After arriving at Australia, you will quickly forget about the boring plane ride you just experienced. In Australia, there is always something special about the land down under. It may be the artistry of man’s creations or the spectacular scenery, from aboriginal rock art that are thousands of years old to the modern Sydney Opera House, which is recognized as one of the world’s most famous architecture. Simply put, there is a wide variety of famous landmarks in Australia for you to discover. This time round, you can consider a party bus to help you travel around each landmark while having fun! Here are the top landmarks you can consider:
Ayers Rock
Also known as Uluru, Ayers Rock is undoubtedly one of the most famous rocks in Australia. Surrounded by barren lands, Ayers Rock stands at a whopping 1,148 feet. It is located in the southwestern Northern Territory. Ayers Rock is also about a five-hour drive from Alice Springs. If you wish to witness the sun rising or setting, it is recommended that you spend the night at Uluru. This will give you plenty of time to climb the rock and take in the breathtaking sights. You can even see the rock’s colour change as the sun sets or rise.
Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon is an amazing landmark found in the Northern Territory. While its depth does not beat USA’s Grand Canyon, the scenery that it provides is nothing short of spectacular. If you want to dust off those hiking boots, this is an excellent place to do so. However, it is pertinent that you stay on the trails at Watarrka National Park. Keep in mind that certain parts of the Kings Canyon are sacred sites to the aboriginal peoples. Head on down to the bottom of Kings Creek to experience the canyon from a different perspective!
Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House is probably the symbol of Australia to the rest of the world. The modern man-made wonder was completed in 1973 and quickly rose to become an iconic landmark. It is located in Sydney Harbour and resembles shells that one might find on the beach. The amazing structure is supported mainly by concrete and features nearly 600 pillars. Since its inception, the Sydney Opera House has been used as a performing arts centre to showcase both local and international talents.
Great Barrier Reef
Do you enjoy nature? Check out the Great Barrier Reef! It is the world’s largest coral reef that stretches over 1,200 miles along Australia’s northeast coast. The reef also comprises 800 islands and 2,500 reefs. The underwater wonder was formed millions of years ago and perfect for both snorkelers and scuba divers alike. If you do not want to get wet, you can still see the reef via catamaran cruise or sailboat. In addition to taking in the sights of coral formations, you will be able to see a wide variety of amphibians, birds, saltwater crocodiles, sea turtles, dolphins, whales, and more.
Twelve Apostles
The towering Twelve Apostles were once part of the cliffs that lined the Southern Ocean. The limestone pillars were formed via natural means—erosion. However, several pillars have fully corroded. Today, you can only find eight Apostles that are still standing. But they are still as breath-taking as before; standing at heights of 150 feet or more. It is recommended that you view the pillars at dusk or dawn. Come and enjoy the awesome sights that the popular landmark in Victoria state has to offer.
Ubirr Rock Art
Anyone can appreciate primitive art. You do not have be a Grandma Moses to do so. At Ubirr Rock Art, you will be able to browse through 5,000 drawings, some dating back more than 40,000 years. The location presents one of the largest collections of rock art in the world. An interesting fact about the paintings is that they have been repainted over the millennia. Some of the paintings showcase the lives of aboriginal people who lived here, as well as plants, fish, and animals that were dealt with in the daily lives of our ancestors.
Cable Beach
Cable Beach is an iconic beach located in Australia. It features a string of gorgeous white sand beaches, approximately a 13-mile stretch. Located in WA’s Kimberly region, it is a must-visit destination if you love sunbathing or beachcombing. One thing that makes Cable Beach so colourful is that it is sandwiched between the azure blue waters of the Indian Ocean and the red ochre cliffs. If you are travelling with your significant other, you can consider taking a romantic camel ride along the beach at sunset.
Kata Tjuta
Kata Tjuta comprises an array of enormous ancient rock formations. It is located in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Apart from Ayers Rock, the 36 domed rocks here are one of two landmarks in the park. The unique rock formations contain sandstone and are believed to be approximately 500 million years old. If you are wondering what Mount Olga is, it is the highest rock dome here and was named after Queen Olga from Wurttemberg. The Anangu people have lived in the area for more than 20,000 years and Kata Tjuta is sacred to them.
Heart Reef
Heart Reef is a world-famous Aussie landmark. Visitors can arrive at this landmark via Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour in Queensland. As Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsundays, it is an excellent location to start your journey to the Heart Shaped Reef. Once here, you can consider taking a helicopter or seaplane tour to view the reef. You may be pleased to know that overnight stays in the reef are possible as well.
Shark Bay
What can you find at the place where the sea meets the far west coast? Located on the edge of the Australian continent is the Shark Bay World Heritage Area. The landmark covers an area of over 2 million hectares and is one of the world’s greatest wilderness treasures. Here, you can find a unique combination of stunning scenery, flora, and wildlife. The local Malgana Aboriginal people here identify Shark Bay as Gutharraguda, which ‘two waters.’