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.
Cairns Festival 23 August - 1 September 2024 Celebrating art, culture, music, performance and life in the tropics
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OUR MOST POPULAR TOURS
Cairns City Sights Tour & Surrounds
Adult $99.00| Child $69.00 from Cairns
Palm Cove & Trinity Beach pick-up at 12 noon - Adult $20 Child $10
Departs Mon to Sat 12.30pm - 6pm
Experience the best of Cairns with our combined City Sights Tour and River Cruise. Start your day with a leisurely 75-minute cruise on the tranquil waters of Trinity Inlet, guided by a knowledge local who will share insights into the region's history and stunning natural beauty
After you cruise, enjoy some free to before indulging in a delicious lunch at the award-winning Dundee's on the Waterfront.
Your afternoon is filled with discovery as you visit iconic Cairns highlights, including the Cairns Botanical gardens, picturesque Palm Cove and much more.
This tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration and culinary delight - ideal for those looking to fully experience the charm of Cairns
Your afternoon Cairns tour begins with complimentary Cairns CBD hotel pick up as we embark on an unforgettable journey through this tropical paradise and it's stunning surroundings.
St. Monica’s Cathedral - This Heritage Listed cathedral, dedicated as a memorial to the Battle of the Coral Sea, houses 24 amazing stained-glass windows, depicting the creation story. They are reputably the largest themed stained-glass windows in the world.
Cairns Museum - A local guide will take you on an exclusive tour to discover the story of Cairns and living in the tropics. Learn about the city's fascinating heritage and its transformation into the vibrant, modern metropolis it is today. The museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that vividly showcase the unique history and the diverse communities that have called Cairns home.
Delicious Afternoon Tea – Take a break and enjoy a delicious Devonshire Afternoon Tea in the leafy suburb of Edge Hill.
Cairns Botanic Gardens –Venture out of the city to explore the enchanting Cairns Botanic Gardens, a haven of tropical flora. Renown as one of the best exhibitions of tropical plants in Australia. Your tour guide will lead you through this vibrant ecosystem, where you'll discover the unique and exotic plants that thrive in the tropical climate.
Scenic Lookout and Lower Barron Gorge National Park Have your camera ready as we visit a spectacular lookout with stunning views over the city of Cairns and the Coral Sea, before continuing to Lower Barron River Gorge National Park and Surprise Creek Falls. Here you'll be surrounded by the serene beauty of the rainforest and Barron River.
Palm Cove – 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. Sit back and relax on the return drive to Cairns arriving at your accommodation approximately 6.00pm
Reef and Island • Moore Reef & Fitzroy Island
Adult $285.00| Child $165 (4-15yrs) Family 2A+2C $735
Departs Cairns 8.00am - 4.30pm
Tue - Thu & 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 4-14yrs $95
Family 2A+2C $457
Departs daily 7.30am - 5.30pm
Discover Kuranda 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. Gold Class upgrade $60.00 per person
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.
4 hours free time to explore this charming village known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, local markets, and wildlife attractions. Popular activities include the Kuranda Koala Gardens, Birdworld Kuranda, and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. There are many local cafes and restaurants.
Return to Cairns on the historic and picturesque train journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. One of the most iconic sights along the journey, the train stops at a special lookout to offer passengers breathtaking views of this majestic Barron Falls.
Kuranda Markets open Wednesday through to Sunday
Daintree Rainforest - 4WD Cape Tribulation Rainforest Day Tour
Adult $229| Child (4-16yrs) $179
Family 2A+2C $780
Departs Daily 7.00am
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 and beach walk in Cape Tribulation where the rainforest meets the reef. Enjoy a complimentary tropical fruit Daintree ice cream before your journey back to your accommodation
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 Boardwalk
Your local guide will then take you along an elevated boardwalk into the heart of the Daintree National Park, providing detail on the flora, fauna and cultural history and significance of the Daintree Rainforest.
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.
Freshwater Swim
Enjoy a refreshing rainforest freshwater stream swim, in crystal clear waters without the crowds.
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 orchards on their property. After your sweet ice cream treat and a little exploration of this lush property, it's time to head home.
Group size is maximum 19 passengers so you have a more personalised experience.
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.
Green Island & Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour from Cairns
Special save up to $30 per person
Adult $288.00| Child $156|Family $740
Adult $318|Ch $132| Family $816Departs daily 8.30am - 5.30pm
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.
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
Adult $99|Child $49.50
Family 2A+2C $282
2 Departures Daily from Cairns and Palm Cove
8.30am - 2.30pm or 12.30pm -5.30pm
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures offers a thrilling immersion into Australia's iconic wildlife. Spanning over 10 hectares of natural habitat, the park is renowned for its focus on conservation and education. Visitors can embark on guided tours, encountering saltwater crocodiles, cassowaries, and an array of native species in their natural habitats. The park also features interactive experiences, including crocodile feeding shows and wildlife presentations, providing insight into the region's biodiversity and the importance of preservation efforts. With its blend of adventure and education, Hartley's Crocodile Adventures promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Australia's wilderness.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the 40-minute scenic coastal drive aboard your comfortable coach to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures with interesting commentary from our driver along the way. Once you arrive, you will have plenty of time to explore this fantastic wildlife park.
Stroll along the boardwalks and pathways through the woodlands and rainforest at your own leisure to see and learn about the unique Australian wildlife.
Make sure to catch the entertaining wildlife presentations including the Crocodile Farm Tour 9am & 1pm, Snake Show 10am & 2pm, Cassowary Feeding 9am & 4pm, Wallaby Feeding, Wetlands Cruise and the must-see Crocodile Attack Show at 3pm.
Meet your driver after a wonderful afternoon for your return transfer back to your hotel.
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Great Value Reef Day with Scenic Helicopter Flight
Adult $369|Child $289 4-16 years
Great Value !! Save $79
Departs daily 8.00am - 4.30pm
Experience the ultimate adventure value package on the Great Barrier Reef with views from above and below the Reef. Includes an awesome 10-minute scenic Helicopter flight to see the colours of the Great Barrier Reef from the air! Full day with two locations on the Outer Barrier Reef on board the luxury vessel "Evolution" including snorkelling, lunch and sunbathing.
Experience the ultimate adventure package and best value day on the Great Barrier Reef with amazing views from above and below. Enjoy a full day to two locations on the Outer Barrier Reef on board the luxury vessel "Evolution" including snorkelling, lunch, sunbathing and in the afternoon; you will board a Nautilus Aviation Helicopter for an incredible 10-minute scenic flight to see the magical colours of the Great Barrier Reef from the air! Departs 8.00 am Return 4.30 pm. 7.30 am Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St Cairns
Evolution also caters to both dive beginners and certified divers. Scuba diving packages include a full dive & safety briefing, specialised top-rated dive gear, and a fully qualified dive instructor. Note some medical conditions and medication can exclude you from diving.
Cairns City Sights and Dinner Cruise
$228 Adult/$148 Child 4-14 yrs
Departs Mon to Sat 12.30pm - 9.00pm
Enjoy a small group Cairns afternoon guided tour, showcasing the best of Australia's most famous tropical city. Explore the cities rich history which provides glimpses of natural beauty, cultural heritage and some of Cairns most iconic landmarks. Relax as you take in the sights and sounds of this tropical port city and it’s surrounds as they transition to night, enjoying a pre-dinner drink and 3 course Spirit of Cairns Dinner Cruise.
Discover the very best of Cairns as you explore the highlights with your experienced local guide on the city sights tour. Then step on board the Spirit of Cairns 26-metre catamaran and enjoy a complimentary drink and canapés. A fantastic evening of calm water cruising. Spirit of Cairns takes you on a journey into the interior of Trinity Inlet and its winding tributaries. The cruise passes along Cairns’ waterfront and Esplanade precinct, delivering panoramic views of the twinkling night lights of this port city.
Palm Cove & Trinity Beach pickups -$20 per adult|$10 per child one way only . Return transfer not included.
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!
