Cairns is Australia’s gateway to northern Queensland. From here, you can explore great natural wonders such as the world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef, and the oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest. If you’re after a holiday full of wilderness, tropical weather and outdoor activities you’ve landed in the perfect spot.
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The Best Things To Do In Cairns
1) Ocean Safari – The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef features on every traveller’s bucket list, and once you’re there, you’ll understand exactly why! Book a half-day Ocean Safari tour to take part in an exhilarating snorkel ride at two fabulous untouched locations: the Mackay and Undine Reefs. Influential travel bloggers Nicola Easterby from Polkadotpassport and YouTuber Jake Rich, recently snorkelled at the reefs alongside sea turtles and a myriad of tropical fish, eagle rays, giant clams and starfish. Nicola said nothing could beat that feeling of diving into a vibrant underwater wonderland, which she described as nothing short of magical. Search for more tours of the Great Barrier Reef using KAYAK Activities.
2) Jungle Surfing Canopy Tour – Daintree Rainforest
An estimated 180 million years old, the Daintree is a living museum and one of the world’s most precious botanical treasures. The best way to experience this wonder is by getting your boots dirty. Jake Rich recently took part in a Jungle Surfing Canopy Tour and described the aerial views and the thrill of flying across the canopy as breathtaking. Walk by the spectacular Mossman Gorge and learn about traditional Indigenous ceremonies for a truly memorable experience. For a different kind of exploration, embark on a night-time walking tour where you can spot rare nocturnal reptiles and insects. We’d recommend keen hikers to spend a few days in the rainforest to make the most out of all the swimming spots and hiking trails.
3) Horseriding on the beach – Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is the special area where two spectacular World Heritage sites meet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. How often do you get to say you’ve positioned yourself right between the verdant rainforest and the glistening coral? Go horseriding with Cape Trib Horse Rides along Myall Beach to uncover the area in a unique way. Cantering through such pristine environment is a rare experience, only possible at a handful of Australian beaches.
4) Crocodile Cruise – Daintree River
Exploring Australia’s tropical region wouldn’t be the full experience without a few encounters with some dangerous creatures: wild crocodiles and snakes. Hop on a river cruise to get up and close with these rare animals. There are a tonne of tours to choose from that will enable you to discover the Daintree river and its wilderness. Jake Rich said the experience was the “ultimate adventure”. The thrill of seeing a four and a half metre crocodile lying idly on the side of the riverbank is sensational, and one you won’t forget soon.
5) Waterfall Circuit – Atherton Tablelands
The Atherton Tablelands are a unique landscape combining rainforest, wetlands and savanna. The region is mostly known for its unique waterfall circuit. Book the popular day tour with Uncle Brian’s Tours to explore the famous Millaa Millaa Falls (a favourite for photographers) and enjoy plenty of swimming time. Just be prepared for a full day packed with wild experiences! You’ll also get the opportunity to get close to native rainforest wildlife such as tree kangaroos and wallabies. And for those food-lovers, the Tablelands’ gourmet food and wine trail is another thing to add to your itinerary.
Use Trips to manage your travel itinerary and make trip planning easier. Why not start off with these five must-see places? Book flights, add your activities, and before you know it, you’ve got an amazing holiday planned. So, what are you waiting for?
*The hotel prices (including taxes and fees) are per night per room for double occupancy for the above and were found on nz.KAYAK.com on 22 March 2017 for travel in May 2017, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release with a minimum 3-star rating. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
**The flight prices (including taxes and fees, excluding baggage fees) for one return economy seat given above were collated on 22 March 2017 for travel in May 2017 from Sydney to the destination listed, unless specified otherwise. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
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Header image: Jake Rich
