22 Reasons You Absolutely MUST Visit Australia in Your Lifetime

Thinking of planning a big international getaway? You totally should — out-of-country trips make for lifelong memories. If you're not sure where to go, look no further: Australia's calling your name. The sixth-largest nation in the world is chock-full of epic adventures, exciting activities, and wondrous landscapes. You'll never, ever want to leave! Here are 22 reasons you simply must visit Australia at least once in your lifetime.

01
Kakadu National Park
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Kakadu National Park

You'll be taken aback by the stunning waterfalls of Kakadu National Park.

02
Daintree Rainforest
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Daintree Rainforest

Nature-lovers, you'll obsess over the exotic Daintree Rainforest.

03
Swimming With Whale Sharks
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Swimming With Whale Sharks

Why swim with dolphins when you can swim with whale sharks instead?!

04
Kunanyi
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Kunanyi

You'll fall in love with kunanyi (also known as Mount Wellington) in Wellington Park.

05
The Great Ocean Road
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The Great Ocean Road

Considered one of the world's most scenic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road spans 243 km along Victoria's southwest coastline.

06
Lawn Bowling
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Lawn Bowling

Indoor bowling is totally boring compared to playing the sport on a lawn!

08
Sydney
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Sydney

If you're the artsy type, a trip to the renowned Sydney Opera House is mandatory.

09
River Cruises
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River Cruises

Hop on a Gordon River Cruise and spend half the day taking pictures of the beautiful surrounding scenery.

10
Whitsundays, Queensland
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Whitsundays, Queensland

The Whistundays are comprised of 74 tropical islands in the warm waters of Australia's coral seas.

11
The Wildlife
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The Wildlife

With 828 bird species, 300 lizard species, 378 mammal species, 4,000 fish species, and two crocodile species . . . you're bound to spot fascinating exotic wildlife in Australia!

12
Hot Air Balloon Rides
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Hot Air Balloon Rides

Get an awesome view of the land on an Australian hot air balloon ride.

13
The Surfing
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The Surfing

Become a champion surfer at one of Australia's several surfing hot spots.

15
Tasmania
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Tasmania

Tour the Bridestowe Lavender Estate in Nabowla, Tasmania.

16
Phillip Island
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Phillip Island

Watch hundreds of little penguins waddle from the ocean on Phillip Island.

17
Uluru
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Uluru

For an outback Australian experience, sightsee Uluru, a rock formation that was created over 600 million years ago.

18
The Food
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The Food

You'll enter food heaven upon tasting the famous Australian lamington cake.

19
Horse-Racing in Birdsville
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Horse-Racing in Birdsville

Cheer on your favorite horse in Birdsville.

20
Melbourne
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Melbourne

Take a tour of Melbourne's Aboriginal culture, explore urban neighborhoods, and lose yourself in the sparkling nightlife.

21
The Great Barrier Reef
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The Great Barrier Reef

One of Australia's most brilliant natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef, with an abundance of marine life and no shortage of colorful beauty.

22
Kangaroo Island
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Kangaroo Island

Fine dining, pristine beaches, and gorgeous sunsets make Kangaroo Island a must see.