Highlights of Cairns: Where the Rainforest Meets the Reef - 6 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Cairns

Welcome to Australia! Upon arrival, a shuttle takes you to your hotel in Cairns, where a local guide will be waiting to greet you. Cairns has been home to First Nations Australians for more than 40,000 years and was settled by Europeans in 1876 who arrived in search of gold.

These days, Cairns is known as the city "where the rainforest meets the reef" and serves as the perfect gateway to both the 100-million-year-old Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Spend the rest of the day resting after your flight, or head out to get your bearings with a stroll along the central Esplanade, where you'll find a swimming lagoon, bustling weekend markets, and plenty of great food options.

Day 2: Great Barrier Reef & Green Island

This morning you'll be picked up at your hotel for transfer to board your vessel for a full-day tour through one of the world's seven wonders. Upon arrival at Pinnacle Reef, just 0.6 miles (1km) from Green Island, you can enjoy some free time for swimming, snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing. Green Island is a coveted tourist destination and national park, home to a remarkable collection of pristine reefs and marine life. Its famous "bommies" (coral outcrops) and coral gardens teem with life just a few feet under the water's surface, making viewing easy.

Choose to enjoy your day exploring the beauty of Green Island or snorkeling above some of the 2,900 reefs home to the Great Barrier Reef. Keep your eye out for colorful fish, turtles, jellyfish, and more! Upon arrival at Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, you will be transferred to your Cairns area accommodation. 

Day 3: Kuranda: Trains & Cable Cars

Today commences with a transfer from your hotel to the railway station in Cairns. Travel on a historic rail journey to Kuranda, enjoying breathtaking views across the cane fields and passing spectacular waterfalls on the way. Upon arrival in Kuranda, you will have free time to explore this fascinating village. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the rainforest before an experienced guide will show you tropical fruits, ancient plants, and point out a number of native animals as you meander through the rainforest.

Then it's time to visit the Koala and Wildlife Park. Cuddle a koala, smile at a crocodile, and hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies. At the scheduled time, board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to return to Cairns by cable car. Be amazed as you glide silently over the rainforest canopy. After your journey ends, a transfer takes you back to your hotel in Cairns.

Day 4: Free Day in Cairns

Today you'll have plenty of free time to explore Cairns—a laid-back city with a surplus of opportunities for adventure. One recommendation is the must-see Cairns Aquarium, the only aquarium in the world dedicated exclusively to the habitats and species of tropical northern Queensland. And when the temperature warms up, spend the afternoon cooling off in Cairns Lagoon's crystal clear waters. 

Day 5: Daintree Dreaming Tour with First Nations Fishing

Today takes you to Cooya Beach (Kuyu Kuyu), a traditional fishing ground of the Kuku Yalanji people. Join one of the Kubirri Warra brothers on their beach, mudflat, and mangrove walks, followed by an introduction to traditional fishing and gathering techniques to find your own tucker (food). Visit Mossman Gorge, where you will be welcomed with a traditional "smoking" ceremony to protect you while visiting Kuku Yalanji country.

Continue your adventure by wandering into the lush jungle of the UNESCO-listed Daintree National Park to experience one of the world's oldest and most beautiful rainforests. Enjoy a leisurely walk across boardwalks, tracks, and bridges, viewing spectacular waterfalls and mountain ranges as your guide explains the ecosystem's rich flora, fauna, and diversity. After your excursion concludes, spend your last night enjoying Cairns at your leisure.

Day 6: Depart Australia

Your holiday to Australia concludes today. You'll check out of your hotel and board your transfer to Cairns Airport for your departure flight. Have a safe flight home or to your next destination!