Great Barrier Reef - Discovering Australia

Travelling to Great Barrier Reef

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Great Barrier Reef, a pretty good destination in Australia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Great Barrier Reef and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Great Barrier Reef, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Australia, here's everything to know about Great Barrier Reef for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system and is located off the northeastern coast of Australia. It stretches for over 2,300 kilometers and includes nearly 3,000 individual coral reefs, as well as hundreds of islands and cays. The Great Barrier Reef is home to a diverse array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 types of coral, and numerous species of sharks, whales, turtles, and dolphins. It is also a popular tourist destination, with activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat tours available to visitors.

What to visit in Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef is one of the most stunning and sought-after tourist destinations in Australia. Here are some of its popular tourist attractions: 1. Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Great Barrier Reef is renowned for its crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life. Snorkeling and scuba diving allow visitors to explore the underwater world, swim alongside turtles, and witness a plethora of colorful fish and coral.
2. Whitehaven Beach: Located in the heart of Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach is famous for its soft white sand, turquoise waters, and picturesque surroundings. The beach stretches over seven kilometers and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
3. Heart Reef: The Heart Reef is a small and heart-shaped coral reef, situated in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors can see it from the air, as it is only visible from above. The reef is considered to be one of the most romantic sites in the world, and many couples choose to propose or renew their vows here.
4. Green Island: Green Island is a popular tourist spot, located about 27 km off Cairns. The island is home to a stunning rainforest, and visitors can go snorkeling, observe the marine life or relax on the sandy beaches.
5. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is a World Heritage Site, which protects the marine life, coral reefs, and habitats of the reef. It covers an area of over 344,400 square kilometers and plays an important role in the conservation efforts of the area.
Overall, the Great Barrier Reef is a spectacular destination with plenty of tourist attractions, offering visitors an opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Great Barrier Reef.

When to go on holiday to Great Barrier Reef

The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is from June to October. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, and the sea is calm, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities. The water is also clearer, providing better visibility for underwater exploration. However, keep in mind that these months are the peak tourist season in the region, so you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities. It's also worth noting that the Great Barrier Reef is open and accessible year-round, so it's possible to visit during other months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Great Barrier Reef

To get to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, you can take a flight to one of several airports in the region, including Cairns, Townsville, or Hamilton Island. From there, you can take a boat tour or charter a yacht to explore the reef. Some tours also offer snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities to get up close with the reef's unique marine life. Keep in mind that the Great Barrier Reef is a vast and fragile ecosystem, so it's important to choose a responsible tour operator and be mindful of your impact on the environment.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Great Barrier Reef, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef is actually a marine ecosystem, so you won't find typical foods originating from this region. However, there are many towns and cities near the Great Barrier Reef that offer a variety of cuisines and seafood options. Here are some of the popular dishes you can try during your visit to the Great Barrier Reef: 1. Barramundi - A popular fish native to Northern Australia, often grilled or fried, and served with lemon or lime juice and a side salad.
2. Seafood platter - A platter of assorted seafood such as prawns, oysters, fish, and squid, often accompanied by chips, salad, or garlic bread.
3. Pavlova - A popular dessert in Australia, consisting of a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
4. Tim Tams - A classic chocolate biscuit and popular snack in Australia, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.
5. Meat pies - A savory pastry filled with ground beef, gravy, and vegetables, often served with ketchup or chutney.
6. Kangaroo meat - Although not as common as other meats, kangaroo meat is available in some restaurants and is lean, flavorful, and often served as a steak.
7. Crocodile meat - Similar to kangaroo, crocodile meat is also available in some restaurants and is often served as a skewer or in risotto.
8. Fruit salad - With the abundance of fresh tropical fruits in the region, fruit salad is a popular dessert or breakfast option.
These are just a few examples of the variety of foods and flavors you can experience while visiting the Great Barrier Reef region.
You can find general info about typical foods in Australia here.

Is Great Barrier Reef an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of visiting the Great Barrier Reef in Australia can vary depending on the activities and level of comfort you are looking for. Generally speaking, it is considered an expensive destination because of its remote location and the need to rely on specialized tour companies or boat charters to explore the reef. However, there are ways to make the trip more affordable. It's possible to book budget-friendly accommodations and tours, especially if you plan ahead and travel during the off-season. Additionally, you can choose to snorkel instead of diving, as it is usually less expensive. Overall, the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can be worth the investment if you are interested in seeing the unique marine life that exists there.

Where to find accomodation in Great Barrier Reef

If you want to visit the Great Barrier Reef, the best areas to find accommodation would be: 1. Cairns: It is the most popular gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and has a wide range of accommodation options from budget to luxury. 2. Port Douglas: This small town is located north of Cairns and is known for its luxury resorts and beautiful beaches. 3. Airlie Beach: It is a popular destination for budget travellers and backpackers looking to explore the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. 4. Townsville: This city is located south of Cairns and is a great base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island. 5. Lizard Island: If you want to stay on the reef itself, Lizard Island offers luxurious accommodation options and excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities.
You can check hotel prices at Great Barrier Reef here:
Booking.com

Is Great Barrier Reef a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, the Great Barrier Reef is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like with any outdoor activity, there are precautions that should be taken to ensure your safety. It is important to only swim in designated swimming zones and avoid areas where there are strong currents. It is also important to wear protective clothing and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. Additionally, it is important to follow the instructions of your tour guide or any posted signs to ensure that you are following safe practices while exploring the reef.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Australia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Great Barrier Reef.

What type of travelers will enjoy Great Barrier Reef the most?

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the romantic setting and breathtaking scenery, while young people looking for fun can indulge in a variety of water sports such as snorkelling or scuba diving. Families can enjoy the many activities on offer such as glass-bottom boat rides or beach picnics, and children will love exploring the natural wonders of the reef. Additionally, the Great Barrier Reef is home to a diverse range of marine life offerings, making it an ideal destination for anyone interested in natural history and conservation.

How to get around Great Barrier Reef

The most common mode of transportation to explore Great Barrier Reef in Australia is by boat. There are several options for boat tours, such as catamarans, yachts, sailboats, and speedboats. Some activities, such as snorkeling and diving, require specialized boats or smaller vessels that can get you to remote locations. Helicopter tours are also available for those who want an aerial view of the reef. Additionally, there are some islands within the reef where you can walk around, and some areas that can be explored by kayak, paddleboard, or even on foot during low tide.

What to see around Great Barrier Reef

Certainly! Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Great Barrier Reef: 1. Daintree Rainforest: This tropical rainforest is known for its diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems. You can take a guided tour or hike on your own.
2. Cairns: A vibrant city that has a lot to offer, including shopping, dining, and entertainment. You can also take a boat tour to see the reef from a different perspective.
3. Kuranda: A charming village nestled in the rainforest, Kuranda is home to artisanal shops, markets, and cultural centers. You can take a scenic train or cable car ride to get there.
4. Fitzroy Island: A picturesque island just off the coast of Cairns, Fitzroy Island has clear waters, white sandy beaches, and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling or diving.
5. Port Douglas: A quaint coastal town with plenty of high-end restaurants and boutique shops. You can also take a boat tour to see the reef or explore the nearby wildlife parks.
For every travel information about Australia you can click here.

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