Egypt, where the murmurs of ancient secrets resonate through the sands of time, is a destination that captivates all the senses. From the towering pyramids of Giza to the vibrant bazaars of Cairo, Egypt’s cultural canvas unfurls a sumptuous tapestry interwoven with history, art, and gastronomic wonders. Set forth on an immersive expedition through this fascinating nation, where every twist and turn unveils a fresh facet of its irresistible charm.
Unveiling the Secrets of the Pyramids
Begin your Egyptian adventure in awe of the pyramids at Giza, an eternal symbol of human achievement. Standing before the Great Pyramid, you’ll feel the weight of history as you contemplate the labor and ingenuity that went into its construction, and for a seamless and hassle-free start to your journey, be sure to secure your Egypt evisa in advance. Venture inside the ancient tombs to discover hieroglyphs and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the pharaohs’ afterlife beliefs. With its lion’s body and human face, the enigmatic Sphinx guards these wonders, its riddles still unsolved.
Cruising the Nile: A Journey Through Time
Embark on a Nile River cruise, where you’ll sail through the heart of ancient Egypt. As the gentle current carries you, you’ll witness life along the riverbanks, where lush greenery contrasts with the desert’s golden hues. Explore temples that rise like mirages in the desert, including the magnificent temples of Luxor and Karnak. Step ashore in Aswan to visit the High Dam and the Philae Temple, modern marvels against an ancient backdrop.
Cairo’s Contrasts: Tradition and Modernity
Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, is a city of contrasts where tradition and modernity collide. Dive into the labyrinthine streets of Old Cairo, where the Khan el-Khalili bazaar beckons with the scent of spices and the sparkle of jewelry. Visit the Egyptian Museum, home to the treasures of Tutankhamun, where history comes alive. For a glimpse of modern Egypt, explore the Zamalek district, a leafy oasis along the Nile, and indulge in contemporary Egyptian cuisine at trendy restaurants.
The Magic of Luxor and Karnak Temples
Luxor, often called the “World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum,” is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. Visit the Luxor and Karnak Temples, where colossal statues and intricately carved obelisks pay homage to ancient gods. As the sun sets, witness the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple, where history is narrated through a mesmerizing interplay of light and sound, bringing the past to life.
Exploring the Temples of Abu Simbel
Exploring the Abu Simbel temples, nestled along Lake Nasser’s shores, transports you on a profound journey through history. These monumental structures, meticulously hewn into the mountainside by Pharaoh Ramses II, stand as an enduring testament to the magnificence of ancient Egypt. Stand before the massive statues guarding the entrance and marvel at the precision of the carvings inside. The temples were relocated in a remarkable engineering feat to save them from the rising waters of the Nile, preserving their splendor for generations to come.
Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Aswan
Aswan, often called Egypt’s “Jewel of the Nile,” is a city of timeless beauty. Explore the Nubian villages, where vibrant colors adorn the houses and the warm hospitality of the Nubian people is palpable. Sail to the serene Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, and witness the interplay of light and water. Aswan’s natural beauty, including the Nubian Desert and the Elephantine Island, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling cities.
Savoring Egyptian Cuisine
Egyptian cuisine is a compelling blend of flavors and traditions. Feast on aromatic dishes like koshari, a hearty mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and spicy tomato sauce—sample succulent grilled meats and seafood at local restaurants along the Nile. Try traditional sweets like baklava and basbousa, and sip on mint tea in bustling cafes. Egyptian cuisine is a journey of taste that reflects the country’s rich history and cultural diversity.
The Oasis of Siwa: A Hidden Gem
Venture off the beaten path to the Siwa Oasis, a remote haven in the Western Desert. Explore the ancient ruins of the Oracle Temple, where Alexander the Great sought guidance. Take a dip in the therapeutic waters of Cleopatra’s Spring and watch the sunset over the salt flats of Bir Wahed. Siwa’s serene beauty and unique culture offer a glimpse into a world apart from Egypt’s bustling cities.
Egypt is a land of contrasts and captivating beauty, where temples and tombs tell stories of ancient dynasties, and the taste of local cuisine lingers on the palate. From the timeless wonders of Luxor and the temples of Abu Simbel to the bustling markets of Cairo and the serene Siwa Oasis, Egypt’s rich cultural landscape invites you to delve deeper into its mysteries and treasures. Every moment in this enchanting land is an adventure waiting to be discovered.
Travel plans can disrupt your fitness routine. If you let that happen, it might take a while for you to return to your normal fitness routine, even after your trip is over. Although you can’t follow your daily fitness routine exactly on the days you travel, you can make some modifications and keep making progress toward your fitness goals.
Exercising during your travels can actually be beneficial for combatting travel-related aches and strains, fatigue, and jet lag. You will, most likely, be in unfamiliar surroundings, so you will need to use a little bit of creativity to increase your activity levels.
You know what they say “Failing to plan is planning to fail”. Even before you start from home, you should have at least a rough plan for maintaining your fitness. Incorporate these tips and draw a customized fitness plan for yourself:
Select a Fitness-Friendly Hotel
These days, it’s very easy to check out the place where you are planning to stay. Just a quick search online, and you can find out all about the hotels. Select a hotel with exceptional fitness offerings.
If you can’t find a hotel with a gym, or if their timings do not suit your needs, choose a hotel with a gym nearby. You can check out the area around the hotel using online maps. If there is no gym near the hotel, check what other fitness activities are possible in that area.
Check if there’s a cycling track around, a fitness class, or even a park. Some hotels even offer guided fitness tours. Even if you have to spend a little extra on a hotel that can help you maintain your fitness, consider it an investment in your health.
Pack Some Exercise Gear
If you are traveling for work, or if you have a packed itinerary, you may not be able to hit the gym. For such situations, it’s better to carry your portable gym with you. Carry lightweight, small exercise tools in your luggage. The mere presence of these in your luggage will motivate you to work out.
If you have work during the day, you can work out with these in the comfort of your hotel room at night.
These are some of the more popular travel-friendly exercise gear options: Resistance bands, a travel suspension trainer, a jump rope, water-fillable dumbbells, a foam roller, a hand gripper, a yoga mat, and tennis balls.
Perform Bodyweight Exercises
If plan A was the gym, and plan B was the portable exercise gear, this is your no-fail plan C. You may not be able to go to the gym, and you may not be able to carry any exercise equipment, but you always have yourself. Bodyweight exercises depend only on the weight of your body for resistance. Additionally, bodyweight exercises have variations suitable for different fitness levels.
Your workout can be as intense or as light as you like. You can take your workout outdoors, and gain the added benefit of fresh air. Moreover, the scenic landscape will take your workouts (and during and post-workout pics and selfies) to the next level.
Enhance the effects of your workouts with nutritious post-workout supplements. The supplements will provide insurance against the imperfections of your travel diet.
Opt for Active Transportation
When you are on a trip, whether for work or vacation, you will have to move from place to place. Whenever possible, ditch the car or public transport, and try an active mode of transportation to get wherever you want to reach. Try to walk as much as you can when you go sightseeing.
Walking allows you to explore places that you can’t possibly reach through the usual means of transportation. Rent a bike, and join guided cycling tours. If you’re good at skateboarding, you could try that.
During trips, transportation contributes significantly to total sedentary time. If it is necessary to remain seated in a car, or other means of transport for a long time, try safe exercises such as neck stretches, shoulder rolls, seated leg lifts, ankle rotations, and isometric contractions.
Use Your Smart Devices
Your phone, tab, and smartwatch can help you remain on track with your fitness goals even in new places. Use these devices to track your activity levels, monitor your progress, and access fitness resources online. Install special fitness and nutrition apps on your devices to increase your motivation for your fitness goals.
Smart devices make it possible for you to join live fitness classes from anywhere in the world. Or you could follow recorded videos for workouts or guided meditations.
Wrapping Up
Trips do not and should not mean a break from fitness activities. In fact, exercising can improve travel experiences. By exercising, you’ll be more energetic and ready for your adventures. If it’s a work trip, exercising can help relieve stress naturally and boost your mood. You’ll also sleep better, and wake up fresh.
You can also balance your food indulgences with a corresponding increase in activity levels. Exercising can also strengthen your immune system, so you won’t fall sick during your travels. The list of benefits can go on and on. To derive these benefits and more, incorporate exercise into your travel itinerary.
Sunshine, surf, and scenic trails – this Noosa itinerary covers beautiful beaches, breathtaking sights, and the best bites in a grand three-day getaway.
Noosa, set on Queensland’s sunshine coast, is the textbook definition of a resort town. It’s lush, relaxed, and unapologetically beautiful.
A two-hour drive north of Brisbane, Noosa is a suburb of the greater Shire of Noosa. While it’s the top tourist hub, it’s also a fantastic base for exploring nearby attractions like posh Noosaville, sunny Sunshine Beach, and the idyllic Peregian Beach.
Noosa Heads draws all kinds of visitors – families with kids, foodies, beach lovers, surfers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone with good taste.
Need something chic? Stroll along Hastings Street, the town’s main shopping and dining belt. This vibrant strip displays an array of top-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, alfresco cafes, beachfront resorts, and luxurious day spas.
But if it’s nature you’re after, Noosa never disappoints. The town is packed with natural beauty.
We mean pristine beaches, enchanting fairy pools, a lush hinterland, and coastal trails that will leave you in awe. And if you’re a surfer (or a fan), Noosa is renowned for its lovely waves.
Ready for a sun-soaked escapade? This three-day Noosa itinerary maps out the perfect way to explore one of Australia’s iconic towns.
Get ready for a gorgeous stay in Noosa!
Why is Three Days Enough in Noosa?
As the relaxation capital of Australia, it’s only right that you explore Noosa unhurried. Three days in Noosa Heads hits the spot.
Even if you spend a day hiking the Noosa National Park, surfing the Noosa Main Beach, and shopping on Hastings Street, you’ll still have enough time to see the Noosa Everglades or cruise the Noosa River.
Plus, an extra day to relax on the peaceful Tea Tree Bay or drive into the Noosa Hinterland.
Noosa’s is tailor-made for a luxurious time-out from the daily hustle and bustle. But it doesn’t mean you can’t have a bit of nature and adventure thrown into the mix.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Day 1
Spend your first day in Noosa Heads and explore Noosa National Park. Then, add a dash of pizzazz to your Noosa itinerary with a stroll or dinner at the iconic Hastings Street.
Rock pools in Noosa National Park
Morning: Noosa National Park
After a hearty breakfast or some coffee to perk you up, waste no time kicking off your morning with a hike at Noosa National Park.
Head to the southern end of the Noosa Main Beach, past the surf club, until you spot the signpost that says ‘first point.’ The concrete footpath leads into the heart of the park.
Noosa National Park covers a protected headland overlooking Laguna Bay and a chain of gorgeous beaches, including Peregian Beach, Little Cove Beach, and Sunshine Beach, all perfect for a morning swim.
The best way to explore this secluded paradise is on foot. The park has an extensive network of hiking trails, but the most popular is the coastal walk.
This Noosa National Park trail is a circuit loop stretching 5.4 km each way for an entire length of 10.8 km. It typically takes four hours to complete. We recommend you take your time and enjoy the lookouts, views, and beaches along the track.
The first lookout on the coastal trail is Boiling Pot, set at the end of a eucalyptus forest on the headland. Continue to Tea Tree Bay, one of the prettiest beaches on the Sunshine Coast.
After Tea Tree Bay, push on to Dolphin Point. This lookout is known for frequent sightings of dolphins and turtles. If you drop by between July and October, you might see some whales swim by.
Follow the track opposite the one going to Dolphin Point, and you’ll find the Fairy Pools. These twin tidal pools, tucked between basalt rocks, lie at the far end of Granite Bay.
The only way to access the pools is by climbing down a rocky path on the side of a cliff face. Be very careful, as the track is narrow and slippery.
The next stop is Hell’s Gate, a craggy bluff looking across the coastline and Alexandria Bay.
The coastal walk ends at patrolled Sunshine Beach. Here, you can cool off with a dip in the ocean. Or, unwind on an outdoor sun lounge while sipping a post-walk cocktail.
If you’re done walking for the day, you can take the local bus (route 620 or 627) to Noosa Heads or Noosa Junction. You can also hike back the same way to complete the loop.
Afternoon: Main Beach or Little Cove Beach
After your long hike at the national park, you might want to sit and relax on the beach.
The buzzing Main Beach is fantastic for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, or people-watching. You can watch beginner and pro surfers catch the waves.
For somewhere quieter, head to Little Cove Beach, about 100 metres east of Main Beach.
Kick back at Noosa Main Beach!
Alternative:
Those who want to continue exploring the national park can hike the other trails. These include Tanglewood Walk, Alexandria Bay Walk, Emu Mountain Walk, and Ocean Beach Walk, which will take you to the breathtaking Peregian Beach.
Evening: Dining/Shopping Hastings Street
Enjoy the balmy Queensland evening with a leisurely walk around Hastings Street, the heart of Noosa Heads.
The iconic Hastings Street is more than just a shopping district; it’s a vibe – whether you’re after something chic and glitzy or casual and beachy.
Hungry? Hastings Street never disappoints with its long list of dining options. Check out Noosa’s iconic beachfront restaurant, Bistro C, which serves modern Australian cuisine. Stay on after dinner for some cold beer or cocktail by the beachfront.
Day two of our Noosa itinerary is for discovering the remarkable Noosa Everglades. An everglade is a swampy grassland. Only two exist in the world, and one of these is in Noosa (the other is in Florida).
Morning: Noosa Everglades
One of the best ways to explore Noosa Everglades is to glide along its glassy waters on a kayak or canoe. You can opt for a self-guided excursion (DIY) or join one of the eco-kayaking tours.
To explore the Noosa Everglades without a guide, head to Boreen Point, a 30-minute drive from Noosa Heads. The village lies on the southern edge of Lake Cootharaba, the gateway to the Everglades.
You can rent a kayak or canoe there. The package also includes a life jacket, safety gear, and a map with instructions.
The Everglades is easy to navigate. But if you want someone with local knowledge to help you find hidden spots and explain the flora and fauna, consider looking for an operator that offers eco-kayaking tours.
The Everglades is 60 km long and spans between the Upper River Noosa and the Great Sandy National Park. It may take the entire morning and a better part of the afternoon to explore the waterway.
Alternative: Noosa Everglades Cruise
Not keen on kayaking the Noosa Everglades? You can enjoy the waterway and its wildlife with a relaxing afternoon cruise.
Late Afternoon: Noosa River
There’s no better way to unwind after a long day of adventure than watching the sun set over the Noosa River. You’ll get lovely sundown views at Gympie Terrace, a bustling riverside green space.
The area has several cafes and restaurants if you want to grab something to eat.
Heading south? Explore the iconic Australian city of Brisbane!
Day 3
The Noosa Hinterland, a region of rolling hills, serene lakes, and picturesque towns, is about 30 minutes inland from Noosa Heads. It’s a favourite destination for scenic drives and culinary tours on the Sunshine Coast.
You can access the hinterlands even without a car. Buses have regular trips there. But it’s crucial to check timetables and carefully manage your time.
Want a hassle-free trip without driving or transferring from one bus to another? Go for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Tour, which combines scenic views, history, and good food.
Morning: Cooroy
Firstly, drop by the Noosa Farmers Market if, by chance, you are in Noosa Heads on a Sunday for breakfast. The market is open from 7:00 am to noon.
After breakfast, start your trip to Cooroy, about 30 minutes from Noosa Heads, by car. Once in Cooroy, you can check out the Butter Factory Arts Centre. This creative hub is free to enter.
Another attraction to visit is the Noosa Botanic Gardens. Perched on the shores of Lake MacDonald, it’s great for a serene stroll.
Getting to Cooroy: Take the bus route 631 from Noosa Heads Station to Cooroy. Travel time is around 40 minutes. The bus departs hourly, but check the timetable for changes.
Trade the beach for the forest in the Noosa Hinterland.
Midday: Pomona
Pomona is the town next to Cooroy. Sprawled across the foot of Mount Cooroora, it’s known as the ‘living heritage town’ of the Sunshine Coast.
That said, the top thing to do in Pomona is to take the Heritage Walk. On this hour-long hike, you’ll see historic landmarks like the old railway, the courthouse, and the Majestic Theatre, the world’s longest-running silent cinema.
End your visit with a tour of the Pomona Distilling Co. and try their signature pink gin. The distillery has a mouthwatering menu, so you might want to enjoy a late lunch there.
Getting to Pomona: Take the bus route 632 from Cooroy Station to Pomona. Travel time is around 10 minutes.
Late Afternoon: Noosa Heads
The rest of the day is at your disposal. You can ride the waves at Little Cove or take surfing lessons on the Noosa Main Beach. If you need to do last-minute shopping, many shops on Hastings Street are open until late.
Return to Noosa Heads: Take the bus route 632 from Station St in Pomona to Noosa Junction. Travel time is 60 minutes.
If you’ve always wanted to try surfing, Noosa is a great place to learn.
Alternative: Dolphin Safari in Noosa Heads
If you prefer the ocean over the mountains, swap the Noosa Hinterland for a dolphin safari around the Noosa Headland and Double Island Point.
Now that you have your Noosa itinerary planned, here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit, how to get around, and where to stay.
When to Visit Noosa
Noosa is a year-round destination with something unique in store, no matter the season.
For milder weather, a smaller crowd, and lower rates, visit Noosa during the shoulder months, September to November (spring) and March to May (autumn).
However, bear in mind March is the wettest month of the year, and some outdoor activities may not push through due to the rains.
December to February is summer, the peak and busiest season in Noosa. It’s sunny, dry, and warm, with temperatures between 27°C and 30°C. Summer comes with larger crowds and higher rates.
In winter, June to August, the average temperature sits around 20°C but may drop to 10°C at night. Winter is the low season, so it’s less crowded and more affordable.
You can use the efficient bus services to get around Noosa Heads and the popular destinations nearby. Translink is Queensland’s primary public transport company and offers regular trips around Noosa.
You can also walk or cycle around town, including Hastings Street, Main Beach, and Little Cove.
Bikes and electronic scooters are available to rent. They’re a fun and sustainable way to explore Noosa and its neighboring suburbs.
If you plan to explore areas beyond Noosa Heads, such as the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, you can rent a car for convenience and flexibility. You’ll also find taxis and ride-sharing services, but they can be pricey.
If you’re not in a hurry, you can take the Noosa Ferry. It operates from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making seven stops along the river between the Noosa Marina and the Sofitel Jetty at Hastings Street.
It’s easy to get around Noosa!
Where to Stay in Noosa
Whatever your budget and preference is, Noosa has something to offer. Noosa Heads and Noosaville are two of the best areas to stay in this coastal town.
Noosa Heads is fantastic for visitors seeking to stay in the heart of the action. It also has a broader range of options, including budget-friendly bed-and-breakfasts and high-end hotels. Many accommodations boast easy beach access, perfect for a resort-style getaway.
Noosaville, with its picturesque riverfront setting and relaxed atmosphere, is a pleasant alternative for those who want somewhere with a cozy, residential vibe. It’s also just a short ride from and to Noosa Heads.
Here are some of the top places to stay in Noosa.
Best Hostel in Noosa – Halse Lodge Noosa Heads
Built in the 1880s, Halse Lodge is a heritage-listed two-story hostel in the middle of Noosa Heads.
After a complete renovation, the lodge re-opened in 2024 and now features modern dorms and cozy private suites.
Guests can access a shared kitchen, game room with billiards and ping pong tables, yoga deck, tropical gardens, and evening entertainment.
Best Mid-Range Stay in Noosa – Noosa River Retreat Holiday Apartments
This secluded retreat is perfect for a Noosa long weekend or a quick overnight stay.
Each self-contained apartment features a comfy King or Queen-sized bed, a kitchenette, a dining area, and a living area that opens to a patio or balcony. There’s a lush garden and a heated outdoor pool for relaxation.
The property is an 8-minute walk to the riverfront, where you’ll find a host of cafes, bars, restaurants, and the ferry terminal to Noosa Heads.
Best Luxury Hotel in Noosa – Tingirana Noosa
Nestled between Noosa Beach and Hastings Street, Tingirana guarantees ultimate indulgence with its Hamptons luxury accommodations. From your tastefully decorated apartment, you can gaze into the sandy stretches of Main Beach.
The other amenities include two outdoor swimming pools, a spa and wellness centre, and an onsite restaurant.
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It’s incredible to see how quickly things have changed when traveling in Russia.
From booking accommodation to accessing the internet or just getting into the country, traveling to Russia is very different from what it used to be like pre-2022.
Russia is a massive country, not only in terms of land, but also in its diversity and complexity. It would be impossible to write down a compelling travel guide in just 3500 words.
However, rather than serving as the ultimate guide to traveling across each region, this Russia travel blog contains all the relevant updated info and recent changes that will help plan your trip to Russia, including how to look for hotels, how to get your visa, how to book domestic flights, and much more.
Until 2022, Russia was a popular destination for travelers, and nobody was ever criticized for traveling there.
Moscow International Airport had connections with pretty much everywhere in the West, embassies across Europe were always packed with travelers trying to secure their visas, and the main language heard in the Hermitage Museum of Saint Petersburg was definitely English.
But today, Western foreigners are a rarity across Russia.
You can still see Asian tourists (mainly groups from China, Malaysia and Iran) in Moscow’s Red Square but the total number of Western tourists I saw after 1 month of traveling across Russia was zero, not a single one.
This made things particularly interesting, especially when meeting English-speaking Russians, who always had plenty of questions on my country’s opinion of Russia.
Red Square in Moscow, the most touristic place in all Russia
What do Russians think about the Ukraine war?
The conflict with Ukraine was on the top of my mind but engaging in local politics with Russian people wasn’t really my objective, since I had traveled to Russia to learn about the country and its cultural diversity.
Obviously, I did speak about the current conflict with a few Russians, but the only thing I’ll say is that most people around the world dislike war.
From Syria to Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan, I’ve always been criticised when traveling to certain countries with controversial regimes, and Russia was no exception.
In fact, I don’t think there is any other country in the world which inspires as much rejection as Russia these days.
It’s important to remember that we are travelers, not activists, and that local people can never be blamed for their Government’s actions, whatever those actions might be.
Photo taken in rural Russia. Seriously, do you think these people like Ukraine war
🪪 How to get a visa for Russia
Can you travel to Russia?
Surprisingly, getting a tourist visa for Russia is much easier than it used to be before the war with Ukraine.
In fact, Russian authorities recently introduced the option of applying for an e-visa for visits no longer than 16 days.
Also, most embassies and consulates around the world no longer require an appointment, probably because they aren’t as busy as they used to be.
Here’s what you need to know about how to apply for a Russian tourist visa.
How to apply for an e-visa for Russia
For single-entry visits of up to 16 days, you can apply for a Russian e-visa.
Which countries are eligible for a Russian e-visa?
All EU and Schengen countries, as well as Bahrain, Cambodia, China, Japan, India, Indonesia, Iran, Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, North Macedonia, Oman, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Taiwan, Turkey and Vietnam.
How long does it take to get approval?
Around 4 calendar days.
How much does the Russian e-visa cost?
It costs $52.
What’s the e-visa validity?
Once your visa is issued, you have 60 days to enter Russia.
Once you get in, your stay can’t exceed 16 days.
Can I use the e-visa at any entry point?
You can enter Russia via any international airport but with the e-visa, land border crossings are limited.
When should you get an ordinary visa instead of an e-visa?
You plan to travel in Russia for more than 16 days
You need to get a multi-entry visa
Your country is not on the list of countries eligible for an e-visa. This includes the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia.
Visa requirements for Russia
Russia travel tip: I can’t speak for all Russian embassies and consulates, but I do have recent experience of getting one at the Consulate of Barcelona and, from what I heard, all offer a similar experience. Just check your nearest embassy’s website for specific requirements.
Russian visa typical requirements:
Passport
2 passport photos
Valid travel insurance for traveling in Russia. We recommend Alfa Strakhovanie.
Letter of Invitation (you should get this from a local tour operator)
How much does the visa for Russia cost?
Price varies from embassy to embassy but at the Russian Consulate of Barcelona:
Single entry non-urgent visa: €120
Single entry urgent visa: €195
Multi-entry non-urgent visa: €250
Very expensive!
How long does approval take?
In my case, a non-urgent visa took around 2 weeks, while an urgent one takes 2-3 days.
My visa for Russia
✍️ How to sign up for a tour in Russia
Traveling with a group and an expert local guide will make things much easier, and more fun!
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🚑 Travel Insurance for Russia
Remember that having valid travel insurance for travel in Russia is a must requirement for getting your visa at the embassy.
Our preferred travel insurance company (IATI Travel Insurance) isn’t covering travel in Russia any longer.
Instead, we recommend Alfa Strakhovanie. It’s a Russian-based insurance company, so they are accepted by the embassies, plus they allow to purchase a policy with a foreign card.
⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Russia?
Many people believe that due to the war with Ukraine, Russia has become an unsafe country.
In fact, if we look at the FCDO advice, the largest country in the world is today considered one giant red zone, meaning that even places like Vladivostok, which are nearly 10,000km from Ukraine, are also unsafe for travel due to the Ukraine war.
Russia travel advice according to the FCDO
They also talk about arbitrary detentions and a lack of available flights to return to Europe.
It’s more than obvious that the different foreign ministries don’t want their citizens traveling to Russia, but I’d also like to give my perspective based on my last visit.
Is Russia safe to visit given the war with Ukraine?
As of today, the war with Ukraine is mainly limited to the border areas, up to the region of Kursk.
Outside of those areas, life in Russia is completely normal, just as usual, and the reason is that Russia is just too big for other parts to be affected by it, from a security perspective.
What about the long-distance missiles that hit Moscow?
In September 2024, Ukraine launched a bunch of long-distance missiles that hit some buildings in the suburbs of Moscow, which resulted in the death of one civilian.
Although I’ve never said that the rest of Russia was 100% safe, but I do want to mention that I was in Moscow when that incident happened, and I only found out about it from the Spanish news.
The authorities closed the airport for a few hours but other than that, life went on as always. You also need to remember that there are more than 13 million people living in Moscow.
No country in the world is free of risk, so it’s up to each traveler to assess how much risk they choose to be exposed to when traveling to a certain region or country.
Are arbitrary detentions a risk in Russia?
Arbitrary detentions don’t affect foreign tourists traveling on a valid tourist visa who stick to tourist sites and don’t get involved in politics.
Lack of flights
You can’t fly out direct to Europe, but you can fly to Baku, Dubai, Istanbul, Cairo and many other places around the world.
Lenin square in Makhachkala. When traveling in Russia, you will see that even the smallest town has a Lenin square
🛫 How to get in Russia
How to fly to Russia
Because of the sanctions, there are no flights operating between Russia and any Western countries, but you can still fly from many cities around the Middle East and Central Asia.
The most popular connections for flying to Russia are:
Istanbul (Turkish Airlines)
Dubai (Emirates and FlyDubai)
But you can also travel to Russia from:
Can you fly to Russiawith Aeroflot, Ural Airlines, S7 or any other Russian airline?
Yes, you can.
These airlines have connections with all the previously mentioned cities.
However, because of the sanctions, you can’t book flights through their website using a foreign card, although it can be done through Aviasales.com, a search engine for flights that allows international card payments.
How to travel to Russia by land border
Russia has endless border crossings with 14 different countries, so it’s impossible to provide up-to-date information on each and every one of them.
However, we can give you a rough idea of what the situation is like in each of the countries that borders Russia:
Norway: The border is open and, due its remoteness, it doesn’t present many issues.
Finland: The border is closed.
Estonia: The border is open but reports suggest it can take over 12 hours to cross.
Latvia: The border is open but reports suggest it can take over 12 hours to cross.
Lithuania: It borders with the enclave of Kaliningrad. Easy to cross, no more than 2 hours.
Poland: It borders with the enclave of Kaliningrad. Easy to cross, no more than 2 hours.
Belarus: As a foreigner, you can’t cross this border because there aren’t any immigration authorities, since Russians and Belorussians are allowed to cross it freely.
Kazakhstan: The longest border in the world. Most entry points are fully functional and don’t present any major issues.
China: They share a border but there isn’t an actual entry point.
Mongolia: Borders are fully operational.
North Korea: On the e-visa portal, I was surprised to read that the electronic visa is valid for entering from North Korea by train at Khasan. If you happen to be in North Korea, perhaps you could be the first traveler to ever exit through Russia.
Do you get a lot of questions when entering Russia?
It’s hard to say, I guess it depends on your entry point.
If you’re entering from Europe (Estonia, for example), you’ll certainly get a lot of questions, plus the whole immigration process is very slow.
If entering via Moscow International Airport, the chances of being questioned are also high, as travel reports suggest.
Nevertheless, be aware that all this questioning is mere procedure, and that nobody I know has been denied their entry into Russia, as long as they were traveling on a valid tourist visa.
I personally entered from Kazakhstan by train. I did get asked a few questions but they were mostly about the 2 visas for Afghanistan stamped on my passport, no big deal.
They also made me fill in and sign a form with Ukraine-related questions, just to make sure that you had no interest in getting involved in their politics.
💰 Money and budget in Russia
In Russia, they use the Russian Ruble and approximately:
1 USD = 85 RUB
Since the start of the war in Ukraine, there’s been a massive inflation and currency fluctuation, but they’ve managed to stabilise it.
Can you use foreign bank cards when backpacking in Russia?
No, absolutely not.
Because of the sanctions, international credit and debit cards can’t be used anywhere in Russia.
Where can you exchange money?
You can exchange your foreign currency at pretty much any bank, easy.
How much does it cost to travel in Russia?
Overall, Russia is cheap as per European standards but it really depends on what you do.
Budget backpackers will be happy to hear that all towns and cities in Russia have an abundance of budget hostels, and that meals are inexpensive.
Long distance trains aren’t super cheap, but you can cover a lot of terrain, plus you save nights in a hotel.
Here are the prices of the most typical things:
Pint of beer: from 300 RUB
Main course at a local restaurant: 400 RUB
Main course at a nicer restaurant: 1000 RUB
Short taxi rides in Moscow: 600 RUB
Short taxi rides in secondary cities: 300 RUB
Overnight train in third class: 2500 RUB
Overnight train in 4-bed compartment: 4000 RUB
Single room in a hotel: from 4500 RUB
Dorm in a hostel: from 600 RUB
Backpacking budget for traveling in Russia: from 40 USD a day
⛅ Best time to visit Russia
Russia can be visited all year around, even during the freezing winter.
Traveling to Russia in winter
Everyone knows that winter in Russia can be cold but it can be adventurous as well.
You would not be the first person to visit the coldest city in the world (Yakutsk) during the month of January or travel across Siberia on the Trans-Siberian.
Northern Siberia can get pretty cold even during sunny summer days
Traveling to Russia in summer
This can be a great time to visit Russia, especially if you plan to visit the Arctic, Lake Baikal or the Caucasus and Altay regions.
Please be aware that many areas of Russia, and that includes Moscow, have a continental climate with very cold winters, but very hot summers.
Summer is a great time to visit Russia if you travel to the Caucasus region
Traveling to Russia in spring and autumn
It’s hard to give an accurate answer on this, it depends on where you go and how early or late in autumn or spring you visit Russia.
🛺 How to get around Russia
How to travel around Russia by train
One of the best experiences when traveling in Russia is boarding a Soviet train. It’s a great way to meet local people and also the only way to comprehend the vast size of this country.
You can go by train to pretty much everywhere in the country.
You won’t be able to book train tickets with a foreign bank card, but the site will help you plan your trip.
How to book a train ticket at the station
Once you know your train schedule, head to the train station and before paying for the ticket, make sure to choose your preferred class:
Lyux – 2-bed compartments. The most expensive.
Kupé – 4-bed compartments. Upper-middle class.
Platzkart – The most common, at its most powerful Soviet style. These wagons don’t have compartments but bunk beds placed all over the wagon.
Obshy – Seats, no beds.
This is platzkart class
How to travel around by taxi
When traveling around Russia, you will have to download Yandex GO, the Russian version of Uber.
You can order a taxi using Yandex GO from virtually anywhere in Russia, even in small towns in the extreme north of Russia, such as Salekhard.
Top Russia travel tip: You can only use Yandex GO with a Russian SIM card, so get one of these upon arrival in Russia.
How to travel around by plane
Domestic flights are a good option for travelers with little time who are interested in visiting different regions of Russia.
You can check flight schedules on Aviasales and book them using a foreign bank card.
How to navigate around Russia
In Russia, Google Maps works fine but Yandex Maps is more detailed and accurate.
In fact, I realized that many businesses such as restaurants were not listed on Google Maps but they were on Yandex.
By the way, due to the war in Ukraine, geolocation isn’t working properly in the center of Moscow.
🏨 Where to stay in Russia: accommodation
Russia is packed with hotels of all types.
From budget hostels to expensive 5-star chains, you will never have any issues trying to find a hotel in Russia.
The problem is more about how to book a hotel in Russia, since popular search engines such as booking.com or hostelworld.com are no longer operating in the country.
Instead, you can search and book hotels through ostrovok.ru, and even book and pay with your foreign card. It is 100% reliable.
💻 Internet in Russia
Wi-Fi and internet speed in Russia
From an internet perspective, Russia is a highly developed country.
There will be good reception pretty much anywhere you go.
Getting a SIM card in Russia
Internet data is ridiculously cheap in Russia.
I paid less than 7 USD for a package that included a SIM card with 50GB of data and unlimited calls.
I bought it at the official store in a mall and all they required was my passport.
You can also get yourself one upon arrival at the airport.
Getting an eSIM for Russia
Some eSIM providers such as HolaFly, GoMoWorld or Alosim offer eSIM for Russia but they are way too expensive compared to the local plans, plus you can’t get a local number, which is absolutely vital to be able to use Yandex GO.
Just get a local SIM instead, it’s super simple.
Restricted websites and apps in Russia
Some restricted websites, services and apps include:
I’ve been using ExpressVPN for years but to my surprise, it wasn’t working in Russia.
NordVPN is my back up VPN, but it also didn’t work.
Instead, I used OpenVPN and it worked well. Some Russians told me they use Planet VPN.
Download and configure your VPN before traveling to Russia because their websites are often blocked as well.
Getting hacked in Russia
It is said that the best hackers in the world are Russian, and that getting hacked is not uncommon here.
I am extremely paranoid about the internet, so my advice is to be very careful about the public Wi-Fi networks you connect to.
Always connect using a VPN and if possible, only connect through your mobile data.
Since data packages are so cheap, I always connected my laptop via my mobile hotspot.
🕌 The people, culture and language in Russia
Cultural diversity in Russia
People tend to think of Russia as one massive Slavic nation but you’ll be amazed to know that Russia is home to 190 recognized ethnic groups, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world.
Caucasian people in Chechenya
While it’s true that many of those ethnicities refer to people from former Soviet countries (like Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Ukraine or Armenia) who for whatever reason moved to the Russian Federation in the past, there are many minorities who are indigenous to a specific region in Russia, such as Tatars, Chechens or Kumyks.
I have personally been to the republics of Dagestan, Chechnya, Ingushetia, North Ossetia and the autonomous region of Yamalia.
Traveling in the different republics of Russia feels like visiting a different country. They have their own rules, religion, habits, food, and culture, and they refer to actual Slavic Russians as if they were from a separate country.
From a traveling perspective, this is Russia’s best asset and the one thing that makes you realize that most travelers have only scratched a tiny bit of the surface of Russia.
Nenet woman, north Siberia
Language in Russia
Russian is the most widely spoken language in Russia, but there are 25 other official languages and over 100 minority languages, all proof of the broad cultural diversity in Russia.
English in Russia
There is a massive language barrier when backpacking in Russia since very few Russians can speak English.
In fact, most people outside of Moscow don’t even understand very basic English words and sentences, such as numbers.
While it’s true that Google Translate and Google Lens have made our life much easier, traveling in Russia is a bit challenging if you don’t know any Russian, so I strongly recommend learning a few basic words.
Also, learn how to read the alphabet. It’s very easy. It took me one day to learn it back in 2018, when I was traveling in Kyrgyzstan.
When it comes to reading food menus, understanding the alphabet is particularly handy.
🍲 Food and drinks in Russia
I don’t want to go into too much detail in this section.
Russia is a developed country so even in small, remote towns, you’ll be able to find decent food options and nice cafés.
Even in the Arctic town of Salekhard – a very small city which until 2021 was impossible to reach by road – there was a sushi restaurant and a German-style bar with a large selection of beers on tap.
Russian caviar. If you want to learn about caviar when you travel in Russia, I recommend going to Astrakahan
You’ll also find modern Russian restaurants all over the country.
Russian cuisine is, of course, very meat-based but all menus will feature different types of soup and salads.
Borscht (beetroot soup), pelmeni (meat dumplings), or varenniki (potato dumplings) are some of the most common dishes.
For breakfast, I really like sirniki, small but thick pancakes made of cottage cheese, usually served with sour cream.
Additionally, there is a vibrant coffee culture in Russia, so you won’t have any problem finding decent coffee anywhere you go.
❗ More helpful information to visit Russia
📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.
All guides and articles for traveling in Russia destination
Travellers looking for vast, remote deserts may head to the Northern Territory to explore Uluru.
But many forget that South Australia has it all!
The capital city of South Australia offers a cosmopolitan energy, incredible food and wine, and plenty of cultural attractions.
Outside Adelaide, you can find mountains, deserts, islands, beaches, and epic coastal drives in South Australia. Head to the Fleurieu Peninsula for wineries and beaches, the Limestone Coast for cool islands and marine life, or the Outback for rugged mountains and deserts.
From the idyllic countryside of the Clare Valley, to the vineyards of the Barossa Valley, to the dramatic cliffs of Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges, the land in South Australia is varied and captivating. You’ll never run out of things to do!
South Australia is best known for its world-famous wine regions, cultural festivals, and diverse, rugged, breathtaking natural beauty.
The Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, and McLaren Vale are some Australia’s finest wine countries, and all are easily located within a quick day trip from Adelaide.
Adelaide is a magnificent city renowned for its festivals, including the Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide, making it a hub for arts and entertainment.
Outside of wine and culture, South Australia also has a range of unique natural wonders that draw in travellers from around the world.
From the underground homes and stark desert of Coober Pedy, to the rugged cliffs of the Great Australian Bight and the Eyre Peninsula, to the beaches and wildlife of Kangaroo Island, there is so much to see in this fabulous state.
South Australia’s rich food and wine culture, combined with its wild landscapes and thriving arts scene, make it a must-visit destination in Australia!
South Australia is full of surprises!
21 Best Things To Do In South Australia
Whether you want lush greenery, arid Outback, or beautiful islands and coastal attractions, there is so much to do in South Australia.
The best way to explore the state is by car, so consider a road trip! You can also just book a stay in Adelaide and do lots of day trips to attractions around the city from there.
But as with most of Australia, the best destinations are very spread out. A road trip is the most exciting and flexible way to explore!
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
1. Explore the capital city of Adelaide
Many visitors to South Australia start their trip in Adelaide, the state’s capital city.
Though not as famous as other Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide has much to offer and you can easily spend 3 days or more exploring the city.
Adelaide is home to a variety of attractions that showcase its rich culture, from the museums and gardens of the North Terrace to the stunning coastline with destinations like Glenelg Beach.
The Adelaide Central Market is a must-visit for food lovers, offering fresh local produce, gourmet delights, and international cuisine. Or you can go shopping in the ever popular Rundle Mall.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the lush Adelaide Botanic Garden or take a short trip to Cleland Wildlife Park to get up close with kangaroos and koalas.
Art and history lovers can visit the South Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of South Australia, both housing impressive collections. You could also catch a performance at the Adelaide Festival Centre, or admire the historic Port Adelaide Lighthouse.
Sports lovers can tour the Adelaide Oval or attend a local footie or cricket match. There is truly something for everyone in Adelaide!
Clare Valley, located about 120 kilometers north of Adelaide, is one of Australia’s oldest and most famous wine regions, renowned for its exceptional Riesling and boutique wineries.
The picturesque valley offers rolling vineyards, charming cellar doors, and scenic country landscapes, making it a favourite destination for wine and nature lovers.
The Riesling Trail, a popular cycling and walking path, allows visitors to explore the region while stopping at wineries and historic towns along the way.
Clare Valley is also home to rich heritage, with towns like Mintaro featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture like the stunning Martindale Hall. It’s a must-visit destination for wine lovers in South Australia!
South Australia is the perfect place for wine lovers.
3. Go wine tasting in McLaren Vale
Surprise, South Australia has multiple world-famous wine regions outside Adelaide. If you’re a true wine lover, why not visit them all?
In addition to the Clare Valley, McLaren Vale is also an incredible destination for wine enthusiasts. You can visit as a day trip from Adelaide, or go on your own self-guided excursion.
McLaren Vale is only 45 minutes south of Adelaide near the Fleurieu Peninsula. This wine region is celebrated for its premium Shiraz, sustainable winemaking, and incredible views.
There is even a Shiraz Trail for those who want more options for walking and cycling through wine countries.
With over 80 wineries and cellar doors, visitors to McLaren Vale can enjoy wine tastings at family-run vineyards while soaking in breathtaking views of rolling hills and nearby beaches.
4. Ride a hot air balloon over wine country
In addition to wine tastings, one of the best things to do in South Australia is soar over the rolling vineyards in a hot air balloon!
The Barossa Valley is another one of the area’s best wine regions. A hot air balloon ride over the Barossa Valley is a magical way to experience the tranquil charm of South Australia.
Flights normally go for about an hour and include some snacks and drinks.
After your flight, consider spending 3 days in the Barossa Valley to see even more! The wine tasting and gourmet food experiences in the Barossa Valley are some of the best in South Australia.
5. Connect with nature in Murray River National Park
Murray River National Park, located in South Australia’s Riverland region, is a gorgeous natural escape known for its diverse wildlife and fun outdoor activities.
The park protects vital wetlands and floodplains along the mighty Murray River, providing a haven for native birds, kangaroos, and emus.
Visitors can enjoy kayaking or canoeing through the peaceful backwaters, fishing along the riverbanks, or exploring scenic walking trails through the park’s unique ecosystems.
You can even camp in the wilderness for an extended stay on the River Murray. The lush red gum forests and towering limestone cliffs create breathtaking scenery that is perfect for photography and camping.
With its rich Aboriginal heritage, abundant wildlife, and serene waterways, Murray River National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Australia.
6. Visit Kangaroo Island
For amazing beaches and breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, head down to Kangaroo Island!
As one of Australia’s top eco-tourism destinations, Kangaroo Island is home to native animals such as kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and echidnas, thriving in protected habitats like Flinders Chase National Park.
There are so many cool things to see in Flinders Chase National Park, including rugged rock formations like Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Or head to Seal Bay Conservation Park to view the local sea lions and take in the stunning coastline.
The crystal-clear waters around Kangaroo Island offer excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and marine life encounters.
Food lovers can indulge in fresh seafood, local honey, and artisanal cheeses, making Kangaroo Island a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and gourmet experiences.
Book a full day tour to Kangaroo Island from Adelaide for a hassle-free experience!
The majestic mountains of the Flinders Ranges are one of the top attractions in South Australia. Anyone who loves hiking through beautiful scenery can plan a visit here for the ultimate outdoor adventure.
The Flinders Ranges is an ancient mountain range in South Australia full of rugged peaks, deep gorges, and mind-blowing rock formations. There are hiking trails suitable for people of all fitness levels, and it’s one of the best places for hiking in Australia.
One of the most iconic hikes is Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre that provides panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s geological past.
The Arkaba Walk and Heysen Trail also offer multi-day trekking adventures through spectacular outback scenery. Along the way, hikers may encounter kangaroos, emus, and vibrant birdlife while exploring Aboriginal rock art sites that tell stories dating back thousands of years.
With its spectacular scenery and remote beauty, the Flinders Ranges is a must-visit destination for hikers. Find more details about the best hikes in Flinders Ranges on the national parks website.
Located on the Eyre Peninsula, Port Lincoln is the only place in the country where you can cage dive with these apex predators in their natural habitat.
Tours take adventurers to the crystal-clear waters of the Neptune Islands, where great white sharks gather, offering an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures. No scuba diving experience is required, as the cage provides a safe and controlled environment.
For those who prefer to stay dry, some operators offer underwater viewing from an enclosed Aqua Sub. This heart-pounding adventure attracts thrill-seekers from around the world!
9. Drive across the Nullarbor Plain
Many travellers might not think to add the Nullarbor Plain to their Australian bucket list, but it’s a surreal experience to have in South Australia.
The Nullarbor Plain is a vast, arid expanse stretching across South Australia and Western Australia, famous for its endless horizons and remote desert views.
Covering around 200,000 square kilometers, it is home to the world’s longest stretch of straight road along the Eyre Highway, making it a bucket-list journey for adventurous road trippers.
The plain’s name, meaning “no trees” in Latin, reflects its mostly treeless, limestone-dominated terrain, which is full of caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers.
Despite its harsh conditions, the Nullarbor is teeming with wildlife, including kangaroos, dingoes, and wedge-tailed eagles, making it a truly unique and unforgettable part of Australia’s Outback.
Though it’s a massive feat to drive the entire Nullarbor Plain, it’s a classic part of any Outback road trip!
10. Admire the Great Australian Bight from the Bunda Cliffs
A highlight of the Nullarbor Plain is the Bunda Cliffs. Even if you’re not driving all the way from Adelaide to Perth, it’s worth driving part of the Eyre Highway just to see this viewpoint.
The Bunda Cliffs are the gorgeous spot where the Outback meets the wild Southern Ocean. Stretching for over 100 kilometers along the Great Australian Bight, these dramatic limestone cliffs rise up to 90 meters high, offering amazing panoramic views of the coastline.
The cliffs are part of the longest uninterrupted sea cliffs in the world, making them a must-visit destination for road trippers traveling the Eyre Highway.
Visitors can witness incredible sunsets and spot migrating southern right whales during the winter months. The Bunda Cliffs provide a glimpse into Australia’s ancient geological history and are a true testament to the country’s vast and rugged wilderness.
The dramatic Bunda Cliffs are a highlight of South Australia
11. Stay in an underground hotel in Coober Pedy
Coober Pedy is a remote desert town in the middle of the South Australian Outback. It’s a popular stopping point on road trips through Australia, such as from Adelaide to Darwin.
The village is surrounded by the otherworldly landscapes of Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, full of crazy moonscapes that look like they are actually from another planet. The area is also famous for its thriving opal mining industry.
But what Coober Pedy is most well known for is its underground hotels, museums, churches, and homes. Many local businesses have built dwellings underground to escape the harsh desert climate.
Whale watching in South Australia is a breathtaking experience. Visitors have the chance to see majestic southern right whales, humpback whales, and even blue whales as they migrate along the Australian coastline.
The best time to witness these gentle giants is from May to October, when they travel to sheltered bays to mate, give birth, and nurse their young.
The Eyre Peninsula, Victor Harbor, and the Great Australian Bight are prime locations for spotting whales, with viewing platforms and boat tours providing up-close encounters.
At Head of Bight, visitors can watch mother whales and their calves resting in the crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of the towering Bunda Cliffs.
With its stunning coastal scenery and incredible marine life, South Australia offers some of the best whale-watching experiences in the country.
13. Go wildlife spotting in Victor Harbor
Victor Harbor is not just an amazing place for whale watching! This beautiful location on the Fleurieu Peninsula is a haven for all types of marine life.
South Australia’s marine life is abundant, and Victor Harbor is the perfect place to get out on the water and see some animals.
A sightseeing cruise will bring you across the Southern Ocean, where you can spot playful seals, sea lions, and dolphins playing in the waves. And of course, in winter you might catch a glimse of some whales as well.
If you want to immerse yourself in the spectacular views and marine life of South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, try a wildlife cruise in Victor Harbour.
14. Attend a festival
Festivals are a huge part of the culture in South Australia, for both locals and visitors!
The state hosts world-class events celebrating arts, music, food, and culture throughout the year.
The Adelaide Fringe Festiva is the second-largest arts festival in the world. It transforms the city into a hub of creativity with comedy, theatre, and live performances.
WOMADelaide is another highlight. This globally renowned music and dance festival brings international artists to the stunning Botanic Park of Adelaide.
Wine lovers can indulge at the Barossa Vintage Festival, while foodies can enjoy local flavors at Tasting Australia.
For motorsport fans, the Adelaide 500 delivers thrilling racing action. Whether you’re into arts, music, food, or sports, South Australia’s festivals offer unforgettable experiences for everyone.
15. Explore the German settlement of Hahndorf in Adelaide Hills
Hahndorf, a popular day trip from Adelaide, is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. This charming town in the Adelaide Hills has a rich heritage, lots of unique artisan shops, and delicious local produce.
Established by German settlers in 1839, Hahndorf retains its European charm with historic buildings, traditional bakeries, and authentic German restaurants serving bratwurst and pretzels.
Visitors can stroll along the tree-lined main street, exploring boutique stores, art galleries, and handcrafted goods. The town is also a gateway to the Adelaide Hills wine region, offering cellar doors and farm-fresh produce.
Attractions like the Beerenberg Farm, where you can pick your own strawberries, and the Hahndorf Academy, showcasing local art and history, add to its appeal.
Anyone looking for a bit of European vibes in South Australia can add Hahndorf to their bucket list! It’s a truly adorable place to visit.
Escape to the storybook village of Hahndorf!
16. Cruise along the Murray River
As Australia’s longest river, the Murray River stretches over 2,500 kilometers through South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.
If you get the chance to cruise along the famous River Murray, go for it!
A Murray River cruise from Adelaide Hills is one of the best ways to kick back, relax, and enjoy the scenery of South Australia.
You’ll get to enjoy some local food as you drift along Australia’s most iconic river, which is a fabulous addition to any travel itinerary.
17. Feast on fresh seafood along the Eyre Peninsula
Anyone who loves seafood will be in heaven in South Australia, particularly along the Eyre Peninsula.
Known as the Seafood Frontier, this stunning coastal region is famous for its premium oysters, freshly caught tuna, abalone, and king prawns.
Visitors can indulge in a seafood platter at a waterfront restaurant, shuck their own oysters at Coffin Bay, or join a fishing charter to catch their own dinner.
Port Lincoln, the seafood capital of Australia, is home to world-class seafood festivals and dining experiences that celebrate the region’s rich marine bounty.
Feasting on fresh seafood along the Eyre Peninsula is a dream come true for food lovers, offering some of the best seafood in Australia (and possibly the world).
18. See the shifting colours of the Blue Lake
The Blue Lake is one of the more unique places to visit in South Australia. Located in the rural town of Mount Gambier, this natural wonder has vibrant colour changes throughout the year.
From December to March, the lake is a stunning cobalt blue that looks gorgeous against the surrounding volcanic landscape.
This seasonal shift is due to a natural phenomenon involving temperature changes and dissolved minerals in the water, as the Blue Lake formed within an extinct volcanic crater.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from lookout points or take the 3.6-kilometre walking trail around the lake to fully appreciate its beauty.
Serving as the gateway to Kangaroo Island, the Yorke Peninsula actually has much to offer in addition to the famous island. So take some time to explore this lovely area before hopping over to the islands!
A highlight of the Yorke Peninsula is Innes National Park, a hotspot for hiking serene trails, seeing historic lighthouses, and spotting wildlife like emus and kangaroos.
The Yorke is a long-distance coastal hiking trail covering 500 km of stunning shoreline for those who want a mega hike on the peninsula.
There are also several beautiful beaches here including Berry Bay, Ethel Beach, and Dolphin Bay, all of which are perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing.
Those who want to camp under the stars can head to Browns Beach, Gleesons Landing, or The Gap. Those who prefer history, culture, and cuisine can check out the Port Victoria Maritime Museum, Barley Stacks Wines, or the Watsacowie Brewery in Minlaton.
There are so many things to do on the Yorke Peninsula, and it’s an amazing place to spend a weekend in South Australia.
The beautiful Berry Bay on the Yorke Peninsula
20. Explore the sand dunes of Lincoln National Park
Nature lovers looking for more incredible places to visit in South Australia can visit Lincoln National Park on the Eyre Peninsula.
The park offers breathtaking coastal views, secluded bays, and excellent opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing.
Explore scenic trails like the Stamford Hill Hike, which provides panoramic vistas over Boston Bay, or relax on the crystal-clear shores of Memory Cove.
The sand dunes in Lincoln National Park are a spectacular natural attraction, offering a thrilling playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Located near September Beach and Sleaford Bay, these towering dunes form an ever-shifting landscape shaped by the coastal winds.
Baird Bay is a small fishing village on the Eyre Peninsula with gorgeous beaches and plenty of attractions for travellers.
A highlight of the area is the local sea lion colony, where these intelligent and friendly mammals frolic in the waves of the Southern Ocean.
Visitors can actually swim with these playful sea lions on a small-group tour in Baird Bay! Venture out into the shallow, calm waters with your expert guides and get an up-close encounter with the beloved sea lions.
You may also get to swim with dolphins as well! This is one of the best attractions in South Australia for animal lovers.
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Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Iraq, where we’ll visit Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more
October 2nd to 12th, 2025
This country is truly an adventure, and this guide contains absolutely everything you need to know to travel to Federal Iraq, including visa procedures, how to move around, where to stay, going through checkpoints, budget, money, security tips, and much more.
By the way, this guide refers to traveling independently in Iraq proper, which includes Baghdad, Mosul, the Marshes, and everything in between, but it doesn’t focus on the autonomous region of Kurdistan. For that, read our Kurdistan travel guide,
IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Iraq.
Introduction: why visit Iraq?
After decades (literally) of being pretty isolated from the outside world, Iraq finally decided to open its borders to international travelers, making a dream for many come true.
This is the cradle of modern civilization and the heart of Ancient Mesopotamia, home to Babylon, the City of Ur and Nineveh, once the center of the world, and today epic archaeological sites awaiting to be discovered by intrepid adventurers.
The country, however, is much more than just archaeological sites; Iraq is made of its people, kind-hearted Iraqis who will accompany you in your journey, offering you unprecedented doses of Arab hospitality and generosity.
Jaw-dropping shrines, the lively streets of Baghdad, and a surprisingly elaborate local cuisine: there are many reasons to travel to Iraq.
🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Iraq
Update March 2025
Since March 1st, visa on arrival is no longer available for entering Iraq.
Instead, an e-visa for traveling into the country is strictly required.
The e-visa costs 165 USD, takes 24 hours to process, and allows you to enter Iraq through the following entry points:
Baghdad International Airport
Basra International Airport
Jordan-Iraq border
Kuwait-Iraq border
Iran-Iraq border
Saudi-Iraq border
Which countries are eligible for the e-visa?
All EU passport holders, and also the United States (yes, Americans can travel to Iraq), United Kingdom, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland
Bonus: What happens with the rest of the nationalities?
If you are not one of the lucky countries, you can still travel to Iraq, but you will need approval from the respective Ministry, something which you must arrange through an authorized Iraq tour company.
For this service, they charge $250, plus you need to join one of their guided tours.
This approval takes up to 4 weeks.
Book one of our tours to Iraq
Check below our upcoming Iraq departures:
How long is the Iraq visa valid for?
The visa allows you to travel in Iraq for 60 days.
How much does the Iraq visa cost?
Today, the Iraqi visa costs 165 USD.
What is the airport procedure?
Collecting your Iraq travel visa is surprisingly easy.
You just need to show your e-visa to the respective authorities and collect the visa sticker.
Is the Federal Iraq travel visa valid for the Kurdistan region?
Yes, it is.
Once you are in possession of an Iraqi tourist visa, you can travel freely all over the country, from Baghdad to Erbil, including by land.
Update 2025
Is the Federal Iraq travel visa valid for the Kurdistan region?
Yes, it is.
Once you are in possession of an Iraqi tourist visa, you can travel freely all over the country, from Baghdad to Erbil, including by land.
Update 2025
Since January 2025, the visa for Kurdistan ($75) is also valid for Federal Iraq.
My tourist visa for Iraq
✍️ How to sign up for a tour in Federal Iraq
Traveling with a group and an expert local guide will make things much easier, and more fun!
Against the Compass has several Iraq expeditions scheduled all year long, and the next one is on:
And we will try to find other travel buddies you may travel with. Otherwise, know that we can also organize private, tailored trips.
In Babylon with one of our past groups
🚑 Travel Insurance for Iraq
Most travel insurance companies don’t cover for travel in Iraq, except for IATI.
I recommend it because:
Only travel insurance company that covers Iraq
They have different plans for all budgets
Covers senior citizens too
Readers of this blog can get an exclusive 5% discount.
📚 Useful books for planning your trip to Iraq
Iraq Travel Guide by Bradt
If you follow my blog, you will see that I always recommend Bradt guides for all destinations, so Iraq will be no different. They have the most insightful guidebook to Iraq.
The Rise of the Islamic State by Patrick Cockburn
This is my favorite journalism book ever and it is written by Patrick Cockburn, one of the world’s top experts on the Middle Eastern conflict. In this book, he gives an extremely perceptive introduction to the origins of ISIS, with many references to Iraq, of course. A really useful book to understand the complexity and origin of the conflict.
A pictorial guide to Iraq by Sian Pritchard-Jones & Bob Gibbons
My friends and fellow travelers Sian and Bob just published this pictorial guide to Iraq which also contains fresh and actionable advice to the country.
⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Iraq?
Safety is the number one concern for people visiting Iraq.
From the war between Iran and Iraq in 1980 to Saddam’s Hussein regime, the US invasion in 2003 and the more recent ISIS rule, decades of conflict and religious sectarianism made Iraq an actual war-torn country, labeled by all international media as one of the most dangerous destinations in the world.
While it’s true that for decades, Iraq was a pretty dangerous country to travel to, the situation has drastically improved.
This has been recently proved by the visit of Pope Francis in March 2021, thanks to whom – no kidding – Iraq finally opened its borders for tourism.
I traveled around Iraq independently, moving around by public transportation and I was particularly surprised by how calm and peaceful everything seemed to be, especially Mosul and around, an area occupied by ISIS just a few years ago.
Except for the endless checkpoints, everything else seemed pretty normal when traveling in Iraq, with the particularity that Iraqis, in general, were always extremely kind, helpful, and generous, like nowhere else you might have been to.
Nevertheless, remember that religious sectarianism still exists across the country and that occasional bombings may happen from time to time, in Baghdad in July 2021.
Iraq is mostly safe to travel but even experienced travelers should keep an eye open because we can’t forget that the country is highly unstable.
Always stay up-to-date with the latest security updates but, instead of reading biased newspapers or the Iraq travel advice FCDO, do contact the local people.
For that, Iraq Travelers Café is an invaluable source of information, where you can get in touch with English-speaking Iraqis.
What about the Kurdistan region? Kurdistan is a different story. The region has always been safe, which is why it has been open to international tourism for quite a while now. For a better understanding, read: Is Kurdistan safe?
There’s army and police everywhere you visit in Iraq but they are super friendly always
🤔 Iraq independent travel vs organized tour
Wanna travel to Iraq with Against the Compass?
Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Iraq, where we’ll visit Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more
For most people, Iraq is perceived as a challenging country to travel to, a destination only aimed at experienced backpackers, the reason why most travelers tend to visit Iraq with a local guide or on an organized tour group.
Traveling in Iraq independently – aka backpacking in Iraq
You would be surprised to know that independent travel in Iraq is completely doable, in fact much easier than in countries likePakistan or Afghanistan.
There’s plenty of public transportation, most cities have a range of hotels and local Iraqis are super helpful.
The only challenge you may encounter, however, is police and army checkpoints.
Some checkpoints are pretty easy to get through, but some may come with their own challenges, for which is best to have a local contact, which you can easily get from Iraqi Travelers Café. More on checkpoints later.
Nevertheless, some previous experience traveling alone in Arab countries like Palestine or Lebanon is highly recommended.
Martyr’s monument in Baghdad, an unmissable monument in your trip to Iraq
Traveling in Iraq with a local guide or on a group tour
That’s what most people do, and it’s fine.
Against the Compass (this site) is leading group expeditions into Federal Iraq.
With its bustling bazaars and lively districts, Baghdad is a thrilling city with so much going on, the destination within Iraq where you need to spend at least one day.
This is Shabandar Café, a must-see in your trip to Iraq and one of the oldest cafés
Learn about the Islamic State’s legacy
The rule of the Islamic State in the north of Iraq is still latent in people’s life, living history I call it.
Witnessing the city’s reconstruction and the Iraqis’ struggle to return to normality is an unmissable part of their history to experience.
This is the oldest mosque in Mosul, destroyed during the liberation from ISIS
Touring the Mesopotamian Marshes on a boat
The Arab Marshes are a wetland ecosystem in south Iraq, a huge aquatic landscape in the middle of the desert, home to a distinct cultural group named the Marsh Arabs. Going through the Marshes on a traditional boat, visiting the different islands and the local people is a great experience.
A Marsh Arab
Witness one of the largest pilgrimages in the world
The city of Karbala, along with Najaf and Samarra, are the holiest cities for Shia Muslims, cities that every year receive millions and millions of pilgrims from all over the world, especially from Iran.
The shrine in Karbala
Discover Iraq’s ancient history
Iraq was the heart of Ancient Mesopotamia, the people who developed the first cities, writing and agriculture, between 10,000 and 3,000 BC.
Discover Iraq’s glorious past by paying a visit to the most relevant archaeological sites.
Ancient Babylon
🕌 Iraqi culture, language and religion
Iraqis are proud Arabs, something you are likely to notice throughout your travels in Iraq.
They comprise 75% of the total Iraqi population, the rest being Kurds, Turkmens, Assyrians, Yazidis, Armenians, Mandaeans, Shabaks, and other minority groups.
It’s an ethnically diverse country but these figures might have changed in recent years, especially those of Yazidis, Mandaeans and Turkmens, whose numbers have drastically decreased due to violence unleashed against them.
A man from Mosul cooking kubba
Getting to know local Iraqis
Before traveling to Iraq, I expected Iraqis to be very generous, similar to their Arab neighbors, but what surprised me the most is that they could be perfectly equal to Pakistanis, Afghans or Iranians – you know, the most hospitable countries in the world – unprecedented hospitality in the Middle East.
Topics aside, making friends in Iraq is particularly easy, and a lot of fun.
Local Iraqis will always be super happy to hang out with you, to show you around, something truly appreciated in a country where chances to meet other travelers are scarce.
They can, however, be over-protective sometimes, and will always want to pay for all your meals and buy you souvenirs. This made me feel awkward but that’s their culture, you are their guest and, although you should always attempt to pay for your own food, just go with their flow.
In Nasiriya with some local friends
Language spoken in Iraq
Arabic is the common language throughout Iraq, understood by pretty much everybody, except for a large portion of Kurds.
English is relatively commonly spoken among highly educated people but not the rest of Iraqis, especially at checkpoints, so learning some Arabic words can prove very useful.
Religion in Iraq
More than 90% of Iraqis are Muslim, divided into Shia and Sunni Muslims by ≈ 50%, depending on the report.
This extreme division dictates Iraq’s everyday politics and is one of the reasons why religious sectarianism flourishes.
There is a large proportion of Christians too, around 7% according to some reports, mostly living in Baghdad, Mosul, and Erbil.
A destroyed church in Mosul, or what’s left from it
Close to Mosul, there is a city named Bakhdida, home to 300,000 people, 90% of whom are Christian, the largest Christian city in Iraq and perhaps in the whole Middle East.
Pope Francis visited it in March 2021, where he said Mass in a recently restored Catholic church that had been burnt down by ISIS.
A priest from the Catholic church in Bakhdida
🍲 Cuisine in Iraq
Before traveling to Iraq proper, I had spent two weeks in Kurdistan running two expeditions, eating nearly the same thing every single day.
In Iraq proper, where I also traveled for two weeks, I thought I’d be eating the same dishes again, but I was wrong.
While it’s true that shawarma, falafel, and grilled kebabs abound everywhere, being their staple foods, there are many must-try, elaborate dishes defining Iraq’s rich, complex history.
In the north, I found the food to be more sophisticated, more varied, probably because of their proximity to Syria and also because the land is more fertile.
The classic Syrian foul for example, which is like hummus but made of beans, could be found everywhere in Mosul.
In the south, I ate mandi on a few occasions, consisting of rice with meat on top, and the national dish in Yemen, but also in neighboring Saudi Arabia.
Alcohol in Iraq You would be surprised that liquor shops in Iraq abound, especially in Baghdad and Mosul, where you find the largest Christian populations. Drinking in the street is technically not allowed in Federal Iraq, but you can do it in your hotel and in Baghdad there are many Western-style bars. Kurdistan on the other hand, is way more permissive than Federal Iraq, with far more liquor shops.
Anyways, some more must-try dishes when you visit Iraq are:
Kubba – Consisting of a couscous paste filled with meat. It comes in plenty of different sizes and shapes, depending on the region in Iraq. I was always down for kubba 🙂
Kubba 🙂
Masgouf – An old Mesopotamian dish consisting of a huge fish from either the Tigris or Euphrates, which they grill for hours sometimes.
Masgouf 🙂
Kahi with Geymar – The national breakfast, consisting of a sweet pastry with honey or syrup, covered with a creamy, thick white cream made from buffalo milk. Amazing.
Local breakfast
Gus – Similar to shawarma but eaten with broth and floating pieces of bread. Typical from Mosul.
From mid-October until March, when the temperature is pleasant.
You should know, however, that in winter, especially from December until January, the northern part (Mosul and surroundings) can get pretty cold (0ºC).
The south is warmer but it can also get chilly at night so, if you are traveling in Iraq during winter time, do bring some warm clothes.
Worst season to travel to Federal Iraq
Summer, late spring, early autumn.
During the warmer months, all Iraq can be too hot for traveling so, unless you can stand extreme heat (40 to 50ºC), I don’t recommend visiting Iraq at that time of the year.
What about Kurdistan? Kurdistan is a mountainous region, with extremely cold winters and extremely hot summers. In December-January, most of the region is covered by snow but in spring, the whole region is covered in lush green and colorful meadows, making it a visually appealing season to travel to. Autumn is a great season too, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful fall colors. Remember to check my Kurdistan itinerary
It gets chilly in Iraq in December, even during the day, that’s why I wear a jacket
🛫 How to get to Iraq
How to travel to Iraq by air
The International Airport of Baghdad has connections with pretty much any city in the Middle East, especially Dubai, Doha, Beirut, Amman and Riyadh.
If you are coming from Europe, Istanbul is a common stopover, Pegasus having the cheapest fares.
Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan, has an international airport too, with similar connections to Baghdad.
Getting from Baghdad International Airport to the city center At the arrival terminal, there are branded official taxis that can take you to the city for 40,000IQD. To make it cheaper, you can take the bus (9,000IQD) that takes you out of the airport security zone. From there, you can take a taxi for 12,000-15,000IQD
How to travel to Iraq by land
Now that you can get a visa for Iraq at all landborders, things have improved a lot when it comes to overlanding into Iraq.
Traveling from Turkey to Iraq
You can easily cross into the Iraqi Kurdistan region.
There are direct buses from the city of Diyarbakir to Zakho, the first Kurdish town, and a visa is available on arrival.
Traveling from Iran to Iraq
You can also cross into both Kurdistan, and the rest of Iraq, and the visa is available at both.
You cross the border on foot because direct transportation is not available.
In Iraq, they use the Iraqi Dinar (IQD) and approximately:
1 USD = 1300 IQD
Exchanging money in Iraq
Exchanging money in Iraq is fairly easy.
Exchange offices are plentiful, but one small issue I encountered is that Euros (€) are not accepted everywhere, especially outside of the big cities.
US dollars, however, can be changed all over.
This wasn’t the case in Iraqi Kurdistan, where both USD and € are widely accepted.
Withdrawing money in Iraq
ATMs are accepting both VISA and Mastercard but you need to look for them. It’s better to bring cash with you.
Also remember that except for a few fancy places, you can’t pay by credit card in Iraq, but only cash.
How much does it cost to travel in Iraq independently?
Baghdad was obviously the most expensive city in all Iraq, while Mosul was the cheapest.
Kurdistan lies somewhere in between and the rest of Iraq is pretty affordable. These are the cost of the most typical things:
Visa: 80USD
All entry sites to archaelogical sites cost 25,000IQD
Budget (but comfortable) hotels in Baghdad: from 60,000IQD
Budget (but comfortable) hotels in the rest of Iraq: 25,000IQD – 40,000IQD
Bottle of beer in a liquor shop: 1,200IQD – 1,1200IQD
Local eateries: 5,000IQD to 8,000IQD for a local meal
Fancy restaurants: main courses starting at 14,000IQD
Taxi rides within cities: 3,000IQD – 7,000IQD
Transportation between cities: 5,000IQD – 25,000IQD depending on distance
Average daily backpacking budgetfor Iraq Starting from $45 – $65 a day
The 10,000 dinar bill features the twisted minaret from Al Noori mosque, today destroyed due to the war
🛺 Transportation: how to travel around Iraq
Moving around Iraq by public transportation is fairly easy.
Typically, most towns and cities are connected with either local shared taxis or minibuses.
The local shared taxi is always a bit more expensive than the bus, but it’s way faster and more comfortable. I only took shared taxis and I recommend you do the same.
Shared taxis I took (with prices):
Baghdad to Karbala – 10,000IQD (115km)
Karbala to Hilla (Babylon) – 2,000IQD (45km)
Hilla to Najaf – 7,000IQD (60km)
Najaf to Nasiriya – 10,000IQD (250km)
Nasiriya to Chibayish (Marshes) – 5,000IQD (90km)
Nasiriya to Baghdad – 20,000IQD – 25,000IQD, depending on the seat (345km)
Baghdad to Mosul – 20,000IQD – 25,000IQD, depending on the seat (400km)
Iraq Travel tip – garage is the word used for referring to a bus or taxi station. If you wish to go to Nasiriya, just ask for the Nasiriya garage and Iraqis will point you in the right direction,
Hitchhiking in Iraq
I didn’t hitchhike but in Karbala, when asking for the Hilla garage, a random Iraqi told me: I am going in that direction, you can join me. Does that count as hitchhiking?
In any case, hitchhiking in Iraq should be easy.
Taxis to move around Baghdad
If you have a SIM Card, get your Careem App, which is the regional version of Uber.
Taxi rides within Baghdad cost anything between 3,000-7,000IQD.
Touring the Marshes by boat is one of the greatest experiences when traveling in Iraq
Checkpoints in Iraq
As mentioned, military checkpoints are the one challenge travelers need to face when backpacking in Iraq.
A few things about checkpoints in Iraq:
There are checkpoints to enter each and every city, and also on roads.
Checkpoints exist for security purposes.
The authorities tend to be very friendly, and even ask for photos.
Checkpoints can be operated by different armed groups. Most of them are run by the Iraqi police, but they can also be controlled by different local militias, mostly Shia but also Christian militias, like in Bakhdida.
Most checkpoints are pretty straightforward, you either get through or they just quickly check your passport.
One issue I encountered at many checkpoints was that, since the entry date of my visa was written in English, soldiers weren’t able to understand it. This meant waiting a bit extra, since they had to consult with a superior, but it never turned out to be an issue.
However, there are 2 checkpoints that can take a lot of time.
Based on my own experience, here’s an overview of each one of them:
Nasiriya checkpoint
Update 2024: A local contact/sponsor was required but this isn’t the case anymore
Nasiriya is a big city in southern Iraq and an unavoidable destination for anyone heading to Basra or the Marshes.
Its main peculiarity is that this is home to al-Hoot prison, an American-made high-security prison, today filled with ISIS fighters, and the reason why the Nasiriya checkpoint is a tricky one.
Basically, in order to enter Nasiriya, you are supposed to have a local to sponsor your visit. If you don’t have one, you will eventually make it through but there are reports from travelers who waited there for several hours.
In my case, I did have a friend in Nasiriya.
I gave his phone number to the authorities and after 45 minutes, they let me go. During those 45 minutes, all we did was have friendly chats, mainly about Spanish football. That’s it.
Samarra checkpoint
Update 2024: A local contact/sponsor was required but this isn’t the case anymore
Since then, the armed group and Shia militia Sarayat al Salam has taken control of Samarra, establishing checkpoints all over the city, closing all hotels, and making Samarra the worst city to live today in Iraq, according to local Iraqis.
Sarayat al Salam is a paranoid group which is suspicious of everyone, especially foreigners. If you come to Samarra by yourself, without a local Iraqi, chances are that you can be waiting at the checkpoint all day before they let you through.
I visited Samarra with two local Iraqis actually from Samarra and even with them, we had to wait 15-20 minutes at each checkpoint before they let us through.
At the Nasiriya checkpoint, on my way from Chibayish
🏨 Where to stay in Iraq: accommodation guide
There are no hostels in Iraq, but you can find all sorts of hotels.
In Baghdad, they can be expensive for what you get but, in the rest of the country, they are pretty affordable.
Here’s a list of all the hotels I stayed during my trip to Iraq:
Baghdad – Uruk Hotel – Around 70 USD a night. Very good location, comfortable and great Wi-Fi.
Karbala – Al Karama Hotel – 15,000IQD. Very basic, but OK for one night. It was close to the shrine.
Najaf – Qaem Hotel – 20,000IQD. Also basic but better than the one in Karbala. Amazing shower and good Wi-Fi.
Nasiriya – Hotel Tourist – 50,000IQD. Quite good, and comfortable.
Chibayish – I did a homestay, paying around $30 including dinner and breakfast.
Mosul –Alsfer Hotel – $15. Surprisingly good for the price.
Samarra – You are technically not allowed to stay in Samarra.
💃 Solo female travel in Iraq
According to female travelers I have been talking to, traveling in Iraq as a solo woman isn’t very different than in other Arab countries like Egypt or Jordan.
Occasional verbal harassment does happen, but it’s rare, and most Iraqis will be nothing but extra kind with any foreign women.
What to wear as a solo female traveler in Iraq
In cities like Baghdad, Mosul, or Nasiriya, you will see all sorts of women dressing in all different ways, some of them apparently quite liberal.
However, do always dress modestly in order to avoid unwanted attention, and bring a headscarf with you, since you may need it depending on the area you are visiting.
On the other hand, in Karbala and Najaf – two very holy cities – a full abaya covering your whole body is mandatory.
I hope you enjoyed this article, which I believe is the best travel guide to Iraq available on the internet. Any questions or concerns, kindly let me know in the comments section.
A Mount Rinjani trekking tour is not for novice hikers or casual travellers. But if you’re ready for an epic 3-day journey to the summit of the second highest volcano in Indonesia, here’s everything you need to know before you go in our guide.
At 3,726 metres above sea level, Mount Rinjani looms large over the entire island of Lombok in Indonesia.
Of the 130 volcanoes in the country, Rinjani is the second-highest (topped only by Mount Kerinci on Sumatra).
Rinjani’s ominous silhouette is a constant reminder of the powerful forces rumbling just beneath the surface of the earth.
That power is what draws hundreds of intrepid hikers to Rinjani every day.
You can see Rinjani from almost everywhere on Lombok.
Why Do a Rinjani Trek?
The tough hike to the crater rim is rewarded by absolutely magnificent views.
Rocky black soil at the summit drops off into a lush valley filled with purples so deep and greens so bright they don’t look like they should exist in nature.
Lake Segara Anak, nestled in the bottom of the gaping crater, is a deep turquoise, echoing the spectacular colour of Lombok’s seas.
On the edge of the lake sits an active volcano, Mount Barujari, which steadily spews threatening clouds of smoke into the air.
Mount Barujari, inside the Rinjani crater, is still active and can erupt at any time.
And at night, the sky is blanketed with stars so thick they look painted on.
While the views inspire awe, the most compelling reason to trek Mount Rinjani is to challenge your body and your mind, leap firmly out of your comfort zone, and be able to shout “Hell yes, I did it!”
If that sounds good to you, read on for everything you need about…
How to Plan Your Epic Mount Rinjani Trekking Adventure
Could You Handle a Rinjani Trek?
I’ll admit, we went into the Mount Rinjani trek with a bit of a cavalier attitude. Sure, we’d read the stories about how hard it was supposed to be, but we’re experienced trekkers with decades of challenging mountain hikes behind us.
How much harder could trekking Mount Rinjani possibly be?
As it turns out, trekking Rinjani is hard. Really freaking hard.
The Rinjani trek starts with a climb of 1500 m over 8 km. Most of that elevation change takes place during in the final 4 km, which take about 4 hours.
Yep, that’s just one measly kilometre an hour.
To make matters more difficult, there is next to no trail maintenance, so the route is sandy, slippery, and ridiculously steep.
Unless you’re a trail running hero or an actual superhero, be prepared to have your will and your body pushed to their limits on your way up Mount Rinjani.
And that’s just the first day.
The second day starts in the middle of the night, so hikers can summit for sunrise. To get the summit, there’s another 1000 m of elevation gain, along a narrow trail of slippery loose scree.
It’s cold up there, too. Even in August, the temperature hovers around freezing.
After all the climbing, the descent should be a relief. Instead, it seems to go on for days, requiring every ounce of hamstring strength you can muster, plus knees of steel, and an excellent sense of humour.
The descent from Mount Rinjani will put your whole body to the test.
If you come away without any scraped knees or sore muscles, you’re definitely part mountain goat!
So, could you handle trekking Rinjani?
If you’ve read all of this and you’re thinking “Hell, yeah! Bring it on!” then keep reading.
There are two main points of entry to Rinjani National Park.
You can ascend from the village of Sembalun or from Senaru. On three- and four-day hikes, you depart from one village and descend to the other.
We highly recommend starting in Sembalun because of the way the trails are configured.
The first day of ascent from Sembalun is steep and sandy. It looks like it would be absolutely brutal going in the opposite direction.
Likewise, the descent to the crater lake is so steep and rugged, that it would be a real leg-breaker going the other way.
If you want a more off-the-beaten track experience, book a private tour and ask about one of the less-used routes, like the trails from Aik Berik or Torean. We wish we had known about them before our trek!
How Many Nights on Rinjani?
Three Days, Two Nights
The most popular option (and the one we recommend) is the 3-day, 2-night trek. This gives you just enough time to climb to the summit and also visit the crater lake and hot springs.
If you’re in no rush, consider the 4-day, 3-night option, which goes to the same locations but provides a little more free time to relax and enjoy Mount Rinjani.
Two Days, One Night
The 2-day, 1-night tour from Sembalun includes the option to summit at sunrise. If you’re in amazing shape and love to punish your machine, go for it!
Otherwise, take pity on your poor body and give yourself more time on the mountain.
The 2-day, 1-night trek from Senbaru takes trekkers to the crater rim opposite the summit. This is the easiest (not to say that it’s easy) of the Mount Rinjani trekking options.
You don’t get near the summit or the lake but it does provide incredible views of the crater. If you think you can’t handle a longer trek but still want to experience Rinjani, this is probably the best option.
BONUS – Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code “NOMADS10” on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!
The view of the crater lake from the Sembalun side is worth the trek!
Be aware that “one night” or “two nights” refers to number of nights on the mountain. Most Rinjani trekking companies encourage you to spend a night in Senbaru before the tour to get an early start. This hotel is often included in the price, but be sure to check!
Private Tours and Hiking Rinjani Without A Guide
While it is technically possible to trek Mount Rinjani without a tour or a guide, it is actively discouraged both by the government and the community. Unless you are an extremely experienced hiker and have hiked in the tropics before, don’t even consider it. If you’re injured on the mountain without a guide or porters, you’ll be in some serious trouble.
If you do decide to trek Rinjani independently, please sign in at the park office and pay the entrance fee. Though it’s questionable whether the fees are used to maintain Rinjani, signing in is for your own safety.
What’s The Food Like On A Rinjani Trek?
On our day-one lunch break, we were astonished to see full-on camp kitchens being set up by all the guides and porters on the mountain.
In Canada, you’re lucky to get a squashed peanut butter sandwich for lunch on a long hike.
On Rinjani, you get a heaping plate of fried vegetables, tofu and tempeh, a pile of freshly cooked rice crackers, all the rice you can eat, plus a massive fruit plate for dessert. And that’s just the vegetarian option!
Not bad for a camp meal!
This meal was not unusual. Everything we ate on Rinjani, and everything we saw being served to fellow trekkers, was freshly cooked and plentiful. There was so much food, we were rarely able to finish our meals.
Where Do You Sleep On Rinjani?
You’ll sleep snuggled in a tent at a campsite on the crater rim or by the lake.
Our tent was clean and modern, if a little bit short for our long bodies! The sleeping bags had been freshly laundered and the camp pillows were also clean.
You won’t find much solitude at your campsite though, since hundreds of other trekkers will be camping right alongside you.
What Does A Rinjani Trekking Tour Cost?
There’s a huge range of prices for trekking Rinjani, depending on which company you go with, where and when you book, and which tour option you choose. I saw prices quoted anywhere between $80 and $450 US for similar tours.
Avoid the cheapest companies, as many don’t provide essential services like an experienced guide, good sleeping bags, garbage pack-out, and a toilet tent.
You can save money by booking once you’re already on Lombok. Just make sure you know which Rinjani trekking company you’re going with so you can ask the essential questions and check their reviews.
If you don’t have time to wait around on Lombok looking for a tour with availability, it is best to book ahead. Check out some of the tours I’ve linked to on this page.
Porters carry around 40kg on bamboo poles. Please tip them!
Budget a little extra for tipping. After you see how hard your porters and guide work, you will be happy to supplement their incomes.
A minimum of 100,000 IDR (around $8 US) per guide/porter from each hiker is a good guideline.
Other Important Things To Know For Your Trek
All visitors are not allowed to bring any plastic that can potentially become waste. So visitors are advised to bring refillable drinking water bottles, food containers to carry food such as snacks, biscuits, bread, and the like.
There are only 400 trekking permits issued a day (240 permits for international hikers and 160 permits for domestic hikers). So make sure you reserve your place in advance!
How To Choose The Best Rinjani Trekking Service
Choose your Mount Rinjani trekking package carefully. Yes, you can pick up el cheapo tours after you arrive in Lombok but you tend to get what you pay for on Mount Rinjani.
I recommend ignoring the cheapest options and spending a little more to ensure you are comfortable and safe on the mountain.
Hajar Trekking took excellent care of us during our Mount Rinjani tour. We can enthusiastically recommend them.
Hajar grew up in Senbaru and he cares deeply about the mountain and the future of tourism there. Our guide, Adi, was funny, informative, and always put our safety first.
He has been up the mountain hundreds of times, knows every rock and tree root on the trail, and was patient with our endless stops for photos and videos.
If you mention the code “NOMAD TO RINJANI” when you contact them via WhatsApp or email they’ll offer you a special discount 🙂
Stephen and our guide, Adi, still smiling after three days with us!
The two porters who took care of us were just amazing, too, working their butts off to lug our camping gear and food up the mountain and to get our campsite set up and perfect before we arrived.
What’s Included On A Mount Rinjani Tour?
These are the things that should be included in your Rinjani trekking package. If they aren’t, look for another company.
Some companies provide a few nice-to-have extras. This is what we got:
A toilet tent allowed us to do our business in private and to bury our waste. Without a toilet tent, you take your chances in the bushes where privacy is very hard to come by.
A camping pillow which helped us get a better night’s sleep.
Two camping chairs that kept us out of the thick Rinjani dust at mealtimes.
Winter jackets to keep us warm at the top of the mountain. Even in August, the summit was around 5 degrees celsius! Brrrr.
Headlamps to make the ascent to the Rinjani summit possible. A headlamp leaves your hands free to carry trekking poles or help you scramble up the steepest sections.
Trekking poles to save your knees on the steep descents and give you extra ability to balance on the often treacherous trails.
Other Essential Questions To Ask About Your Rinjani Trekking Package
What do the porters carry? Usually, hikers carry all their personal items (clothes, toiletries etc) and the porters carry food, water and camping equipment.
What is the group size? We were on a private tour, but if you go with a group, be sure to ask about the group size. The larger groups on the trail tended to be noisy and experience more delays.
What do they do with garbage? You are going to go through a lot of food and water on the trail. Make sure your tour company pays their porters to carry your garbage out, instead of dumping it or burning it on the mountain. There is a lot of garbage on Rinjani – please don’t add to it!
Are there restrictions for what we can bring? To reduce waste on the mountain, visitors are not allowed to bring any plastic. Pack food and drinks accordingly!
Who runs the company? What is their story? We love to travel with private companies run by local people. They tend to care deeply about the environment and the longevity of their business and less about earning a quick buck.
Tips For Trekking Mount Rinjani
Request trekking poles. We had never trekked with poles before but they were indispensable for this trip. They’ll help keep you upright through the sandy, slippery slopes and will save your knees after hours of steep descents.
Be prepared. The trail will probably be harder than you think. Take your time, stopping every few steps to catch your breath if you need to. If you just keeping taking the next step and then the next, you will eventually make it to the top. Read up on our top hiking tips for beginners for more help.
Be OK with not summiting. Don’t be ashamed to say “no” to the sunrise summit trek. Plenty of people don’t go up! If the first day nearly killed you, stay in your tent and rest. There is plenty of exciting hiking to come without risking injury or exhaustion just to see the summit.
Don’t get too cocky on the descent. The trail down is steep and precarious. It’s easy to slip and fall and even easier to injure your knees. Just because the porters are running down the trail in flip-flops doesn’t mean you have to do it too!
Be respectful. Try to stay aware on the trail, even when you’re exhausted. Let faster hikers go by you and always move over for porters. Remember, they are working while you are there for fun!
Don’t add to the Rinjani litter problem. It’s no secret that there is a lot of garbage on Mount Rinjani. Bring a bag with you and please pack out your own toilet paper, baby wipes, cigarette butts and other personal garbage. If you want to do more, bring a garbage bag and pick up rubbish along the trail. You are not allowed to bring plastic!
Rinjani Trekking Packing List
Bring as little as possible. If you think you’ll survive without something, leave it behind! You’ll regret the extra weight when you’re on your 1200th metre of ascent for the day!
Hat, gloves & scarf (it’s very cold at the top)
Good hiking shoes (running shoes are not grippy enough)
Lip sunscreen (our lips got burned – not a good look)
Sunglasses
Socks & undies
Swim suit
Tiny towel
ID and cash for tipping
Optional items:
Base layer (it gets freaking cold at the summit)
Baby wipes (if you pack them in, pack them out)
Soap or hand sanitizer
Flip-flops
That’s everything you need to know before you book your Rinjani trekking tour. If we missed something or if you have questions, ask away in the comments section below!
Disclaimer: We were guests of Hajar Trekking for our Rinjani trip. But we would never recommend something we didn’t love ourselves and you know Jarryd and Alesha wouldn’t let us get away with it either!
From city trains to scenic ferries, transportation in Australia offers a mix of convenience, sustainability, and stunning views.
Getting around a new destination can be tricky, especially if it’s a country as massive as Australia. But luckily, the public transport system here is efficient, extensive, and well-connected.
Whether you’re new to Australia or a repeat visitor, getting familiar with its transportation methods is essential to making the most of your holiday.
Public transport is the most practical and cost effective way to travel, particularly in sprawling cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane.
And it’s environmentally friendly, too, as it helps reduce carbon footprint in these metropolitan areas.
There is also a convenient network of air travel in Australia. Car rentals are abundant as well for those looking to road trip or explore on a more flexible schedule.
So here is your complete guide to getting around Australia!
Plan your trip to Australia with ease using our transport guide!
Ultimate Guide To Transportation in Australia
In our guide to transportation in Australia, we’ll discuss flights, public transport, driving yourself, and general travel tips. Get ready for a whirlwind adventure Down Under!
Travelling to Australia
Getting into Australia is almost entirely by air. Major international airports in capital cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane welcome travellers from around the globe all year round.
While there are no international train routes, cruise ships periodically dock in Australian ports, such as the Sydney Harbour.
Australia’s major cities serve as key gateways for flights from destinations across Asia, Europe, North America, and beyond. Airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates operate frequent routes.
Because Australia is an island continent, long-haul flights are the norm. Travellers often have layovers in major hubs like Dubai, Singapore, or Los Angeles.
Sydney Airport in New South Wales is the busiest, followed by Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and the Gold Coast Airport.
To score the lowest fares, consider flying outside the peak periods (which vary around the country). You can usually find discounted prices during the shoulder seasons and off seasons..
Use search engines such as Google Flights or Skyscanner for departure dates with the lowest prices.
Entry Requirements
All travellers to Australia must obtain a visa to enter the country.
Australia doesn’t have a visa-on-arrival option, except for citizens of New Zealand. All other visitors must get a visa before leaving their home country.
The standard visa for tourism is the Visitor Visa, which is open to all countries.
You may apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor Visa if you’re a citizen of one of these eligible countries. Both are quicker to process than the regular Visitor Visa.
The cost of a Visitor Visa depends on the duration and purpose of the stay. The eVisa is free of charge, while the ETA has a service fee of 20 AUD.
Be sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your travel date.
Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.
Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.
Getting Around Australia
The public transportation system in Australia has four main options. These are buses, trains, trams, and ferries.
Trains and trams are the most common way of getting around big cities, but different locations have different modes of transportation.
Also, ferries are limited to the coastal areas, as most cities inland don’t have access to a waterway.
There are several ways to travel across Australia to fit your schedule, budget, and preference. Keep in mind, distances can be massive!
Air Travel
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to cover great distances.
Most Australian cities are far apart from each other. A flight from Perth to Sydney lasts five hours, while Brisbane to Melbourne takes two hours.
While flying is not always the cheapest, it’s the best option for cross-country travels if you have a tight schedule. Consider flying with budget airlines like Jetstar for lower flight prices.
Views while flying over the famous Sydney Harbour.
Trains
Australia has long-distance rails that connect the metropolitan areas with the outer suburbs and nearby cities.
The downside is most long-haul passenger trains run on a state basis. For example, Queensland Rail only provides services within Queensland, while the NSW TrainLink focuses mainly on New South Wales, with limited trips to Victoria.
Trains are not the best option for interstate travel if you’re short on time.
But if you’re after the experience, not speed, you can enjoy a relaxing tour with Journey Beyond Rail. The company provides luxurious train journeys, including the Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) and The Ghan (Adelaide to Alice Springs and Darwin).
Buses
Buses, like Greyhound Australia, are a reliable option for those who want to travel a fair distance without blowing their budget.
Buses take longer than most public transportation, but they cover locations not served by trains, providing access to rural areas.
Long-haul buses are clean and well-maintained, with comfortable seats and ample legroom. Most have charger points, WIFI, toilet, and entertainment on board.
Other bus companies in Australia include Integrity Coach Lines, which operates in Western Australia, Premier Motor Service in New South Wales, and V/Line in Victoria.
Ferries
While ferries are part of Brisbane, Sydney, and Perth’s commuter systems, only a few long-distance ferry services exist due to limited routes.
The most notable ferry service is the Spirit of Tasmania, which sails between Geelong, Victoria and Devonport, Tasmania. Another is SeaLink, which connects mainland Australia to Kangaroo Island.
Vehicle Rentals
Australia is highly dependent on road transport due to its sheer size.
A road trip is a fantastic way to travel across Australia. The roads are not only safe and well-maintained. The scenery is also stunning.
You can find vehicle rentals in major airports and city centres, offering a range of options, from a private car to a 4WD to a campervan.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Urban Transportation
Thanks to Australia’s efficient public transportation, getting around the cities is easy. In addition to trains and buses, you can hire a taxi or rent a bike. Then, there’s walking–the most exciting way to explore the bustling city centres!
Trains
Major cities rely heavily on their light rail system and suburban rail networks for daily public transport within urban areas.
In big cities like Adelaide, Perth, and Melbourne, public transportation are partially underground which helps reduce traffic congestion.
Sydney is the only city with a rapid transit system called the Sydney Metro. Like many typical rapid transit systems, the Sydney Metro is fully automated.
Trams and Buses
Trams are an integral part of the public transport system in Australian cities, particularly in Melbourne. The city has the most extensive tram network, covering 24 routes with 1,700 stops.
Buses are also essential in both big cities and smaller towns without access to trains.
Most major cities have dedicated bus lanes to speed up travel time. Additionally, Sydney, Adelaide, and Melbourne have night bus services to help commuters get home safely after midnight when train stations close.
Trams are abundant in Melbourne.
Ferries
Ferries are a popular and relaxing mode of public transportation in cities with waterfronts like Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane.
Sydney Ferries sails around Sydney Harbour, connecting the city centre and suburbs nearby. CityCat provides ferry services across the Brisbane River.
The ferries not only serve commuters but also attract tourists looking for a unique way to explore the city.
Taxis and Rideshare services
Taxis and rideshare services provide the most direct mode of public transport in Australia and are widely available in most cities.
Taxis remain the usual option for quick rides and airport transfers, but they are more expensive compared to other public transportation, including rideshare.
Rideshare services have become popular, mainly because they are cheaper than taxis. Uber is the most prominent rideshare in Australia, but DiDi is a close competitor, followed by Shebah, a female-only option.
Now that you’re familiar with Australia’s public transportation system, here are some tips to help you travel smoothly.
Researching Your Route
Public transport is well-organized in Australian cities, but a little research before will save time. Use Google Maps, Moovit, Citymapper, and city-specific transit apps to plan your journey.
Compare flights, buses, and trains to find the most cost-effective and convenient option.
Consider renting a vehicle and hitting the highway on a road trip for long-haul travel and a more immersive cultural experience!
Use a Travel Pass or a Travel Card
If you plan to visit multiple destinations, consider getting a reloadable travel card. It’s an easy and convenient way to pay for public transport in Australia across different cities.
A travel pass might suit you better if you only visit attractions in a specific area (i.e. Melbourne). Most offer bundled discounts and pre-set packages for certain tourist spots or activities.
Some city-based travel cards include:
Perth has a great public transport system.
Peak Hours and Safety
Major cities can get crowded during peak travel times (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM on weekdays). Avoid the crowds and get a cheaper fare by traveling outside peak times!
Check timetables in advance as services may be less frequent in the evenings. Not all cities have 24-hour bus or train service. You can always hire a taxi or a rideshare, but it will be more expensive.
Public transport in Australia is generally safe. Theft and pickpocketing targeting tourists are almost unheard of.
Still, always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy stations and during rush hour.
Never underestimate the power of technology in enhancing your travel experience.
These apps, combined with your knowledge of transportation in Australia, guarantee straightforward and enjoyable navigation.
Navigation Apps
A reliable navigation tool is crucial for real-time navigation.
Google Maps is the most-used app for navigation. But you can also check out CityMapper to get around cities. For road trips, use Waze to help you find the best routes.
If you’re driving a campervan, use WikiCamps Australia to find caravan parks, petrol stations, and toilets. For a more budget-friendly option, check out CamperMate.
Transportation Apps
Rome2Rio helps you find the best public transportation modes–bus, train, taxi, and more. Don’t forget to download a ridesharing app like Uber or DiDi, in case you need it.
DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!
From sipping Australia’s finest wines to cycling through picturesque landscapes, here are some of the best things to do in Hunter Valley.
Only a few hours drive from Sydney, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, is a great destination for wine lovers, foodies, and anyone craving a scenic escape.
Famous for its world-class wineries, this charming region invites you to sip from its cellar doors, savour farm-fresh produce, and unwind in a luxury resort surrounded by rolling vineyards.
But there’s more to discover beyond the wine – from hot air balloon rides and cooking classes to wildlife encounters and bike rides through the stunning countryside.
Wander through captivating art galleries, meander through vibrant gardens, or soak up the bustling energy of the local markets.
Whether seeking a romantic escape, a fun-filled weekend with family and friends, or a peaceful solo retreat, Hunter Valley will leave you with fond memories.
Whether on a day trip or a longer getaway, you’ll find plenty to explore in the Hunter Valley. The area is best explored with your own car, and there are several places to hire a vehicle in Sydney.
You could also opt for guided tours, taxis and rideshares, bike rentals, and local buses or trains to get around. Those looking to splurge can even book a private tour from Sydney that includes all your transport.
Here are some of the most exciting things to do in Hunter Valley.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
1. Soar above the valley in a Hot Air Balloon
Floating high above the rolling vineyards of Hunter Valley at sunrise is an experience like no other! The gentle lift-off, the crisp morning air, and the breathtaking scenery stretching as far as the eye can see makes it one of the most magical things to do in Hunter Valley.
After the flight, many tours include a delicious champagne breakfast so you can toast to celebrate such an incredible experience!
This is perfect for couples seeking a romantic retreat, photographers chasing dreamy landscapes, or anyone looking to tick off a bucket-list adventure.
2. Stroll through the Hunter Valley Gardens
A visit to Hunter Valley wouldn’t be complete without exploring the breathtaking Hunter Valley Gardens. This lush paradise features 10 beautifully designed themed gardens, each boasting a unique charm.
Wander through the Rose Garden, where thousands of fragrant roses create a dreamy atmosphere.
Or step into the Storybook Garden, a whimsical space where classic childhood tales come to life with charming statues of famous characters.
The Italian Grotto, Indian Mosaic Garden, and Oriental Garden boast unique designs that transport you to different parts of the world.
Hunter Valley Gardens transform according to seasons, showcasing breathtaking floral displays year-round. In spring, vibrant cherry blossoms create a picture-perfect scene, while in winter, the entire landscape of the Hunter Valley Gardens comes alive with dazzling festive lights!
Admire the roses in the Hunter Valley Gardens.
3. Enjoy a delicious meal from amazing restaurants
Aside from sipping wines, among the most popular things to do in Hunter Valley is indulging in its fine food.
With an impressive selection of fine dining restaurants, the region is a haven for food lovers who appreciate expertly crafted dishes from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
For a meal that’s as much about the setting as the flavours, head to Redsalt Restaurant at the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. This award-winning spot is perfect for those seeking a refined yet relaxed dining experience, where you can enjoy premium cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and seasonal delights—all while overlooking the sweeping view of a golf course.
Another fantastic choice is Muse Restaurant, located at Hungerford Hill Winery. Known for its elegant fine dining, Muse serves contemporary Australian cuisine focused on fresh, regional produce.
4. Join a Cooking Class
If you love food, why not take your Hunter Valley experience to the next level by joining a cooking class? It lets you dive into the region’s incredible produce, learn from an expert cook, and create delicious dishes paired with local wines.
With expert guidance, you’ll learn the fundamentals of crafting authentic, restaurant-quality meals using local ingredients like Hunter Valley cheeses, premium meats, and seasonal produce.
Whether it’s a pasta-making session, a dessert workshop, or a full-course feast, you’ll walk away with new skills and a satisfied appetite.
This activity is perfect for couples looking for a fun date, groups of friends who want to try something exciting and unique, or solo travelers eager to meet fellow food lovers!
No Hunter Valley visit is complete without indulging in a local wine tasting experience.
As Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley wine country is home to some of the finest wineries, producing world-class local wines, including its signature Semillon and Shiraz.
From boutique, family-run vineyards to renowned estates, you’ll get to sample different types of expertly crafted wines while learning about the rich history of winemaking in the Hunter region.
Don’t forget to pair your tastings with cheeses or chocolates for an extra treat!
Coming from Sydney? Check out the Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Guided Day Tour. It takes the stress out of planning, and you can focus on enjoying your tour, one sip at a time!
6. Admire Works of Arts at Maitland Regional Art Gallery
If you’re looking for something beyond wineries and gourmet food, visit the Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG), where you can experience the creative side of Hunter Valley.
The vibrant art gallery showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artworks from renowned Australian and international artists.
The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions, so there’s always something new to admire here, from paintings and sculptures to photography and digital art. Visitors are also treated to interactive programs, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
The best part? Entry is completely free! So, if you’re searching for free things to do in Hunter Valley, this should be at the top of your list!
7. Meet Wildlife at Hunter Valley Zoo
Looking for a fun attraction for the whole family? Head to the Hunter Valley Zoo! It’s a fun place for those who love wildlife, allowing you an up-close experience with native and exotic animals.
Kids (and kids at heart!) will love hand-feeding kangaroos, wallabies, and farmyard animals. Plus, you get to meet meerkats, marmosets, and lemurs, which makes your visit even more special.
Daily keeper talks and interactive encounters let visitors learn more about these incredible creatures, making the experience educational and entertaining.
Set in a relaxed and open environment, Hunter Valley Zoo has picnic areas, where you can enjoy lunch with the stunning views of nature in the backdrop.
There are lots of kangaroos in the Hunter Valley.
8. Scenic Horseback Riding
Another exciting adventure is Hunter Valley horse riding. Imagine exploring rolling vineyards and native bushland on horseback, soaking in the fresh country air while connecting with nature in the most peaceful way possible.
Join the Sunset Horse Riding Tour to make the experience more exciting. As the sun dips below the horizon, the golden light transforms the landscape into something straight out of a fairytale!
The breathtaking views, gentle horses, and the serenity of the Australian countryside make this a memorable experience.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there are guided tours to cater to all skill levels, making it a fantastic activity for couples, families, or solo adventurers.
9. Hunt local treasures at the vibrant markets
If you love hunting unique finds, you will surely enjoy browsing through the stalls of the Hunter Valley markets! You’ll find local treasures, from handcrafted home decor to artisanal olive oils, delightful treats, and fashion accessories.
One of the best things about visiting these Hunter markets is you get the chance to meet and interact with the passionate artisans and producers behind the goods.
You’ll find handmade candles, artwork, ceramics, and beautifully crafted wooden pieces, perfect for adding a touch of Hunter Valley charm to your home.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby coastal town of Port Stephens while you’re in the area!
10. Play golf at a luxury resort
For golf enthusiasts, nothing beats a round of Hunter Valley golf at one of the region’s picturesque golf clubs.
With rolling fairways, lush vineyards, and breathtaking countryside views, golfing in Hunter Valley is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Many golf courses are set within top-tier resorts, meaning you can enjoy world-class facilities, including clubhouses, pro shops, and luxurious dining options after your game. Plus, the peaceful surroundings make for an unforgettable day on the greens!
Some of the region’s top golf resorts include the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, Cypress Lakes Golf & Country Club, and The Vintage Golf Club (Château Élan at The Vintage).
11. Enjoy a scenic country bike ride
A leisurely bike ride through its picturesque countryside is a more exciting way to soak in the beauty of Hunter Valley.
Feel the fresh air on your face as you pedal past rolling vineyards, charming cellar doors, and stunning rural landscapes. With sweeping views at every turn, cycling through the valley is a relaxing and invigorating way to explore.
Many trails wind through vineyards and open farmland, and you can stop for wine tastings, coffee breaks, or even a picnic!
Cycling is a beloved activity in Hunter Valley, making it easy to find bike hire services and guided cycling tours tailored to all skill levels.
If you’re looking for a fun, active, and eco-friendly way to experience Hunter Valley, a country bike ride is the perfect choice
You can explore much of the Hunter Valley landscape by bike!
12. Unwind in a Luxury Resort
After a day filled with wine tastings, outdoor adventures, and scenic explorations, relax by indulging in luxury.
Stay at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, one of the region’s most luxurious resorts, where elegance, comfort, and top-notch amenities come together for the perfect retreat.
For the ultimate relaxation, visit the resort’s day spa, where you can enjoy a variety of spa treatments, from soothing massages to revitalizing facials.
While the day spa is a standout feature, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley offers more ways to unwind.
Take a dip in its tranquil pool, indulge in sumptuous meals, or tee off at the championship golf course – all designed to make your stay memorable!
So, if you’re looking to end your Hunter Valley adventure on a high note, staying at the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley is the perfect way!
If you have a sweet tooth or love artisanal goodies, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in cheese and chocolate tastings when visiting Hunter Valley.
While the region is best known for its wine, it’s also home to some of the best cheeses and handcrafted chocolates you’ll ever taste.
Stop by the Hunter Valley Cheese Factory, where you can sample a selection of creamy brie, sharp cheddars, and specialty cheeses made from local ingredients. Pair them with fresh bread, olives, and a glass of wine for the ultimate foodie experience.
For something sweeter, head to the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company, where you can feast on an irresistible range of handmade chocolates, truffles, and fudges.
14. Explore the Historic Wollombi
Tucked away in the southern part of the Hunter Valley, Wollombi is a charming historic village that feels like a step back in time.
With well-preserved colonial buildings and fascinating Indigenous heritage, it’s a must-visit for history lovers and those wanting a break from the usual wine trail.
Stroll through the village and stop at heritage-listed sites, quirky art galleries, and unique boutique shops.
Don’t miss the Wollombi Tavern, home of the famous Dr. Jurd’s Jungle Juice, a locally made liquor with a bit of a kick!
Visit St. Michael’s Church and the Wollombi Museum to learn about the area’s rich convict past.
DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!
Hoping to plan out your Australia trip cost? Here is a detailed guide for what you might spend Down Under!
Australia is a magnificent country full of natural beauty and man-made wonders.
Visitors can scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef, surf in the Gold Coast, and road trip through Outback destinations like Alice Springs or Uluru.
You can also marvel at the Sydney Opera House, explore Melbourne, and visit world class beaches outside Perth.
Australia offers vibrant cities, charming culture, unique wildlife, and natural wonders. But what does a trip to Australia cost?
This amazing country is not the cheapest in the world, but it is still worth visiting. You just have to plan your trip well and think about your budget ahead of time.
You could absolutely spend tons of money in Australia if you’re lax with your budget. Dine at fancy restaurants, take taxis everywhere, and stay in luxury hotels. OR, lower your Australia cost with some budget travel tips like staying in hostels, camping, cooking your own food, or finding cheap tours.
We’re going to break down the typical costs for a trip to Australia. Though it’s easy to make Australia an expensive trip, it’s also very doable on a tight budget.
In this guide to Australia travel cost, we’ll cover these main categories: flights, transport, accommodation, food, and activities. We’ll also mention other expenses that you might find, such as visas and travel insurance.
For the budget travelers out there, we’ll also cover any budget travel tips that can help lower your Australia cost. With a bit of discipline and mindful spending, you can have the trip of a lifetime without blowing all of your savings.
Take this advice and cater it to your own travel style and financial situation. Every traveler is different, so this is just meant to help you organize your own trip!
Get ready for the Australia trip of a lifetime!
Australia travel cost overview
Here is what some typical costs may look like for your Australia trip. We won’t include flights in this estimate, as flights will vary greatly depending on where you are departing from.
Average prices may vary based on season as well. If you visit in the off season, you can generally score cheaper prices on accommodation and activities.
Your travel expenses will also depend on your travel style. We’ll list some average prices for the following categories based on budget, mid-range, and luxury.
Keep in mind, there are just estimates, and actual expenses will hugely vary person to person.
Transportation
Budget – $20 per day
Mid-Range – $30 – $50 per day
Luxury – $60 – $100 per day
Accommodation
Budget – $20 – $70 per night
Mid-Range – $100 – $200 per night
Luxury – $300+ per night
Food
Budget – $20 – $40 per day
Mid-Range – $50 – $70 per day
Luxury – $80 – $150 per day (or more)
Activities
Budget – $50 – $200 per week
Mid-Range – $250 – $400 per week
Luxury – $500 – $1,000 per week
Flights to Australia
Depending on where in the world you live, flights to Australia may be one of your trip’s biggest expenses. Australia is quite an isolated continent, so most flights to reach the country are long-haul (unless you’re coming from somewhere close like New Zealand).
If you’re flying to Australia from somewhere far, like Europe or the Americas, you can easily spend $1,000 or more on a one-way flight.
But to visit Australia, you’ll just have to bite the bullet and book a flight.
Many people who travel to Australia tend to stay for a while, simply because it is so far away from most of the world. A three to four week trip is common, though you could easily spend years in Australia and still not see everything!
But for those who are determined to book that trip to Australia, the flight prices are always worth it. And saving money on your Australia flight is easier than you think!
Tips to save money on your flight to Australia
If you’re hoping to lower your Australia cost, you might be able to score a cheap flight with these travel tips.
Fly off season
Every country has its peak season and its off season. Australia is a large country, so the peak season varies depending on where you go.
For example, Sydney’s peak season is summer (December, January, February) and the off season is winter (June, July, August).
But somewhere hot and tropical, like Cairns, has winter as its peak season. Summer is the off season because it gets very hot and humid, but you can get some really cheap flights to the tropics at this time of year.
So depending on where you want to go, consider a visit in the off season! Average prices for flights in off season are often significantly cheaper than peak season.
You can also visit in shoulder season for that sweet spot of nice weather combined with cheaper prices.
Be flexible with your itinerary
Having flexibility with your trip to Australia means you can plan your itinerary around the cheapest flights.
Do some browsing online to see the cheapest flights to Australia from your home country.
Most travellers fly into Sydney, but you can also find cheap international flights into Brisbane, Perth, or Melbourne.
Maybe it’s costly for you to fly to Sydney in New South Wales, but maybe it’s surprisingly cheap to fly to Perth in Western Australia.
If you haven’t planned out an itinerary yet, perhaps you can organise your trip based on where the cheapest flights are! There is stunning beauty all over the country, so you can easily plan an epic adventure no matter where you arrive.
Get creative with layovers
Because Australia is so far from much of the world, it’s pretty rare to find a cheap AND direct flight.
Generally, the more layovers you have, the cheaper the flight price is. If you don’t mind taking some slightly more inconvenient layovers on the way to Australia, you may be able to get a much cheaper overall price.
You could also combine Australia with a trip to elsewhere nearby, such as New Zealand, Fiji, or Southeast Asia.
Though you may spend more money if you add on another country, you’ll get much more value out of your trip. Something to consider!
Most travelers start their Australia trip in Sydney.
Transportation costs within Australia
Once you arrive in Australia, you’ll need to get around the country. There are lots of great ways to get around Australia, so you can choose the ones that best suit your time frame and budget.
Those who want to save money can combine the cheapest forms of transport, such as walking and public buses for small distances in a city center, and coach buses or domestic flights for long distances.
A mid-range travel style might see a car or campervan rental paired with some domestic flights, taxis, or public transport.
Luxury travel will likely include just the most convenient methods of transport such as car rentals, taxis, and domestic flights to get around.
Domestic flights
Australia is absolutely massive. So if your trip to Australia includes lots of destinations, domestic flights can be very helpful.
For example, driving from Sydney to Perth will take you at least 3 days if you drive all day long with no stops. But flying there will only take 5 hours.
Domestic flights can be really cheap as well! Especially if you fly off-season and use budget airlines such as Jetstar, you can find one-way flights within Australia for around $100 or less one way.
This is a great way to save time on traveling overland, which can sometimes be a bigger journey than you’d expect in Australia.
Coach bus
Those who prefer to travel by land can get coach buses around Australia.
Greyhound is one of the most popular long-haul bus companies that visits cities and towns all over the country.
Just remember that driving distances can be very long in Australia! Utilise overnight buses where possible to optimise your time.
For example, a bus from Sydney to Melbourne is around 12 hours of driving. A bus from Sydney to Byron Bay is 13 hours of driving. Bus prices vary as well, so make sure you research the route you want to take.
If the bus and a flight are similar prices, you may prefer to take a flight to save time. But if you’re not in a rush and you find some cheap tickets, buses are a great way to get around Australia.
You can also get great deals on bus passes that include multiple journeys. For example, a Greyhound bus pass for the East Coast includes unlimited travel between Sydney and Cairns and prices start at around $330.
Car or campervan rental
One of the absolute best ways to explore on your trip to Australia is a road trip!
Flights can save you lots of travel time and help you pack in lots of destinations into a 1 or 2 week trip. But for those with a bit more time and flexibility, consider a road trip in a car or campervan.
Road trips allow you to see more of Australia, appreciating the natural beauty and small towns in between the tourist hotspots.
Car rental prices vary depending on your time frame, vehicle type, and location. But average costs can be anywhere from $50 – $100 per day.
A fun alternative to renting a regular car is hiring a campervan. Australia is absolutely packed with epic campsites, and a campervan lets you have a more flexible road trip because you can camp along the route.
Campervans are usually between $100 – $500 per day, depending on the quality and inclusions. But the price tag is often worth it. You can save money on accommodation and food by doing your road trip in a van that includes a bed and kitchen!
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Public transportation within cities
Most Australian cities and larger towns have decent public transportation systems. Trains, trams, metros, and public buses are common in a city center, and they are a cheap and reliable way to get around a given area.
Most public transportation costs have reasonable rates that are no more than a couple of dollars per journey. Some longer rides and airport transfers may be more expensive at $15 – $10.
Though you can also try to walk as much as possible if saving money is a priority.
Most larger cities in Australia are safe, with lots of attractions within walking distance. Walk when you can, and take a local bus or train for larger distances in a city center.
Public transport is of course, slightly more hassle than taxis or Ubers. But it’s much cheaper!
Taxis and rideshare apps
If you have a bigger budget for your Australia trip, you can catch taxis and rideshare apps around most areas in Australia.
In popular cities like Sydney, Gold Coast, or Melbourne, taxis and rideshare apps will likely cost more money than in smaller towns. But the perk of being in a city center is that public transport will almost always be available when you need it.
If you’re in a very small, rural town, public transport might be more rare. In that case, local taxis may be your only option, but they likely won’t be too expensive.
It goes without saying that if saving money is your priority, try to stick to walking and public transport as opposed to taxis and rideshares.
Getting around Australia is half the fun!
Accommodation costs in Australia
Accommodation is often a pretty big expense while traveling anywhere in the world. A trip to Australia is no different!
There are lots of different places to stay on your trip, from budget backpacker hostels to wilderness campgrounds to fancy hotels and basic motels.
In popular tourist destinations, such as the East Coast, you’ll have a greater variety of accommodations to choose from. In remote, small towns, there may only be a handful of local hotels so you’ll have less choice.
But here is an overview of the most common accommodation types and what they typically cost in Australia.
Hostels
Hostels are a great option for budget travelers, though hostels in Australia are definitely on the expensive side.
Dorm rooms are generally between $20 – $70 per night, with the higher costs in popular cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
Prices may also be more expensive during peak season (summer and around holidays).
You can also get private rooms in hostels for roughly $100 per night. This may be slightly cheaper than hotel rooms! But a dorm bed is always the best way to save money in Australia.
Camping
Australia is one of the best countries in the world for camping! Picture well-maintained campgrounds surrounded by lush forest or stunning beaches.
Some have excellent amenities like kitchens, BBQ, and hot showers. These well-equipped campgrounds often cost money, but not much compared to a hotel.
Nicer campgrounds in Australia cost around $10-40 per night, depending on the time of year, day of week, and quality of the campground.
You can also find basic campgrounds with little to no facilities. Many of these are either free or very cheap at just $5-10 per night.
The only downside to camping as a traveler in Australia is that you also need gear! If you can hire a campervan that includes all the gear, that’s a convenient way to do it.
You can also buy cheap secondhand camping gear on GumTree or Facebook marketplace.
Camping in Australia is a magical experience.
Hotels and motels
If you prefer private rooms in classic hotels or motels, these are common around Australia as well.
Hostels are not very common in the less touristy regional towns as well, so sometimes hotel rooms are the only option.
But all over Australia you should have no problem finding mid-range hotels that are nice but won’t break the bank.
Private rooms in mid-range hotels and motels often cost between $100 and $200 per night, with costs creeping up to $300 per night in expensive areas like Noosa, Gold Coast, or Byron Bay.
Airbnbs
Airbnbs are super popular around Australia! If you’re visiting small towns on your trip to Australia, hostels and hotels may be less common. But you can often find Airbnbs owned by locals, so these are nice and reliable.
They are generally on the more expensive side, especially when you find the rentals that include entire homes or apartments.
But if you’re visiting Australia with a group, a large Airbnb is ideal. Airbnbs can generally cost between $250 and $500 per night, depending on the quality and size of the place.
Of course, luxury hotels are also an option when you visit Australia! Big cities and popular tourist hotspots will have more options in terms of elegance and luxury.
A room in a fancy hotel in Australia might start at around $300 per night, with prices soaring higher for the five-star accommodations.
Food costs in Australia
Food costs on your trip to Australia will mirror most destinations around the world. Eating out is expensive and cooking your own food saves you money. This is true almost everywhere!
But it’s especially important in Australia to be mindful of your spending when it comes to food. Eating and drinking in bars and restaurants is very costly in Australia!
Part of a holiday should definitely involve trying some delicious food as it’s an important part of the local culture. But for the budget travelers out there, cooking some of your own meals is one of the top methods for saving money.
Average food costs in Australia
Before we dive into the tips for eating according to your budget, let’s go over some basic food costs.
These prices are just an estimate! The same dish may be cheaper at a small, local place or more expensive at a fancy place in a city. But these basic costs should be pretty consistent around Australia.
Dining out / takeaway
Coffee – $5
Bacon and egg roll – $10
Egg breakfast with sourdough and avocado – $18
Local beer – $9
Craft beer – $11
Glass of wine – $10-15
Chicken sandwich – $15-20
Seafood lunch – $30-40
Salad – $15-20 ($5 to add protein)
Pasta dish – $20-30
Steak dinner – $30-50
Vegetarian dinner – $25-30
Desserts – $10
Groceries
1kg of oats – $3-5
Box of 6 apples – $5
2kg bag of potatoes – $4-5
Bag of frozen fruit $6-10
Can of beans – $1
12 pack of eggs – $8
1kg of rice – $4-5
Box of pasta – $3-6
Whole chicken – $10
Grass fed steak – $10
Can of tuna – $2-4
1kg of coffee beans – $15-25
Bottle of wine – $10-30
6 pack of beer – $20-40
Budget
Based on the average prices above, your Australia cost will likely be lower if you try to buy food from grocery stores and cook your own meals!
Try to find an accommodation that has kitchen facilities, or hire a campervan with cooking facilities. Even if you just make one meal a day at home, this will save you so much money throughout the course of your trip.
The hardcore budget travelers can even try to cook the majority of their meals. Then when you do decide to treat yourself to a meal out, it will feel that much more special!
If you mostly spend money on groceries, with the odd meal out here and there, you might spend around $20 – $40 per day on food in Australia.
Cafe culture is huge in Australia.
Mid-Range
A mid-range traveller in Australia might want to cook some meals and dine out for some meals. A healthy mixture of the two gives you some indulgence but also helps you save money.
An average breakfast at a cafe in Australia can be around $25 per person, with a meal and a coffee.
Lunch can also be about the same, especially if you skip the drink or look for lunchtime specials. Find the best deals by researching local lunch specials, as they are quite common around Australia!
Dinner out is usually the most expensive, especially if there is a cocktail involved (which can be $20 or more in Australia).
If you want a nice balance of dining out without spending a lot, consider cooking your own dinners and eating out for breakfast or lunch as these are the cheaper meals.
Luxury
With a heftier budget, your travel style can include much more cafe and restaurant meals in Australia.
If you’re looking for a luxury food experience, you can even head to some of the more upscale, expensive restaurants. Popular in the big cities, there are many restaurants in Australia run by world-famous chefs where you can indulge in transformative food experiences.
The price tags in these places will well exceed the averages I’ve listed above. But if you have the budget for it, you can really dive into the premium food scene Down Under.
Activities in Australia
Tours and activities are essential to having a fulfilling Australia experience.
Most day tours in Australia cost around $100 – $300, depending on the tour.
Overnight tours greatly vary in cost, depending on how long the tour is and what level of luxury you get.
For example, camping overnight tours on K’gari (Fraser Island) are more affordable because you’re staying in nature without many facilities. But similar tours with resort accommodation will cost more.
On the other hand, some Whitsunday sailing tours include a stay in a luxury private catamaran cabin, and some fancy train tours across Australia include luxury cabins as well. So these tours will cost much more.
Budget Tours
If you want to keep your costs low in Australia, stick to the budget tours and day trips. Then fill most of your days with free activities like hiking, beach-hopping, and sightseeing.
But do pay attention to the cost per day for an overnight tour! Some backpacker-friendly overnight trips are actually great value for money, even if they are 2 or 3 days.
On overnight tours, your accommodation and food is usually covered in the tour price. So an overnight tour can still be affordable, especially for nature-focused tours like K’gari (Fraser Island) or camping near Uluru.
But in general, your trip will be a lot cheaper if you emphasize the free activities that Australia offers.
Mid Range
For mid-range travellers, definitely treat yourself to some amazing Australian tours. Maybe mix in some day trips, affordable overnight trips, and more luxury tours for a bit of variety.
And do your research so you can see which attractions are better with or without a tour. For example, the Great Barrier Reef is definitely better with the marine life experts on a guided tour, whereas national parks like the Blue Mountains can be easily visited without a tour.
Also take note of entrance fees for things like museums, wildlife centres, and art galleries. Pick and choose which attractions will bring you the most joy, and be selective about what you pay for to maximise your budget.
Luxury
For those who don’t mind higher costs, you can really live life to the fullest in Australia.
Book as many guided tours and experiences as you want! You can even treat yourself to private tours and private charters for trips out to sea.
There are so many cool experiences to have in Australia.
Additional costs for a trip to Australia
Most visitors can plan their travel budget for the transport, accommodation, food, and activities. But many forget about the additional expenses!
Here are some other things to include in your Australia travel budget.
Visa
Everyone visiting Australia needs a visa! Those visiting on a holiday will need a Visitor Visa, and those planning to stay longer and work can do a Working Holiday Visa.
Regardless of your intentions in Australia, you will need a visa.
A Visitor Visa is pretty cheap at around $195. Working Holiday Visas cost more at around $650, but they allow you to stay for up to a year and work to fund your trip.
It’s always a good idea to get travel insurance for a trip abroad. You never know when you might need emergency medical treatment or have some sort of travel fiasco, so it’s worth buying travel insurance to know you’re covered.
Travel insurance costs vary depending on the length of your trip to Australia, your nationality, and which provider you choose. Do a bit of shopping around to find the best plan for you!
Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.
Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.
Souvenirs
Souvenirs are not an essential purchase on a trip to Australia. But it’s a good idea to set aside a little cash just in case you see something that sparks your attention.
A beautiful, hand-crafted souvenir that reflects the local culture is a wonderful way to remember a trip abroad.
But try to avoid buying things just for the sake of it! You don’t want random trinkets that will just collect dust, as it’s a waste of money.
Be mindful with your spending and try to only buy meaningful souvenirs that you will actually use and cherish.
Australia Cost Wrap Up
Given all the info we just covered, it’s easy to see that Australia can easily be affordable or expensive depending on your travel style.
Most people would agree that the best way to travel is by following your intuition and being mindful. Combine a few budget travel tips with some once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
If you are going to spend your money, spend it on something that really adds value to your trip.
Whether it be a fancy hotel in a city you’ve always wanted to visit, a five-star restaurant that showcases your favorite cuisine, or a multiday tour that includes all the highlights of a given area, you can enhance your trip to Australia through buying things that mean something to you.
But to avoid any guilt or financial stress, balance that out with some frugality. Cook some meals at your accommodation, spend a few nights at a cheap hostel, or try camping in the wilderness. Skip the cocktails one night or walk around instead of taking taxis.
Be flexible with your trip and spend with intention. This will help you plan a trip to Australia that is unforgettable, but also affordable!
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