Great Barrier Reef is the globe’s largest coral reef which composes over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands located in the Coral Sea, just off the coast of Queensland in north east Australia. The great barrier reef can be seen from space as the globe’s largest single structure made by living organisms, the reef is built by billions of tiny organisms known as coral polyps.
The Great Barrier Reef is a site of remarkable variety of life and beauty and therefore is a World Heritage Site since 1981. By known latest known measurements the great barrier reefs counts 400 types of coral, 1500 species of fish and 400 types of molluscs. Also, the great barrier reef has been labeled as one of the 7 natural world wonders on this globe. The Great Barrier Reefs hold an important note in scientific knowledge, latest research include the habitat species of dugong “sea cow” and chelonia mydas “green turtle”.
The most convenient way to reach Great Barrier Reef is through Townsville and Marinepark, it consist out of hundreds uninhabited islands with bounty sand white beaches where you can stay and explore the reef by snorkeling or diving. As accommodation (when available) is rather expensive, most travelers choose to camp on the beaches. Make sure to bring a local tour guide that’s booked through a certificate company. The Long Island is the reef’s most visited island, the reasoning is that it’s close to the shore and excellently suited for a day trip. From there, it’s easy to navigate towards Whitesunday Islands, Molle Islands, Hamilton Island, Hook Island, Daydream Island and any of the other 900 plus islands located in the reef. There’s several national parks in the reef including Tyron, Lady Musgrave and North West which are excellent for relaxation and perfection.
Travelers to the Great Barrier Reef are recommended to get an accommodation in Queensland, Australia mostly Townsville. For entrance an valid passport and visa need to be shown at immigration. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit.
