Adventure Attractions in Tasmania

While boasting stunning scenery and coastal regions, Tasmania is more than a pretty island. Explore the lush wilderness via the huge offer of adventure activities found in this beautiful state.

Rafting: White water rafting is to be had on many of the island's rivers including the Franklin, Derwent, Picton, Arthur, Mersey and Meander Rivers. The Franklin offers one of the world's greatest multi-day adventures that includes a descent down the awesome rapids of the Great Ravine. Departing from Hobart, travellers can also enjoy a rewarding day rafting along the Picton River, meandering through ancient rainforests and bushland. A number of companies offer skilled and professional guided trips.

Jet Boating: To some observers jet boats hooning about a wilderness area is aural and visual pollution but, when you're in the driver's seat - what a thrill! Take on the flat water or the rapids on the Derwent, Huon and King Rivers.

Diving: Many people associate scuba diving or snorkelling with tropical coral reefs, but temperate dives can be equally, or even more rewarding. The water temperatures range from 12C to 18C, but that's pretty irrelevant when you have a good wetsuit on. Spectacular 30m kelp forests await your exploration, as well as numerous shipwrecks and reefs among a variety of unique marine habitats. Professional dive operators provide instruction, gear and access to the best dive sites in St Helens, Bicheno, Eaglehawk Neck, Wynyard, Devonport, Launceston, Hobart and on King and Flinders Islands.

Wilderness Flights: Flights take you over Tasmania's spectacular natural wonders, dropping you into the wilderness or onto a remote beach or river. It's an excellent time-effective way of getting a feel for the remoteness and rugged beauty that is much of Tasmania.

Horse Riding: Ride trails blazed by early cattlemen and visit the huts they built; take multi-day camping rides or even take the Tasmanian Trail from north to south – sea-to-sea. Packages usually include the tent, sleeping bag, camping gear and meals. There are trail riding opportunities in the Central Highlands, Tasman Peninsula, Cradle Mountain, Orford, Strahan, Coles Bay, Tamar and Huon Valleys, Ben Lomond and Seven Mile Beach near Hobart.

Cruising: This is a relaxing adventure and a delightful way to explore the harbours and rivers of Tasmania. There are many cruises offered including the rivers in Launceston and Hobart, the sheltered waters of the D'Entrecasteaux Channel and the Huon and Gordon Rivers.

Sea Kayaking: Sea kayaking is very popular in Tasmania, taking place in both sheltered waters and offshore. The coastal scenery is dramatic when viewed from the sea and there's a good chance you'll meet a pod of dolphins. You can choose from a number of guided voyages or go your own way. There are sea kayak operators in Hobart, Strahan, Kettering, Freycinet, Bruny Island, Bathurst harbour, Lake St Clair and the lower Gordon River

Abseiling/Climbing: Experienced abseilers will be thrilled and novices spoiled with the spectacular world of climbing in Tasmania. Guided trips are available in many areas including on the Tasman Peninsula, the Organ Pipes of Mt Wellington near Hobart, Cataract Gorge in Launceston, Coles Bay and Ben Lomond.

Caving: Caving isn't just for the intrepid - many caves have easy access for the young or old and Tasmania has a wealth of limestone and dolomite caves with amazing caverns, chambers, passages, reflection pools, crystals, underground rivers and constellations of glow-worms. Some top spots include Newdegate Cave at Hastings, south of Hobart, King Solomon's Cave near Mole Creek Karst National Park and Gunns Plains Caves, near Ulverstone in the North West (apart from the cave formations this is home to the world's largest subterranean freshwater lobsters).

Cable Hang Gliding: Sample the speed, freedom and thrills of gliding with a guaranteed safe landing. At Lake Trevallyn, near Launceston, you can launch into a 200m flight across a valley with your glider secured to a steel cable. You won't be aware of the cable, but it's nice to know it's there!

Cycling/Mountain Biking: The distances are short, the roads and the locals are friendly and the scenery awesome. You can hire bikes to tour around Hobart, through the national parks or off-track in the mountains. Choose to go it alone or join an organised expedition accompanied with a guide and support vehicle. Start in Launceston or Devonport and head south to Hobart via Evandale, the Fingal Valley and down dramatic Elephant Pass or go via the East Coast with a side trip to Freycinet or Maria Island. Alternatively take the Huon Valley circuit for a gentler orchard, farmland and forest cycle, stopping to sample food and wine on the way.

All-Terrain Touring: Hire a 4WD and head for the off-road trails. Again, you can go your own way or pick up a licensed tour guide. Explore remote bush tracks, old stock routes and disused railway lines in low gear for high enjoyment