Lonely Planet names Kangaroo Island as one of world's best travel destinations

Global travel authority, Lonely Planet, has ranked Kangaroo Island in second place in its 2024 Top Regions Hotlist - with the Island being the only Australian destination to make the list.

Kangaroo Island is recognised as a premier eco-tourism destination which offers distinct local produce, abundant native wildlife, natural experiences, and some of the nation’s most pristine beaches.

Western Balkans' Trans Dinarica Cycling Route topped the prestigious list.

In taking second place, Kangaroo Island topped globally renowned tourist destinations such as Tuscany in Italy which came in at third place.

The Lonely Planet list aims to inspire potential travellers to plan a holiday in 2024, focusing on trending travel sectors like eco-tourism and slow travel.

Nominations for the list were made throughout the year by Lonely Planet’s community of staff, contributors from around the world, and publishing partners. Winning destinations were then selected by a panel of travel experts who assessed topicality, unique experiences, ‘wow’ factor, and the destination’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, community, and diversity.

The global recognition for Kangaroo Island comes as the $55 million Southern Ocean Lodge rebuild on the west coast of the island gets set to open to guests in early December.

An added experience for visitors to the region in 2024 will be the new multi-million-dollar development of The Cliffs Kangaroo Island – a ‘bucket-list’ destination golf course which is set to open next year and promises to attract golfing enthusiasts from across the globe.

Latest tourism data shows Kangaroo Island has reached an all-time high visitor expenditure. At $294 million spent by visitors in the year to June 2023, it is a record-high and well surpasses the region’s target of $199 million set for December 2025.

Chris Zeiher, Senior Director Trade Sales & Marketing, Lonely Planet shared “Kangaroo Island provides such a quintessential Australian travel experience.

“It is blessed with amazing beaches, offers delicious food, wine, and spirits experiences, and delivers on the drama when it comes to outdoor adventures.

“And then there’s the wildlife!”