Sometimes even the most adventurous of us want to stick close to our home turf for a while. If you’re thinking about an adrenalin-filled adventure on a budget, here are four quick trips you can take in Australia.
Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia
Encounter strange and wonderful wildlife on Ningaloo Reef.For an underwater adventure, head west for swimming with over 500 species of fish and 300 varieties of coral scattered across the Western Australian coastline. Enjoy the wildlife and views either from above or underneath the waves, with kayaking, boating and snorkelling all ideal activities around the reef.
If you arrive between March and July, you should be able to catch the fascinating whale shark on its migratory journeys. The biggest fish in the ocean is a peaceful companion, but swimming alongside these enormous creatures is likely to be exhilarating for even the hardiest adventurer.
The Franklin River, Tasmania
Sticking to the water, those with some rafting experience can enjoy systems of breathtaking scenery, powerful rapids and smooth crystal waters in Tasmania. Franklin River offers one of the world’s wildest and most stunning raft-bound adventures, with uninterrupted journeys stretching for up to 10 days along this isolated and inspiring river system.
Keep an eye out for the native wildlife scattered along the river bank and lurking in the water around you, with platypus, wallabies, yellow-tailed black cockatoos and white-breasted sea eagles keeping watch over the river. However, when the white water approaches, it’ll be all-hands on deck to keep your raft on track.
Mansfield in the High Country, Victoria
White water rafting, canoeing, cycling and rock climbing are just some of the year-round activities available in Mansfield. If you find yourself in Victoria, take some time to explore the High Country on horseback and really see what this rustic land has to offer.
For fans of winter sports, Mansfield is a great place to land during the cooler months, home to Mt Bulla and Mt Hotham. Get your blood pumping as you have a great time zipping down the snowy slopes on skis or a snowboard.
When the snow clears, mountain biking is encouraged across the notorious Dirty Dozen – a collection of the state’s most famous and intense mountain biking trails.
Byron Bay, New South Wales
Head to Byron Bay for an authentic Australian adventure.The Bay is one of the most popular adventure destinations – and for good reason. The most easterly point of mainland Australia, Byron Bay attracts thousands of thrill seekers every year, looking to enjoy one of the many activities the area has offer.
Adrenalin junkies can experience the sights from the air strapped to a glider or on board a gyrocopter. Otherwise, explore the lush green rainforests and ample water adventures closer to land. Head out in a sea kayak between May to October and get up close to the migrating humpback whales. Sitting aboard your tiny kayak while these sea giants cruise past is likely to increase the adrenalin of even the most experienced traveller.
