Author: Fenella Cools
Heading to northern Queensland and wondering what to do in Cairns? Cairns is a destination that can’t be missed while travelling the East Coast. It has a lot of places around to discover what makes Cairns great for day trips. We've put together the ultimate backpacker's guide of all the best things to do in Cairns from the iconic Great Barrier Reef tours to chasing waterfalls!
1. Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is an icon of Australia. It is one of the first things that will pop into your mind when you think about Australia, right? Great Barrier Reef tours are very popular and have many options ranging from day trips to dive certifications! You can decide to snorkel, dive or even take a flight above the reef. It is a This World Heritage listed natural beauty should definitely be on your travel bucket list.
2. Mission Beach
Besides exploring nature, why not challenge yourself to some adrenaline activities! Mission Beach is the perfect location for a skydive if you dare. Or how about going for some Whitewater rafting on the Tully River? If you are not into that kind of thing, there is always the possibility to relax on the beach - the name says enough. Either way, we promise you’ll love it.
3. Daintree Rainforest
The great thing about Cairns it that it’s not just the coast. It also offers day trips to Cape Tribulation to discover the oldest tropical rainforest in the world on a Daintree Rainforest tour! It is the largest Rainforest on the Australia continent and home to some of Australia’s most unique wildlife like the Cassowary bird as well as rich Aboriginal culture definitely worth a visit. If you are keen for nature, make sure this is on your list, you won’t regret it!
4. Atherton Tablelands
Another great Cairns tour is a trip out to the Atherton Tablelands where there are many beautiful waterfalls to discover. Escape the city for the day and go chasing over 10 unique waterfalls hidden in the rainforest The Atherton Tablelands region is the perfect place to see natural beauty and local Aussie wildlife.
5. AJ Hacket Jungle Swing
What if could combine your love for nature and adventure? Go for a Jungle Swing with AJ Hacket! It will give you a great shot of adrenaline and it is a great way to discover the rainforest in a unique way. You will go through the rainforest with a speed up to 120 km’s p/h! So, if you are an adrenaline junkie and would like to discover beautiful places at the same time, go for the Jungle Swing.
As you can see, Cairns has so many great places to discover. Whether you want relaxing, discovering or adrenaline, make sure you go on one of the Cairns day trips to be guaranteed that you’ve seen the best of what Cairns has to offer.