Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest — world-class diving, ancient rainforests, Indigenous culture, and tropical adventures.
Cairns is a vibrant tropical city in Far North Queensland, known as the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Its tropical climate, lively esplanade, Indigenous culture, and proximity to world-class natural wonders make it one of Australia’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re diving the reef, exploring ancient rainforest, or riding the Kuranda Scenic Railway, Cairns delivers unforgettable experiences. Visit Tourism Tropical North Queensland for official information.
From the world’s largest reef system to Earth’s oldest rainforest — Cairns is a nature lover’s paradise.
The Great Barrier Reef — the world’s largest coral reef system, visible from space.
The world’s largest coral reef — 2,300 km of coral, 1,500 fish species, and crystal-clear tropical waters. Day trips depart daily from Cairns for snorkelling, diving, and glass-bottom boat experiences.
Reef infoOne of Earth’s oldest rainforests — 135+ million years. Daintree River cruises, Mossman Gorge, and Cape Tribulation where reef meets rainforest. Traditional Kuku Yalanji guided walks available.
Explore DaintreeRide the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway through tropical gorges, then explore the village markets, butterfly sanctuary, and return via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for aerial views.
View tourA vibrant waterfront promenade with a free saltwater lagoon, restaurants, markets, and coastal views. The Esplanade is the social heart of Cairns and a great spot for sunrise walks.
Esplanade infoScenic escape with volcanic crater lakes, cascading waterfalls (Millaa Millaa, Josephine, Zillie), abundant wildlife, and cool-climate farms. Hot-air ballooning and platypus spotting are highlights.
View tourExperience the traditions of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people at Mossman Gorge, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and through Indigenous-guided rainforest walks and art galleries.
Mossman GorgeDry Season (May–Oct): Cooler temperatures (19–26 °C), lower humidity, clear skies. Best for reef trips, outdoor activities, and hiking. Peak tourist season.
Wet Season (Nov–Apr): Warm and humid (24–31 °C) with afternoon storms. Lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, great diving visibility, and stinger-net protected swimming.
Cairns Airport (CNS) has direct flights from all major cities. Drive 1,700 km north of Brisbane or fly in 2.5 hrs. Cooee Tours offers hotel transfers.
Day trips depart daily from Cairns Marina. Fast cats reach the outer reef in ~90 min. Operators offer snorkelling, diving, and scenic flights.
Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), rashie/wetsuit, waterproof camera, insect repellent, light layers, and a waterproof bag for rainforest walks.
Book reef trips 1–2 days ahead in peak season. Combine Kuranda Railway up + Skyrail back for the full experience. Port Douglas is a great base for Daintree day trips.
Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef, explore the Daintree Rainforest, ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway, swim at the Esplanade Lagoon, visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and go hot-air ballooning over the Atherton Tablelands.
Dry season (May–Oct) for cooler temps, clear skies, and peak reef conditions. Wet season (Nov–Apr) is warmer and greener with fewer crowds. The reef is accessible year-round.
Day trips depart daily from Cairns Marina and Port Douglas. Fast catamarans reach the outer reef in about 90 minutes. Operators offer snorkelling, diving, glass-bottom boats, and helicopter flights.
Absolutely — it’s 135+ million years old and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Daintree River cruise, Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation, and Indigenous-guided walks.
Great Barrier Reef day trips, Daintree Rainforest tours, Kuranda Railway & Skyrail, Atherton Tablelands, and custom multi-day Tropical North Queensland itineraries. All include hotel pickup. Contact us to plan yours.
Expert local guides, hotel pickup, small groups — the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree, and all of Tropical North Queensland.
Book Your Cairns Tour