How to Plan Your 6-Day Best of Cairns Tour Including the Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, and the Daintree Rainforest

Are you looking for a comprehensive tour of Cairns and the Tropical North that covers all the major landmarks and attractions? Look no further than the 6-day Best of Cairns tour, which includes a full day exploring the Great Barrier Reef, a ride on the Scenic Railway to Kuranda, and a walk among the old-growth trees in the Daintree Rainforest. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

Your tour starts with an airport transfer to your hotel, where you’ll check in and have some time to relax. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a city tour of Cairns, where you’ll visit the Cairns Museum, St. Monica’s Cathedral, and the Cairns Esplanade. The tour ends with dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Great Barrier Reef

Get ready for an exciting day exploring one of the world’s natural wonders – the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll take a boat to the reef and have the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive to see the colorful coral and marine life. Lunch is included, and you’ll return to Cairns in the late afternoon.

Day 3: Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail

Today, you’ll take a trip on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which winds through the rainforest and offers stunning views of the Barron Gorge National Park. You’ll stop in the village of Kuranda, where you’ll have free time to explore the markets and shops. On your return journey to Cairns, you’ll take the Skyrail, which offers breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy.

Day 4: Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation

Get ready to experience the natural wonders of the Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest surviving tropical rainforest. You’ll take a guided walk through the forest, visit Cape Tribulation beach, and have the opportunity to taste locally made ice cream at the Daintree Ice Cream Company.

Day 5: Free Day

Today is a free day for you to explore Cairns at your leisure. You may choose to take an optional tour (at your own expense) or simply relax and soak up the tropical atmosphere.

Day 6: Departure

Your tour ends with a transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Accommodation

The tour includes five nights’ accommodation in a standard queen, twin, or triple room. All accommodation is subject to availability and change.

Meals

The tour includes breakfast and dinner each day, as well as one dinner on the Cairns Evening Harbour and Dinner Cruise. Food and drinks are not included unless specified in the itinerary.

Transportation

All transportation is included in the tour, including airport transfers, boat transfers to the Great Barrier Reef, and the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail journey.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking unless booked within 7 days of travel. In this case, confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour includes all entrance fees, but food and drinks are not included unless specified. Pick-up points are available, and the tour starts at 7:00 AM.

Book Your Tour

Ready to experience the Best of Cairns? Book your tour here and get ready for an unforgettable vacation in Cairns and the Tropical North.

*Disclaimer: This tour is not offered by us, and we do not have any affiliation with the third-party company offering the tour. All information provided is based on the details listed on their website and is subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cairns and the Tropical North

Are you planning a trip to Cairns and the Tropical North of Australia? This region is known for its tropical climate, lush rainforest, and the Great Barrier Reef – one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Cairns and the Tropical North to help you plan your trip better.

1. When is the best time to visit Cairns and the Tropical North?

The best time to visit Cairns and the Tropical North is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this season, the weather is warm and comfortable, and there is plenty of sunshine. The wet season, which runs from November to April, is hot and humid and often experiences heavy rainfall and tropical storms.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Cairns and the Tropical North?

There are lots of must-see attractions in Cairns and the Tropical North, but some of the most popular include:

• The Great Barrier Reef
• The Daintree Rainforest
• Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Railway
• Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
• Mossman Gorge
• Cape Tribulation

3. What is the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef?

The best way to see the Great Barrier Reef is by taking a guided tour or a boat ride. Cairns and Port Douglas have a wide range of operators offering reef tours, including snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours. You can also explore the reef on your own by renting a kayak or a paddleboard.

4. What is the Daintree Rainforest, and what can I do there?

The Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, known for its stunning biodiversity and natural beauty. You can explore the rainforest on foot or take a guided tour, which will take you through the dense vegetation and to lookout points with breathtaking panoramic views. Other activities include zip-lining, kayaking, and river cruises.

5. How do I get to Cairns and the Tropical North?

Cairns is accessible by air, with direct flights available from most major Australian cities, as well as international destinations such as Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore. The region is also accessible by road, with scenic coastal drives from Brisbane or Sydney, or by rail on the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway.

6. What is the weather like in Cairns and the Tropical North?

Cairns and the Tropical North have a tropical climate. During the dry season (May to October), temperatures average around 25-30°C (77-86°F), with plenty of sunshine. In the wet season (November to April), temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), with high humidity and heavy rainfall.

7. What should I pack for a trip to Cairns and the Tropical North?

Pack light, breathable clothing for a trip to Cairns and the Tropical North, with a focus on comfortable and casual wear. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat, as you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors. If you’re planning on visiting the reef, bring a swimwear, an underwater camera or waterproof phone case, and snorkeling or diving gear if you have it.

8. What are some of the best places to stay in Cairns and the Tropical North?

There are plenty of accommodation options in Cairns and the Tropical North, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Some of the most popular areas to stay include Cairns Esplanade, Port Douglas, Palm Cove, and the Daintree Rainforest.