7 best Aussie eco experiences

By Samuel Smith
Published: Thursday, August 29, 2019
Updated: January 14, 2022 at 1:29 pm

Explore, learn and conserve with some of Australia’s most spectacular eco experiences.

1.) Reef adventure, Queensland

Famous for its kaleidoscopic coral and marine life, the jaw-dropping Great Barrier Reef is home to a vast range of endangered species, but is under extreme threat from pollution, climate change and fishing. Thankfully, a range of companies offer sustainable snorkelling and diving tours, immersing visitors in incredible experiences without leaving a mark.

RAA members save on Great Barrier Reef experiences.

The Great Barrier Reef.

2.) Trek to Lake St Clair, Tasmania

What better way to experience Tasmania’s ever-changing landscape than on foot? Over 6 days, see some of the country’s most beautiful scenery on the Overland Track. From snowy wilderness to glacially carved valleys and rainforests, the track snakes 65km from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair.

Tarkine Rainforest, Tasmania.

3.) An island paradise, Western Australia

Rottnest Island is renowned for its conservation, with major efforts going into preserving and protecting its diverse flora and fauna.

The island is home to the quokka – a small (adorable) marsupial, famous for appearing in visitors’ Instagram selfies. Immerse yourself in marine life, breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches and Aboriginal culture.

RAA members save on Rottnest Island experiences.

Quokka, Western Australia.

4.) Watch the penguin parade, Victoria

Take a waddle on the wild side with Phillip Island Nature Parks. Each night, hundreds of penguins emerge from the ocean onto the island, scuttling across the beach back to their burrows.

RAA members save on Penguin Parade tickets.

Phillip Island, Western Australia.

5.) Call of the wild, New South Wales

Escape to the wild, in the middle of Australia’s biggest city. Come face-to-fur with more than 4000 animals at Taronga Zoo Sydney. Taronga is involved in breed and release programs and the preservation of endangered species.

RAA members save on Taronga Zoo experiences.

Tigers at Taronga Zoo, Sydney.

6.) Eco-villa retreat, South Australia

Bushwalk through the Flinders Ranges’ 600-million-year-old landscape by day, then retreat to a Rawnsley Park Station eco-villa by night. The villas are energy neutral, but jam packed with all the creature comforts.

RAA members save on Rawnsley Park Station accommodation.