Outback

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : Australia

Currency : AU Dollar

Big Mac Index : 4.62

Travel Safety : Low Risk

The Outback of Australia is a vast and rugged region that spans the continent, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. It's a place where you can find natural beauty, history and adventure all in one. Getting There: Getting to the Outback can be an adventure in itself. The region is vast and remote. So the best way to get there is by air or road. The main airports in the Outback are in Alice Springs and Uluru. Both offer direct flights from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. If you're driving, you'll need to prepare for long stretches of open road and plan your route carefully. There are several major highways that cross the Outback, including the Stuart Highway, the Great Northern Highway and the Eyre Highway. Things to See and Do: - Uluru (Ayers Rock) is one of the most iconic natural landmarks of the Outback, a sacred site to the Anangu people, and a must-see destination. - The Olgas (Kata Tjuta) are another spectacular rock formation that is also sacred to the Anangu people. - The Kings Canyon is a beautiful natural wonder that offers hiking and scenic views. - The Devil's Marbles are another natural attraction that is worth visiting, a large collection of granite boulders that are scattered across the desert. - The Strangways Springs is a beautiful area that is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including the red kangaroo, emu, and the dingo. - Kakadu National Park: Kakadu is one of the largest national parks in Australia, and it's a great place to experience the Outback's unique wildlife and natural beauty. The park is home to a wide range of animals, including crocodiles, wallabies and dingoes. It also features a variety of landscapes from wetlands and billabongs to rocky escarpments and deep gorges. When to Visit: The best time to visit the Outback is during the cooler months from April to October. Because the temperatures during the summer months can be extremely hot. Tips: - Remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the sun can be extremely intense in the Outback. - Make sure your car is in good condition and that you have a spare tire and other essential supplies. - Always be aware of the weather conditions and never attempt to cross flooded creeks or rivers. - Respect the cultural and spiritual significance of the natural landmarks and always follow the advice of the traditional landowners. - Remember that the Outback is a remote and rugged region, so be prepared for the unexpected and always let someone know your plans.

Photo - Unsplash: Dylan Shaw