Our planet has many places that amaze the imagination of everyone who hears about them, and even more so who sees with their own eyes. The Great Barrier Reef can rightfully be attributed to such places. Why is it so unique? Just imagine that this is the largest living organism on our planet. Its size is so large that it is noticeable even from space with the naked eye. The reef is home to hundreds of thousands of marine animals and plants that millions of divers come to see every year from all over the world. If you also consider yourself a scuba diving enthusiast, then pack your suitcase, you are going to Australia!

How to get to Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of Queensland in northeast Australia. The nearest cities of which it’s more convenient to get to the reef are Brisbane and Cairns. There are airports here, but they only serve domestic flights, so most likely you will have to choose a flight with a change in Sydney or Melbourne.

Great Barrier Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia Travel Guide

You must understand that even if you ordered a private plane and it landed right on the beach, you will not see anything when you arrive at the place. You still have to swim to the reef. Cairns, Brisbane and others are the cities closest to the reef. The Great Barrier Reef is located about 30 kilometers from the coast. Therefore, reaching the coast, your next step will be to find a yacht, ship or boat at local piers. Fortunately, the choice of carriers is wide, for every taste and budget, from private fishermen to completely legal passenger transportation companies.

Things to do in Great Barrier Reef

It’s no secret that the main reason why tourists visit the Great Barrier Reef is diving and the opportunity to discover all the wonders of the underwater world of Australia and New Zealand. You can dive both with your equipment and with a rented one. Almost all operators provide the opportunity to take a course in scuba diving, having received an international certificate at the exit. If you have a one-time desire to plunge with an oxygen cylinder behind your back, then a personal instructor and equipment will be at your service, of course, for an additional fee.

Those who for some reason cannot or do not want to dive, but want to see the barrier reef, can go for a walk over the reef in a helicopter or a small plane.

Great Barrier Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia Travel Guide

Another option is to go on a cruise for a few days. So, you will have the opportunity not only to see the greatest miracle of nature, but also to find new friends. Most cruise ships set sail from the port in Sydney and also from New Zealand.

Where to stay in Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier Reef is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means it is under state protection. In this regard, you can stay in hotels (or campsites) only on specially designated islands or in coastal cities. In general, you will not have problems with accommodation, even if you are looking for budget options. In coastal cities, hotels and hostels are concentrated along the coastline, next to the main pier.