Day Trips Cairns

Day Trips in Cairns: Your Ultimate Guide

Welcome to the tropical paradise of Cairns, Australia! If you’re looking for unforgettable day trips to complement your stay, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some top destinations that will make your visit truly memorable.

Great Barrier Reef

  • Location: Approximately 27km off the coast of Cairns
  • Accessibility: Day tours operate from Cairns’ city ports and marinas
  • Experience Highlights: Snorkeling, diving, glass-bottom boat tours, marine life encounters (sea turtles, clownfish, reef sharks)

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and a day trip here is an absolute must. With its stunning coral formations and diverse marine life, it offers a unique underwater experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation

  • Location: Approximately 2 hours north of Cairns
  • Accessibility: Day tours depart from Cairns daily
  • Experience Highlights: Walking through the world’s oldest continually surviving rainforest, mangrove forests, beautiful beaches, crocodile spotting

The Daintree Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. Combine your visit with Cape Tribulation for a truly magical experience, where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.

Kuranda Village & Skyrail

  • Location: 25km northeast of Cairns (accessible via the Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway)
  • Accessibility: Day tours, Skyrail, or the Kuranda Scenic Railway are available from Cairns
  • Experience Highlights: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, wildlife parks, birdworld, scenic rainforest walks

Kuranda is a charming village nestled in the Barron Gorge National Park. Take a leisurely ride on the Skyrail or Kuranda Scenic Railway to experience breathtaking views of the rainforest and waterfalls. Once there, explore the village’s markets, wildlife parks, and cultural attractions.

Atherton Tablelands

  • Location: Approximately 1.5 hours west of Cairns
  • Accessibility: Self-drive or organized day tours from Cairns are available
  • Experience Highlights: Waterfalls, crater lakes, tropical forests, wildlife spotting (cassowaries, platypus)

The Atherton Tablelands offer a stunning contrast to the coast. With its rolling green hills, waterfalls, and unique wildlife, it’s the perfect destination for nature lovers. Don’t miss the famous Malanda Falls or the majestic Lake Eacham.

Tips for Your Day Trips in Cairns:

  1. Sun Protection: The tropical Australian sun can be intense, so don’t forget your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
  2. Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.
  3. Water Bottle: Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
  4. Local Guides: Consider joining organized tours for an enriched experience and insights into local culture and ecosystems.
  5. Respect Wildlife: Remember, it’s important to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them.

Enjoy your day trips in Cairns! With its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone here.