Queensland, Australia’s magical sunshine state. With its coastlines, cities, rainforests, and diverse wildlife, Queensland offers an journey for visitors seeking both iconic landmarks and hidden treasures.
- Great Barrier Reef: No visit to Queensland is complete without exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Dive into an underwater paradise filled with coral formations, tropical fish, and other marine creatures.
- Daintree Rainforest: Experience the world’s oldest rainforest at Daintree, where foliage intertwines with rivers. Take a guided tour and encounter diverse wildlife, trek along scenic trails, or cruise down the Daintree River for a chance to spot crocodiles.
- Whitsunday Islands: Discover the Whitsunday Islands, a paradise of 74 islands dotted along the Great Barrier Reef. Embark on a sailing trip, relax on white sandy beaches, or snorkel in crystal-clear waters filled with colourful marine life.
- Fraser Island: Head to the largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island. Explore its magical landscape, including ancient rainforests, clear lakes, and dune formations. Don’t miss a visit to Lake McKenzie, a freshwater lake with pure white silica sand.
- The Gold Coast: Experience the glitz and glamour of the Gold Coast, famous for its world-class surf beaches and lively entertainment. Indulge in thrilling theme parks, soak up the sun on Surfers Paradise beach, or venture into the hinterland for views.
- Kuranda Scenic Railway: Embark on a scenic train ride through the rainforest from Cairns to Kuranda. Admire cascading waterfalls, dense foliage, and rugged gorges as the train winds its way through the Barron Gorge.
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary:
- Get up close and personal with Australia’s iconic wildlife at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane where you can cuddle a koala (controversial but that is what they offer), feed kangaroos, and admire colourful birds in this beautiful sanctuary.
- Port Douglas: Escape to the coastal town of Port Douglas, known for its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a day trip to the nearby Mossman Gorge or relax on the palm-fringed Four Mile Beach.
- Whitehaven Beach: Prepare to be mesmerised by the beauty of Whitehaven Beach. Located within the Whitsunday Islands, this stretch of beach hosts dazzling white silica sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
- Cape Tribulation: Discover the meeting point of the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef at Cape Tribulation. Take a guided tour through this UNESCO World Heritage site and witness the harmony of two extraordinary ecosystems.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:
- Carnarvon Gorge: Embark on a hiking adventure through the ancient sandstone wonderland of Carnarvon Gorge, known for its towering cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and Indigenous rock art.
- Wallaman Falls: Visit Wallaman Falls, Australia’s tallest single-drop waterfall Located in the rainforest of Girringun National Park. Take in the views, go camping, or enjoy birdwatching in this remote location.
- Chillagoe Caves: Explore the ancient limestone caves of Chillagoe, located in the remote outback. Admire formations as you delve into the subterranean world close to the town of Chillagoe.
- Magnetic Island: Escape the crowds and embrace the relaxed island life on Magnetic Island. Explore hidden bays, spot koalas in their natural habitat, and unwind on secluded beaches surrounded by untouched nature.
- Lamington National Park: Discover the untouched beauty of Lamington National Park, with its rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Keep an eye out for rare birds and encounter flora and fauna in this magnificent park.
- Agnes Water and Town of 1770: Visit the twin coastal towns of Agnes Water and Town of 1770, where you can enjoy uncrowded beaches, go surfing, or take a cruise along the estuaries.
- Hinchinbrook Island:
- Escape to the wilderness of Hinchinbrook Island, located off the northern Queensland coast. Trek the Thorsborne Trail, a coastal hike that takes you through rainforests and along secluded beaches.
- Paronella Park: Experience the enchanting Paronella Park, a Spanish Castle in the rainforest. Explore the gardens, wander through historic ruins, and learn about the story behind this attraction