Kangaroo Island, South Australia, is basking in the global spotlight after securing the #2 position on Lonely Planet's prestigious 2024 Best in Travel Top Regions Hotlist.
This recognition affirms what locals and visitors have known all along - Kangaroo Island is a place of unrivalled beauty, teeming with unique local produce, abundant wildlife, pristine beaches, and unparalleled natural experiences.
Following a remarkable recovery from the devastating 2020 bushfires, Kangaroo Island has re-emerged as a premier ecotourism paradise. Donna Gauci, CEO of SeaLink Marine & Tourism, is excited about what lies ahead.
"Kangaroo Island has always been a beloved gem by true nature lovers, and this recognition by Lonely Planet underscores its exceptional charm. With the reopening of several iconic island and new experiences, along with the new Visitor's Centre at the entrance of Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island is ready to offer even more brilliant experiences to travellers," Gauci shared.
"Our $57 million investment into building two new larger ferries servicing Kangaroo Island arriving in 2025 will also help expand the visitor and economic possibilities for the community.”
Kangaroo Island's fame continues to rise, with Stokes Bay earning the title of Australia's Best Beach in 2023 and The New York Times ranking Kangaroo Island as the 7th must-visit destination in its Top 52 Places to Visit in 2023.
“We are incredibly proud of our long history of partnering with the many brilliant on-island operators who help to showcase the best of Kangaroo Island to the world.
“Kangaroo Island really is a must-see destination for every keen traveller; whether you’ve visited previously or have never been and are planning your next holiday,” Gauci added.
Kangaroo Island offers a wide array of activities and experiences that will make your journey truly unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a day tour, multi-day tour, or a self-drive option to explore the island at your own pace, SeaLink has some fantastic packages to make your visit even more brilliant, such as:
The 3-Day KI Hideaway & The Enchanted Fig Tree Self-Drive Package:
Embark on a short break to uncover the Island's coastal beauty and wildlife wonders and prepare to indulge in bespoke cocktails and savour a multi-course immersive epicurean encounter a the 'magical’ Gastronomo’s Enchanted Fig Tree. Nestled beneath gnarled limbs and glistening leaves, this dining experience will rekindle your sense of wonder; it’s a celebration of Kangaroo Island’s spirit like no other.
This exceptional experience also includes a two-night stay at the Aurora Ozone Hotel and dinner voucher for the Zone Restaurant, a gourmet picnic basket and a bottle of KI wine, and return SeaLink ferry travel to Penneshaw, including personal vehicle, starting from $890 per person. To learn more or book this tour visit here.
The 6-Day Ultimate Kangaroo Island Escorted Tour:
Experience Kangaroo Island's finest offerings in this all-inclusive six-day adventure, which promises exotic wildlife encounters, epicurean delights, and some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery. Travel to landmarks, including the pristine 'secret beach' at Stokes Bay, the captivating Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park and the remarkable landscapes of Flinders Chase National Park. Take a guided beach walk amidst a lively colony of Australian sea lions at Seal Bay and enjoy a Birds of Prey free flight exhibition at Raptor Domain. Indulge your palate with delectable local cuisine and spirits, including Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery Café, Clifford's Honey Farm, home to the world's only pure strain of Ligurian Bees, the Emu Bay Lavender Farm and the award-winning Kangaroo Island Spirits.
This unforgettable experience also includes complementary hotel transfers, return luxury air-conditioned coach travel from Adelaide and around KI, return SeaLink ferry travel from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw, five nights at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, five brunches, six lunches and five dinners, all entry fees, guided tours and tastings, starting from $2,299 per person (next available tour date: 12 March 2024). To learn more or book this tour visit here.
Ready to experience the magic of Kangaroo Island? Plan your next visit now by checking out other exciting SeaLink Kangaroo Island Packages and prepare for a brilliant adventure!
Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024 features 50 must-visit destinations from around the globe, including the Top 10 Countries, Cities, Regions, Best Value, and Sustainable destinations. Kangaroo Island is the only Australian destination to make the list, the recognition being a testament to its outstanding appeal and its ability to captivate travellers from all over the world.