Best places to see wildlife in Australia via road trip

As Australians, we have a golden ticket to vast and diverse landscapes, offering unparalleled access to encounter unique creatures of all kinds. Embarking on a road trip through various regions is an ideal way to witness Australian fauna in their natural habitats. Here’s a guide to some of the best routes across the country for wildlife enthusiasts.

New South Wales: Coastal wildlife wonders

The Grand Pacific Drive

, stretching from Sydney to Shoalhaven, is a scenic route promising many wildlife encounters. As you trail the Royal National Park and the Sea Cliff Bridge, keep an eye out for kangaroos grazing near the roadside.

Once you hit Jervis Bay, you’ll see why it’s renowned for its resident dolphin pods, and the nearby Booderee National Park, home to over 200 species of birds, is a haven for birdwatchers. For lounging kangaroos, Pebbly Beach

is further south – just under a four-hour drive from Sydney – and is the place to be where you can often spot the marsupials hanging around the sands; a quintessential Australian wildlife experience.

Victoria: The Great Ocean Road’s fauna highlights

Victoria's Great Ocean Road is not only famed for its stunning coastal vistas but also for its abundant wildlife. Cape Otway

is a prime spot to see koalas in the wild; look up into the eucalyptus trees, and you’re likely to spot these sleepy marsupials – you can even camp under them at Bimbi Park.

Once you arrive at the Twelve Apostles

, you’re in for a treat as little penguins are often found nesting in the caves beneath the giant natural monuments. You can spot them from the viewing platform either early in the morning or just after dark.

South Australia: Kangaroo Island’s natural sanctuary

A short ferry ride from the mainland, Kangaroo Island

is a must-visit for those on the lookout for Australian wildlife. The island boasts a rich diversity of local fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions.

Flinders Chase National Park is home to the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, where you can observe New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks below. Top tip: the rock pools underneath the arch are a popular place for seal pups to play. The island’s commitment to conservation makes it one of the premier wildlife sanctuaries in Australia.

Queensland: Rainforest and reef encounters

The Captain Cook Highway from Cairns to Cape Tribulation offers a unique blend of coastal and rainforest ecosystems. In the Daintree Rainforest

– the world's oldest tropical rainforest – you might spot the elusive cassowary, a large flightless bird native to the region.

You would be remiss not to seek out Australian marine life within the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Opportunities to witness these majestic creatures are abundant; snorkellers and divers can encounter graceful sea turtles gliding through coral gardens, while dugongs, often referred to as ‘sea cows’, graze on seagrass meadows in sheltered bays.

Western Australia: The Kimberley’s wild heart

For those seeking adventure, the Gibb River Road

in Western Australia’s Kimberley region offers a rugged journey through some of the country’s most remote landscapes.

This 660-kilometre track is flanked by gorges, waterfalls, and a plethora of wildlife. Kangaroos, wallabies, and various bird species are commonly sighted, and the region’s waterways are home to freshwater crocodiles. It’s essential to be well-prepared for this trip, as the area is remote and facilities are limited.

Safety tips for wildlife road trips

While encountering wildlife is thrilling, it’s crucial to prioritise safety – for both yourself and the animals. Be vigilant for road signs indicating animal crossings, such as the iconic koala crossing signs, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active. In South Australia, ‘koala crossings’ are designated pedestrian crossings near schools, marked by distinctive red and white posts and flashing yellow lights. These are operational when the lights are flashing, and drivers must adhere to the 25 km/h speed limit in these zones.

Embarking on these road trips offers not only the chance to witness Australia’s unique wildlife but also to appreciate the diverse habitats that support them. Remember to respect local guidelines, maintain a safe distance from animals, and enjoy the natural beauty that Australia has to offer.

_Disclaimer
^{Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.}