Top Excursions to Book When Traveling Australia

Australia is a country full of adventure, natural wonders, and unique wildlife, making it the perfect destination for travelers on a year-long journey. Whether you’re exploring rugged landscapes, diving into vibrant coral reefs, or getting up close with Aussie animals, there’s no shortage of unforgettable excursions. To help you make the most of your year in Australia, here’s a guide to the top excursions you’ll want to book, from the iconic to the off-the-beaten-path.

Queensland

Great Barrier Reef

No trip to Australia is complete without visiting the world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef. Spanning over 2,300 kilometers, the reef offers incredible opportunities for diving and snorkeling to see vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, and coral gardens.

• Recommended Tours: Full-day snorkeling or diving trips from Cairns or Port Douglas, including a multi-day liveaboard dive trip.

• Best Time to Go: June to October for the best visibility and conditions.

Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsundays are a collection of 74 tropical islands off the coast of Queensland, famous for their pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Whitehaven Beach is regularly ranked as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with powdery white silica sand.

• Recommended Tours: Sailing trips around the Whitsunday Islands, day trips to Whitehaven Beach, or multi-day yacht charters for a more relaxed island-hopping adventure.

• Best Time to Go: June to November to avoid stinger season.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, offers a range of outdoor adventures, from 4WD tours across its sandy terrain to swimming in crystal-clear lakes. Don’t miss Lake McKenzie, the Champagne Pools, and the iconic Maheno Shipwreck.

• Recommended Tours: Multi-day 4WD tours or guided camping trips that allow you to fully experience Fraser Island’s beauty. Kingfisher Bay Resort also offers day tours for those short on time.

• Best Time to Go: September to November for mild weather and fewer crowds.

New South Wales

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

For an exhilarating and unique way to see Sydney, book a Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. You’ll ascend the famous steel arch, taking in panoramic views of the city, the Sydney Opera House, and the stunning harbor below.

• Recommended Tours: The BridgeClimb Sydney offers several options, including a daytime climb, twilight climb, or night climb.

• Best Time to Go: Year-round, but twilight climbs offer an unforgettable sunset experience.

Blue Mountains

Just an hour from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer spectacular views, dramatic cliffs, and lush rainforests. The region is perfect for hiking, abseiling, and exploring caves.

• Recommended Tours: Day trips from Sydney, guided hikes to Echo Point and the Three Sisters, and the Scenic World cable car or railway. Don’t miss the Jenolan Caves for an underground adventure.

• Best Time to Go: September to November for pleasant hiking weather.

Victoria

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous scenic drives, stretching along the southern coast of Victoria. The journey offers stunning coastal views, towering limestone cliffs, and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles.

• Recommended Tours: Full-day or multi-day guided tours along the Great Ocean Road, or rent a car and explore at your own pace. Don’t miss a stop at Loch Ard Gorge and the Otways Rainforest.

• Best Time to Go: November to April for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

The Grampians

The Grampians National Park is a stunning mountain range located in Victoria, known for its hiking trails, dramatic landscapes, and Indigenous rock art. It’s perfect for travelers who love nature and outdoor activities.

• Recommended Tours: Day hikes or multi-day trekking tours. The Pinnacle Lookout and MacKenzie Falls are must-see highlights. You can also book cultural tours to learn more about the area's Indigenous heritage.

• Best Time to Go: Spring (September to November) for wildflowers or autumn (March to May) for cooler hiking weather.

Phillip Island

Just a short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is famous for its Penguin Parade, where you can watch little penguins waddle ashore at sunset. The island also offers beautiful beaches, wildlife parks, and motor racing events at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

• Recommended Tours: Book a Penguin Parade tour in advance, as it’s a popular attraction. You can also explore Koala Conservation Reserve and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

• Best Time to Go: Year-round, but summer (December to February) offers warmer weather.

Tasmania

Tasmania’s Wilderness

Australia’s island state of Tasmania offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, from hiking in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park to exploring the pristine Freycinet Peninsula. Tasmania is also famous for its unique wildlife, including the Tasmanian devil.

• Recommended Tours: Multi-day hikes like the Overland Track, or day tours of Wineglass Bay, Bruny Island, or the Bay of Fires. You can also book wildlife tours to see Tasmanian devils, wombats, and platypuses in the wild.

• Best Time to Go: December to March for pleasant hiking weather.

South Australia

Barossa Valley

For wine lovers, a trip to Australia’s Barossa Valley is a must. Known for its world-class wineries, particularly Shiraz, the Barossa offers a relaxing escape with stunning vineyard views and gourmet food experiences.

• Recommended Tours: Wine-tasting tours, hot air balloon rides over the vineyards, and cooking classes. Some of the top wineries include Penfolds, Jacob’s Creek, and Henschke.

• Best Time to Go: March to May for autumn colors or September to November for spring blooms.

Northern Territory

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Australia’s largest national park, known for its diverse ecosystems, ancient Aboriginal rock art, and abundant wildlife. From wetlands to waterfalls, Kakadu is a must-visit for nature lovers.

• Recommended Tours: Full-day tours exploring Kakadu’s highlights, including Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, and Nourlangie Rock. For an in-depth experience, consider a multi-day 4WD tour or a Yellow Water Cruise to see crocodiles in their natural habitat.

• Best Time to Go: May to September, during the dry season, when roads and hiking trails are accessible.

Uluru

The majestic Uluru (Ayers Rock), located in the heart of the Red Centre, is one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks. Witnessing the changing colors of Uluru at sunrise or sunset is a must-do experience. You can also explore nearby Kata Tjuta and learn about the rich Indigenous culture of the area.

• Recommended Tours: Uluru sunset/sunrise tours, guided walks, or camel rides around the base of Uluru. Don’t miss the Sounds of Silence dinner under the stars.

• Best Time to Go: April to September for cooler weather.

Ningaloo Reef (Western Australia)

For a more off-the-beaten-path reef experience, head to Ningaloo Reef, located off the coast of Exmouth in Western Australia. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo offers easy access to the reef directly from the shore. It’s also one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks (between March and July).

• Recommended Tours: Whale shark swims, snorkeling or diving tours, and sea kayaking trips along the coast.

• Best Time to Go: March to July for whale shark season.

Australia is a vast and diverse country, and a year gives you ample time to explore its many regions and experiences. Whether you’re diving into the Great Barrier Reef, hiking through national parks, or enjoying the vibrant cities, booking the right excursions will make your journey even more memorable. Be sure to plan ahead, book early, and embrace the adventure!

Emilia Singh 

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Travel With Mil 

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