Experience the Best of Cairns in Three Days

Ready to dive into the beauty of Cairns?

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Cairns? From exploring the Great Barrier Reef to immersing yourself in Indigenous culture, this 72-hour itinerary has it all. Get ready to dive into the beauty of Cairns!

Are you an early riser? Start your first day in Cairns with a walk along Cairns Esplanade, where you can witness a breathtaking sunrise over Trinity Inlet. As you stroll along, don’t miss the vibrant public artworks, including the captivating Woven Fish sculptures in the Cairns Lagoon. You might even catch some locals participating in aqua Zumba classes in the lagoon. After your walk, cool off in the public lagoon before heading to Marlin Marina for your tour of the Great Barrier Reef.

When it comes to exploring the Great Barrier Reef, you have plenty of options. One highly recommended eco-friendly operator is Passions of Paradise, which has received recognition for its sustainable practices. Snorkeling among the colorful coral and marine life will make you appreciate the importance of preserving this natural wonder. For those who want to contribute to the conservation efforts, book the Eco Tour and assist in the Eye on the Reef Rapid Monitoring survey. Another great option for families is Sunlover Reef Cruises, which offers a variety of activities such as underwater observatories and semi-submersible boat rides.

On your second day, take a break from the reef and venture into the Wet Tropics Heritage Area. Hop on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for an awe-inspiring journey above the world’s oldest rainforest. Keep your eyes peeled for tree kangaroos as you glide through the canopy. Make sure to get off at Red Peak and Din Din (Barron Falls) to join ranger tours and witness the natural beauty up close. After the cableway ride, explore Kuranda Village, where you can indulge in delicious crepes at Petit Café, discover unique Aboriginal artwork, and visit the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a scenic ride back to Cairns.

Ready for one last adventure on your third day? Head to Cooya Beach near Port Douglas for an authentic Indigenous experience with Walkabout Cultural Adventures. Join Juan Walker, a knowledgeable Kuku Yalanji guide, as he shares his culture through spear throwing, collecting bush tucker, and playing the didgeridoo. Afterward, visit Mossman Gorge for the Ngadiki Dreamtime Walk, where you’ll learn about the Kuku Yalanji people’s traditions, make bush soap, and enjoy a traditional damper and bush tea. Finish your trip with a delectable meal at Ochre Restaurant, known for its use of native ingredients, and relax with a drink at Rocco, the city’s highest rooftop bar.

• Start your day with a refreshing walk along Cairns Esplanade, taking in the stunning sunrise and public artworks
• Embark on a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef and choose from a variety of eco-friendly operators
• Explore the Wet Tropics Heritage Area and ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
• Discover the charm of Kuranda Village and take a scenic train ride back to Cairns
• Experience an authentic Indigenous tour at Cooya Beach and Mossman Gorge
• Indulge in delicious native cuisine at Ochre Restaurant and enjoy rooftop drinks at Rocco

Make the most of your time in Cairns with this action-packed itinerary. From the Great Barrier Reef to the rainforest and Indigenous experiences, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!