Walking Discoveries of Lord Howe Island’s Flora, Seabirds & Marine Life

Our flight departs from Sydney early this morning. Arrive on Lord Howe Island, where you will be transferred to your accommodation before taking a curator’s tour of the local museum. This evening’s pre-dinner lecture will feature an overview of the region’s geology, flora, fauna and conservation.

Today’s island exploration will include a bus tour to see Lord Howe Island’s many landmarks and to learn about its history. You’ll also immerse yourself in nature during a walk through Stevens Reserve, while also learning about the Kentia palm industry.

This morning, Ian will guide you to Clear Place, where you’ll get to witness the tall palm forest, massive banyan trees and array of seabirds that are found here. After lunch, at low tide, set off on a reef walk at Ned’s Beach rock platform to discover the surrounding coral and rockpools. As some of the world’s most southerly, the coral found here is rich and diverse, and among the last to be impacted by global environmental effects such as coral bleaching. You’ll also learn about the wealth of marine creatures that inhabit the island’s intertidal areas. You then have free time for swimming or to explore the local shops.

After breakfast you will set off on a walk to Transit Hill where there is a viewing platform that offers a 360-degree view of Lord Howe Island. Look out for the island’s signature plants, the Kentia and curly palms that dominate the landscape in many places. Later in the day, take a glass-bottom boat cruise, discovering the marine life supported by the world’s most southerly coral reef. You’ll also have the option to snorkel and see these marine wonders up close.

This morning, take a walk along the south-western shoreline to Little Island, located at the base of Lord Howe’s mountains. Here, you’ll learn about the volcanic origins of the island while soaking up the spectacular scenery of this World Heritage-listed site. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to relax or explore before a showing of historical movies at the public hall.

Today, set off on a day trip to North Bay. Travelling by boat, you’ll arrive at a pristine beach on the northern tip of the island, inaccessible by car. The waters here are a snorkeller’s paradise; rich in colourful corals, turtles, stingrays and an estimated 500 species of fish. The birdlife is also spectacular. Look out for colonies of sooty terns, brown noddies and black noddies during a short nature walk. You may also spot red-tailed tropicbirds and waders during low tide. Enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to your accommodation later this afternoon.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Sydney.