When we think of Australia we think of vast wildernesses and diverse wildlife – and rightfully so. It offers so much more than just being a holiday destination. It invites us to engage directly in preserving its natural beauty, participate in its efforts and provide a deeper understanding and connection to the natural world. As eco-tourism gains momentum, more and more offers for meaningful experiences that allow us to contribute positively to our destination are available.
Here’s why you should go
Wildlife conservation holidays combine the adventure of travel with the fulfilment of helping to preserve wildlife and their habitats. The trips involve activities ranging from animal monitoring and habitat restoration to educational programs with conservation experts. That means you can enjoy close encounters with nature and safeguard Australia’s ecological future at the same time!
Before embarking on the holiday, prepare yourself accordingly and adequately. A valid visa is required for UK citizens for entry and online application services such as Auvisa.org can sort this quickly and reliably. Get an appointment with your GP as well, and check the latest health advisories and vaccination requirements. Travel insurance that covers medical expenses and evacuation is crucial due to the sometimes quite remote locations of many conservation projects. Your packing should be tailored to the diverse Australian climate (there are six different ones!), with essentials including enough sun protection, insect repellent, and very sturdy hiking boots.
Highlighted conservation programs
There are of course so, so many to choose from, but here are six close to our hearts that might give you some ideas to get going. But we more than recommend researching yourself!
Friends of the Koala (New South Wales)
This program allows volunteers to participate in the conservation of koalas by assisting with the care and rehabilitation of sick and injured animals – a fantastic hands-on approach. You’ll learn a lot about their way of living and the threats they face in the wild.
Reef Restoration Foundation (Great Barrier Reef)
Tourists can join efforts to regrow coral gardens in the Great Barrier Reef through coral propagation techniques. These activities help strengthen the reef’s resilience against bleaching and storm damage, crucial for its survival amidst climate challenges.
Devil Ark Sanctuary (Tasmania)
Located in Tasmania, this sanctuary focuses on saving the iconic Tasmanian devil from extinction. Volunteers can help with feeding, enclosure maintenance, and participate in health checks, playing a direct role in the survival of this beloved species.
Whale and Dolphin Conservation (Hervey Bay, Queensland)
This program, as the name suggests, engages tourists in dolphin and whale research projects. Activities could include data collection and analyses, helping researchers In efforts to protect marine life through better understanding of their habitats and health.
BirdLife Australia (National)
There are numerous bird-watching tours that contribute to bird conservation available nationwide. These tours help monitor their populations and habitats, involving us tourists in citizen science projects across various locations.
Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours (Tropical North Queensland)
This is less a direct opportunity for volunteering, but important and unique nonetheless. Led by Indigenous guides, these tours offer fantastic insights into traditional land management practices that have preserved the local environment for centuries. Visitors learn about native plants and animals through the lens of Aboriginal cultural heritage – and by doing so, support their traditional way of life.
Images: Unsplash
