Australia Travel Guide
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Australia
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Australia
From ancient red deserts and tropical rainforests to sun-drenched coastlines and vibrant cities, Australia is one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. Whether you’re riding the legendary Ghan through the outback, snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, spotting sea lions on Kangaroo Island or exploring Hobart’s convict history and vibrant arts scene, you’ll see more, do more and experience more on a handcrafted Australia tour. Let us take care of all the logistics, so you can simply focus on discovering the world.
Population
Approx. 27 million
Time zone
UTC+8 to UTC+11
Best time to visit
Year-round
Capital city
Canberra
Electricity
230V; Type I plug
Flight time
Domestic flight times vary by state
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Visa requirements
Not required for domestic travel
From tropical rainforests to vast red deserts
From tropical rainforests to vast red deserts
Australia packs a staggering variety of landscapes across its lands. In the tropical north, the ancient Daintree Rainforest tumbles down to the shores of the Coral Sea, while the Great Barrier Reef stretches more than 2,300 kilometres offshore, teeming with vibrant marine life. The Northern Territory reveals Australia’s wild heart, from the sacred sandstone monolith of Uluru to the extraordinary wetlands and rock art of Kakadu National Park. In South Australia, rich, rolling vineyards give way to rugged coastline. Further south, Tasmania stands apart, a wild, compact island of glacial lakes, ancient forests and convict heritage, where Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park await.
Things to do while touring Australia
Discover ancient landscapes and natural wonders
Australia’s landscapes are among the most ancient and awe-inspiring on Earth. Journey to the Red Centre to witness Uluru at sunrise, cruise through the sheer sandstone walls of Nitmiluk Gorge or stand at the edge of the escarpment in Kakadu, surveying wetlands unchanged for thousands of years. The Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and Tasmanian Wilderness are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each offering a window into nature on a breathtaking scale.
Encounter extraordinary wildlife
Nowhere else on Earth offers wildlife encounters quite like Australia. Walk among wild sea lions on Kangaroo Island’s Seal Bay, spot saltwater crocodiles on a Yellow Water Billabong cruise, come face to face with the endangered Tasmanian devil, or snorkel alongside sea turtles and reef sharks on the Great Barrier Reef. Kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and echidnas are woven into the landscape wherever you travel.
Ride legendary rail journeys
Australia’s iconic train journeys are destinations in their own right. Aboard the legendary Ghan, travel 2,979 kilometres through the heart of the mainland, from Adelaide through Alice Springs to Darwin, watching the landscape transform from rolling farmland to fiery outback and lush tropical savannah. The Kuranda Scenic Railway offers a very different perspective, winding through World Heritage rainforest above Cairns in Queensland. These journeys showcase Australia’s extraordinary diversity from a uniquely privileged vantage point.
Connect with First Nations’ culture
Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures represent the world’s oldest continuous living traditions, spanning more than 60,000 years. Guided experiences in Kakadu reveal ancient rock art sites, Dreamtime stories and a profound connection to country. In the Daintree, Kuku Yalanji-led walks through Mossman Gorge offer deep insight into the rainforest’s cultural significance. At Uluru, respectful engagement with Anangu guides transforms a visit to an iconic landmark into something far more meaningful.
Enjoy the great outdoors
Australia is a paradise for nature lovers, offering endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Walk amid remarkable coastal rock formations on Kangaroo Island, hike through the glacial landscapes of Cradle Mountain, take a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungle Range or paddle through pristine waterways in Freycinet. The diversity of Australia’s natural environments means there is always something new to discover beyond the next horizon.
Top destinations
The Red Centre
Rising dramatically from the flat desert plains of Central Australia, Uluru is Australia’s most iconic natural landmark and one of the most distinctive sacred sites in the world. The surrounding Uluru–Kata Tjūta National Park protects an extraordinary desert environment, while Alice Springs serves as the gateway to the Red Centre, offering insight into frontier history, Aboriginal art and the unique flora and fauna of the Australian outback.
Tropical North Queensland
Cairns is the gateway to two of the world’s great natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Snorkelling and diving in the reef’s coral gardens reveal a dazzling underwater world, while the ancient Daintree, the oldest surviving tropical rainforest on Earth, offers immersive walks, wildlife encounters and the rare sight of rainforest meeting the sea at Cape Tribulation.
Tasmania
Australia’s island state is a world apart. Hobart’s vibrant waterfront, eclectic MONA gallery, atmospheric Salamanca Market and commanding views from kunanyi make Tasmania’s capital one of Australia’s most captivating cities. Beyond Hobart, Cradle Mountain’s rugged alpine scenery, Freycinet’s Wineglass Bay, the haunting convict ruins of Port Arthur and the wildlife-rich coastline of the Tasman Peninsula await.
Australia frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to visit Australia?
Australian passport holders do not require a visa to travel domestically. For international visitors, requirements vary by nationality. Entry conditions may change from time to time, so it’s best to check the latest information before you go. Stay up to date with Smartraveller.
What is the best time of year for Australia tours?
Australia is a year-round destination, with each season and region offering something different. The tropical north is best explored during the dry season from April to October, while the Red Centre is most comfortable in spring and autumn. Tasmania and the southern states shine from November to March, when temperatures are warm and the landscapes are at their most vivid.
How do you get around Australia while touring?
Australia is well suited to touring, with scenic coach routes, legendary rail journeys and domestic flights connecting many of the country’s highlights. With My Touring, you’ll enjoy the comfort of private deluxe coach transportation and internal flights included in your package, allowing you to sit back, take in the extraordinary scenery and leave the logistics to your tour leader.
Is Australia expensive to visit on a tour?
Australia offers good value for money, with a wide range of accommodation, dining and experience options. Booking an Australia touring package with exclusive Bonus Savings can help stretch your spend further. Led by Touring Experts, My Touring handcrafts perfectly packaged tour holidays with perfectly placed accommodation, comfortable transport and curated experiences included.
Is Australia safe for tourists?
Yes, Australia is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in the world for travellers. Visiting Australia on a guided tour adds an extra layer of comfort and local insight, with experienced guides ensuring safe and seamless travel. As with any destination, safety can vary by location, so it’s important to stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, respect local customs and follow official travel advice during your visit.
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Delve deeper into Australia with My Touring, with handcrafted itineraries that venture further into the world’s most sought-after destinations. Led by Touring Experts, our Australia tours blend breathtaking scenery, immersive cultural experiences and iconic railways into one unforgettable journey. Start planning your next adventure today.