For those who enjoy being surprised and appreciating the most marvellous aspects of life, nature has shown us on many occasions that it is capable of even the impossible. Such is the case of the Great Barrier Reef, located in Australia. Here, we are going to tell you everything you need to know about it and also what activities you can enjoy there and where to stay.
What is the Great Barrier Reef?
Declared by UNESCO as one of Australia’s World Heritage Sites, the Great Barrier Reef is a coral reef located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland. While it is true that its length actually begins in southern Papua Guinea, most of it forms a parallel line with the east coast of Australia.
Its name is related to the fact that it is considered to be the world’s largest barrier reef. Today, more than 400 different types of coral, over 1,500 species of fish and more than 4,000 varieties of molluscs have been found there. It is therefore not only of great tourist interest, but also of scientific interest.
Its fauna
Based on the above, it is estimated that the Great Barrier Reef is home to more than 1,800 marine species, ranging from a myriad of molluscs to sharks. But, in addition, it is a place inhabited by unique species in the world that are in danger of extinction, such as the green turtles.
Along with these animals, the site is also home to more than 215 different types of birds, including the sought-after roseate tern and white-bellied sea eagle.
What can you do on the Great Barrier Reef?
As we have already said, the Great Barrier Reef, due to its peculiarities, represents a great scientific interest for the world. But it is also what has motivated, over the years, an important tourist flow. That is why, now, we are going to tell you about the main tourist activities that you can do on the Great Barrier Reef and that are respectful of the environment and the animals that live there and must be protected.
Snorkelling
Certainly, one of the favourite activities to do on the Great Barrier Reef and one of the most economical is snorkelling. In this case, all you have to do is rent a specialised mask and swim while enjoying the marine fauna from a distance.
Boat with underwater vision
Another good option to see the fauna and flora of the Great Barrier Reef is the underwater viewing boat. It is a way to relax while observing the bottom, because they are boats with glasses that allow you to see everything.
Skydiving
For those who enjoy something more extreme, skydiving has gained great popularity in this area, looking at the beautiful landscapes that characterise it before jumping.
Night Catamarán
Finally, another option gaining popularity is to spend the night on a night catamaran. While the view of the marine wildlife will not be the same, it is a great way to enjoy the starry skies and visit the islands in good time.
Heron Island
Heron Island is the most famous among those who choose to visit the Great Barrier Reef. This is due not only to the beautiful sunsets it offers, but also to the fact that, between November and March, it is the place where turtles choose to lay their eggs on the seashore.
Whitsundays Island
Finally, these islands represent a group of 74 paradisiacal islands that are considered to be the best in the world and are mostly uninhabited. You can take day trips or visit them by catamaran.
Where to stay to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef?
As we have seen above, the Great Barrier Reef is a site that has, over time, attracted a great deal of tourist interest from people from all over the world. But, in addition, this World Heritage destination has been considered endangered.
These particularities are what lead to a very important influx of tourists in the region. Therefore, what we want to do now is to tell you which cities you can stay in to visit the Great Barrier Reef and marvel at all the surprises it has to offer.
Cairns
One of the best places to visit the Great Barrier Reef is Cairns. This is because it is strategically the closest place to get close to the Great Barrier Reef. Also, from this city it is possible to find an endless number of boat options and tours to visit the reef.
Sydney
Despite the above, it is true that the supply of accommodation in Cairns still tends to be small, while demand is very high. Therefore, a recommendation is to stay in a city a little further away but with many options available to get to the Great Barrier Reef and, at the same time, many alternatives to enjoy at night or on the extra days when you don’t visit the reef.
In this sense, Sydney is the most important city in Australia, at the same time that it is an imposing, active, vibrant city with many alternatives to get to the Great Barrier Reef.
If you want to stay in Sydney, one of the hotels we can recommend is the 1888 Hotel by 8Hotels. It is a hotel located in the heart of the Pyrmont district and is housed in a spectacularly restored late 19th century building. Its location makes it perfect for visiting the city centre, as well as being a luxury boutique hotel with excellent services.
Brisbane
Along with Sydney, another alternative to consider is Brsibane. Its location on the Coral Sea also makes it a strategic place to visit the Great Barrier Reef. But, in addition, it is a city that has substantially developed its tourist potential, so not only can you choose from a wide list of accommodation, but the tourist services available are extensive and excellent.
One hotel you can find in this city is the Gambaro Hotel. Centrally located, it is a new-build, award-winning boutique property offering luxury accommodation and excellent cuisine in the heart of Queensland’s capital city today.
