Great Australian Outdoors provides nature lovers with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Many are familiar with locales including Sydney and Canberra, but little-known areas are home to a number of diverse plant and animal species. Avoid bustling crowds and enjoy sights witnessed by a select few by taking the path less traveled.
Many years before the first European arrived on Australian soil, the region was inhabited by indigenous peoples who spoke more than 250 languages. Dutch explorers discovered the area during the 1600s. Britain claimed eastern Australia during the late-1700s. The country received commonwealth status in 1901.
Home to the 13th largest economy in the world, Australia received high marks in quality of life and life expectancy rates. The country has a desert climate, with a number of habitats including tropical rainforests. Due to the continent‘s lengthy existence, the area is home to a number of plant and animal species found nowhere else on earth. This is why a number of nature-lovers are attracted to Australia. Consider the following attractions when looking for places to enjoy nature with minimal distractions.
Jutpurra National Park
Jutpurra National Park, also known as Gregory National Park, is 13,000 kilometers (8,077 miles) of wilderness located to the west of Katherine, a town located in the Northern Territory of Australia. Four-wheel drive is a requirement for navigation through the area, making Jutpurra popular with driving enthusiasts. Many arrive to the area via the Victoria Highway, which provides picturesque views of escarpments, or steep cliffs.
The tropical climate dominating most of the continent gives way to a semi-arid environment. This is the only area where Boab trees grow freely. Only eight species of the tree are in existence. Gorges, rivers, sandstone and limestone formations make the trip a memorable event. Contact the Victoria River Roadhouse before your visit to check on park road conditions. This is especially important during the wet season, which runs from November to March.
Recommended attractions include the Escarpment Walk, a two hour journey that provides stunning views of the Victoria River. Make your way through lush vegetation before arriving at the Joe Creek Picnic Area. Jasper Gorge provides a scenic locale for overnight camping.
Western Australia
2.2 million people call Western Australia home. The area is six times larger than Germany, with three separate climate zones: sub-tropical, tropical and sub-equatorial. As of July 2011, much of the area is still relatively unknown, but quickly becoming one of the fastest developing areas in Australia, according to tourism professionals.
While in Western Australia, be sure to explore the red deserts. A number of snakes, lizards and insects remain hidden during the intense midday sun, but appear in the morning and afternoon. Ridges hold shade and springs that entice visitors to swim.
Visitors should formulate plans based on what section of the area they are visiting. May through October are considered the best times to visit the northern section. The heat is moderate and visitors avoid hurricanes coming from the south. Visitors to the southern portion should arrive during the transitional periods in spring and autumn to avoid extreme temperatures.
Flinders Island, Tasmania
Flinders Island is Tasmania’s largest island. The island is located in Bass Straight, 20 kilometers (12.42 miles) from Tasmania, Australia. Only 900 people live on the island, which encounters minimal traffic from tourists or mainland residents. The Darling Ranges run through the center of the island, the highest peak named Mt. Strzelecki. Approximately two-thirds of the island has been designated as a national park area. Visitors have the opportunity to observe wildlife in a number of bushlands, lagoons and coastal reserves.
Zac is a travel writer offering budget travel tips. He recommends holiday packages and exclusive cheap flight deals that will lower the price of your future to be unforgettable vacation.
