSThe Blue Mountains are justifiably world famous. And it’s not just those World Heritage-listed landscapes that draw people back. Grand gardens, fabulous food (much of it with equally fabulous views), crisp mountain air, heritage hotels, galleries and artisans, and a string of townships each with their own charm… there are few better places to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. Let us help you book your day tour from Sydney with transfers and lunch included.
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