Cairns Tours & Day Trips
Welcome to Cairns Discovery Tours - Locally owned and operating since 1995.
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Our afternoon half-day Cairns city sightseeing tour has become a highlight for many visitors, offering a great introduction to Cairns itself. But why stop there? We also offer the option to combine this tour with other exciting adventures such as Green Island, Cairns River Cruise, Cairns Aquarium, or the Cairns Dinner Cruise, allowing you to enjoy a full day of exploration and discovery.
If you're looking for adventure activities, you can embark on white water rafting adventures or take to the skies with hot air balloon and helicopter scenic flights. And that's just the beginning—there's so much more to discover.
OUR MOST POPULAR TOURS
Daintree Rainforest - Cape Tribulation Rainforest Day Tour
Adult $229| Child (4-16yrs) $179
Family 2A+2C $780
Departs Daily 7.00am
Revised itinerary until further notice as some areas are not accessible or are closed due to Cyclone Jasper Dec 2023
Explore the Daintree Rainforest by 4wd air-conditioned vehicle as you journey north along the Captain Cook Highway with spectacular views of the coast. Take a Daintree River cruise to spot crocodiles, learn about the region on a guided boardwalk tour through Mossman Gorge. Guided beach walk in Cape Tribulation where the rainforest meets the reef. Enjoy a tropical fruit Daintree ice cream before your journey back to your accommodation
Group size is kept to under 17 passengers so you have a more personalised experience. As the oldest Rainforest in the World, this is definitely something to tick off your bucket list.
Scenic Coastal Drive
Your day starts by being picked up by your local eco-accredited tour guide. As you meet and greet your fellow travellers, sit back and relax as we start to make our way to the Daintree Rainforest. This coastal scenic road is one of the best drives in the world, so have your camera ready!
Daintree River Cruise
After a light morning tea refreshment, it's time to board your Daintree River cruise. This peaceful and relaxing 1 hour Daintree River Cruise is precisely what the doctor ordered, sprinkled with a little adventure spotting crocodiles, other native Australian wildlife and mangroves.
Alexandra Lookout
Alexandra Lookout provides a fantastic photo opportunity. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Daintree Rainforest to the ocean.
Guided Rainforest Walk Mossman Gorge
Your local guide will then take you along an elevated boardwalk into the Southern end of the Daintree National Park, providing detail on the flora, fauna and cultural history and significance of the Daintree Rainforest. Opportunity for a freshwater swim at Mossman Gorge, subject to conditions on the day.
4WD Bloomfield Track- CLOSED
Billy Tea Safaris is one of the only operators who can travel on the Bloomfield Track due on their custom-made 4WD vehicles.
Emmagen Creek Freshwater Swim- NOT ACCESSIBLE
Cool off with a freshwater swim at Emmagen Creek. This also makes for a fabulous photo opportunity and is relaxing and refreshing! Swimming in the middle of the Daintree Rainforest?! What more could you ask for?
Lunch
Enjoy lunch with your fellow travellers, and then it's off to Cape Tribulation Beach. The only place where the rainforest meets the reef. All dietary requirements must be notified at the time of reservation or at least 48 hours before travel. We cater for vegetarians and most other requirements within reason and providing they are of a medical nature.
Ice-cream stop
No Daintree Rainforest day tour is complete without a stop for exotic homemade ice cream at the Daintree Ice-creamery. You will be amazed at the array of flavours made from the orchids on their property. After your sweet ice cream treat and a little exploration of this lush property, it's time to head home.
Reef and Island • Moore & Fitzroy Island
Adult $285.00| Child $165 (4-15yrs) | Family 2A+2C $735
Helmet Dive Special to 30th June 2024
Pay only $87 - Normally $149.00
Departs Cairns 8.00am - 4.30pm Tue, Thu & Sat
July - August Departs 8.00am Tue, Wed & Sat
Experience the ultimate Great Barrier Reef adventure combining 2 hours at Moore Reef Pontoon + 3 hour Fitzroy Island stop over in a day! Moore Reef Pontoon includes coral viewing with semi-submersible, glass bottom boat, underwater observatory, snorkelling & kids waterslide. Then a leisurely time at Fitzroy Island to relax & unwind including lunch.
Join us for a unique outer reef tour where the Sunlover catamaran docks alongside a floating pontoon stationed in a natural lagoon fringed with beautiful coral. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, family traveller, experienced diver or on your first trip to the Great Barrier Reef, our expert team will deliver a unique reef tour experience for you. Experience the ultimate adventure combining 2 hours at Moore Reef pontoon on the Outer Barrier Reef + Fitzroy Island stop over in a day! Moore reef has all of our standard inclusions with time at Fitzroy Island to relax & unwind including lunch.
Kuranda Scenic Train and Skyrail Day Tour with return hotel transfers
Adult $181|Child $95|Family $457
Departs daily 7.30am - 5.30pm
Experience a day of adventure from your Cairns hotel with Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway. Glide above the rainforest in comfortable six-person gondolas and explore Kuranda in your own time. Enjoy the 1.5 hour journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a historic railroad that travels through the breathtaking World Heritage Listed Wet Tropics Rainforest.
Travel to the rainforest village of Kuranda in style with our Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway package. Fly over the rainforest canopy on Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Explore the rainforest at Red Peak and Barron Falls stations and join a guided ranger tour. Experience The Rainforest Interpretation Centre and the new “Edge” lookout, which offers uninterrupted views of the mighty Barron Falls. Enjoy your spare time in Kuranda Village. Browse for jewellery gifts and more at the Original and Rainforest Markets or taste a range of culinary treats at Kuranda’s many quirky cafes. Visit the world’s largest butterfly flight aviary at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary or enjoy a relaxing walk along the Barron River. Experience the world’s most beautiful railway journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway and journey past stunning rainforest waterfalls and past steep gorges. Stop at Barron Falls station and see the stunning Barron Falls. Kuranda original and heritage markets open Wednesday through to Sunday
Cairns River Cruise & City Sights Tour
Adult $199|Child $149
Departs daily 9.30am to 6pm
On this Cairns Tour you will experience a calm water cruise along Trinity Inlet, which is an oceanic inlet and serves as the port for the city of Cairns. It meanders through pristine creeks and takes in some of the quirky sites of the backwaters of Cairns too. Includes lunch on the waterfront at the award-winning Dundees restaurant before joining your afternoon Cairns City Sights Tour
Make your way to the Cairns Marina, 1 Spence St Cairns and board the Cairns River Cruise at Berth A1 "A" Finger. 9.30 am - (Return Hotel transfer included)
Cairns River Cruise 9.45 am - 11.00 am
- 1 1/4 hr guided calm-water cruise explores the stunning sights of the Trinity Inlet and waterfront of Cairns. The extensive and stunning Inlet is mountain-mangrove-lined and is a sanctuary for many types of wildlife. The tour meanders through pristine creeks (the home of saltwater crocodiles) and takes in some of the quirky sites of the backwaters of Cairns. The Cairns River Cruises vessel is spacious and carries a maximum of 18 guests - so the tour is bespoke and personal, and everyone has access to the fantastic views of Cairns.
Free time for a stroll along the Marina or Pier Shopping Centre before enjoying a delicious lunch
- Lunch at Dundee's on the Waterfront at 12 noon.
Relax and take in the waterfront views at Dundee's Restaurant short 2 minute walk from where your river cruise ends before joining Cairns Discovery Tours City Sights afternoon Tour.
Cairns City Sights & Highlights 1.00 pm - 6.00 pm
You will be collected at 1.00 pm from the Cairns Marina at the front of the Reef Fleet Terminal. Discover our vibrant city's history and learn about the rich cultural heritage unique to Cairns and the Far North.
- St. Monica’s Cathedral - Step inside one of Australia's most breathtaking cathedrals, featuring the World's largest themed stained glass windows.
- Cairns Museum - visit the Cairns Museum. join our exclusive tour of the School of Arts building in the city's heart to see yesteryear's highlights.
- Afternoon Tea A true local delight of warm, fresh-from-the-oven scones with strawberry jam and cream and your choice of Tea, Coffee
- Cairns Botanic Gardens - Enjoy a professional guided walk through the lush Flecker Botanic Gardens, renowned for having one of the best exhibitions in Australia's tropical plants. Meander through the butterfly-lined pathways under the green canopy as your guide explains the various plants and wildlife you see along the way.
- Cairns Lookout - Take in the panoramic views of the city and the Coral Sea
- Lower Barron Falls - Enjoy a walk at the lower section of the Barron Gorge National Park, Surprise Creek Falls.
- Palm CoveTake a stroll along the jetty or on the sand on this picture-perfect beach, fringed with coconut trees. Nestled behind the beach is the quiet seaside suburb of Palm Cove, with its’ magnificent paperbark trees.
- Your day of discovery ends, returning to your chosen Cairns CBD accommodation at approx. 6.00 pm. Northern Beaches 5.30 pm
Please note - Wheelie Walkers and mobility scooters are not permitted as our vehicle is not equipped with a luggage area
Green Island & Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour from Cairns
Special save up to $30 per person
Normally Adult $318|Child $132|Family $816
Adult $288.00| Child $156|Family $740
Departs daily 8.30am - 5.20pm
Enjoy the best of both worlds with this complete Great Barrier Reef and Island tour. Enjoy 2 hours on Green Island and 3 hours on the Outer Barrier Reef. Fast 45-minute catamaran ride to beautiful Green Island and enjoy 2 hours on this iconic coral cay, and then continue your day adventure and discovery with a further 45 minute ride to Great Adventures spacious activity platform moored on the majestic Outer Great Barrier Reef.
The complete reef and island experience awaits with this exciting tour. Take a fast 45-minute catamaran ride to beautiful Green Island and enjoy two hours on this unique reef and rainforest coral cay. Then, you’ll depart Green Island to continue your day of adventure and discovery with 3 hours on board Great Adventures' spacious activity platform moored on the majestic Outer Great Barrier Reef.
Green Island
It is a beautiful 6000-year-old coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – a premier world heritage site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Grab your snorkel gear and head to the Lifeguard patrolled beach to explore the marine world off the beach, take a stroll thru the unique tropical rainforest, laze on the white coral sand beach or take part in some of the optional activities that Green Island has to offer
Outer Barrier Reef
The stable reef activity platform is the perfect base for swimmers and non-swimmers to explore. Snorkel and/or dive, visit the underwater observatory, cruise in a semi-sub to view the surrounding coral or relax on the sundeck with a delicious buffet lunch. The vibrant marine life of the reef awaits you.
Dreamtime Snorkel from Cairns
Adult from $219|Child $139|Family $577
Not available 20th May - 7th June inclusive
Seasonal dates and prices apply
Departs daily 9.00am - 5.00pm
Step back into the Great Barrier Reef’s Dreamtime with Indigenous Sea Rangers as they recount the Dreamtime stories of the local people and help you gain a deeper cultural understanding of the diverse ecosystems that make up the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy up to 5 hours of fun with unlimited snorkelling with 2 Reef locations in air-conditioned lounges and a licensed bar.
We acknowledge the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji , Mandingalbay Yidinji, Yirrganydji & Gunggandji people, Traditional Owners of the Sea Country on which you will travel
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Enjoy one of Cairns’ most unique & exclusive Great Barrier Reef tours. Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel invites you to step back into the Great Barrier Reef’s Dreamtime with Indigenous sea rangers on a day tour of two spectacular outer Great Barrier Reef sites. Reef sites visited may include Milln, Flynn, Hastings, Saxon, Norman or Thetford Reef. You will also experience our authentic Dreamtime experience with our Cultural Guides, sharing their stories of the history of the Great Barrier Reef. Indigenous sea rangers will recount the Dreamtime stories of the traditional people of this Sea Country and help you gain a deeper cultural understanding of the diverse ecosystems that make up the Great Barrier Reef.
Waterfalls and Rainforest Tour
Adult $149|Child 2-11yrs $129|Family 2A+2C $427
Departs daily 7.30am - 5.30pm
On the Waterfalls and Wanderer tour you will travel south as you discover nature and the beauty of north Queensland’s most iconic waterfalls. This is a MUST-SEE for anyone wanting to experience pristine rainforest, cascading waterfalls, stunning panoramas of Queensland’s highest peaks and maybe a glimpse of rare and unique native wildlife. This fun tour is ideal for the young and the young at heart, looking to see the best of the Atherton Tablelands and waterfalls.
Walk amongst boulders, slide into cool pools, soak in the spray of waterfalls and dive into crater lakes, and that’s just the ‘wet’ stuff! On this full day tour you'll also visit and learn about culturally important places, visit the biggest tree you’ll ever see (the Curtain Fig Tree which is believed to be 500 years old!), and have the chance to spy a diverse array of rainforest creatures - if you're lucky you'll even spot an elusive platypus!
Travel south and discover the majesty and beauty of north Queensland’s most iconic waterfalls, a MUST-see for anyone wanting to experience pristine rainforest, cascading waterfalls, stunning panoramas of Queensland’s highest peaks and maybe a glimpse of rare and unique native wildlife. This fun tour is ideal for the young and the young at heart, looking to see the best of the Atherton Tablelands.
Waterfall Wanderers will provide morning and afternoon tea, lunch, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, biscuits and fruit throughout the day, as well as heaps of games and puzzles to keep you entertained as we explore the Atherton Tablelands by luxury air-conditioned coach.
Pack your swimmers. Australia’s most famous rainforest waterfalls await. Our Cairns waterfalls and rainforest tour is an epic road trip, which will have you in and out of the water all day. It takes you from Cairns, up, over and through the beautiful rainforests of the Atherton Tablelands.
Babinda Boulders – Stunning scenery and refreshing swimming. Culturally significant to the Yidinji Traditional Owners, learn the tragic love story that still ‘haunts’ this beautiful place.
Josephine Falls – Ready to slide and take a wild ride down the rocks, into a cool rainforest pool? This is it, and it doesn’t get any better, bring the Go Pros.
Millaa Millaa Waterfall – World famous hair flick waterfall which tumbles 18m down into a natural amphitheatre. Strike a pose, swim and explore.
Volcanic Crater Lake – Dive right into Lake Eacham, a 65m former volcanic crater, now filled with crystal clear rainwater.
2 Day Reef and Daintree Rainforest
Adult $425| Child 4-16 yrs $295| Family 2A+2C 4-16yrs $1280
Departs daily
Experience the very best of Cairns Reef and Daintree Rainforest Tours. This 2 day reef and rainforest package offers great value to visit our two amazing World Heritage National Parks - The Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest during your stay in Cairns. Tours do not need to be taken consecutively.
Day 1 -Great Barrier Reef Tour
Departs Daily
Check-in from 7.15am - 7.45am at The Reef Fleet Terminal
Departs 8am | Returns 4.30pm
Great Barrier Reef Tour onboard 'Evolution'
Join the luxurious and spacious yacht, Evolution, to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for your snorkelling experience. The 35-metre vessel, Evolution departs Cairns with 5 hours spent exploring two spectacular and exclusive outer Great Barrier Reef locations for an adventure-filled day!
In the afternoon, you have the option to add additional reef activities. Join us on the Semi-Submersible Tour, learning about the reef with our marine biologist, or add a scuba dive or a scenic helicopter flight over the reef. Finally, you'll cruise back to Cairns while enjoying a free glass of wine and a snack while you reflect on your day on the Great Barrier Reef.
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Day 2- Daintree Rainforest Tour
Due to the impact of severe tropical cyclone Jasper and the associated flooding & road closures, there have been some itinerary changes to ensure you still have a great time in the Daintree Rainforest.
Includes pick up & drop off from your Cairns, Northern Beaches or Port Douglas accommodation.
Group size is kept to under 17 passengers for a personalized experience. Explore the oldest Rainforest in the World, an essential bucket list experience!
Journey north on the scenic coastal drive to the Daintree Rainforest with spectacular views of the Coral Sea coastline. Embark an informative one hour River Cruise on the mighty Daintree River where you spot and learn about estuarine crocodiles, mangrove forests and endemic wildlife as you unwind in nature's embrace. Light refreshment of tea/coffee and biscuits provided. Your experienced Guide will give an information commentary on the rich local flora/fauna and cultural significance of the area as you drive through the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Get sand on your feet as you join a guided beach walk where the "Rainforest meets the Reef". Savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant amidst the unique backdrop of the Daintree Forest (please advise in advance of ay special dietary requirements) followed by a stop for a a delicious tropical fruit ice-cream enroute to the Daintree Ferry.
Your last stop is at the famous Mossman Gorge for a guided rainforest walk on a selection of trails and elevated boardwalks (easy grade) with time for an invigorating freshwater swim (subject to river conditions) before heading back to your hotel.
A forest so spectacular, Sir David Attenborough called it “the most extraordinary place on Earth.”
- Scenic Coastal Drive: Capture breathtaking views as we journey to the Daintree Rainforest.
- Daintree River Cruise: Spot crocodiles and native wildlife during a serene river cruise.
- Guided Rainforest Walk: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Daintree with a knowledgeable guide.
- Lunch at Cape Tribulation: Enjoy a delicious meal at a local cafe.
- Ice-cream Stop: Indulge in exotic homemade ice cream before heading home.
Half Day Green Island with Great Adventures
Adult $116 |Child $62|Family $292
Depart daily 8.30am or 10.30am
Returns 3.20pm
Have a leisurely start to your day with a 10.30am departure from Cairns to Green Island, or if you are an early bird you can choose the 8.30am departure. Enjoy up yo 6 hours on Green Island to explore, relax, snorkel and swim. Paradise awaits.
Snorkelling
Snorkel and swim in the clear, cool island waters straight from the beach. Encounter a wide variety of colourful fish, turtles and other marine creatures whilst exploring the beautiful coral reef gardens surrounding Green Island. Mask, snorkels and fins in all sizes are available.
Lycra suits available for hire
Glass Bottom Boat
Float across the reef, looking through large viewing windows while enjoying an informative commentary from your guide. This 30-minute tour allows you to view the spectacular coral reef, where abundant fish is guaranteed during a lively fish feed.
Lunch at Emerald Restaurant is available to be pre-booked between 11.00am-2.00pm. Choose one of the following delicious menu options plus a Australian beer, wine or soft drink.
Truffle pasta, Pesto barramundi, Grilled chicken breast with avocado salsa, Green Island beef burger or vegetarian burger.
Adult $42.00 Child $20.00 Valid to 31.3.24
Optional Activity
One of Green Island’s most unique attractions is indeed, Marineland Melanesia. Not only is it home to the largest captive crocodile in Australia, Cassius, it is also home to one of the largest private collections of exotic Melanesian tribal artifacts and aquariums. With twice daily crocodile shows and the chance to hold a baby croc, it’s definitely a family favourite, especially with the children.
From $25.00 per adult $12.50 per child
Established by two partners in the early 1960s, Marineland Melanesia has been proudly owned and operated by the Craig family since 1971. From working in Papua New Guinea, family patriarch George Craig (perhaps one of the original ‘crocodile hunters’) set about bringing to reality an island habitat for huge crocodiles and a magnificent range of carvings and ancient primitive tribal art from the region known as Melanesia.
Locally Owned & Operated Cairns Tours Since 1995
Established over 28 years ago, Cairns Discovery Tours is proud of its roots in the vibrant and tropical region of Cairns. We've been bringing unforgettable experiences to locals and visitors alike since 1995, delivering unique tour services that highlight the richness and natural splendour of the region. As a locally owned and operated business, we possess a deep connection to our surroundings and a passion for showcasing our beloved region's beauty to the world.
Over the years, we've nurtured strong relationships with local businesses and cultural institutions, which allow us to provide an authentically local tour experience rich in insights you won't find in your typical guidebook. With us, you're not just a traveller but fellow explorers ready to share the beauty of our unique tropical paradise.
We Tour Fascinating Sites, Great Views & Landmarks around Cairns
Embarking on a journey with Cairns Discovery Tours is a ticket to a mesmerising world of awe-inspiring landmarks, breath-taking views and unique wildlife encounters.
- Local Landmarks: We explore the heritage-rich areas with notable architectural wonders, revealing the hidden stories behind their existence.
- Panoramic Views: Our tours encompass some of the most scenic routes, offering panoramic views of stunning landscapes that will leave you inspired. Our tour routes are carefully designed to traverse unique habitats where you can experience the region's remarkable biodiversity.
Our tours go beyond sightseeing to provide a deeper understanding of our region's natural and historical heritage. That’s why each site is chosen not just for its inherent beauty but also for its cultural or ecological significance.
Informative, Knowledgeable Local Guides
At Cairns Discovery Tours, our team of professional local guides bring a wealth of knowledge and local insights to your tour, painting vivid pictures of the region's past and present, while introducing you to the nuanced ecological interactions that make our area such a biodiversity hotspot.
Our team aren’t just guides; they're storytellers, historians and nature enthusiasts, providing an enriching and educational adventure that you'll remember for a lifetime. Friendly and approachable, our guides encourage questions and create an engaging, interactive experience. Moreover, our team will prioritise your safety and comfort throughout the tour, ensuring you have the best possible experience.
Why Choose Cairns Discovery Tours
Choosing Cairns Discovery Tours means opting for an immersive, comprehensive and authentically local experience. We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our service. As a locally owned and operated business, we bring a uniquely local perspective to our tours, showcasing the real essence of our region. With over two decades in the industry, we have perfected our tours to provide an unforgettable experience. Our local guides are enthusiastic, knowledgeable and dedicated to delivering an engaging, informative tour. We value each of our customers, tailoring our tours to accommodate specific interests and needs.
Join us at Cairns Discovery Tours for an adventure of a lifetime, as we guide you through the incredible sights, rich heritage and spectacular natural beauty of beautiful Cairns. Book a tour today and get ready to discover the undiscovered!