As a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area, it's only fitting that we start with Ningaloo Reef when it comes to amazing places to see nature in Australia. Known for its whale sharks, the sea life here is second-to-none, and as well as its most notable resident, you'll also be able to see manta rays, turtles and migrating humpback waves amongst the swell.
If a trip to Ningaloo Reef sounds like a dream come true, staying there would make it that extra bit remarkable. Located on the shoreline,
Sal Salis isn't a hotel as you know it but an eco-camp with 15 luxury wilderness tents ready for naturalists who want to stay in the heart of this location. Enjoy tranquil gorge walks, sea kayaking and snorkelling whilst you're here. And, for the most unforgettable experience, swim with the mighty humpback whale and whale sharks in the turquoise waters your accommodation overlook.
Located 14 kilometres off the South Australian coast and not far from Adelaide Airport, Kangaroo Island is one of Australia's most popular wildlife destinations. As the third largest of Australia's islands, with one-third of the land protected, it's a wildlife hotspot and the perfect place to visit for those who want to get to know some of the country's indigenous creatures.
Whether there is or isn't a particular Aussie animal you want to see, you'll likely be able to find it here. Discover kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, possums, dolphins, whales, sea lions, seals, eagles, and much more!
If you want to stay on the island often dubbed Australia's 'Galapagos,' then
Oceanview Eco Villas is the ideal place to do so. Once here, you won't need to go far to find the star attraction, as the resort's 500 acres are home to some amazing native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies and eagles.
Making up the northernmost tip of Western Australia, The Kimberley is an ancient landscape and a scenic showcase of the Australian wilderness. Here you can enjoy canyons, swimming holes, outback stations and a feeling of complete remoteness. While enjoying this sandstone haven, discover saltwater crocodiles, dingos, kangaroos and wallabies, echidnas, monitor lizards and more.
For an intimate experience in the Kimberly, look no further than
El Questro Homestead. Comprising a total of nine rooms and suites and hidden amongst the vibrant orange cliffs the area's known for, El Questro is a luxury retreat that feels like a dream. During your stay, enjoy a boat ride along the Chamberlain Gorge and explore the area by horseback to see the local fauna first-hand.
As the largest mountain range in South Australia, you're guaranteed spectacular views in the iconic Flinders Ranges. The area has an almost otherworldly feel, with ancient cliffs cutting through the landscape and a deep red colour stretching as far as the eye can see. You'll find wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, eagles, emus, and much more throughout the Ranges.
Dating back to 1856,
Arkaba Station is the perfect place to stay to make the most of your time in Flinders Ranges. Set within its own private 60,000 acres of conserved land, it's a stunning retreat and a committed part of this area. Once here, you can enjoy all manner of safaris, including four-wheel drive, as well as air and walking safaris, to see the amazing residents of the station.
For the truest adventurers, why not tackle The Arkaba Walk? Often dubbed one of Australia's Great Walks, you'll be able to cut through the fantastic landscape, opting for either a lodge-based experience or some nights under the stars, all sorted by Arkaba Station themselves.
Off the coast of Perth sits Rottnest Island, a protected nature reserve famous for one significant resident - the quokka. Known for its smiley face and friendly nature, this marsupial is endemic to Western Australia's South West corner but are most easily seen on Rottnest Island. For those who travel to Australia for a luxury holiday in Perth, grabbing a picture with one of these adorable creatures is a definite bucket list item.
For those who want to visit Rottnest Island, you can stay in Perth and travel over from some of our splendid city hotel options. Whether you opt for the opulent
Ritz-Carlton or the boutique
COMO The Treasury, you'll be able to combine a metropolitan holiday with a taste of nature.
As one of the world's longest navigable rivers, it's no wonder the Murray River's banks and water are teaming with amazing wildlife. The lifeblood of Victoria, the river is the beating heart of this area and home to many native creatures. You'll see kangaroos, emus, echidnas and lizards on the shores and spectacular birdlife in the skies, including eagles and pelicans.
If a stay overlooking the Murray River sounds like your idea of heaven, then
The Frames can make that a reality. An adult-focused getaway with three private retreats, all boasting private swimming pools, you'll feel at one with the river and nature whilst staying here. Whilst you do, enjoy an amazing wetland and wildlife cruise down the Murray River, brilliant walking tours and more.
If you want to make the most of your time down under and witness some of the wildlife highlights, our Wine and Wildlife private tour of Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Comprised of 16 nights, you'll get a chance to tick off notable regions like the Adelaide, Perth, Ningaloo Reef and Barossa Valley. Swim with whale sharks, meet smiling quokkas on Rottnest Island, enjoy a private vinery tour and much more.