Jun 6, 2022
Australia’s vast lands are filled with extraordinary natural phenomenon that are as mystifying as they are remarkable.
While the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru are the unrivalled icons of the Australian landscape, there’s an abundance of natural wonders to explore in this spectacular country. From the largest sand island in the world, to a lake that glows a remarkable colour of blue, here are 10 natural wonders you can only find in Australia.
1. Horizontal Falls, Western Australia
Once described by David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world”, Horizontal Falls is truly spectacular. Found in Talbot Bay in the Kimberley region, the fast-moving tidal current cascading through two narrow gorges of the McLarty Range. The water transforms into rapid formations, which rush through the twin gaps at an astonishing rate, producing waterfalls that run horizontally.
In 2024, we will take guests to explore the Kimberley region on board Scenic Eclipse II, including an extraordinary discovery of the Horizontal Falls.
2. Bungle Bungles, Western Australia
With a history stretching back 350 million years, revered by its Aboriginal custodians for more than 40,000 years, the awe-inspiring Bungle Bungle Range in World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park is a maze of orange and black striped karst sandstone domes. It is often likened to giant beehives and was a well-kept secret from the outside world until 1983. With its gorges, tropical pools and caves being home to unique mammals and wildlife, this is one of the most visited natural wonders in Australia.
3. Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
Created over 25 million years ago, the Great Barrier Reef is truly special. It is the only living organism on Earth visible from space, with a reef system that stretches an almighty 3,000 kilometres off the Queensland coast. There are 400 different types of coral and 1,500 species of tropical fish.
In 2024, Scenic Eclipse guests will glide through the tropical waters of Queensland, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays and Fraser Island. The Chairman’s Voyage: East Coast Islands & Reefs will unlock this spectacular region with extraordinary moments. A chance to soar above 900 islands in one of two on board helicopters^, dive below in our custom-built submarine^, and onshore, we’ll transform the white sands of Whitehaven beach into an exclusive picnic reserved for Scenic guests only. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime voyage.
Explore the The Chairman’s Voyage: East Coast Islands & Reefs Discovery Voyage.
In 2024, Scenic Eclipse guests will glide through the tropical waters of Queensland, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays and Fraser Island. The Chairman’s Voyage: East Coast Islands & Reefs will unlock this spectacular region with extraordinary moments. A chance to soar above 900 islands in one of two on board helicopters^, dive below in our custom-built submarine^, and onshore, we’ll transform the white sands of Whitehaven beach into an exclusive picnic reserved for Scenic guests only. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime voyage.
Explore the The Chairman’s Voyage: East Coast Islands & Reefs Discovery Voyage.
4. Fraser Island, Queensland
Fraser Island is the world's largest sand island, spanning an incredible 123 kilometres in length and up to 22 kilometres wide. In 2024, Scenic guests will explore the unique wonders of Fraser Island in 6-star ultra-luxury on a Scenic Eclipse Discovery Voyage. Verdant rainforests, 240-meter-high sand dunes and 100 freshwater lakes, including the pristine Lake McKenzie await. This is an island where wild dingos roam and the pristine waters are filled with inquisitive turtles.
5. Twelve Apostles, Victoria
Viewed from the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are limestone stacks that have been created by erosion. Each year, their base erodes by two centimetres, and with a recent fall, there are now only eight. You can view the incredible Twelve Apostles as part of Scenic’s spectacular land journeys. Our handcrafted land journeys unlock the rich history and unique culture of Australia, with expert guides and outstanding stays.
6. Uluru, Northern Territory
A sacred site to the indigenous Anangu people, Uluru is the heart of Australia. A sandstone monolith that rises 348 meters high into the vivid blue skies of the Northern Territory. Found in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, it was once known as Ayers Rock and is famed for its shift in hue depending on the time of the day, with Uluru looking most striking at sunrise and sunset.
7. Devils Marbles, Northern Territory
A geological marvel with a rich cultural history, Devils Marbles are located 95 kilometres from Tennant Creek in Northern Territory. Steeped in ancient Aboriginal mythology, the six-metre-high rock formation is said to have been the fossilised eggs of the Rainbow Serpent. They appear to defy gravity, precariously balancing upon each other. However, this is a balancing act that has been unmovable for over a million years.
8. Mungo National Park, NSW
Mungo National Park veers from the verdant green national parks of Australia, offering a moon-like landscape. This is a must-visit destinations for those interested in archaeology, with quartz and clay dunes punctuating the desert landscape. This is also home of the 40,000-year-old remains of the Mungo Man and Mungo Lady. There’s a boardwalk around this fragile environment, providing views across the ancient dry lakebed of Lake Mungo.
9. Lake Hillier, Western Australia
Located 130 kilometres from Esperance on Middle Island, this surreal lake is separated from the deep turquoise ocean by a thin strip of sand. This spectacular sight is best viewed from above in one of two Scenic helicopters^, where you can truly appreciate the contrasting colours and magnificent surrounds. While it is still a scientific mystery why Lake Hillier is bright pink, many believe it is down to an algae. Others claim it is high levels of salt.
10. The Blue Lake of Mt Gambier, South Australia
The Blue Lake in South Australia’s Mount Gambier occupies an extinct volcano crater. From November to February the lake's blue changes to an intense deep turquoise. How did it come to be so blue? A huge layer of limestone sits under Mount Gambier and is made up entirely of the fossils of marine animals and shells. Over time, rainfall has soaked into the limestone like a huge sponge, or aquifer. The Blue Lake is a ‘window’ into the aquifer.
Extraordinary Destinations, Once-in-a-lifetime Moments
At Scenic, the difference is in the details. It is taking our guest to remarkable destinations around the world, and then unlocking their magic with spectacular experiences.
Our handcrafted land journeys offer incredible culture, unique cuisines and you’ll stay in accommodation that is reflective of your destination for a truly immersive experience. You can book a land journey for 2022, and explore the wonders of Australia. A pre or post land journey can also be added as an extension, during Scenic Eclipse’s maiden voyage into Australian waters in 2024.
On a Scenic Eclipse voyage, it’s going above the horizon in one of two on board helicopters^, or delving below by submarine^. An expert Discovery Team elevating the guest experience to another level. It’s never having to touch your wallet as our truly all-inclusive philosophy ensures everything from onshore excursions to meals and unlimited premium beverages is all covered.
Whichever you choose, Scenic will turn your travel dreams into a reality, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
^Flights on board two helicopters, helicopter experiences and submarine at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and tidal conditions.
