Sydney for Nature and Animal Lovers

Sydney, Australia is the most populous city in the country and is visited by almost 3 million international visitors a year. Sights such as the Opera House, as well as having great accessibility with the city airport receiving cheap flights to Sydney from around the globe – the area is at the least a likely stop off point for travellers who are considering going even further. Aside from its arts and cultural assets though, Sydney’s unique location means it can offer a wealth of nature-related sights all within a close radius of the city.

The Royal Botanic Gardens are a popular attraction within the city. They were founded in 1816 by Lachlan Macquarie, a military officer who became governor of New South Wales, and is thus responsible for much of the shaping of Australia since. A botanist, Charles Fraser, was employed soon after and fully established the first scientific institution in the country. Today the gardens also include a herbarium, a tropical house, and another green space called The Domain.

For a more wild natural experience, the Blue Mountains National Park is located about 80 kilometres west of the city. The park is made up of The Great Dividing Range and four rivers (Wollangambe, Grose, Cox, and Wollendilly) that cut through them causing some spectacular geography. Some of the more popular attractions include The Three Sisters standing stones, the spectacular Wentworth Falls, and the Neats Glen rainforest. It is also possible to explore the area much deeper with guided activities such as canyoning and mountain biking.

Sydney is also home to two zoos, Taronga Zoo and Sydney Wildlife World. The Former was opened in 1916 and now houses over 2,600 animals and over 300 species including giraffes, elephants, and platypuses. Since the 60s conservation and education have been at the centre of the zoo’s vision seeing the addition of a veterinary centre and friendship farm. Wildlife World is enclosed and houses smaller species, as well as being connected to the Sydney Aquarium.

There is much to be seen for animal lovers outside of captivity. During the winter and spring months, migrating Humpback whales are visible off the Sydney coast. Tours are popular during April and December and the huge majestic animals can be seen feeding and breaching if you are really lucky. Other whale varieties such as Southern Rights and Killer whales can be spotted. Common and bottlenose dolphins are also frequently seen along the Sydney coastline.

By Sarah Maple