Nine Unique Australian Wildlife Experiences

Australia is best known for its exceptional wildlife and experiences that allow you to get up close with these amazing animals. You can float alongside whale sharks, observe dozing koalas in treetops, or spot crocodiles on the banks of still waterholes.

Ocean Park Hong Kong

Swim with gentle ocean giants: whale sharks and humpback whales; from April to July, you can join a one-day snorkeling excursion in Exmouth or Coral Bay, where you can snorkel alongside these harmless, vegetarian fish that can reach up to 14 meters (46 feet) in length. Besides whale sharks, the warm waters of Western Australia are also home to tropical fish, manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, and whales, and from July to October, you can also swim with migrating humpback whale pods at Ningaloo Reef.

Great Ocean Road

Look for koalas sleeping between trees; this is one of the most thrilling roads in Australia. It winds along the southwest coast of Victoria, passing through cliffs, forests, sharp turns, and coastal towns. Along the way, there are groups of grey koalas hiding high in the treetops. The best viewing spot is along Lighthouse Road in Cape Otway, about 20 kilometers (12 miles) off the regular tourist route from the town of Apollo Bay. Koalas are everywhere here, but they camouflage themselves well, making them difficult to spot at first glance.

Fesna Safir Hotel

Encounter Tasmanian devils; One of Australia's top luxury hotels operates a Tasmanian devil conservation center, with a one-hectare (2.5-acre) enclosure that simulates the natural habitat of the devils, where guests can observe these endangered animals feeding daily. If you visit Cradle Mountain, a nearby must-visit destination, you can also observe and learn more about these unique native animals.

Pebbly Beach

Capture kangaroos resting on the beach; The sight of kangaroos on the beach is extraordinary and unforgettable. Eastern grey kangaroos, living on the south coast of New South Wales, enjoy resting and basking in the sun. They can be seen in groups on grasslands and sandy areas. Many kangaroos in this popular surfing and hiking spot, located approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles) south of Sydney, are more than willing to become your photo models.

Kakadu National Park

Even in the warm sunshine, the sight of the back of a Northern Territory crocodile will give you goosebumps. These enormous reptiles silently navigate through the water, only causing a small ripple when they approach the surface. You can join a two-hour Yellow Water Wetlands cruise at the heart of Kakadu National Park to observe these seasoned predators in their natural habitat, creating an unforgettable memory for you.

Mrs. Elliott Island

This is a coral reef at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Turtles can be seen swimming in the turquoise sea from the sandy beach on the island. You may encounter them while snorkeling along the various snorkel trails. You can snorkel freely or join a guided snorkeling tour. The lagoon on the east side of the island is particularly rich in marine life. If you prefer not to get into the water, you can take a glass-bottom boat to observe tropical fish and colorful corals.

Cape Wilson National Park

Smiling, the kangaroo forages for food. The beautiful Wilsons Promontory National Park is shrouded in twilight. The sturdy and round kangaroos with short legs and curled noses begin to appear. Shy by nature, they emerge from their burrows in the evening to graze on grass. Their presence can often be seen near the main beach entrance, with the sound of their footsteps echoing through the campsite. When you come here, you may also encounter kangaroos, emus, echidnas, and rosellas.

Rottnest Island

Taking selfies with quokkas, the quokkas in Western Australia are one of the cutest marsupials around. On Rottnest Island, located across the sea from Perth, the quokkas happily hop around and observe people leisurely enjoying beverages at the bar, playing golf, or riding bicycles on this car-free island. They are social creatures and are happy to pose for pictures with humans in settled areas, although they are rarely seen elsewhere in the state. After celebrities like Hugh Jackman and Martin Clunes posted selfies with these little kangaroos online, taking selfies with them has become a trend.

Lincoln Harbor

This activity is designed for people who are seeking thrills and excitement. After jumping into a cage, they are submerged underwater to witness great white sharks vigorously hunting the bait right in front of their eyes. If this sounds interesting to you, come and join us. In the deep waters off the coast of Port Lincoln on the southern end of the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, you can rent a steamboat to experience a whole day in the waters where sharks are abundant. Of course, safety is our top priority, but it doesn't diminish the thrilling experience. If you don't want to get in the water, a glass-bottom submarine is also an option, adding a bit of excitement as you dive in the twilight.