Taking a campervan across the vast island of Australia is an adventure in its own right. There are barren deserts, vibrant forests or metropolitan playgrounds for you to swing through. There’s so much to do and learn in every state, it can almost be a bit daunting.
But don’t worry. You’ve got a great set of wheels, and true blue mateship to back you at every fork. To get you going, we’ve put together this brilliant Aussie Gotta-GO-For-It List. Read up and get on the road already, mate!
1. The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage Tour, NSW
An adventure through time and reality, without learning a thing or two about the land, wouldn’t be much of an adventure. This 100% Aboriginal-owned heritage tour follows Aboriginal Elder, Margret Campbell, on a two-hour journey in discovering the ancient Dreamtime within a modern Sydney landscape. You’ll learn how the billion-year-old harbour, natural environment, sandstone strata and waterways continue to influence Aboriginals today in contemporary society. Come experience the true culture of Australia.
2. Kosciuszko Alpine Guided Walks, NSW
The beauty and solitude of the Kosciuszko National Park is paramount. With a guided alpine trek through it, you’ll experience the best of both worlds – wilderness camping, as well as a stay in the luxurious Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa. Local guides share with you intimate knowledge of the land, and staff will also carry your equipment for you, so you can enjoy the magical views of Australia’s rooftop.
3. Sleep Under The Stars
Finding a grand campsite isn’t hard in Australia, and once you’ve found one far from the city, you’ll fall in love with the stars – especially the Southern Cross. Pull in for a few nights and take a front-row seat to some of the clearest night skies around. Especially in the desert, where shooting stars, marshmallows and a cold beer are a way of life.
4. Cage Of Death, NT
Crocosaurus Cove is just as cool as it sounds. And the Cage of Death? Even cooler. Get (safely) locked in a suspended cage and share an enclosure with a saltwater crocodile for a whole 15 minutes. Get up close and personal with these beautiful and prehistoric reptiles as you descend into their lair, with 360-degree views of Chopper, William or Kate – their most famous crocs. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Darwin.
5. Queen Victoria Markets, VIC
This is more than just Melbourne’s favourite shopping 'centre'. It’s a historic landmark, a tourist attraction and the best place to get the freshest vegetables and meat for your Victorian road trip. The largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere is perfect as a stop-over adventure into gourmet foods, clothing and authentic Australian artefacts or souvenirs. Wade through the throng and try some of the finest fresh food Melbourne has to offer.
6. Meet The Locals
There are stacks of ways to meet the locals and get the lay of the land. For example, you could buy an Aussie a beer and he or she could become your mate for life. Making friends on the road at Holiday Parks is a great idea, or even when you’re at the beach or the middle of nowhere. Aussies are friendly creatures and their kinship rubs off onto anyone they meet. Just remember to use the local slang and you’ll be a mate in no time.
7. Skydive Rockingham, WA
Skydiving anywhere in Australia is definitely an adventure. But have you jumped from 14,000 feet over the closest beach to Perth’s CBD? We didn’t think so either. You’ll spot all sorts of glorious islands as you fall from an insane height. It’s as memorable as it is exhilarating, and you’ll be able to upload it all over Facebook with the video and photo packages that record the entire experience.
8. Wake Up To A New View Each Day
What makes campervan road trips so special is that you can wake up to a new view whenever you like. The further you drive, the more you’ll see – thriving forests, sloping sand dunes and kingly coasts. For extra brownie points, find a new exotic background for every morning, lunch or dinner. Imagine breakfast by the beach, lunch in the mountains and dinner in a magical forest. Australian road trips make this dream a reality.
9. Shark Cage Diving, SA
Here’s an adventure to get the blood pumping (though you may not want to spill any in these waters). Jump on board and descend into shark-infested waters where you’ll get up close and personal with the majestic Great White Sharks. Sounds daunting? Don’t worry, their spacious steel cage will give you the best (and safest) seat in the house. While Great Whites can be terrifying, being so close to these sharks will give you a new appreciation for Australian sealife and a newfound sense of awe that’ll stay with you on the road.
10. COOK UP A STORM
Once you’ve been to places like Queen Victoria Markets in Melbourne or other farmers' markets, be sure to make use of your campervan's kitchen. Whether it’s a simple meal between surf sessions or a special occasion on the road, you’ll find what you need. Whip together brilliant recipes on the fly so when you’re not on the road or on an adventure, you can relax in your home away from home. It’s the perfect time to indulge with fresh ingredients and savour the tastes of Australia.
Think we missed a Down Under adventure that you’re aching for? Feel free to add to your own list while prepping for your camper road trip across Australia!
