Australia is known for its unique wildlife, with many species found nowhere else in the world. From kangaroos bounding through open fields to koalas perched in eucalyptus trees, Australia offers countless opportunities for wildlife lovers to get up close with its incredible creatures. A road trip across the country provides the perfect chance to encounter these animals in their natural habitats, all while enjoying the freedom of travelling by campervan for hire.
At Let’s Go Motorhomes, we provide everything you need to embark on an unforgettable Australian wildlife adventure. Here’s a guide to the best wildlife encounters you can experience on an Australian road trip.
1. Kangaroos in the Grampians, Victoria
No trip to Australia is complete without seeing its most iconic animal—the kangaroo. The Grampians National Park in Victoria is one of the best places to spot these animals in the wild. The park is home to large mobs of kangaroos, which can often be seen grazing in the early morning or late afternoon. The Grampians also offer beautiful landscapes, including rugged mountains, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts.
With your campervan, you can set up camp in the park and enjoy the serenity of nature while watching kangaroos roam freely around your campsite.
2. Koalas on the Great Ocean Road, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road is famous for its stunning coastal views, but it’s also one of the best places in Australia to see koalas in the wild. Take a detour to Kennett River, where you’ll find a colony of koalas living in the eucalyptus trees near the road. Koalas are known for their sleepy nature, so you’ll likely spot them napping in the branches during the day.
This scenic drive, with its winding coastal views and opportunities to see koalas, is perfect for a family road trip. A campervan for hire lets you take your time exploring this iconic route, stopping for wildlife sightings and scenic breaks along the way.
3. Penguins on Phillip Island, Victoria
Just a short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is home to the famous Penguin Parade, where hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore every evening at sunset. This is one of Australia’s most beloved wildlife experiences and a fantastic activity for families. You can watch from the viewing platforms as the penguins return from a day of fishing to their burrows in the sand dunes.
Phillip Island also offers opportunities to see other wildlife, such as koalas, seals, and a variety of bird species. Hiring a campervan makes it easy to explore the island’s wildlife attractions and camp nearby for a convenient and comfortable stay.
4. Dolphins in Jervis Bay, New South Wales
Jervis Bay on the New South Wales south coast is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, but it’s also one of the best places in Australia to see wild dolphins. The bay is home to a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, and you can often spot them swimming close to shore or take a dolphin-watching cruise to get a closer view.
With your campervan, you can park near the beautiful beaches and enjoy the scenic views, while keeping an eye out for playful dolphins frolicking in the bay.
5. Sea Turtles at the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
The Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine wildlife. Snorkelling or diving in the reef gives you the chance to encounter an array of marine creatures, including vibrant fish, rays, and—if you’re lucky—majestic sea turtles. Sea turtles are often seen swimming gracefully through the coral gardens, making for a magical underwater experience.
To fully experience the Great Barrier Reef, travel by campervan and stay in one of the nearby coastal towns such as Cairns or Port Douglas. This gives you the freedom to explore the reef at your own pace and take in the incredible marine life Australia has to offer.
6. Crocodiles in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory
If you’re looking for an adventure with more thrilling wildlife, head to Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory to see saltwater crocodiles. These fearsome predators can be seen basking on riverbanks or swimming in the park’s waterways. Take a guided boat tour along the East Alligator River or the Yellow Water Billabong to observe these ancient creatures in their natural habitat.
Kakadu is also home to an abundance of birdlife, including majestic birds of prey and colourful parrots. With your campervan for hire, you can camp in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed park, experiencing the rugged beauty and wildlife up close.
7. Tasmanian Devils in Tasmania
For a truly unique wildlife encounter, head to Tasmania to see the elusive Tasmanian devil. These small, carnivorous marsupials are found only in Tasmania and are best seen in wildlife sanctuaries or protected areas. The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo near Hobart offers visitors the chance to see these fascinating creatures in a natural setting while learning about the conservation efforts to protect them.
Tasmania is also home to other unique wildlife, including wombats, echidnas, and platypuses. Travelling by campervan allows you to explore Tasmania’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, from national parks to secluded beaches.
8. Whale Watching in Hervey Bay, Queensland
If you’re travelling to Australia during whale migration season (June to November), head to Hervey Bay in Queensland for some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the world. Humpback whales pass through the waters of Hervey Bay, often stopping to rest and play in the calm waters. Whale-watching tours provide an unforgettable experience as these majestic creatures breach and splash just metres from the boat.
Hervey Bay also offers family-friendly camping spots and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal stop on your road trip with a campervan for hire.
9. Kangaroo Island, South Australia
As the name suggests, Kangaroo Island is the perfect destination for spotting kangaroos, along with a variety of other wildlife such as sea lions, koalas, and echidnas. The island is a nature lover’s paradise, with protected wildlife reserves and pristine beaches where animals roam freely. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park to watch Australian sea lions lounging on the beach, or take a guided tour to spot koalas in the eucalyptus trees.
Exploring Kangaroo Island in a campervan gives you the flexibility to discover its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty at your leisure.
10. Emus and Kangaroos in Flinders Ranges, South Australia
The Flinders Ranges in South Australia is known for its dramatic outback landscapes and abundant wildlife. Emus and kangaroos are commonly seen throughout the region, often grazing near the road or in the shadow of the rugged mountains. Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre, offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic hikes.
Camping in your campervan allows you to wake up to the sounds of the outback and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Experience Australia’s Wildlife with Let’s Go Motorhomes
Australia’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes make it the perfect destination for a road trip. Whether you’re spotting kangaroos in the outback or snorkelling with sea turtles on the Great Barrier Reef, a campervan for hire gives you the freedom to explore Australia’s wildlife hotspots at your own pace.
At Let’s Go Motorhomes, we offer a range of campervans to suit all types of travellers, providing comfort and convenience for your wildlife adventures. Visit our website at Let’s Go Motorhomes to find the perfect campervan for your trip and start planning your wildlife-filled road trip today.
Ready to encounter Australia’s unique wildlife? Hire a campervan from Let’s Go Motorhomes and explore the best wildlife destinations across the country.
