Top 5 Oceania Destinations for Nature Lovers

When you imagine paradise on Earth, chances are Oceania springs to mind. This beautiful area in the Pacific, some of the most stunning natural beauty on Earth. From coral reefs that resemble underwater cities, to rainforests that have been around longer than human civilization, Oceania is a nature lover’s ultimate playground.

Why is this part of the world so uniquely amazing? Picture swimming among sea turtles in crystal-clear waters, hiking through misty mountains where your ancestors sang or standing at the rim of a live volcano watching steam billow into the sky. Oceania provides everything plus. There’s Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Fiji here, among other small island nations — thousands of islands in the Pacific that have their own unique ecosystems you can’t find anywhere else.

For those who come most alive when enveloped by raw, untamed nature Oceania should be your number one travel destination. In this article, I look at five amazing places that highlight the beauty of this region in all its glory. No matter if epic underwater adventures, mountain treks or spotting rare wildlife sounds right up your alley, these places will simply blow you away.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia – World’s Largest Living Organism

Why This Natural Beauty Deserves Your Attention

Now the Great Barrier Reef isn’t merely famous — it’s legendary. This gigantic coral reef system extends 2,300 kilometers along Queensland’s coastline and is so huge it can be seen from space. Indeed, that natural wonder is visible to astronauts floating on high above Earth. It is home to some 1,500 species of fish, 411 types of hard coral and countless more marine-life forms that call this underwater metropolis home.

The magic of the reef, in truth, lies in its incredible diversity. One minute you’re hovering over a brilliant coral garden big enough to be an alien landscape, the next you’re gazing as a sea turtle flies below as if it were swimming in air. The reef produces a living kaleidoscope of colors — electric blues, neon yellows, vivid purples — that twist and transform as you maneuver through the water.

Best Experiences for Nature Enthusiasts

Snorkeling and diving these waters are like entering another world. The water is clear enough to see 30 meters ahead during good days. Popular destinations like the Whitsunday Islands and Cairns offer accessible routes to the reef, with tours available for both novices and experienced divers.

For those who don’t like getting wet, glass-bottom boat tours and underwater observatories allow you to see the reef’s magic without having to get in it. Eco-friendly tour operators now offer tours with policies to not exploit these precious dunes. You can also take scenic helicopter rides that show the true grandeur of the reef — flying above Heart Reef, a naturally occurring heart-shaped formation in the coral, is truly something you won’t forget.

Wildlife You Might Encounter

Planning Your Visit

Open now year-round, but some seasons are better than others. With summer (December to February) comes warm water ideal for swimming as well as jellyfish season, requiring protective suits. Winter (June to August) has cooler water but better visibility and the chance for migrating whales.

Port Douglas and Cairns are the major gateways to the reef. Plan on devoting three full days to see everything—an afternoon won’t be enough here. A lot of reef visitors also make their way to the nearby Daintree Rainforest for the ultimate Queensland nature combo.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand – Mountains and the Sea

An Icy Legacy, Carved in the Landscapes

The Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island could have been penned by a fantasy novelist. Huge fjords slice through mountains to form stunning valleys in which waterfalls plunge hundreds of meters into abyss-like blue waters. It is the biggest national park in New Zealand, with 1.2 million hectares of pristine wilderness to explore.

These deep valleys were scoured by glaciers millions of years ago, and as the ice retreated, the sea flooded in to create narrow fjords like those we see today. Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are the most famous, but the park is home to 14 fjords in total, all with their own personality. Rainforest drapes over near-vertical cliff faces; on any one day you might see dozens of waterfalls tumbling from the ancient rocks.

Must-See Natural Attractions

Milford Sound, so often described as the “eighth wonder of the world,” does not disappoint. The Mitre Peak climbs 1,692 meters out of the water — one of the planet’s highest sea cliffs. When it rains (which is roughly 200 days out of the year), makeshift waterfalls materialize all around, giving visitors what appears to be an otherworldly version of a movie set rather than a real place.

The most renowned is the 53-kilometer Milford Track, which carries you through the heart of this wilderness. Just as awe-inspiring is the Routeburn Track, which covers alpine passes and leads you through ancient beech forests that have been around for thousands of years. These walks are tough, but they offer views money can’t buy.

Unique Wildlife Found Nowhere Else

Fiordland is the habitat of a number of species that are not found anywhere else in the world. The Fiordland crested penguin makes its home on the rugged cliff faces, while New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrot, the kea, is likely to rummage through your backpack if you don’t keep a close eye on it. The vulnerable takahē, a football-sized flightless bird that was once believed extinct, has been brought back to life in these protected valleys.

Fiordland’s underwater is home to a unique environment. Thanks to all the rain, there’s a cover of freshwater on top of these dark waters, and that sets up conditions for deep-sea creatures like black coral to grow in much shallower depths than expected — divers can see species typically found at 300 meters just 10 meters down here.

How to Experience Fiordland Properly

Te Anau is the main gateway town for visiting Fiordland. The road from Te Anau to Milford Sound takes 2 hours and is considered one of the most beautiful on the planet. Plan ahead for your accommodations and adventures, especially in summer when this remote corner of the globe can get crowded.

Rainforests & Reefs of Papua New Guinea – The Last Frontier

Earth’s One of Its Final Wild Places

Papua New Guinea is one of the least studied places on Earth. If you are a nature enthusiast, this is the place to camp while enjoying pure wilderness. The country traces its independence from the territory administered by Australia following Allied victory in World War II. It has more than 70% forest cover — a lot of which has never seen an ax or chain saw.

These rainforests are not only incredibly old, but also incredibly diverse. Papua New Guinea is thought to share 5-7% of total species on Earth, yet occupies less than 1% of the planet’s land mass. New species are regularly discovered here: In 2022 alone, researchers recorded 14 new species previously unknown to science.

The Kokoda Trail and the Highlands

The Kokoda Track is a place of natural beauty and historical importance. The 96-kilometer trail traverses the Owen Stanley Range, winding through thick jungle and over mountain ridges before dropping into isolated villages, where life unfolds much the way it has for thousands of years. It’s a tough old trek, with steep climbs and humidity but when you’re done the experience is guaranteed to reconnect you with nature more deeply than anything else on two feet.

The highland areas of the tour feature a completely different landscape. Alpine grasslands take over from jungle in the vicinity of Mount Hagen and Mount Wilhelm, that country’s highest peak at 4,509 meters. The cool mountain air is a welcome respite from the coast’s humidity, and views extend for miles over pristine wilderness.

Marine Biodiversity That Rivals Anywhere

The underwater world of Papua New Guinea may even outshine its above-ground neighbor in sheer biodiversity. The nation lies in the Coral Triangle, the heart of marine life on earth. Milne Bay, Kimbe Bay, the Bismarck Sea and places like it are home to more coral species than in the entire Caribbean. One dive spot in this area harbors more than 900 species of fish.

Now, the wrecks scattered along the country wrought by World War II have become artificial reefs and are teeming with a rainbow palette of corals as well as countless numbers of fish and other marine creatures. The combination of history and nature makes for a haunting, beautiful dive site.

Indigenous Culture Meets Wild Nature

This is what makes Papua New Guinea different from other natural attractions, this link between humanity and nature. Here, more than in any other country, over 800 indigenous languages are spoken, and most communities still practice traditional lifestyles, hunting, fishing and farming without destroying the forest.

Trekking to tribal villages, experiencing traditional sing-sings (festivals) and learning from those who have been living sustainably in these forests for some 40,000 years adds another layer of depth to any nature-based journey here.

Practical Considerations for Adventurous Travelers

Papua New Guinea is not an easy place to visit — that’s some of its appeal. Infrastructure is limited, there are areas that require special permits and you’re going to need more planning than beach-oriented tropical vacations. But for the true nature nut willing to get out of their comfort zone, this country provides experiences that can’t be replaced anywhere else.

More visitors fly into Port Moresby, and then take domestic flights to these specific regions. Hiring local guides is not just advisable — it’s a necessity for safety and an enriched experience. The best time to go is during the dry season from May to October.

Kangaroo Island, Australia – Wildlife Wonder Off the Mainland

Australia’s Third-Largest Island Is Packed With Nature (and Little Else)

Just 13 kilometers off the coast of South Australia is Kangaroo Island, an expanse covering 4,405 square kilometers that serves as a pristine habitat for Australian wildlife to flourish in relative abundance. One-third of the island is protected in nature reserves and national parks, it’s one of the best spots to see Australian animals in their native habitats without making long treks deep into remote outback areas.

Its isolation has led to the development of unique ecosystems. Koala populations introduced in the 1920s have remained free of disease and are now one of Australia’s healthiest. There are also native species like the endangered Kangaroo Island dunnart (a small marsupial) that can be found nowhere else on Earth. The island is named after its numerous kangaroos, but the marsupials are only the beginning.

Remarkable Rocks and Natural Sculptures

The western end of the island is dominated by Flinders Chase National Park, where you’ll find rock formations that appear to defy logic. As is their name implies, the Remarkable Rocks are enormous granite boulders perched on a dome that overlooks the ocean, the 500 million years of wind, rain and spray having worn them into abstract shapes you almost fall down just looking at.

Nearby Admiral’s Arch forms the shape of the ocean in a limestone natural arch. Long-nosed fur seals sprawl on rocks below completely indifferent to human visitors’ photo-taking from the observation deck above. The noise of the waves reverberating in the arch is like natural music and varies with the tide.

Beach Paradise for Both Wildlife and Visitors

Kangaroo Island has 540km of coastline; there are also so many private beaches, we lose count. Spend your day at Seal Bay walking among Australian sea lions — one of the world’s rarest seal species — on the beach where they relax and nurse their pups. Guided walks take you surprisingly close to these animals, though rangers do their best to make sure that everyone keeps a respectful distance.

Vivonne Bay, one of what’s routinely rated as Australia’s best beaches, offers impossibly white sand and turquoise water. You could have long stretches to yourself, as opposed to crowded mainland beaches. The giant sand dune system of Little Sahara offers an entirely new landscape — you can slide down the faces of steep dunes that appear as if they could be in the Middle East on a sandboard.

Wildlife Encounters Throughout Your Stay

Getting the Most Out of Kangaroo Island

The island needs at least three days to be fully enjoyed. It’s only a 30-minute flight from Adelaide, though you can also take the ferry – for passengers and cars (book well in advance, particularly in summer). You will need your own set of wheels (either brought over on the ferry or rented once you’re here) as there is minimal public transport.

Accommodation options run the gamut from camping grounds to high-end eco-lodges. The island also has fantastic local food: fresh fish harvested right there, honey from bees on Ligurian land only found here and wine from local vineyards. A rounded trip includes a cross section of wildlife watching with some food experiences.

Fiji’s Coral Coast and Islands – Paradise on Earth Both Above and Below the Waves

A Beach Plus More Than A Beach

Yes, Fiji is every inch the tropical paradise that postcards would have you believe — palm trees above white sand next to impossibly blue water. But for nature lovers, Fiji is so much more than lazy days on the beach. This chain of 333 islands (around 110 are inhabited) has some of the Pacific’s healthiest coral reefs, dense inland rainforests and unusual ecosystems forged by volcanic activity and isolation.

There is paced living on this island, described more famously as “Fiji time,” but it is both the expressive human tranquility of one who has sat back and let the chaos leave. And whether it’s watching the sky painted in impossible colors at sunset, or hearing tropical birds calling from across the jungle even as you’re floating above a coral garden, you learn to slow down and notice details you normally wouldn’t.

Soft Coral Capital of the World

Fiji is one of the finest dive destinations in the world, known especially for its colorful soft coral. The Somosomo Strait between Taveuni and Vanua Levu spawns currents that nourish the corals, producing walls of color that shimmer even in low light. Violet, orange, red and yellow soft corals wave in the current like an underwater garden in the breeze.

The Great White Wall dive site near Taveuni is out of this world. Descending below 20 meters, a vertical drop simply covered with bright white soft coral materializes out of the blue. Backlit by your dive light, it projects bright white — you know, like the name. This is not an entry-level dive, but experienced divers consider it one of their lifetime highlights.

Rainforest Adventures Beyond the Beach

Inland Fiji surprises many visitors. The principal islands have rugged interiors with rain forests. Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni features hiking trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls where you can swim in clear pools surrounded by jungle. A 1,195-meter climb to Des Voeux Peak is rewarded with views over many islands.

Viti Levu, the principal island, includes uncrowded inland areas which are relatively free of tourists. Rivers slicing through rainforest make ideal places for kayaking and bamboo rafting. The highlands around Navua boast cooler temperatures and different vegetation, including tropical pines found nowhere else.

Marine Life and Conservation Tales of Hope

Fiji has had some impressive successes for their Marine Conservation efforts. Tabu areas (traditional no-fishing areas) have been established in many villages, where fish populations are given time to recover. Those are marine reserves which now serve dual purposes of conservation and tourism—the amount and diversity of fish in tabu areas is scientifically shown to be MUCH higher than fished areas near these communities.

Magical moments swimming with the manta rays of Yasawa Islands. These leviathans, whose wingspans reach 7 meters, swoop through cleaning stations where small fish eat parasites from their skin. The mantas appear interested in snorkelers, at times swimming up to check each other out.

For more information about sustainable marine conservation efforts in the Pacific, visit the World Wildlife Fund’s Pacific Ocean Conservation page.

Island-Hopping for Different Nature Experiences

Balancing Tourism With Authentic Experiences

Fiji’s well-manicured tourism – However, authentic nature experiences remain possible. And an even better way to give back is by staying in villages through homestay programs, joining traditional ceremonies, and hiring local guides (so you know the money from your tourism dollars goes directly to communities). Most Fijians have a deep understanding of their local environment—a knowledge that is inherited and handed down through generations.

That Fijian hospitality just adds a layer to nature experiences. After a day’s dive on coral outcrops or a trek through jungle the opportunity to return to a village for a traditional lovo feast (food cooked in an underground oven) connects you with nature and culture in tangible ways.

Bringing Your Oceania Nature Adventure to Life

Planning Your Journey

Any of the five destinations explored here could easily become the focus of a full vacation, so it’s not realistic to hope to see all five in one trip. So think instead of the kinds of nature experiences that turn you on the most. Love underwater environments? Direct attention to the Great Barrier Reef and Fiji. Prefer dramatic mountains and hiking? Fiordland and Papua New Guinea belong at the top of your list. Want wildlife encounters? Kangaroo Island delivers.

Budget considerations vary significantly. Australia and New Zealand are developed nations, with correspondingly high costs, whereas Fiji and Papua New Guinea provide more cost effective alternatives in exchange for a bit less infrastructure. Flights to Oceania from North America or Europe are big ticket items and your time in the region will cost you, so while there is some transportation involved it’s almost nothing when it comes to getting your money’s worth.

Best Times to Visit

Oceania extends from the tropics to temperate zones, so “the best time” doesn’t actually exist. However, some general guidelines help:

Summer comes to Australia and New Zealand between November and March. It’s hot, the beaches are crowded, but it’s ideal for water sports. It is cyclone season in the tropical Pacific, so northern Australia and Fiji along with Papua New Guinea could get slammed by storms.

April to October is autumn and winter in the south – a cooler time ideal for hiking in New Zealand and visiting Australian destinations without sweltering heat. It is also the dry season in Papua New Guinea and Fiji, perfect for those destinations.

Responsible Travel Matters

Climate change, pollution and over-tourism threaten these pristine environments. Being a responsible traveler isn’t just about feeling good, it is necessary to help protect these extraordinary places for generations. Select tour operators that are truly sustainable, abide by all park rules, don’t touch coral or harass wildlife and consider purchasing directly from local communities whenever you can.

Coral reefs, and island nations in particular, are especially imperiled by climate change. Warming oceans lead to coral bleaching and rising seas pose a threat to the low-lying Pacific islands. By going to see these places in a low impact way and spending money with conservation organizations you are helping them survive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a trip to these Oceania destinations cost?

Prices run the gamut, according to your travel type. Budget travelers can easily expect to spend $100 at the lower end, in Fiji and Papua New Guinea, while around $70-90 per day for travel expense is the baseline for Australia and New Zealand. High-end travelers can expect to pay $500+ per day anywhere in the area. The real budget-drainers are the flights — count on $1,000 to $2,000 if you’re coming from North America or Europe for a round-trip ticket.

Are special diving certifications necessary for the reefs of Oceania?

No certification is required for snorkeling anywhere. You can dive most sites in the Great Barrier Reef and Fiji with Basic Open Water certification. Advanced Open Water certification is required for some of the more challenging sites in PNG and deeper dives in Fiji. Many operators provide resort courses if you’d like to try diving without the certification.

Is Papua New Guinea Safe?

Papua New Guinea has security issues in urban areas, notably Port Moresby. But tourist areas and organized tours are for the most part safe if you heed local advice and work with reputable operators. The trick is to plan carefully, book with established companies and avoid travel in cities after dark. A lot of travelers go and successfully visit, and find the locals absolutely welcoming.

Which is the best place for families with young children?

For families, the destinations that work best are Kangaroo Island and Fiji. Both feature easy wildlife viewing, safe beaches and activities for a range of ages. Families, too, are welcome on the Great Barrier Reef — plenty of operators cater to children-friendly snorkeling. Fiordland and Papua New Guinea include more difficult terrain and longer walks better suited for older children or teenagers.

Can I visit more than one country on a single trip?

Very much so, and many visitors will combine destinations. It’s only a three hour flight from Sydney to Auckland. You can get to Fiji in around four hours from the east coast of Australia. But, really, each deserves a fair amount of time — to race through multiple countries is to skim past the deeper experiences that make Oceania such an extraordinary corner of the world. A goal of 2-3 weeks seems reasonable (more and you’re on holiday rather than traveling).

What sort of wildlife is a reasonable expectation?

You can very easily expect to spot beautiful fish, coral and even sea turtles on the Great Barrier Reef. Kangaroo Island promises koalas, kangaroos and sea lions. In Fiordland you’re guaranteed to find great scenery, with dolphins and seals fairly well assured but other wildlife more variable. Papua New Guinea and Fiji both provide amazing diversity, but individual sightings will vary according to the location you’re visiting, and there’s an element of luck involved. The presence of knowledgeable guides can make a huge difference to wildlife encounters.

How fit do I need to be?

This varies by activity. Snorkeling requires minimal fitness. Beach activities and moderate strolls cater to most levels of fitness. Multi-day hikes such as the Milford Track or Kokoda Track require fitness and planning. Tours are likewise geared to a wide range of fitness levels, so long as you’re honest with your abilities when booking tours.

In Conclusion: Your Oceania Nature Adventure

The natural wonders of Oceania provide experiences that you remember long after returning home. Whether you are drifting weightless above a coral reef, standing quietly in an ancient rainforest or watching the sunset coat mountains in gold and purple, these moments remind us why protecting Earth’s wild places is so important.

The 5 destinations here are only a small sample of what Oceania features. Unimaginable further islands, reefs, forests and mountains are to be discovered. But these five are an excellent beginning — each adds a different facet to Oceania’s natural beauty.

What makes Oceania really special isn’t the scenery or wildlife, though both are world-class. It’s the sense of having yet to uncover. A great many of them are genuinely still wild, and raw, and real in a way ever less common across our crowded world. When you stand on the shoreline in Milford Sound and watch waterfalls tumble down mountains to the sea, or swim with manta rays in the crystalline waters of Fiji, or come face-to-face with a koala on Kangaroo Island, you are seeing nature as it’s meant to be — powerful, beautiful and humbling.

So get going on planning your Oceania adventure. Research, save, plan and then go. These are places that are just waiting for you to see, as photos can never do them justice. Oceania’s magic can only be felt if you experience it yourself. Your adventure into some of Earth’s most beautiful natural landscapes starts now.