Tours, sightseeing tours, activities & things to do | Viator.com
Cairns & the Tropical North
Trip Planning & Itineraries
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Tropical, wild and rugged, Queensland's Far North proves the theory that size doesn't matter. Although small geographically, this stunning destination contains the richest pockets of biodiversity in Australia, if not the world.
The dense and ancient rain forests of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area coat the landscape, spilling out onto gorgeous beaches. Offshore lies the spectacular Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Best of Cairns: Must See & Do
Suggested Itineraries in Cairns
The islands, beaches and rainforests that surround Cairns make it world famous - an essential stop on any trans-Australian itinerary. It's the most popular base for diving or snorkeling over the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, but you might struggle to fit that in around the bungee jumping, hot-air ballooning, skydiving, fishing, white-water rafting and horse riding.
You can also read the latest posts on the Viator Travel Blog about what do to in Cairns.
Take a full-day tour that combines the best of Cairns, Kuranda and their environs. The breathtaking Skyrail rides high above the rainforest canopy, before a 30-minute helicopter ride to a helipad on the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Maybe you'd prefer an early morning hot air balloon ride that and also takes in the Kuranda Scenic Railway and the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park theatres and museums.
Once your day tour is over, head down to the Aussie BBQ at Cairns Night Zoo, which features steak, seafood and vegetarian options served with fresh salads and drinks.
Day 2: Fun Outside the Theme Parks
The SeaQuest ADV Discover Diving Program takes beginners and experienced divers to the Outer Barrier Reef. For more adventure, try the Tarzan-inspired Minjin Jungle Swing or bungee jump off a 50 meter (164 feet) tower. Are you just too tough for bungee jumping? Skydiving tours combine solo and tandem skydives with lunch (not simultaneously) and later snorkelling and reef-viewing in a glass-bottom boat.
Once your pulse has normalized it's time to think about dinner. How about a four-course dinner cruise with a gentle sea breeze, a rainforest mountain backdrop and a glass of champagne.
Day 3: Oh My Aching Head and Body!
So you've played hard during the day and partied hard at night, and now you need a more restful day. There are some terrific museums like Cairns Museum, and galleries like the Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns Regional Gallery and Centre of Contemporary Arts, cafes and restaurants, and botanical gardens and walking trails. Feeding time at the Cairns Tropical Zoo includes breakfast at the Koala Cafe and an informative talk by the wildlife keeper.
At night head to the Flames of the Forest Dining Experience in a secret forest clearing as dusk settles and the stars come out. A full three-course meal comprising high-end cuisine, bush ingredients and superb boutique wines accompanies an Aboriginal dance-and-music show.
3 Ways To See the Great Barrier Reef
Best of Cairns: Hotels
Experience an exclusive rain forest retreat. From guided nature walks to spa treatments; Kewarra has everything to offer. Relax in a beachfront setting nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and pristine tropical rainforest.
This premier resort offers a relaxed village atmosphere with spacious modern Cairns apartments set amongst lush landscaped gardens, lakes and beach lagoon pools. Choose to unwind at the day spa, dine at the elegant restaurant or BBQ by the pool.
The complex boasts one of Australia's finest boutique casinos, a multitude of dining experiences and bars, elite entertainment in Vertigo or the Casino Sportz Arena and the luxurious five star Sofitel Hotel with beautifully appointed rooms.
Enjoy a full day out taking in the magnificent Cairns Highlands, waterfalls, rainforests, and Paronella Park (Spanish Castle ruins) - one man's inspiration and dream.
