Port Stephens is a prime location to observe humpbacks and southern right whales during their annual migration. From mid-May to early September, thousands of whales head north to their breeding grounds, and from mid-September to mid-October, they migrate south. You might even see mothers with their newborn calves in the calmer waters. Watch them from Tomaree Head Summit, or get up close on a tour from Nelson Bay.

Travel back to ancient times at this renovated Roman-age villa, discovered only recently in the 19th century. It houses an archaeological museum, and has well-tended rose and herb gardens. Special programmes like donkey tours and overnight stays can be organised here too.

The favelas are Brazil's gloomily famous shanty towns. Once a shelter for war veterans and freedmen, they have now become the symbol of social and economic inequalities in the country. A guided tour of these communities represents a unique opportunity to understand the locals' living conditions, their challenges and their daily struggles. If you have the chance, visit the famous favela named Rocinha to discover a whole different side of Rio de Janeiro. Visits are only recommended as part of a supervised guided tour and may be unsafe to do on one's own.

This otherworldly landscape should be on every visitor's itinerary. In 1957, the Capelinhos volcano erupted, and did not stop for a year and a month. Inhabitants were forced to abandon the island, which now lies deserted. Climb the volcano with the help of the official guide service to experience this unique and startling natural wonder.