5 of Australia’s Most Road Trip-Worthy National Parks
When it comes to natural wonders and wide-open spaces, there’s plenty worth seeking out in Australia. With over 500 national parks, the problem isn’t finding them – it’s choosing just one or two to visit. Here’s where we think you should head once you’ve picked up your rental car at the nearest Enterprise Rent-A-Car branch.
When it comes to natural wonders and wide-open spaces, there’s plenty worth seeking out in Australia. With over 500 national parks, the problem isn’t finding them – it’s choosing just one or two to visit. Here’s where we think you should head once you’ve picked up your rental car at the nearest Enterprise Rent-A-Car branch.
Kakadu National Park
Just a two hour drive from Darwin, Kakadu is the largest national park in Australia, encompassing cascading waterfalls, ancient rock art and abundant wildlife - you might even spot a crocodile or two. You’ll need three or four days to explore the park entirely, but luckily there’s plenty of options for accommodation, ranging from basic cabins to luxury glamping.
Daintree National Park
If you thought Australia was all dusty red landscapes fringed by white sandy beaches, think again. About two hours north of Cairns (where you can find Enterprise Rent-A-Car at the airport or in the CBD), the Daintree is a lush green rainforest region that houses some of the world’s most remarkable animal species. Even if you only plan to go as far as Mossman Gorge, where crystal-clear waters cascade over granite boulders, be sure take a sense of adventure with you.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
It might be where you’ll find Tasmania’s famous Overland Track, but a lengthy six-day long hike isn’t the only way to explore this dramatic national park. Just a few hours by car from either Launceston or Hobart, a clamber up Cradle Mountain can be done in six to eight hours, and will be rewarded by impressive views of the surrounding peaks. Still not short enough for you? Don’t worry, there’s plenty of less intense hikes too, but whichever you do, be sure to pack plenty of snacks and warm clothes in your rental car.
Kosciuszko National Park
Named for Australia’s highest mountain, Kosciuszko National Park is where you’ll find the Snowy Mountains featured in Banjo Paterson’s infamous poem, “The Man from Snowy River.” This mountainous area is certainly poetry-worthy, whether you visit in summer for alpine walks and river rapids, or winter for skiing and snow fights. Whatever the season, start your journey in Canberra, where you’ll find the perfect rental car for your trip at our CBD or airport location.
Purnululu National Park
One of Australia’s most unique natural sights (besides our strange duck-billed platypus), Purnululu National Park is where you’ll find the Bungle Bungles, a maze of orange and black behive shaped domes that stretch for seven kms. They might be a lengthy 14 hour drive from Darwin, but trust us when we say a stroll through, or better yet, a helicopter flyover, is worth the trip. You will need a four-wheel-drive to get there – luckily, we can help with that.