Active & Adventure VacationsAustralia

Australia is the ultimate adventure-lover’s paradise, a continent-sized country with a vast tapestry of landscapes and natural wonders to explore. 

From surfing along the coast to rappelling down waterfalls, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef to rafting on Tasmania’s Franklin River, water activities are abundant in every corner of the country.

There is also no shortage of activities on land, whether it’s hiking the craters of an extinct volcano, skydiving over the beach or riding an ATV in the Outback. The country is also home to a wealth of unique animals and marine life, making it the perfect destination for animal lovers. (Crocodile encounters, koala cuddles and shark cage diving, anyone?)

The Rugged Outback

The heart of Australia lies in its rugged Outback, an awe-inspiring expanse that stretches endlessly under the sun. Adventure trips to Australia often start here, with tours that introduce you to the rich landscapes and narratives that define this mystical land. Consider taking a guided journey through the iconic Red Centre, where the towering majesty of Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a humbling sight. It’s not just a monolithic spectacle but a sacred site deeply rooted in Aboriginal culture. As the sun dips below the horizon, Uluru transforms, painting the sky with hues that seem almost surreal—truly a moment to cherish.

Coastal Wonders

For those who seek their thrills by the sea, Australia’s coastline offers endless possibilities. Active trips to Australia are incomplete without exploring the Great Barrier Reef, a marine wonder that teems with vibrant underwater life. Here, travelers can snorkel, dive or even sleep overnight on a dive boat. The Reef is located off Queensland, where adventurers can also go on a whale-watching expedition in Brisbane or try kayaking along the Sunshine Coast. Active travelers can also pick up a board and go surfing at such iconic spots as Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour and Bondi Beach. 

Australia’s coastal allure also extends beyond the water. The Great Ocean Road runs along some of the world’s most pristine beaches and offers breathtaking ocean vistas. Imagine a road trip through towering limestone cliffs and lush rainforests, with the ocean’s waves crashing below. It’s an unparalleled drive that showcases Australia’s diverse landscapes.

Thrills in the Blue Mountains

Just a short trip from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a paradise for nature-loving adrenaline junkies. Named after the bluish haze that surrounds them, the peaks offer plenty of gorgeous hiking trails to explore, as well as opportunities for canyoning, swimming and caving. Port Stephens is known for parasailing; you can take scenic balloon rides from the vineyards of the Hunter Valley to the coastal region around Byron Bay. In the wintertime, skiers and snowboarders can visit the snowy mountains for some serious slope and apres-ski action. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the penguin colonies on Phillip Island or the koalas in Warrandyte State Park.

Urban Excitement in Sydney

No trip to Australia would be complete without immersion in the vibrant life of Sydney. Beyond its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney pulsates with thrilling activities. Take a harbour jet boat ride for an adrenaline-pumping perspective of the cityscape, or climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge to soak in panoramic views that stretch across the city and the sea.