Magnificent marsupials, marine wonders and sprawling wilderness
Australia is absolutely enormous, and every corner of this massive country abounds with incredible wildlife. Here you can swim with whale sharks in the Ningaloo Reef, spot the legendary Tasmanian devil and beautiful birdlife on Maria Island, look for crocodiles in the waters of Kakadu National Park or see the adorable quokka in Western Australia – and that’s just the beginning.
If you’re wondering where to see kangaroos and koalas in Australia, Kangaroo Island is a good bet for both, along with echidnas, wallabies and sea lions. The Great Ocean Road also offers abundant opportunities to spot koalas, emus and lizards, plus whales and dolphins off the coast. Hervey Bay and the Whitsundays are ideal destinations for whale watching, while Tasmania is home to platypuses and penguins as well as its eponymous marsupial.
The Great Barrier Reef and northern Queensland round out the list of essential Australian safari destinations. The former is teeming with some of the world’s most vibrant and diverse marine life, including over 9,000 different species. On land you’ll find the highly biodiverse Daintree Rainforest and Atherton Tablelands. Then of course there’s the Outback, home to red kangaroos, kookaburras and dingoes.
Get in touch to start planning an extraordinary Australia safari tour including not only astonishing animals, but also epic adventures, luxurious accommodation and bespoke activities to suit your interests.
Highlights
Visit Phillip Island off the coast of Melbourne to see koalas, fur seals and the world’s smallest penguin species
Have breakfast in the South Australian bush and observe wild kangaroos as they enjoy their own morning meal
Head to the remote Lord Howe Island to snorkel through underwater volcanic terrain and the world’s southernmost coral reef
Go on an airboat safari through the tranquil wetlands of the Top End to spot egrets, ibises and the occasional saltwater crocodile
Visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to see Tasmanian devils, pademelons and many other species, and learn about the sanctuary’s efforts to protect them
The wildlife in Australia is truly astonishing. In addition to all sorts of chances to see animals in the wild, there are also plenty of wildlife sanctuaries where you can get a first-hand look at conservation projects and even participate in them directly.

David D'Arcy
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Australia
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Australia trip inspiration
Where to go in Australia for wildlife experiences

Brisbane
Founded on the banks of its eponymous river, the old city of Brisbane is located between the famous Sunshine and Gold Coasts. It’s also home to several renowned wildlife sanctuaries.
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Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland
The northern reaches of Queensland are defined by vast wilderness and rich biodiversity, while the Great Barrier Reef is a legendary location for marine wildlife experiences.
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Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is a deceptively large island off the southern coast of Australia, not far from Adelaide, and is home to large populations of many of the country’s most beloved animals.
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Luxury Rail Travel Australia
Exploring Australia by luxury train allows you to cover vast distances in comfort and style. You’ll get to see epic landscapes and stop for excursions including incredible wildlife tours.
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New South Wales
On the east coast of Australia, boasting the beautiful city of Sydney at its heart, New South Wales offers opportunities to encounter kangaroos, koalas, fur seals and many other species.
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Perth and Margaret River
Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, with a uniquely laid-back and cosmopolitan charm. Off the coast lies Rottnest Island, home to the unbelievably adorable quokka.
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South Australia
Beyond its world-famous wine valleys and beautiful beaches, South Australia also boasts phenomenal birdlife and the rugged Flinders Ranges, home to wallaroos, emus and more.
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Sydney
Sydney is full of fascinating history, lovely beaches and famous landmarks, as well as an interesting array of wildlife including flying foxes and possums.
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Tasmania
Tasmania is known for its unspoiled wilderness, diverse landscapes, cascading waterfalls and dramatic coastline. It’s also bursting with wildlife, including the endangered Tasmanian devil.
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Top End
Australia’s Top End contains some of the few remaining expanses of genuinely untouched wilderness in the world. This remote haven abounds with rugged beauty and rare species.
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Uluru and the Outback
The Outback combines extraordinary physical beauty with a spiritual energy that binds together the land and the people. On safaris you can see native marsupials, dingoes and reptiles.
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Victoria and Melbourne
Melbourne is Australia’s cultural heart, and the surrounding state of Victoria is replete with natural beauty. Spot echidnas and wallabies in the Grampians or penguins on Phillip Island.
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Western Australia
Western Australia is a land of epic coastlines, rolling vineyards and open plains. Here you’ll find a huge number of endemic and threatened species, including the small and striped numbat.
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Whitsundays
A chain of 74 islands, the Whitsundays are set off the coast of Queensland. You can enjoy excellent wildlife experiences in the islands’ six national parks and the Great Barrier Reef.
Discover moreWhen to visit Australia for wildlife experiences
Due to Australia’s large size and climatic diversity, the best time to visit depends on your destinations. If wildlife is your priority, it’s important to decide which species you want to see and what activities you’d like to do before choosing when to travel.
For instance, the best time to see whale sharks is April–July, while July–November are ideal for spotting whales and dolphins. Kangaroos, koalas and many other mammals can be seen year round, but if you visit in Spring (September–November) you’ll have a higher chance of seeing baby marsupials. Weather conditions also matter, as too much rain or heat can affect the availability of outdoor activities like safaris.

Snorkelling and diving
May–October

Tasmania and Kangaroo Island
Year round

Top End safaris
June–October
Travel guides
Plan your trip to Australia


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