Australia is renowned for its tropical paradise, and the perfect example of this is the vibrant city of Cairns which lies between the Great Dividing Range and the Coral Sea. Cairns is a tourist mecca, with a plethora of tours available that highlight the most iconic sites and attractions. There are tours to suit all travellers, whether you wish to snorkel in the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, or go white water rafting down the Barron River rapids.

Don't miss these Cairns attractions

  • Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
  • Cruising to Green and Fitzroy islands
  • Snorkelling and diving in the Great Barrier Reef
  • Kuranda Scenic Railway
  • Wandering along the Cairns Esplanade

Welcome to the Reef

Cairns is Australia's primary port for Great Barrier Reef tourism. Explore our range of sightseeing cruises, snorkelling cruises and scuba diving expeditions to experience the Reef’s magic up close. The Queensland tropics afford the opportunity to explore some of the best dive sites and marine life in the world.

For those who prefer to stay dry, there are plenty of other options to get up close with the Great Barrier Reef’s exotic wildlife, such as enjoying a seafood lunch whilst day cruising the outer ribbon reefs. Cruises are also available to explore the crystal waters and tropical paradise at Green Island and Fitzroy Island.

Explore flora and fauna

On the mainland just north of Cairns, you can take a tour to the idyllic Daintree National Park. Walking and bus tours depart Port Douglas daily for a tranquil expedition among quintessential Australian fauna and flora, cascading waterfalls and the beautiful Mossman Gorge. Be sure to make time for quaint Kuranda, where travellers can jump aboard the Kuranda Scenic Train or enjoy rainforest views on a Skyrail day tour.

Other tour options include a visit to Cape Tribulation – where the rainforest meets the reef – or a daring river cruise into crocodile territory. For a touch more excitement, experience the natural beauty from a different angle and take an adrenaline-rushing sky dive, romantic hot air balloon ride at sunrise or scenic flight tour of the reef.