Scratch Map Australian Geographic
Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to Australia, Scratch Map Australian Geographic is the perfect tool to help you plan your itinerary. This beautifully designed map not only allows you to track your travels but also provides a visual guide to the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, and outdoor adventures across the continent. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Australia’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.
Top Attractions
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge
No visit to Australia is complete without a trip to Sydney’s iconic landmarks. The Opera House, with its distinctive sail-like design, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to some of the world’s finest performances. The Harbour Bridge, affectionately known as the “Coathanger,” offers breathtaking views of the harbor from its summit.
The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s natural wonders, and a must-see for any traveler to Australia. This vast coral reef stretches over 1,400 miles along the Queensland coast and is home to thousands of species of marine life. Whether you’re a snorkeler or a diver, the Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable experience.
Ayers Rock (Uluru)
Ayers Rock, or Uluru as it is known to the local Anangu people, is a sacred site in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. This massive sandstone monolith rises 1,142 feet above the desert and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a spiritual place that is best experienced at sunrise or sunset when the colors of the rock change dramatically.
Hidden Gems
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is a hidden gem off the coast of South Australia. This unspoiled wilderness is home to kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and other unique wildlife. You can explore the island’s rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and wilderness parks, or sample the local produce at one of the island’s many wineries and restaurants.
Carnarvon Gorge
Carnarvon Gorge is a hidden gem in the heart of Queensland’s outback. This ancient gorge is home to towering sandstone cliffs, crystal-clear streams, and lush vegetation. You can explore the gorge on foot, taking in the stunning scenery and discovering ancient Aboriginal rock art along the way.
Food Scene
Melbourne
Melbourne is known for its diverse food scene, with everything from street food to fine dining. You can sample the city’s famous coffee culture, try the local seafood, or indulge in a multicultural feast in one of the city’s many restaurants.
Tasmania
Tasmania is a foodie’s paradise, with fresh local produce and artisanal products. You can visit farm gates, orchards, and vineyards, or dine in one of the state’s award-winning restaurants. Don’t forget to try the famous Tasmanian cheeses and chocolates!
Budget-Friendly Tips
Camping
Australia has a great camping culture, with affordable campsites in some of the most scenic locations. You can camp on the beach, in the bush, or in national parks, and enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.
Public Transport
Australia has an extensive public transport system, with buses, trains, and trams in most major cities. You can save money on transport by using a prepaid card or buying multi-day passes.
Outdoor Adventures
The Outback
The Australian Outback is a vast and rugged wilderness that offers a unique outdoor adventure. You can explore the desert landscapes, watch the sunsets over the red rock formations, or camp under the stars.
The Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most scenic drives, with stunning coastal views and natural wonders. You can stop at the Twelve Apostles, walk through rainforests, and spot native wildlife along the way.
Family-Friendly Activities
Theme Parks
Australia has some of the best theme parks in the world, with something for all ages. You can ride the roller coasters at Dreamworld, meet the animals at Sea World, or cool off at Wet’n’Wild.
Zoos and Wildlife Sanctuaries
Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife, and you can get up close and personal with them at zoos and wildlife sanctuaries. You can cuddle a koala, feed the kangaroos, or watch the penguins at Phillip Island.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
Lake Eyre
Lake Eyre is a salt lake in the heart of the Australian Outback that only fills with water once every decade or so. When it does, it becomes a spectacular sight, with water stretching as far as the eye can see. You can take a scenic flight over the lake or explore the surrounding desert.
Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island is a hidden gem in the Pacific Ocean, with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. You can hike to the top of Mount Gower, one of Australia’s most challenging walks, or snorkel among the colorful fish and coral reefs.
Natural Wonders
The Kimberley
The Kimberley is a wilderness region in Western Australia that is home to rugged gorges, stunning waterfalls, and ancient rock art. You can explore the region by 4WD, boat, or on foot, and experience the raw beauty of this remote wilderness.
Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to some of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. You can see the crocodiles at Yellow Water, hike to the top of Ubirr Rock, or marvel at the ancient Aboriginal rock art.
Vibrant Nightlife
Sydney
Sydney has a vibrant nightlife, with everything from rooftop bars to live music venues. You can catch a show at the Opera House, party in the clubs of Kings Cross, or sip cocktails in the trendy bars of Surry Hills.
Melbourne
Melbourne’s nightlife is equally diverse, with a thriving bar and club scene. You can catch a live band in Fitzroy, dance the night away in the CBD, or sip cocktails in a hidden laneway bar.
Local Markets
Salamanca Market
Salamanca Market in Hobart is one of Australia’s most famous markets, with over 300 stalls selling everything from local produce to handmade crafts. You can sample the local cheeses, pick up a piece of art, or listen to the live music.
The Rocks Markets
The Rocks Markets in Sydney are held every weekend and feature over 200 stalls selling artisanal products, gourmet food, and handmade crafts. You can stroll through the historic laneways, sample the local delicacies, or pick up a souvenir to take home.
Beaches and Mountains
Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsunday Islands is one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters and white sand that’s 98% pure silica. You can take a scenic flight over the islands, snorkel among the coral reefs, or relax on the beach.
The Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains, just a short drive from Sydney, are a stunning mountain range with scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and hiking trails. You can take a scenic railway ride, explore the Jenolan Caves, or hike to the top of Mount Solitary.
Cultural Immersion
Aboriginal Culture
Australia’s Aboriginal culture is one of the oldest in the world, and you can learn about it through art, music, and storytelling. You can visit cultural centers, take guided tours, or attend festivals and events.
Multiculturalism
Australia is a melting pot of cultures, and you can immerse yourself in its diversity through food, music, and festivals. You can sample the flavors of Chinatown, celebrate the Greek Festival, or watch the parade at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
Art and Music Scene
MONA
MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart, is a cutting-edge art museum that challenges traditional views of art. You can see works by some of the world’s most controversial artists, explore the underground tunnels, or attend a live music performance.
Vivid Sydney
Vivid Sydney is an annual festival of light, music, and ideas that transforms the city into a spectacular display of color and sound. You can see the Opera House and Harbour Bridge lit up in