Travello Blog

Author: Summer Lim

  • Top 5 Things to Do Around Alice Springs

    Top 5 Things to Do Around Alice Springs

    Alice Springs is the famous outback town of the Northern Territory of Australia. Adventure awaits as you set foot into the red centre, taking in the unique desert landscape, vibrant outback character and connecting with the rich Aboriginal culture. Here are 5 things to do when you’re in Alice Springs.

    1. Sunrise watching on a hot air balloon

    There’s nothing quite like floating on air as you watch the day cast away the cloak of night. Catch the first rays of the sun on a hot air balloon sunrise watching tour and see how the sun works its magic at painting the sky. Be prepared to take in that jaw-dropping view of the beautiful landscape as you watch the nature feasts on the rays of sun because it is definitely a sight to behold! To end this experience on a good note, enjoy a delectable spread of treats and a glass of sparkling wine when you’re back on land.

    Tourism NT/Jackson Groves

    2. Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges

    Explore and view the spectacular outback scenery at the West MacDonnell Ranges. The West MacDonnell National Park stretches 161 kilometres west of Alice Springs and has a number of beautiful swimming holes and walking trails that cater to the varying fitness levels. Pitch a tent to camp in the park or join a guided tour to learn about the ancient landscape that are significant to the Arrernte people. You’ll get to explore the Simpson Gap, discover the incredible ecosystem and even spot black-footed rock wallabies!

    Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter & Hayley Anderson

    3. Visit the Quad Safari at Kings Creek Station

    Looking for something different and fun? Why not drive your own four-wheeled motorbike through rolling hills and desert oaks? Ride through the hills and valleys and take in the beautiful scenery at your own pace looking for camels, horses or even kangaroos and dingos if you’re lucky! You’ll be guided by an experienced tour guide so you’re in safe hands even if this is your first time on a 4WD motorbike.

    Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo

    4. Take part in a day tour to see the best of Alice Springs

    If you have limited time but still want to see the best of Alice Springs, this is the perfect experience for you! This guided tour will take you on a journey to discover the West MacDonnell Ranges and see incredible creatures of the Outback such as the goannas and frill-neck lizards at the Alice Springs Reptile Centre. You’ll also get to wander through the Telegraph Station, the first site of European settlement in Alice Springs, visit the School of the Air and learn about how medical services are being delivered to remote areas at the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

    Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

    5. Join an overnight camping tour at Uluru from Alice Springs

    No trip to the Northern Territory is complete without visiting Uluru (aka Ayers Rock). Jump on a short 3 days 2 nights camping tour to explore the best of Uluru from Alice Springs! You will have the chance to walk around the base of Uluru and learn about the authentic Aboriginal cave paintings before watching the color of the iconic landmark shifts at sunset. It’s definitely an experience of a lifetime sleeping under the stars and waking up early the next morning to catch the magical sunrise of Uluru. To make that trip even more memorable, you’ll also get to wander through the Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuta, hear tales from the ‘Tjukarta’ Dreamtime and jump on an adventurous Kings Canyon Rim Walk.

    Tourism NT/New Asia Pacific Travel Pty Ltd.
  • Why Great Barrier Reef Is Unlike Any Other Reef in the World

    Why Great Barrier Reef Is Unlike Any Other Reef in the World

    The Great Barrier Reef has made its name out there by being one of the world’s most important and remarkable natural wonders. It is a bucket list experience for many to witness this UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder. You’ve heard people rave about the Reef but do you know why you should absolutely include it in your top places to visit? Here’s why the Great Barrier Reef is unlike any other Reef in the world.

    1. It’s enormous size and a myriad of marine creatures

    This natural asset stretches more than 2300km along the coastline of Queensland and is the only living organism that can be seen from space. To put this in perspective, it is bigger than the United Kingdom and roughly the size of Germany! This unique wonder comprises almost 3000 coral reefs, 600 islands and is home to nearly 5000 marine and mammal species. With that being said, it is absolutely crucial for us to play a part in preserving and protecting the reef.

    2. You can be a part of the amazing initiatives in protecting the reef

    Tourism is at the heart of protecting the Great Barrier Reef. All visitors are required to pay a “reef tax” that contributes to the management and conservation of the Reef. Most tour operators also include an environmental management charge as part of their ticket price. Look out for operators who have an EcoTourism Australia or EarthCheck certification and know that when you book a tour with them, you are contributing to the protection and preservation of the Reef! While visiting the Great Barrier Reef, guests are also encouraged to act as “citizen scientists” to report any wildlife sightings and observations via the Eye on the Reef app. Tourists can even join volunteer programs such as rehabilitating baby turtles or learn about the importance of protecting this natural masterpiece at the Cairns Aquarium.

    3. Swim with Queensland’s Great Eight

    If swimming alongside magnificent sea creatures is your thing, look no further, this is the paradise that you’ve been dreaming of. The Great Barrier Reef is home to the Great Eight: whales, manta rays, turtles, sharks, clownfish, giant clams, potato cod and Maori Wrasse. One of the best ways to tick them off the list is by taking a boat tour out to the Reef where you can snorkel and dive. Home to some of the best diving spots in the world, you’re spoiled for choice and every diving experience is sure to be a unique one. Even if you’ve never dived before, there are beginner dives and professional coaches available to ensure you have that wonderful experience exploring the Reef.

    4. See the Great Barrier Reef’s magnificence from air

    There are endless possibilities when it comes to exploring the Great Barrier Reef and that means you can go above and beyond (literally) to admire its beauty. Jump on a scenic flight over Whitsunday Island, which is located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and admire the breathtaking view of the coral reefs under crystal blue water and the swirling sands of Hill Inlet. For a burst of adrenaline, you can even sign up for a skydive adventure over the Cairns & Great Barrier Reef region.

    A visit to the Great Barrier Reef is a trip that will touch your heart and soul. The natural beauty, laidback lifestyle and the friendly Queensland locals, who are passionate about conserving the Reef, help to make it an unforgettable experience.

    *All images are provided by Tourism and Events Queensland.