A Map of Australia’s Most Impressive World Heritage Sites

An island so big that it’s considered a continent, Australia is one of the most fascinating places you can visit. Its expansive territory is marked by a gigantic desert that holds natural treasures. Near its shores, there are islands with turquoise water, dense rain forests, deep caves and the Great Barrier Reef. 

It’s really no surprise that the country has a total of 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you want to see the best the country has to offer, follow this map of the 10 most incredible sites, ordered from north to south.

Located in Australia’s Northern Territory, Kakadu National Park is an amazing nature preserve that boasts tidal flats, tall cliffs, floodplains and more. Here, you’ll find a number of interesting species, like the fearful crocodile. 

But the park doesn’t just protect nature. Cave paintings, archaeological sites and rock carvings tell the story of the Aboriginal people who have been living here for over 40,000 years.

Show someone a picture of Purnululu National Park, and they probably would never guess it’s in Australia. Its most distinctive feature is the Bungle Bungle Range, made of rock formations with carved horizontal stripes that give an illusion of movement.  

As one of the country’s lesser-known natural landmarks, you’ll likely share this breathtaking place with only a few other people.

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef houses 400 types of coral and 1,500 species of fish. This important ecosystem is one of the most awe-inspiring natural destinations anyone can visit. 

Go on a day trip and snorkel or dive amongst sea turtles, manta rays and, yes, reef sharks. But if you want to really immerse yourself in the reef, book a stay at an underwater hotel and sleep surrounded by the silence of the water.

Also known as K’gari, Fraser Island earned its UNESCO listing for being the largest sand island in the world. This truly unique place is blessed with 155 miles of sand that are surrounded by pale blue water. Inland, tropical rainforest grows right on the sand, and over 40 freshwater lakes bring diversity to the landscape. 

You can arrive by either ferry or sea plane to this paradise on Earth.