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Cairns Tours

Discover Cairns with a great range of Cairns tours and experiences, from city sightseeing and Trinity Inlet river cruises to rainforest, wildlife and day tours. Find the right Cairns experience with local advice from Cairns Discovery Tours

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Adult $189|Child 2-11yrs $149|Family 2A+2C $527
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.

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Adult $189.00 | Child 2-11yrs $149.00 | Family 2A+2C $527.00

7:30 am
5:30 pm
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures river cruise boat with crocodile

Adult $110|Child 4-15yrs $55.00
Family 2A+2C $275.00
8.30am to 2.30pm or
12.30pm to 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 presentation.

Adult $110.00 | Child $55.00 4-15yrs | Family 2A+2C $275.00

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River tubing adventure in rainforest near Cairns

2 Departure times, 7am or 1.15pmYour Cairns Tubing Rainforest tour will take you along some of Cairns’ most beautiful rainforest rivers. You’ll glide over gentle white-water rapids, cool off in fresh rainforest water, and soak up the stunning natural surroundings at every turn. So much fun, especially during our summer months October- March

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Adult $119.00 includes River Levy | Child $95.00 minimum 5yrs -11yrs | Family 2A+2C $353.00 2 A+2C 5-11yrs | Shoe Hire $5.00

7:00 am
12:00 pm
Cairns Museum cultural half day tour experience

Adult $115.00| Child $82.00 from Cairns
Cairns Hotel pick ups commence from 12.30pm

Enjoy a small group Cairns afternoon guided tour, one of the most popular half-day tours in Cairns, 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.

 

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Adult $115.00 | Child $82.00

12:30 pm
6:00 pm
Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise at sunset

Departs daily from Cairns Marlin Marina 6.15pm
A warm tropical night, calm waters and great food — enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise savouring a lavish buffet spread featuring an array of hot and cold dishes, fresh local seafood, and local delicacies. Cruise along Trinity Inlet with stunning views of Cairns after dark.

 

 

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Adult $145.00 | Child $115.00 4-14yrs

6:15 pm
8:45 pm
Atherton Tablelands scenic lookout panorama

Adult $219|Pensioner $209|Child 4-14yrs $169|Infant $70
Departs daily 7.30am – 6.00pm

Join this small group tour for an unforgettable adventure led by expert guides. Explore scenic lookouts, World Heritage rainforest, waterfalls, ancient kauri pines, and iconic sights like the Curtain Fig Tree. Discover Yungaburra and Malanda townships, swim at Millaa Millaa Falls, and enjoy a restaurant-quality lunch. Conclude with a guided walk at Paronella Park to explore the enchanting ruins of a Spanish-inspired castle, surrounded by vibrant gardens and cascading waterfalls. Discover the fascinating history of its visionary creator, José Paronella, and the park’s intriguing past.

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Adult $219.00 | Pensioner $209.00 | Child 4-14yrs $169.00 | Infant $70.00

7:30 am
6:00 pm
Chillagoe outback cave tour limestone formations Queensland

Adult $239|Child 4-16 yrs $179|
Family 2A+2C $750
Departs 7am – 6pm

Join this exclusive small-group 4WD tour that travels inland to Chillagoe, North Queensland’s Outback. Enjoy morning tea at Skybury Coffee Plantation in Mareeba, spot kangaroos, emus, wildlife galore! Drive past diverse dry tropical farmlands. Pass through historic mining ghost towns and small outback communities. Visit the local Aboriginal Rock Art and Balancing Rock. Explore the famous Chillagoe Caves  and see the once-booming Chillagoe smelter ruins, enjoy an Outback Aussie lunch in a 100-year-old pub.

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Adult $239.00 | Child 4-16 yrs $179.00 | Family 2A+2C $750.00

7:00 am
6:00 pm
Cairns sunset river cruise on calm tropical waters

Adult $85| Child 2-11yrs $55
Family 2A+2C $225
Departs from Cairns Marina 5.15pm
Returns at 6.45pm

Sunset cruises for couples, solo travellers and small groups, discover the magic of a Cairns tropical sunset.

Watch the sky over Trinity Inlet transform into a canvas of gold, amber and deep purple as the day winds down over Tropical North Queensland.

This relaxed 90-minute cruise drifts through the calm waters of Trinity Inlet, one of Cairns’ most scenic and underrated waterways. Mangroves line the banks, the city skyline frames the horizon and the mountain ranges fade into the fading light. A complimentary drink in hand, nothing to do but take it all in

Perfect for couples, solo travellers and small groups. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply making the most of a Cairns evening, this is the kind of experience that stays with you.

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Adult $85.00 | Child 2-11yrs $55.00 | Family 2A+2C $225.00

5:15 pm
6:45 pm
Barron River Rafting through small rapids

Just a short drive north of Cairns, the Barron River offers the perfect introduction to white water rafting. It’s fun, exciting, and ideal for first-timers or families with children aged 12 and over. No prior experience needed — just bring your sense of adventure!

This action-packed afternoon adventure includes up to 2 hours on the water, navigating through spectacular rainforest scenery, rugged granite boulders, and exhilarating rapids.

Departs Cairns Daily 2.00pm -5.30pm
$184  per person 12yrs + with hotel transfers
$165.00 per person -Self drive to Lake Placid
Above prices include $35 River Levy

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$184.00 Includes Hotel transfers + Rafting Levy | $165.00 Self drive to Lake Placid + Rafting Levy

2:00 pm
5:30 pm
Paronella Park on a sunny day

Adult $259 | Child 4-12 yrs $209.
Not recommended for children under 4 years old.
Departs Mon, Thu & Sat  11.00am – 9.00pm

Travel south of Cairns for a rainforest-guided walk at Babinda Boulders, discover Innisfail’s art deco heritage, and enjoy afternoon tea at Etty Bay with the chance to spot a Cassowary. Explore the enchanting Paronella Park by day
and night. Learn the inspiring story of José Paronella and explore this unique heritage-listed site then finish with a hearty country-style dinner at the historic Mena Creek Hotel. A must-do tour for lovers of nature and history.

 

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Adult $259.00 | Child 4-12 yrs $209.00 .

11:00 am
9:00 pm
Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise at sunset

$260 Adult/$175 Child 4-14 yrs
Departs Mon to Sat 12.30pm – 8.45pm

Discover the highlights of Australia’s most famous tropical city on a small group afternoon tour. Learn about Cairns’ rich history, cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks as your guide shares local stories and insights. As the sun sets, step aboard the Spirit of Cairns for a relaxing 2.5 hour dinner cruise. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink while soaking up the waterfront views, then indulge in a lavish buffet with fresh local seafood, hot and cold dishes, and tropical delights.

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Adult $260.00 | 4-14yrs $175.00

12:30 pm
8:45 pm
Cairns river cruise sightseeing tour tropical waters

Adult $70| Child 2-11yrs $50
Family 2A+2C $190
Departs 10.45am, 1.00pm & 3.15pm

Embark on a 75 minute journey of tranquility with Cairns River Cruise sightseeing tour as you navigate the serene waters of Trinity Inlet. Modern spacious boat meticulously designed for comfort, ensuring uninterrupted views of the breathtaking surroundings.

Experience the beauty of Cairns waterfront bordered by majestic mountains and lush mangroves, serving as a haven for a diverse array of wildlife.

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Adult $70.00 | Child 2-11yrs $50.00 | Family 2A+2C $190.00

10:45 am
Cairns river cruises relaxing tour

Adult $240|Child $188 4-14yrs
Includes lunch at Dundees on the Waterfront
Departs Mon – Sat 10.45 am to 6pm

Experience a calm water cruise along Cairns’ Trinity Inletas you glide through pristine creeks as you discover the hidden charm of Cairns’ backwaters and unique sights along the way. Enjoy lunch at the award-winning Dundee’s on the Waterfront. Your afternoon continues with the Cairns City Sights Tour, exploring the highlights of this vibrant tropical city.

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Adult $240.00 | Child $188.00 4-14yrs

10:45 am
6:00 pm
Snorkellers exploring Green Island reef lagoon

Adult $240 |Child 4-14 yrs $142
Departs Mon to Sat 9am – 6pm
Green Island and Cairns City Sights Tour is an exciting day tour that takes you on a journey to explore the natural beauty and cultural highlights of two unique destinations. Morning begins with a visit to the beautiful Green Island, where you have the opportunity to snorkel or do a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the Great Barrier Reef. Return to Cairns where you’ll explore the sights and sounds of this vibrant tropical city.

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Adult $240.00 | Child 4-14 yrs $142.00

9:00 am
6:00 pm
Cairns hot air balloon flight over Tablelands at sunrise

$450.00 per person

Self Drive to The Mareeba Heritage Centre approx 5.00am: – to meet our Pilots & Crew. Meeting times are confirmed on booking.

Experience the fun & unique sensation of being in a Hot Air Balloon, flying gently high above the Atherton Tablelands, Australia.

Take off is from Mareeba as you soar into the air. Enjoy the picturesque landscape at dawn as you float in a hot air balloon. Admire the scenic views of vast open spaces on all sides. Keep watch for local wildlife, including native birds or even kangaroos roaming free.

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$450.00 per person

5:00 am
Cairns hot air balloon tours over Atherton Tablelands

Departs Daily – $495.00 per person
Experience the fun & unique sensation of being in a Hot Air Balloon, flying gently high above the Atherton Tablelands, Australia.Complimentary hotel pick ups from Cairns City, Cairns Beaches and Palm Cove

Start with an early morning pickup and transfer from your accommodation in Cairns. Approx 4.00am
Return approx. 9.30am – 10.00am -Breakfast at your own expense.

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Departs Daily $495.00 per person

A full-day reef fishing charter offers an incredible adventure on the stunning waters of the Great Barrier Reef, targeting iconic species such as Coral Trout, Red Emperor, Large Mouth Nannygai, and Spanish Mackerel.

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$340.00 Per Person | $60.00 Fuel levy

6:00 am
4:00 pm
Helicopter scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns

30 minutes $487 per person includes Fuel Levy
45 minutes $676 per person includes Fuel Levy

Departs daily from Cairns Heli pad -The Pier Cairns City

The most popular scenic flight combines 30-minute Great Barrier Reef scenic with an additional 15 minute bird’s eye view of the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest on earth. Commencing over the reef, we cross back over the coast near Double Island and the resort township of Palm Cove before ascending the coastal rainforest-clad mountains into the heart of the Barron Gorge National Park.

 

30 minutes $487.00 | 45 minutes $676.00 Per Person

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Whether you’re visiting Cairns for a day, staying for a week, or looking for the best things to do in Cairns, our local team can help you find the right Cairns tour for your holiday.

Discover a great range of Cairns sightseeing tours, city tours, river cruises and local experiences that show you another side of our tropical city. From small-group and private tours to sightseeing and cruise combinations, there are plenty of ways to explore Cairns beyond the Great Barrier Reef.

See the city and surrounds on a Cairns City Sights Tour, discovering local landmarks, tropical gardens, history and some of the places that make Cairns special. Or take to the water on a Cairns River Cruise and explore the calm waterways of Trinity Inlet, where mangroves, coastal mountains and native wildlife create a completely different view of Cairns.

For a memorable evening, enjoy a Sunset Cruise before dinner or settle in for a relaxing Dinner Cruise on Trinity Inlet. Watch the sun set behind the mountains as the Cairns city lights come to life, or enjoy a tropical buffet dinner while cruising beneath the stars.

Cairns Festival 2026 – Experience the Best of Cairns
This year is especially significant as Cairns celebrates 150 years, bringing locals and visitors together to celebrate our people, culture, history and unique tropical lifestyle.

One of the festival highlights is the Grand Parade & Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday 29 August. The much-loved Fun in the Sun Grand Parade returns to the Cairns Esplanade from 5.30pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the Cairns waterfront from 7.30pm.

Throughout the festival you’ll find free live music on the Esplanade, exhibitions, performances and events around the city, finishing with Carnival on Collins on Sunday 6 September.

View the Cairns Festival 2026 programme for the latest events, times and locations.

Things to do in Cairns – Arts, Music and Entertainment
Tanks Art Centre,
Is one of  Cairns’ most unique live music and cultural venues. Set amongst the tropical surrounds of the Cairns Botanic Gardens, the heritage-listed former fuel tanks have been transformed into an atmospheric venue for live music, exhibitions, performances and community events.
For theatre and performing arts the Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) in the city centre hosts a diverse programme of local, national and touring productions. Depending on when you visit, you may find theatre, live music, dance, contemporary circus, comedy, opera and other performances on the programme.

Here’s why thousands of customers trustCairns Discovery Tours.

🗓️ Flexible Cancellations

Enjoy peace of mind with our flexible booking policy. Most Cairns Tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure with a full refund. (Helicopter tours are 48 hours) We make exploring Cairns stress free, so you can book with confidence.

💳 Book Now, Pay Later

Reserve your place on our popular Cairns day tours with Klarna’s Book Now, Pay Later option, or just give us a call or send us an email to secure your booking. We will be in touch to arrange payment 7 days before your departure.  Perfect for planning your Cairns holiday without upfront costs.

🌴 Local Since 1995

For over 30 years, Cairns Discovery Tours has been proudly locally owned and operated. Established in 1995, we’ve shared the tropical beauty of Far North Queensland travellers from around the world. Based in Cairns, we offer authentic tour experiences backed by genuine local knowledge and long standing connections to the region.

👩‍🏫 Expert Local Guides

Our passionate Cairns tour guides are storytellers, historians, and nature enthusiasts. With deep local knowledge, they bring the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Cairns’ tropical heritage to life, ensuring an unforgettable and educational experience.

Rena Keeney
Rena Keeney
26 days ago
We had such a fun time on a half day tour of Fitzroy island with Cairns Discovery Tours! We managed to do an everything we wanted (Nudey beach, long snorkel and lunch) within the time period we had and we even got to swim with turtles 🐢 an unforgettable experience! This would not have been possible without the fantastic help of Maryanne who booked us in for the tour. She went above and beyond to help us find somewhere to leave our bags during our tour and we wouldn’t have been able to go without her help. We enjoyed the experience so much and we are very grateful to Maryanne for her help and her exceptional customer service! I would definitely recommend booking local for these kind of experiences because that kind of customer care just doesn’t come when you book through third party sites. 10/10 experience ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Seka Mrkonja
Seka Mrkonja
1 month ago
Highly recommended!
karen McArthur
karen McArthur
15 days ago
We went on a tour with Discovery Tours today, doing the Mossman Gorge, Daintree / Daintree River Cruise, finishing of visiting Cape Tribulation… Our driver was James, who was exceptional. Giving running commentary along the trip. Guiding his group of people through all the different areas. Thanks James, top job.
Rachael E
Rachael E
1 month ago
In June I came to Cairns on holiday from the UK. It was the biggest holiday I've ever taken and because my health limits what I can do took a lot of planning. Maryanne at Cairns Discovery Tours was brilliant. She helped me choose suitable trips, gave me additional information so I could be prepared, advised on the easiest way to get to the departure point for those trips that don't pick up from my accommodation, etc. I booked all my trips except one with Maryanne. Her knowledge of Cairns was invaluable to me. She spoke to me on Whatsapp to answer my questions (we had to arrange call in advance because of the time difference) and when it occurred to me quite close to departure date that I'd need a way of protecting my head and neck from the sun when snorkelling Maryanne got me a suitable headscarf and dropped it off at my accommodation ahead of my arrival. When a friend decided to join me on some of the trips Maryanne was really helpful to her as well. If I am able to come back to Cairns I'll book as much as I can with Maryanne and Cairns Discovery Tours. The service couldn't be bettered.
Trevor Andrews
Trevor Andrews
22 days ago
We have just done the 3 day/2 night Cooktown and Cape Tribulation Tour with 2 friends. An unbelievable experience due to our fantastic guide Steve, who had so much local knowledge on everywhere we visited, especially historical info on the Palmer River gold rush in the 1800s, and Daintree Rainforest botany. Steve was such a good raconteur with friendly personality, who went out of his way to make our trip so enjoyable. Accomodation at both Cooktown and Cape Tribulation was excellent, with amazing setting of the cabins at Cape Tribulation in the rainforest right by the beach. Everything advertised for the tour and more was an memorable experience. Thank you so much Steve!
John Power
John Power
18 days ago
I was delighted with the Kuranda tour arranged by this company. The timings worked excellently and it was an eminently well organised tour. The train trip up to Kuranda was great fun and fascinating. Personally, I was particularly interested in the engineering. We had an hour in Kuranda Village, which was enough for me, although I expect some people would have liked to have seen the village and visited the butterfly world, which I think would have been tight. Rainforestation was great, plenty of activity of a variety of natures. I could not throw a boomerang to save my life, but it was fun to try. Then the bus down to Cairns was efficient and friendly, with a superb guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got a free morning, afternoon or evening in Cairns? Here’s what we recommend as locals.”

Walk the Cairns Esplanade – one of the easiest ways to get a feel for Cairns, with waterfront parklands, public art, birdlife, cafés and views across Trinity Inlet. Cairns Esplanade

Swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon – a Cairns favourite and normally free to use. Important right now: the Lagoon is closed for scheduled maintenance until 16 August 2026. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Visit Cairns Aquarium – particularly good for families and rainy or very hot days, with Tropical North Queensland’s freshwater and marine environments showcased in the heart of the city. Cairns Aquarium

Discover local history at Cairns Museum – a worthwhile stop for understanding the people, events and stories that shaped Cairns and Far North Queensland. Cairns Museum

Visit Cairns Art Gallery free entry right in the city centre and part of Cairns’ growing cultural precinct. Council says the precinct now encompasses three heritage art spaces. Cairns Art Gallery

Explore Cairns Botanic Gardens – just outside the CBD at Edge Hill and well worth the short trip. Entry is free and the gardens contain one of Australia’s best collections of tropical plants. Cairns Botanic Gardens

See St Monica’s Cathedral – visitors often don’t realise this is worth seeing. The cathedral is particularly known for its impressive creation-themed stained-glass windows. Saint Monica’s Cathedral

Browse the Cairns Night Markets – an easy evening activity in the centre of town for souvenirs, gifts, food and a wander after dinner. Cairns Night Markets

Enjoy a Sunset or Dinner Cruise – Trinity Inlet is a lovely way to see Cairns from the water. A Sunset Cruise works well before dinner, while a Dinner Cruise combines the evening cruise with a tropical buffet.

See a show or live music – check what’s on at CPAC, Tanks Arts Centre and Munro Martin Parklands. Munro Martin Parklands

Visit Rusty’s Markets – particularly good for tropical fruit, local produce and getting a feel for the multicultural side of Cairns.

Walk the Arrow tracks at Mt Whitfield – for active visitors wanting rainforest and views without leaving Cairns. Council specifically recommends the Red, Blue, Yellow and Green Arrow walking tracks.

Don’t let a little tropical rain spoil your Cairns holiday. Rain is part of what keeps our World Heritage rainforests so lush and green, and there are plenty of things to see and do in and around Cairns in wet weather. Visit the Cairns Aquarium, St Monica’s Cathedral, explore our museums and galleries, head up to Kuranda to see the rainforest and waterfalls come alive, or enjoy one of Cairns’ many indoor attractions. And remember, rain in Cairns doesn’t always mean rain on the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns attractions include the Esplanade Lagoon, waterfront dining, local markets, nearby beaches, reef departures, rainforest day trips and cultural experiences. Many visitors use Cairns city as the starting point for Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, Daintree and island tours.

Yes, Cairns city is family-friendly, especially around the Esplanade, lagoon, parks and casual dining areas. Families can also choose from easy day tours to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Frankland Island, Green Island, Fitzroy Island, Kuranda and the Great Barrier Reef depending on the age and swimming ability of the children. Visit Muddy’s playground on the Esplanade, a favourite for local families and visitors.

Staying near Cairns city, the Esplanade or the marina area is convenient for sightseeing and tour departures. Many reef and island tours depart from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, while other day tours offer hotel pickup from central Cairns accommodation.

For questions about bookings, cancellations, group travel and accessibility, visit our Cairns Tours FAQ page.

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