Australia

In focus: Rainforest and reef

The Reef: According to Sir David Attenborough, it’s one of the “most exciting natural history experiences in the world”, and who are we to argue? It’s bigger than the Great Wall of China and visible from space! Made up of over 3000 individual reef systems, it supports the most wonderful array of marine life. There are hundreds of picturesque tropical islands here – including the Whitsundays – and some of the world's most beautiful sun-soaked, golden beaches. On Exodus Australia trips you can spend a full day snorkelling, diving and sailing on the Great Barrier Reef.

The Rainforest: Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park contains the oldest surviving rainforest on Earth, with cool streams, towering mountains and a dramatic gorge. Take it all in on the leisurely Rainforest Circuit Walk under the towering canopy of the trees, beautifully framed by the striking mountains and ice-cool water holes. This is a centre for eco-tourism, and on our Australia tours here we stay in a secluded Rainforest Lodge, set in the quiet peacefulness of the rainforest and perfect for bird and butterfly spotting. Here you can swim with jungle perch and turtles in the untouched crystal-clear Cooper Creek, which winds through the lodge on its way from the mountains to the sea.