How to Plan Your Cairns Tour: Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight
Are you planning to visit Cairns in Australia and experience the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from a different perspective? Taking a scenic flight over the outer edges of the reef is an exhilarating experience that you wouldn’t want to miss. This blog post will guide you on how to plan your Cairns tour and make the most out of your scenic flight.
1. Book Your Tour
The first step to planning your Cairns tour is to book your scenic flight. You can easily book the Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight on GetYourGuide, which is a trusted online booking platform for travel experiences. The tour includes a 40-minute flight, pilot, headsets, window seat, food and drinks, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Please note that the tour is not suitable for people over 254 lbs (115 kg).
2. Choose Your Tour Date
After booking your tour, choose a suitable date for your scenic flight. The tour operates daily and you can choose a morning or afternoon departure. The best time to take the tour is during the dry season (May to November) when the weather is clear and calm.
3. Prepare for Your Tour
Before your scenic flight, there are a few things you should prepare. Firstly, dress comfortably and wear closed-toe shoes. As the flight is air-conditioned, you might want to bring a jacket or a sweater. Secondly, don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef from above. Lastly, bring your booking confirmation and a valid ID for verification.
4. Enjoy Your Scenic Flight
On the day of your scenic flight, the tour operator will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the Cairns Airport. The fixed-wing plane is designed for comfortable sightseeing, and you can expect a smooth and safe flight. During the 40-minute flight, you will see up to 140 kilometers of the Outer Barrier as well as many inner islands, reefs, and sand isles. You will also get a better perspective of the grand size and sheer beauty of the reef.
5. Keep a Look Out for Marine Life
The Great Barrier Reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, and you might be lucky to spot some of them during your scenic flight. Keep a lookout for turtles, dolphins, and sharks, and during July to August, you might even see humpback whales swimming in the waters below.
6. Fly Over Iconic Spots
During your scenic flight, you will fly over some of the iconic spots in the Great Barrier Reef, including Green Island, Arlington Reef, Middle Cay, Oyster Reef, and many more. These spots are famous for their breathtaking coral formations and clear turquoise waters, and you will get to see them from a unique perspective.
7. Listen to Your Pilot
Your pilot is experienced and knowledgeable about the Great Barrier Reef, and will give you interesting insights and commentary during your scenic flight. Listen carefully to what your pilot says, as you might learn some fascinating facts about the world’s largest coral reef system.
8. Return to Your Hotel
After your scenic flight, the tour operator will drop you off at your hotel, and you can reflect on the amazing experience you just had. Don’t forget to share your pictures and stories with your family and friends, and recommend the tour to anyone who is planning to visit Cairns.
Book Your Tour Now
Taking the Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight is an unforgettable experience that you will treasure for a lifetime. By following the steps above, you can plan your Cairns tour with ease and enjoy your scenic flight to the fullest. Book your tour now and get ready to be amazed by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from above.
Cairns City FAQs – Everything you need to know before you visit
Cairns, a vibrant city in Queensland, Australia is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. With its tropical climate, amazing beaches, rainforests, and the Great Barrier Reef, there’s something here for everyone. However, if you are new to this city, you may have some questions about what it’s like to visit. This FAQ guide will answer all your queries about Cairns.
1. What is the best time to visit Cairns?
Cairns has a tropical climate with two major seasons – wet season (November to April) and dry season (May to October). The best time to visit Cairns is during the dry season when the weather is dry and sunny, and the humidity is low. The temperature is pleasant, ranging between 18°C to 28°C making it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities.
2. What are the must-visit attractions in Cairns?
Cairns offers a range of activities and attractions. Here are some of the top-rated tourist attractions in Cairns you shouldn’t miss:
- The Great Barrier Reef
- Daintree Rainforest
- Kuranda Scenic Railway
- Cairns Esplanade
- Crystal Cascades
- The Cairns Botanic Gardens
- Josephine Falls
- The Cairns Art Gallery
3. How long should I spend in Cairns?
It’s advisable to spend at least three to five days in Cairns to explore the top-rated tourist destinations and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports activities. If you have more time to spare, you can explore nearby destinations such as Kuranda and Palm Cove.
4. Is it safe to visit Cairns?
Yes, Cairns is considered a safe destination for tourists. Like any other city, caution is required when venturing out at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Follow basic safety tips, such as avoiding flashing cash and valuables, and keeping an eye on your belongings to minimize the risk of theft.
5. How can I travel around Cairns?
Cairns offers various transportation options. You can hire a car, ride a bicycle or take the local bus service. If you are looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef, island ferry services are available. Taxis and ride-share services are also readily available.
6. What’s the food like in Cairns?
Cairns boasts a diverse range of international cuisine options. The seafood in Cairns is a must-try. Being a tropical region, Cairns offers fresh and delicious seafood accompanied by local fruits such as mangoes, passionfruit, and pineapples. You can take a food tour to explore the local food scene and discover new flavors.
7. What should I pack for my Cairns trip?
It is advisable to pack light for your Cairns trip. Cairns has a tropical climate, so pack breathable, comfortable clothing, such as cotton and linen, for sightseeing tours and beach activities. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
8. What’s the currency used in Cairns?
The currency used in Cairns is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in tourist spots, hotels, and restaurants. You can withdraw cash from ATMs using your debit card.
9. Is there anything I should know before visiting the Great Barrier Reef?
Before visiting the Great Barrier Reef, you should consider the following:
- Wear sunscreen and a rash vest to protect yourself from the sun and stingers
- Choose the right tour operator who follows the reef’s sustainability guidelines
- Ensure that you possess basic swimming skills to avoid any accidents
- Familiarize yourself with the safety instructions from your reef operator
10. Are there any safety restrictions I should be aware of when visiting Cairns?
When visiting Cairns, you should take the following safety precautions:
- Be cautious of rip currents when swimming at the beach
- Avoid swimming in designated crocodile zones
- Respect beach signage warnings
- Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially when venturing out alone at night
Book Your Tour Now
Cairns is an amazing vacation destination that garners visitors from around the world. Knowing these FAQs ahead of time will help you plan your trip better and enjoy Cairns to its fullest. Just remember to pack light, bring sunscreen, and have fun!
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairns
Cairns is a city located in the North of Queensland, Australia. It’s famous for being the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, both of which provide endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re visiting Cairns for a few days or a few weeks, there’s plenty to see and do. Below are some activities you can do as a tourist in Cairns.
1. Visit the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world. It stretches over 2,300 kilometres and is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and many other marine creatures. There are many ways to experience the reef, including snorkelling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours. Most tours depart from Cairns, and it’s best to book in advance to ensure availability.
2. Explore the Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, and it’s a must-see for nature lovers. It’s home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life, including the endemic cassowary bird. Some of the highlights of the rainforest include the Mossman Gorge, the Cape Tribulation Beach, and the Daintree River. Visitors can explore the rainforest on guided tours, or they can rent a car and drive themselves.
3. Take a Cairns City tour
Cairns city itself has a lot to offer, and taking a city tour is an excellent way to see the main attractions. Some of the highlights of a Cairns city tour include the Cairns Esplanade, the Flecker Botanic Gardens, and the Cairns Art Gallery. Visitors can choose between walking tours or bike tours, or they can take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
4. Visit the Cairns Zoo
The Cairns Zoo is a popular attraction for families with children. It’s home to a wide variety of animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles. Visitors can also participate in interactive experiences, such as feeding giraffes or holding a koala. The zoo is open daily and is located just a short drive from the city centre.
5. Relax at Palm Cove
Palm Cove is a beautiful beach located about 25 minutes north of Cairns. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling, and it’s also home to many restaurants and cafes. Visitors can take a day trip to Palm Cove, or they can book a stay at one of the many resorts and hotels in the area.
6. Take a hot air balloon ride
If you’re looking for something unique to do in Cairns, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. Cairns is a beautiful place to see from the air, and a hot air balloon ride provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Most balloon rides depart early in the morning, and many include a champagne breakfast after the flight.
7. Go on a food tour
Cairns has a thriving food scene, and going on a food tour is an excellent way to sample some of the local cuisine. Some of the highlights of a Cairns food tour include seafood, tropical fruits, and indigenous bush foods. Visitors can join a group tour or book a private tour.
8. Visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is a fascinating attraction that provides visitors with an insight into the culture and traditions of the local Aboriginal people. Visitors can participate in interactive experiences, such as boomerang throwing, spear throwing, and didgeridoo playing. The park is located just a short drive from Cairns and is open daily.
Book Your Tour Now
Cairns is a fantastic destination for tourists who are looking for adventure or relaxation. From the Great Barrier Reef to the Daintree Rainforest, there’s something for everyone. By following the suggestions above, visitors can make the most of their time in Cairns and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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