Top 15 Unforgettable Tours in Australia

Australia is a nation characterized by its remarkable diversity and vastness. From its northern extremities to the southern reaches and from the eastern coastline to the western outback, the country boasts ever-evolving landscapes, each offering breathtaking scenery. The sheer scale of Australia is difficult to grasp, and each destination presents unique attractions and vistas. Travelers can be assured that regardless of their chosen itinerary, they will encounter experiences that are unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

There are numerous outstanding tours available throughout Australia, showcasing the nation’s natural beauty and iconic attractions. This includes the vibrant sandy islands of the Whitsundays and the lush rainforests coupled with spectacular waterfalls found in the Northern Territory’s pristine national parks. Activities such as snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, cruising along the Brisbane River, or embarking on the scenic Great Ocean Road from Melbourne highlight the country’s stunning offerings.

With a multitude of activities to pursue in Australia, the following list details the top tours that allow travelers to witness the nation’s best.

1. Whitsundays Full Day Catamaran Sailing Adventure From Airlie

The Whitsundays are recognized as one of the most visually stunning archipelagos in Australia. Located off the east coast in Queensland, the area features vibrant waters bordered by some of the country’s purest and whitest sands. Departing from Airlie Beach on the mainland, this tour offers a swift and comfortable Catamaran journey to the islands.

This full-day experience encompasses visits to the most celebrated locations, including the renowned Whitehaven Beach. Participants will have ample opportunities for snorkeling in tranquil bays, hiking through lush rainforests, and enjoying a buffet lunch complete with drinks on board the Catamaran.

2. Rottnest Island Bike and Ferry Combo From Perth

Rottnest Island serves as Perth’s most renowned holiday destination. This picturesque island is conveniently situated just a brief ferry ride from Fremantle Harbor, south of the city of Perth. It is particularly popular during the summer months due to its unspoiled beaches and exceptional snorkeling opportunities.

Travel by ferry from Perth, and then ride a bicycle along the rugged coastline of Rottnest Island. Discover picturesque beaches and bays, enjoy a refreshing swim in the ocean, and be on the lookout for the island’s most famous inhabitants—the Quokkas. These adorable creatures are unique to Rottnest Island and exhibit such benign behavior that they will approach visitors for photographs. Resembling a cross between a kangaroo and a large hamster, Quokkas are unlike any other animal, making Rottnest Island a must-visit.

3. Explore Fraser Island: 2 Day Grand 4WD Tour

Situated on the east coast of Australia, just north of Brisbane, Fraser Island is recognized as the world’s largest sand island. Composed predominantly of sand, it supports an extraordinary ecosystem that includes dense rainforests growing from the sandy substrate. The island features crystal-clear freshwater lakes and serves as the premier location in Australia to observe wild dingoes in their natural habitat.

This two-day tour provides an in-depth exploration of Fraser Island, utilizing a 4WD bus that allows for comfortable travel across lengthy beaches and rugged off-road tracks, granting ample time to reach the most secluded and pristine locations.

4. Day Trip to Kangaroo Island by Boat from Adelaide

The third largest island in Australia is situated off the southern coastline, a short distance from Adelaide. While the island has a small resident population, the majority of its terrain consists of national parks and protected areas that foster the preservation of its untamed nature and diverse wildlife.

Visitors can enjoy remarkable hiking opportunities amidst stunning, windswept scenery, and encounter a range of Australian wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas.

5. From Cairns: Luxury Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour

The Great Barrier Reef stands as the largest living organism on Earth, stretching for hundreds of miles along Australia’s eastern coastline. It is among the most awe-inspiring natural wonders globally—a vibrant underwater realm full of colorful corals and a rich variety of marine life.

From Cairns, you can board a vessel that will take you to the outer islands, where you can snorkel, dive, and marvel at this extraordinary marine environment while enjoying the comfort of the boat.

6. Litchfield National Park Full Day Safari From Darwin

The Northern Territory, affectionately regarded by Australians as the Top End, is a remote and sparsely populated area of the country that sees relatively few tourists. Although it is somewhat isolated, the journey to Darwin, the capital, is worthwhile to embark on a tour of Litchfield National Park.

This expedition allows you to delve into the wilderness of the rainforest, with trails leading through Litchfield National Park and guiding you to invigorating freshwater swimming holes and breathtaking waterfalls.

7. Uluru and Kata Tjuta Tour with Base Walk and Sunset BBQ

Commencing from the Ayers Rock Resort near Alice Springs, situated in the heart of the Outback, this extensive tour will guide you to Uluru—the world’s most famous rock formation. You will gain insights into the Aboriginal history and traditions associated with Uluru, partake in a walk around the rock’s base, and culminate your day with a traditional Aussie BBQ outdoors during sunset, complemented by spectacular views of Uluru.

8. Kings Canyon: Full Day Tour From Ayers Rock Resort

Kings Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural landmarks found in the Northern Territory’s Outback. Positioned close to the notable Uluru, this attraction sees fewer tourists yet is equally captivating in its own right.

This guided excursion will navigate you along the walking trails that follow the canyon’s edge, offering remarkable views over this stunning landmark.

9. Kuranda Full Day Trip by Train and Skyrail

Starting from Cairns, this journey takes you into the rainforest and leads to the delightful tourist town of Kuranda, elevated in the hills above the city. The Scenic Railway offers a picturesque ride to Kuranda, with stops allowing for views over Barron Falls—one of Australia’s most powerful waterfalls.

Once in Kuranda, you can explore markets and savor local cuisine before taking the remarkable Skyrail back to Cairns, traversing effortlessly over the lush forest canopy below.

10. Fitzroy Island Full Day Adventure Tour From Cairns

Fitzroy Island is located a mere 45-minute boat ride from Cairns. This lush and unspoiled national park offers an exceptional day out. As a part of the Great Barrier Reef, Fitzroy Island allows for a relaxing day spent on its beaches, snorkeling among the surrounding corals, followed by enjoying a beverage at the on-site bar.

11. Great Ocean Road Day Tour From Melbourne

The Great Ocean Road is considered one of the most iconic road trips worldwide. The route takes travelers from Melbourne along the coast, showcasing spectacular cliffs, crashing ocean waves, and breathtaking views.

This tour allows participants to experience the Great Ocean Road comfortably as part of a small group, with designated stops to admire the Twelve Apostles and numerous national parks along the way.

12. Pinnacles Desert: Sunset and Star Gazing Tour

This exceptional tour will transport you from Perth to the Pinnacles Desert following an enjoyable visit to the charming Swan Valley. At Lancelin, experience sandboarding down some of the tallest dunes in Western Australia, before arriving at Pinnacles National Park during sunset to witness the singular rock formations illuminated against a starry backdrop.

13. Blue Mountains Tour

The Blue Mountains represent a defining feature of the stunning landscapes located inland from Sydney. This group tour offers spectacular views over expansive valleys from the plateau tops, providing sweeping vistas of the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, which has been gradually sculpted into a distinctive natural landmark. The tour includes rides on the Scenic Railway and Skyrail, offering remarkable views along the journey.

14. The Barossa Valley: Premium Wine Tour

The Barossa Valley is renowned as one of Australia’s preeminent wine-producing regions. On this small group tour, you will journey from Adelaide into the heart of the valley. You will have the opportunity to visit four distinct wineries, observing first-hand how the Barossa Valley cultivates some of the finest wines worldwide, while indulging in tastings accompanied by exquisite food platters.

15. Port Arthur Full Day Tour From Hobart

This day trip from Hobart to Port Arthur allows you to explore the island’s most significant natural and historical attractions. Start by taking in the dramatic cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula—rugged and windswept landscapes that are sure to impress. Continue on to Port Arthur, where the remnants of the convict-built prisons tell the story of a historical chapter dating back to the British Empire.