Top Outback Safari Destinations in Australia
The word safari is deeply associated with African terrain and the golden horizons of savannas. In Australia, however, animal encounters in the wild come with their own iconic peculiarities such as rare species, or landscapes unlike any other across the globe and recreation. Whether you are an outdoorsy fan who likes to marvel at the wild animals in their natural setting while camping or hiking amid the lush nature, Australia has much to offer.
Let us go through the top 15 safari destinations in Australia that are worth a visit at least once in a lifetime.
1. Great Ocean Road
Lounging between Torquay and Allansford, the whole region is veined with emerald green rivers and countless epic wildlife habitats and home to emus, kangaroos, koalas, and reptiles. These scenic coasts are also labeled as a viewing platform for breaching dolphins and whale watching, from May through September.
In addition to wildlife, the Great Ocean Road holds international fame for its scenic views and breathtaking vistas of the rolling hills down to the white sand beaches. Known as an Australian National Heritage, the region is sprawling with soft peaks of ancient volcanoes, epic rainforests, and crystalline coasts.
The territory is also a historic residence of an aboriginal tribe. To find out more about the habitats and the region’s heritage, visit the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve near Warrnambool.
2. Mungo Outbacks
If you find the stretches of red dunes and sand-washed plains mesmerizing, the landscape of Lake Mingo is going to capture you with its spell-bound beauty. The ravine ecosystems and the ancient dunes are the habitats to numerous unique species; colorful parrots, Emus, cheerful kangaroos, and lizards with flamboyant patterns, and reptiles- Mungo outbacks are one of the most delightful locations in Australia for wildlife encounters.
The lake and its surrounding plains have been sacred land to indigenous tribes, hence protected under the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area. To have a wholesome experience, join the private safari and outback tours that, for an additional cost, open a door to a world of wonders for you.
3. Uluru Outback
Noted as a quintessential Australian safari destination, Uluru is situated at the rugged heart of the Northern Territory. The landscape is known for its ethereal feel, especially during the golden hour, at the sunrise, and sunsets.
In addition to extensive heath plains, the landscape encompasses rover gorges, canyons, limitless horizons, and snaking rivers. The wildlife specialties here are Brush-tailed Mulgara, packs of Dingo, Wallabies, Red Kangaroos, and several astonishing reptiles.
The land carries an aurora of spirituality, homing the sacred rituals of Australian aboriginals, of both native and off-territory tribes. Visitors can join the aboriginal guides to hear the ancient stories and the secrets this terrain has carried for eons.
4. Maria Island
Maria Island is noted for its intriguing landscape, rising over the mountainous terrain of Tasmania with all its wondrous beauty. Not far from the fishing town of Hobart, the namesake park shelters endearing Tasmanian Devil, foraging among the tall eucalyptus trees, Wombats, and numerous bird species including the famous Tasmanian Hens.
The Island’s visitors can stay at the scenic lodges on the heights, or camp near the placid bays. Among the sandstone cliffs, limestone quarries, lush slopes, and spectacular viewpoints, the Fossil Cliffs are a must-visit location on the Maria Island Safari tour.
5. Kangaroo Island
Named as the jewel of Dudley Peninsula, Kangaroo Island lies just off the shores of South Australia. Known for its limestone cliffs and pale beaches that are fringed by barren dunes and verdant hills, the island is a treasure trove of chaste nature.
Overlooking the magnificent Southern Ocean swell, these hills are a native habitat to Tammar Wallabies, birds, and, of course, the Island’s kangaroos. Several birds, both from native species and migrating flocks, attract bird-watching enthusiasts each year. Do not miss the Pelican Lagoon and several scenic hiking paths through the region.
Foodie delicacies and premium wine are other exquisite features of the region to enjoy after a day of safari and encountering wild animals.
6. Australia’s Top End
For getting off the grid and visiting the unprecedented wilderness of Australia, The Top End boasts an untamed landscape. The entire uninhabited landscape of northern Australia is recognized as the Top End, featuring abounding savannas, scenic wetlands, rich mangroves, and the pure feel of nature.
The region is acclaimed for its numerous bird species and is marked as a premium birding ground worldwide. Other notable creatures here are Woodward’s Wallaroo, Oenpelli python, Flying Foxes, and Dingos.
Join the outback adventures are the small township of Darwin and feast your eyes on terrains that bear no sign of artificial constructions or contamination.
7. East Gippsland
East Gippsland is prominent for its spectacular rainforests, cold temperate vegetation, barren terrains near the shorelines, pristine shores, and rivers. The quaint nature and diverse ecosystem have turned this region into one of the highly populated areas in terms of wildlife.
East Gippsland boasts several endemic species such as Gliders, Wallabies, kangaroos, King Parrots, the discernable Eastern Whipbird through their unique calls, and even the adorable eucalyptus munching Koalas. Travelers can stay at the outback lodgings or in the luxurious accommodations with fine dining features and premium comfort at the untarnished heart of the rainforest.
8. Tasmania
Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery is truly unmatched, hence its worldwide recognition as one of the most magical wilderness and fascinating species.
Entire Tasmania is protected within 19 national parks that encompass diverse landscapes and their own flora and fauna peculiarities. These parks encompass marine life, coastal spectacles, and forest-dwelling habitats.
Famed for its mascot animal, the Tasmanian Devil, the Islands is also home to Platypus, Wombat, Pademelon, Cape Barren Goose, Little penguins on land, and Whales and Dolphin highlight the marine wonders here.
As Australia’s smallest state, Tasmania houses a considerable fraction of the country’s bird species and some of the most interesting creatures worldwide. Moreover, the state is exalted for its rich aboriginal culture and scrumptious cuisine with native ingredients such as lobsters and truffles.
9. The Great Barrier Reef
Visiting Australia’s wilderness is not complete without exploring the Great Barrier Reef, known as the most spectacular reef and largest coral formation on our planet. Snorkeling around the stunning underwater world with myriads of color some tropical fishes and manta rays is an Australian tradition.
Besides the marvelous and submerged realm of the marine park, the southern regions of the Great Reef Barrier offer on-land wonders too. Heron Island is one of the natural wonders of Australia, soaring up as a coral cay. It is home to several birds species and a hatching ground to the Green Sea Turtles.
The island also has a small jetty for water sports fans. Further down, the city of Bundaberg furnishes modern amenities, exceptional rum distilleries, and breweries, and often used as a base to the nearby coral reefs.
10. Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest houses the largest continuous stretch of rainforests in Australia, established for its exemplary nature and dazzling scenery. Amid the thick nature of the region, unique wildlife species have found their habitats for millennials.
The Graceful Tree Frog, Tree Kangaroos, the Southern Cassowary, Boyd’s Forest Dragon, and colorful bird species, including Kingfishers and Wompoo Fruit Doves.
To add a tinge of adventure to your safari trip, zip past the crocodile lagoons, or just take a few additional miles to snorkel and dive at the Great Reef Barrier.
To hike through the breathtaking nature of the Daintree Forest and spot its obscure wildlife, start your journey from Cairns, perceived as a worldwide marine adventure metropolitan with delectable seafood and a wide range of accommodations.
11. Murray River Safari
Boiling from the high boulders of the Snowy Mountains, the Murray River is Australia’s longest river with over 2500 km of scenic river banks. The picturesque sections of the river are equipped with houseboats and safari tour stations to spot the wildlife roaming in the vicinity.
It is common to come by species such as Koalas, Kangaroos, Pelicans, Black Swans, and Darters while lounging in the comfortable chambers of the boathouses. Canoeing over the river and other joining river branches is a highlighted adventure here, expanding the perspective over the lush riverbanks, lakeside marshes, and countless fascinating habitats.
Visitors can also take walks through designated hiking paths, veining the Mallee Woodlands, and River Red Gum Forests, known as a rewarding location for birding.
12. Eyre Peninsula
Esteemed for its world-famous wine, exceptional cuisine, and luxury accommodations, Eyre Peninsula is a popular tourist destination. In addition to epicurean facilities and crystal clear shores for swimming, what renders the peninsula popular is its nature and chances for wildlife encounters.
The sweeping stretches of coasts and seaside cliffs are a native home to the Australian Sea Lions, Seals, Southern Emu Wren, Rock Wallabies, the Eyre Peninsula Dragons, and several bird species living in the caves or around the scarce vegetation of Eyre Coastal Plains.
In winters, whale watching is a ritual around the peninsula, particularly around Fowler’s Bay, most notably the Southern Right Whale and Humpback Whale.
13. Port Lincoln
Located in the Lower Eyre Peninsula, Lincoln National Park holds a name for its birds, including seabirds, colorful parrots, eagles, and songbirds. Walking through the park grants the encounter with unique Australian animals such as Koalas high up on the eucalyptus trees, roaming Grey Kangaroos and grazing Emus over expensive plains, and with some luck, shy residents like the Blue Tongue Lizards and Tiger Snakes.
A fan of underwater thrills, visit the 360 degrees submerged viewing pod and let the Great White Sharks encircle around you. The Neptune Islands are remarkable for the high number of sharks because of the herd of fur seals living on the island and surrounding the crystalline Spencer Gulf.
Besides the rugged nature and pristine shores, Port Lincoln City is eminent for its notable marine heritage, intimate beachside cafes, fancy eateries, and boutique hotels.
14. Southern Highlands
The picturesque Southern Highlands is located at a short drive from the cultural metropolitan of Sydney, embracing cragged peaks, adorned with trembling waterfalls, vibrant nature, and much wildlife to spot.
The entire wildlife area is recognized for its biodiversity of native birds, including Parrots, Cockatoos, Kookaburras, Wedge-Tail Eagles, and Lyre-Birds. Other iconic creatures in the region are; Grey Kangaroos, Koalas, Sugar Gliders, Red-necked Wallabies, Wombats- only to name a few.
Joining a tour guide for your nature excursion helps to get the best out of your safari journey both for day trips or spotting nocturnal species. However, you can enjoy self-guided tours as well.
These highlands embrace the Australian heritage on their fertile slopes; both home to wine countries and historic townships, and indigenous communities.
15. Kakadu & Arnhem Land
Recognized as a World Heritage Destination, Kakadu National Park and the neighboring terrains of Arnhem Land shelter multitudes of Australian birds and animal habitats.
Brooded with dense forest, savanna woodlands, veining rivers, and waterfalls, Kakadu National Park boasts stunning scenery and incredible flora species. The land is home to Wallabies, Marsupials, Dingoes, Flying Foxes, and countless birds.
In Arnhem Land, nature grows rugged and wild, sprawled with cliffside rocks, pristine sandy shores, coastal vegetation, and occasional marking of the age-old aboriginal art. Saltwater Crocodile encounter is the specialty of the region sided by Dolphins, Dugongs, Turtles, and countless bird and fish species.
Final Suggestions
Before you go, you may be interested in these two safari destinations in Australia as well.
Nitmiluk National Park: surrounded by bogs and far-flung gorges, the park is birding heaven, dotted with ancient pictograph rocks, and secluded sweet water lagoons. Besides the unique birdlife, the park is also famed for its saltwater crocodile encounter. Explorers can reach the secluded areas by helicopter or by paddling their way through canoeing routes.
Werribee Open Range Zoo
Wildlife encounter at the comfort of modern amenities, the Werribee Open Range Zoo is located in Melbourn housing most of the quintessential Australian species, along with African wildlife encounters in uniquely designed habitats that much resemble their natural setting in the wild.
Interested in zoos? Check out our list of the top zoos in Australia.
