10 must-see Natural Wonders of Australia | discover the top picks
imprinted on its Natural Wonders of Australia page, is perhaps the most interesting place on Earth, as it boasts odd landscapes that attract people from all over the world. The Natural Wonders of Australia include things such as the Great Barrier Reef and the magnificent Uluru, which leave one in lockjaw at times. Unique experiences are carved out in the life of any nature lover, with Australia’s natural wonders as the canvas. Be it deep within ancient rainforests or the unblemished beaches, the wonders of Australia tell eloquently how pretty and diverse Australia really is.
Table of Contents
Great Barrier Reef
years ago, this area wasn’t even underwater. It was covered with eucalyptus and paperbark forests. It was also home to animals commonly found on the Australian plains. Aboriginal people would have lived here too, hunting wildlife in areas that are now deep underwater.
Then, 10,000 years ago, at the end of the last Ice Age, ice at the poles melted, and sea levels rose all around the world, flooding this low-lying coast. Stories of the Great Flood are still passed down in Aboriginal culture today. [music playing] As the sea rose, corals began to grow on the rocky fringes of the continental shelf, creating the Great Barrier Reef we see today.
These shallow tropical waters are clear and warm—perfect conditions for coral to thrive. Sheltered behind this long strip of reef, a lagoon was born, an area of protected water larger than all of Great Britain. With it came a new coastline of shallow, sandy waters. The rising sea cut off areas of high ground, creating the 600 islands that dot the lagoon.
Some are little more than rocks; others are substantial mountains covered in woodland. The Great Barrier Reef is so large that it can be seen from space—quite an achievement considering the size of the creatures that built it.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park No trip to Central Australia is complete without a visit to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The park covers 1,325 square kilometers and contains a 348-meter-high rock.
Uluru is very important to the native people of the area, the Anangu. It is partly a site of cultural history and traditional beliefs. The Anangu people believe they must not climb Uluru, but they don’t stop visitors from going up. However, they prefer visitors to walk around the base of the rock.
In the park, there is a cultural center with information and activities for visitors. Here, visitors can find guides who can take them around Uluru and share the history of the rock. Walks around Uluru take about three and a half hours. Visitors must carry water with them and should drink one liter of water for every hour they walk. They also shouldn’t walk during the hottest time of the day.
There are walking paths in the park, and it’s a good idea for visitors to stay on the paths to avoid getting lost or disturbing the park’s ecosystem. They should also wear long trousers and protective footwear in case they encounter a snake.
The park is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM in the summer and 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM in the winter. Camping is not allowed inside the park, but there are many hotels just outside the park. A day at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is an unforgettable adventure in the great Australian outback.
Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is Australia’s largest area of continuous rainforest, covering 1,200 square kilometers. It extends to the Coral Sea and is connected to the marvelous Great Barrier Reef. The rainforest is at least 135 million years old and might be as old as 180 million years.
The Daintree has witnessed the dinosaur era, experienced the last Ice Age, and survived other major events. The rainforest still harbors about 12% of the world’s primitive flowering plant species. It is a splendid region of glowing bioluminescent mosses, fungi, and even worms. Bright bursts of light created by fireflies can often be observed drifting through the leaves, especially after rain.
It is home to some of the world’s tallest tropical trees, like the magnificent Bull Kauri, a conifer species that can grow up to 50 meters tall and 2.7 meters in diameter. The Daintree Rainforest also includes other massive trees, such as emergent trees, which gain maximum sunlight and attract pollinators. Their height gives them an evolutionary advantage.
The rainforest contains 65% of all Australia’s bat and butterfly species, 28% of frogs, 40% of birds, 34% of mammals, and 65% of ferns found in the country. [music playing] There are also some 12,000 types of insects and over 200 species of land snails in the Daintree Rainforest.
Within the region lies the Daintree River, which was discovered in 1873 and named after English-born Australian geologist and photographer Richard Daintree.
The Daintree Rainforest is home to diverse species, including some that are rare or endangered, like the giant southern cassowary, Bennett’s tree kangaroo, and the white-lipped tree frog—the world’s largest frog. Unique species like Boyd’s forest dragon, the spotted-tail quoll, and the bright blue Ulysses butterfly can only be found here in the Daintree Rainforest and nowhere else on Earth.
The incredible natural beauty and immense wildlife diversity of the Daintree Rainforest make it one of the most extraordinary places on Earth.
Kakadu National Park
The amazing Kakadu National Park is located in the tropical north of Australia. Approximately 20,000 square kilometres in size, it’s Australia’s largest national park and roughly half the size of Switzerland! Kakadu has the rare distinction of being a mixed World Heritage site: important for both cultural and natural reasons.
It’s home to some incredible sights and amazing culture, so let’s have a closer look. Kakadu is a sacred place to the local Aboriginal tribes, who have lived in the area for around 50,000 years. It’s the oldest continuous culture on Earth, where locals today can look at ancient rock paintings and still understand their meanings.
Kakadu is home to several incredible locations of Indigenous rock art, including Ubirr, Nanguluwur, and Burrunguy, where some of the artworks are up to 20,000 years old. Highlights include paintings of daily life, such as hunting and fishing, pictures of local animals, human figures, and, of course, the Rainbow Serpent, which shaped the world during the Dreamtime.
Kakadu is home to some amazing natural scenery, from rivers to wetlands, rock escarpments to thundering waterfalls and hidden swimming holes. Here you can see Jim Jim Falls, where water cascades down from the escarpment into a plunge pool. At 140 metres, it’s the highest waterfall in Kakadu! It’s also a fantastic spot for swimming.
We also really enjoyed swimming at Maguk Falls, one of the only waterfalls in the park that still flows even during the peak dry season. The wetlands here at Kakadu are also spectacular and one of the best bird-watching environments anywhere in the world. Chief among them is Yellow Waters Billabong, where you can see almost 300 different species of birds.
Something like one-third of all Australian bird species are found here, including waterbirds like geese, ducks, pelicans, and storks, plus other birds like rosellas, quails, and parrots. And, of course, you can’t go far in Kakadu without encountering Australia’s most fearsome predator: the saltwater crocodile.
These enormous beasts can reach up to 6 metres in length, weigh over a thousand kilos, and usually behave in an extremely aggressive fashion. They’re a very common sight around Kakadu, so please be careful and follow the warning signs! Croc attacks are surprisingly common, killing on average 1–2 people per year.
Ningaloo Reef
Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ningaloo Reef is one of the five largest coral reefs in the world. It is home to over 500 species of fish, endangered whales, turtles, and sharks. The whale shark, the world’s biggest fish, is what draws people to Ningaloo Reef every year.
As a marine researcher, being at this really special place is super exciting. We normally don’t come to places like this—it’s very difficult to get here. Of course, being able to jump in the water and look at some of the corals and fish species that we don’t see on the east coast is something I can’t wait to do.
Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s largest fringing reef, directly bordering the coast here—unlike the Great Barrier Reef, which is further off the coast on the other side of Australia. This makes Ningaloo a true marine hotspot, with biodiversity you don’t find for thousands of kilometers. We’ve got minke whales, Bryde’s whales, blue whales, and, of course, humpback whales. Additionally, there are many smaller fish species that live in this area but aren’t found on the east coast.
Ningaloo also hosts one of the world’s most spectacular coral spawning events, clouding the reef with plumes of pink and red every year. It’s almost unbelievable that this special place is under threat from the oil and gas industry. Woodside has left a massive piece of industrial junk reportedly containing toxic fire retardant just 15 kilometers away from Ningaloo Reef.
Fossil fuel giant Woodside is pushing ahead with the most climate-polluting project currently proposed in Australia. If it goes ahead, it would threaten whale migration routes, their feeding grounds, and sensitive marine areas like Ningaloo Reef and the Scotts Reef further north.
This experience has been magical—seeing so many different corals, lots of colorful reef fish, a little reef shark underneath, and even a whale shark further out before we got in. It just makes you think: we really need to protect this beautiful space and ensure it isn’t destroyed by new fossil fuel projects.
Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains: 10,000 square kilometers of World Heritage National Park, just a train ride away from Sydney. Once you arrive, you don’t need a car to get around. Trolley Tours invites you to join us for a preview of some of the fabulous places you’ll see.
Katoomba is derived from the Aboriginal word Kadumba, meaning “Valley of the Waters.” Initially developed in the 1860s as a service town for the railway, it soon became a thriving tourist destination.
Katoomba has traditionally been a town of artists and performers, hosting festivals and events like Winter Magic, where you can see everyone in action. There are 29 trolley bus stops, allowing you to hop on and off all day. We’ll take you to all the stunning views and magical bushwalks.
Next stop after Katoomba is the township of Leura. It’s a wonderful place to browse arts, crafts, and gift stores, or enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal. Jump back on the trolley bus and head to the Everglades Gardens.
In the 1930s, wealthy carpet manufacturer Henry Van de Velde and garden designer Paul Sorensen assembled a team of workers to create an extraordinary family retreat from the city. The design features sweeping lawns and European-style gardens set against a backdrop of native bushland.
Our route takes you through the natural wonders of this area, allowing you to get up close to this ancient land. Its traditional owners, the Gundungurra and Dharug people, have lived here for over 20,000 years. The World Heritage status of the Blue Mountains was awarded in recognition of the outstanding value of its natural and cultural heritage.
The vegetation of the Blue Mountains is truly unique. Many species are found only in this area, and some are ancient, dating back to the age of the dinosaurs. At 900 meters above sea level, the Three Sisters is one of the most recognizable formations in the world, towering above the majestic Jamison Valley. All of this is easily accessible by riding the trolley bus—you don’t need a car to see the most amazing sights.
We can drop you off at the Scenic Skyway, where you can journey across the valley 270 meters above ancient ravines and dazzling waterfalls. The views are breathtaking, and the cabin features the world’s first electro-scene glass floor.
Scenic World began in 1945 when Harry Hammond transformed the old coal mine railway into a passenger-carrying tourist attraction. You can still ride into the Jamison Valley on the steepest incline railway in the world. After exploring the valley floor, take the 545-meter ride back to the top on the Scenic Cableway.
When you visit the Blue Mountains, don’t forget that we are the only coach operator offering a daily service from Katoomba to the famous Jenolan Caves.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this preview of the incredible places you can see by riding the trolley bus. So, jump on the train to Katoomba! When you exit the station, you’ll find us just across the pedestrian crossing. Trolley Tours is proud to be carbon neutral, so when you ride with us, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment.
Fraser Island (K’gari)
Fraser Island, more correctly known to the traditional owners as K’gari, is a beautiful World Heritage-listed island off the Queensland coast in Australia. It measures 1,600 square kilometers and is the largest sand island in the world, with various landscapes that include ancient rainforests, crystal-clear freshwater lakes, sweeping sand dunes, and pristine beaches. The island is steeped in a rich cultural heritage of the Butchulla people, traditional custodians who have been living on the island for several millennia.
From 4WD along the sandy tracks to easy strolls through its lush forests, a variety of experiences can be had on Fraser Island. Lake McKenzie, an attraction feature on the island, boasts turquoise-colored waters with white silica sand that make for a perfect venue to swim in and relax. The island is also a habitat for the wild dog species known as dingoes, which roam freely, adding to its untamed beauty.
The island’s rainforests, however, are the remarkable things to nature lovers, including trees that literally grow out of the sand and house an extremely rare ecosystem which thrives upon the island’s sandy base. The beaches of the island are also famous, being both a scenic drive route, such as the 75 Mile Beach, and home to natural wonders like whales, sharks, and turtles.
Whether you are exploring the famous Maheno Shipwreck, going on birdwatching trips, or even enjoying the island’s crystal-clear lakes, Fraser Island will add to your adventure and wildlife experience amidst natural beauty that should not be missed by any Australia- bound tourist.
Kings Canyon
After one last walk through Glen Helen Gorge, it was time to hit the road. I’ll be making my way 226 kilometers southwest to join up with the rest of the team at King’s Canyon. It’s a much shorter drive, but there’s still plenty to see along the way.
I’m looking forward to getting there, reading the dust settle, and seeing all that King’s Canyon has to offer. Thank you! I finally arrived at Discovery Resorts King’s Canyon, and the team isn’t too far off, so I figured I’d catch up with General Manager Todd Roberts to uncover what this stunning resort has on offer.
Todd, you’ve got an amazing setup here. It’s not just a caravan park, though, is it? No, it’s a resort. We have different types of accommodations. We’ve got newly refurbished deluxe rooms with freestanding baths, beautiful standard rooms with private balconies, and glamping tents that sleep two to four. On the caravan park side, we have powered and unpowered sites, as well as ensuite facilities. Soon, we’ll have two-bedroom deluxe cabins coming online—those will be available later in 2024.
Wow, that’s going to be a cracking view to wake up to tomorrow morning, especially for sunset and sunrise. It’s just a beautiful spot to be. So, when people arrive and set up, what are some of the things they can see and do while they’re in King’s Canyon?
There are plenty of things to do. The most popular is obviously the Rim Walk at King’s Canyon. We also have the Lookout Track, which is on our property and takes you behind the resort, overlooking the canyon and the property. We’ve got the Karrk Aboriginal experience just down the road, helicopter tours, and the Junior Desert Eco Rangers program, which is available for children during the school holidays as well.
Fantastic! So, once guests have done all of that, and they need to wet their whistle, do you have a place for them? Absolutely! We’ve got a couple of options for you. We’ve got the Kings Canyon Bar and Grill, which offers a more relaxed environment. Then there’s Carmarkers, which showcases local and ultra-fresh produce. We also have something really special—Under the Desert Moon. It’s a five-course degustation with matching wines, all under the stars.
Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is one of Australia’s most iconic and awe-inspiring natural features, set against Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This rugged mountain peaks at 1,545 meters and is full of dramatic alpine terrain-a pronounced mixture of peaked mountains, crystal lakes, ancient rainforests, and a variety of wildlife. For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, it’s a haven-a number of outdoor activities are offered amidst breathtakingly beautiful landscapes.
The mountain is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, with its amazing beauty and great ecological importance. Several walks are possible in the surrounding national park, from the short, spectacular Dove Lake Circuit to the challenging Cradle Mountain summit trek. This challenging climb offers adventurers panoramic views over the surrounding wilderness, including the pristine Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake.
Added to that is the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The famous Tasmanian devil, wombats, and pademelons can be seen in Cradle Mountain, while for the birdwatchers, species such as the pink robin and the western ground parrot can be identified. Quiet lakes and streams, like Dove Lake and Lake Lilla, are spots where one might want to go and just reflect or take photos.
The weather at Cradle Mountain changes all the time, from sunshine to misty and rainy weather, adding up to the mystery and appeal of the landscape viewed. It is especially popular during cooler months when most peaks are capped with snow to create a mystical winter wonderland.
From hiking and wildlife spotting to simply taking in the views, Cradle Mountain is a place of unforgettable adventure in the real Tasmanian wilderness. Cradle Mountain is one of Australia’s most iconic and awe-inspiring natural attractions, located in Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This rugged mountain rises to 1,545 meters and is known for its dramatic alpine scenery, with jagged peaks, pristine lakes, ancient rainforests, and diverse wildlife. The area is a haven for nature lovers and hikers, offering a range of outdoor activities amidst spectacular landscapes.
The mountain is also a part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, noted for its astounding beauty and ecological importance. A number of day and multi-day walking tracks in the surrounding national park range in difficulty from the short but spectacular Dove Lake Circuit through to the challenging summit hike up the peak of Cradle Mountain. Panoramic views await adventurers at the top of this summit hike, including Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, Lake St Clair.
It is a place with diverse flora and fauna that add to its beauty. The famous Tasmanian devil, wombats, and pademelons call Cradle Mountain home, while birdwatchers frequently visit to catch glimpses of birds like the pink robin and the western ground parrot. Dove Lake and Lake Lilla are two of the quiet lakes and streams that provide great spots for quiet moments and photo opportunities.
Cradle Mountain’s weather can be unpredictable, often shifting from clear skies to mist and rain, adding to the mystery and allure of the landscape. The area is especially popular during the cooler months, when snow-capped peaks create a magical winter wonderland.
Whether you’re hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking in the stunning views, Cradle Mountain offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking an authentic wilderness adventure in Tasmania.
Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island, in the Tasman sea and with around 700 kilometers from the coast of New South Wales, Australia, is a small but truly amazing island and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. The island is really beautiful in its natural setting and is a real paradise for true nature lovers, adventurers and even those looking for escapes to tranquil and untouched settings. A mere 11 km long and at its widest point only 2.8 km, Lord Howe Island is a peaceful getaway with a very cosy, low-key ambience.
Dazzling beaches, clear lagoons, green forests and dramatic volcanic peaks are characteristics of the island. Mount Gower is the most widely recognized feature of the island. It stands up to 875 m above air and is famous for its hiking trails where the most exciting descents offer journeying along difficult paths with magnificent views of the island and its surrounding the waters. Not only this, walking paths litter the island, traversing many of its ecosystems, including rainforests, subtropical woodlands and coastal heathlands.
Now, almost 200 bird species are counted, such as the endangered Lord Howe Island Phasmid. These distinct habitats reveal a broad spectrum of oceanic biodiversity including coral reefs, tropical fish, varied invertebrates and a wide range of marine and terrestrial habitats. The island offers some of the most thrilling underwater experiences, such as snorkelling and diving in the protected lagoon itself and surrounding waters.
And not only that, each day has only 400 visitors to Lord Howe Island, making it an exclusive pristine paradise, unspoiled by mass tourism. It really is a place of relaxation and adventure, be it trekking through its natural wonders or engaging in activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. Most certainly, Lord Howe Island is indeed an untouched paradise where beautiful nature comes out at its purest form.
The natural wonders of Australia are simply a testament to its diverse and breathtaking landscapes, from iconic landmarks to secret hideaways. These natural wonders are lifetime opportunities that let one connect with nature in the most breathtaking manner. Be it an adventurous soul or just one willing to see the beauty of the world, Natural Wonders of Australia is a must-visit place that promises memories to be cherished forever.
Thank you, and that wraps up our 10 must-see Natural Wonders of Australia | discover the top picks. Do you agree with the places we chose, or is there somewhere you visited that you feel should be on the list? leave us a comment.
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