Cairns holidays

Located in Northern Queensland, Cairns is one of the main gateways to the Great Barrier Reef. The city is sheltered by high mountain ranges covered with lush tropical rainforests and is surrounded by sugar cane fields.

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Top things to do in Cairns

Cruise over the Great Barrier Reef

One of the world’s most famous natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s biggest reef system with spectacularly coloured coral and a host of tropical fish. Our selection of cruises to the reef include lunch and snorkelling equipment. The large- and medium-sized cruises also include a marine biologist on board and semi-submersible boats.

Hot air balloon ride over the Australian bush

Take a hot air balloon flight and experience the wonder, romance and silence of the picturesque Australian bush on this early morning excursion from Cairns or Palm Cove. Watch the balloons inflate before taking to the skies and serenely flying over the Atherton Tablelands as the sun rises over the distant coastline. Upon landing, you will have a champagne breakfast before being transferred back to your hotel.

Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway

Board the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a journey from Cairns to Kuranda, the 'village in the rainforest'. Rising from sea level up to 328 metres, the journey passes spectacular waterfalls and into the stunning Barron Gorge through 15 hand-cut tunnels. Take some time to explore Kuranda and its daily markets, the Birdworld Kuranda Bird Sanctuary, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary or the Kuranda Koala Gardens. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway can also be accessed via a 10-minute walk from Kuranda. Travelling in gondola cabins just metres above the tree canopy, the Skyrail covers 7.5km of pristine rainforest and is a unique way to appreciate the rainforest.

Visit the Village in the Rainforest

Known as the ‘Village in the Rainforest’, Kuranda is located just 25 km from Cairns. Accessed from Palm Cove or Cairns, Kuranda is best reached either by the historic scenic railway that winds its way through the rainforest and past waterfalls, or by scenic cable car. Attractions include the Tjupukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, the butterfly sanctuary and the heritage markets.