Things to do on a trip to Cairns

A Cairns Botanic Gardens
A Cairns Botanic Gardens

Cairns, a tropical paradise nestled on the north-eastern coast of Australia, offers a captivating blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From vibrant botanical gardens to iconic landmarks, it offers an immersive experience for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation and exploration. If you are planning a trip to Cairns, get ready to experience the enchanting landscapes and create lifelong memories.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover or a history buff, Cairns has something special in store for you.

Cairns museum

  • Embark on a fascinating journey through Cairns’ history at the Cairns Museum. Delve into the stories of the region’s past, from the challenges of living in the tropics to the pivotal role of sugar cane, rainforests and reefs in shaping the area.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

  • Renowned as one of the finest showcases of tropical plants in Australia, the Cairns Botanic Gardens is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Learn about the diverse flora that thrives in this tropical climate and appreciate the beauty of these meticulously curated gardens.

St. Monica’s Cathedral

  • A visit to St. Monica’s Cathedral is a journey into the heart of Cairns’ spiritual and artistic heritage. This heritage-listed cathedral is a memorial to the Battle of the Coral Sea.

Barron Gorge National Park

  • Head to the Barron Gorge National Park for an adventure amidst nature’s wonders. One highlight not to be missed is the magnificent Surprise Creek Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings.

Palm Cove Beach

  • A trip to Cairns is incomplete without a visit to the idyllic Palm Cove Beach. Stroll along the jetty or sink your toes into the soft sand. This picture-perfect beach, adorned with swaying coconut trees, offers a peaceful retreat from city life.

Port Douglas Market

  • Embark on a retail adventure as you wander through Port Douglas Market. You’ll be captivated by the array of stalls offering unique and handcrafted treasures found exclusively in this northern corner of paradise.

Reef-rainforest scenic helicopter flight

  • Soar through the skies on a captivating adventure and witness the mesmerising beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient tropical rainforest. Experience the thrill of a bird’s eye view as you marvel at the vibrant colours of the reef and then gaze in awe at the lush green canopy.
Cairns City Tours — Cairns Discovery Tours
Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise

Explore Cairns

Cairns City Tours

Discover the best of Cairns with sightseeing tours, sunset river cruises and wildlife encounters. From cultural attractions to hot air balloon flights, there is something for every traveller.

See city tours

Book a tour

Cairns truly offers a remarkable journey into nature’s splendour and the vibrant tapestry of Australian culture. Start your journey with Cairns Discovery Tours and let the beauty of the region unfold. With a dedicated guide leading the way, you’ll gain insights into the city’s heritage and unique culture. Contact us for any questions or information on our tours.

Maryanne Jacques

Article by:

Maryanne Jacques

Director, Cairns Discovery Tours

Maryanne Jacques is the Director of Cairns Discovery Tours and your local connection to Tropical North Queensland. With more than 40 years of experience in the tourism industry, she brings deep local knowledge and a genuine passion for showcasing the very best the region has to offer.

Explore Cairns & surrounds with our curated tours.

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Carnival Encounter
7 Jul → 8 Jul
Cairns Port
Tue, 9:30 AM
Wed, 5:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter
29 Jul 2026, Wed
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
5:30 PM
Carnival Encounter
15 Aug 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Adventure
Carnival Encounter
8 Sep 2026, Tue
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
Carnival Splendor
13 Sep 2026, Sun
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:00 PM
Carnival Splendor
Carnival Encounter
29 Sep → 30 Sep
Cairns Port
Tue, 9:30 AM
Wed, 6:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter
28 Oct 2026, Wed
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
5:30 PM
Carnival Encounter
30 Oct 2026, Fri
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
5:00 PM
Crown Princess
7 Nov 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Costa Serena
8 Nov 2026, Sun
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Riviera
14 Nov 2026, Sat
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:30 AM
8:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
15 Nov 2026, Sun
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Viking Venus
20 Nov 2026, Fri
Yorkeys Knob Port
7:00 AM
6:00 PM
Royal Princess
Noordam
23 Nov → 24 Nov
Cairns Port
Mon, 9:00 AM
Tue, 7:00 PM
Noordam
26 Nov 2026, Thu
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Riviera
26 Nov 2026, Thu
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:00 AM
9:00 PM
Celebrity Solstice
27 Nov → 28 Nov
Cairns Port
Fri, 8:00 AM
Sat, 6:00 PM
Azamara Pursuit
28 Nov 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
11:00 PM
Silver Moon
29 Nov 2026, Sun
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:00 AM
7:00 PM
Royal Princess
5 Dec 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
9:00 AM
7:00 PM
Grand Princess
6 Dec → 7 Dec
Yorkeys Knob Port
Sun, 9:00 AM
Mon, 6:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
9 Dec → 10 Dec
Cairns Port
Wed, 7:00 AM
Thu, 3:00 PM
Riviera
Carnival Luminosa
10 Dec 2026, Thu
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:30 PM
Carnival Luminosa
Seven Seas Navigator
12 Dec 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
7:00 PM
Seven Seas Navigator
Carnival Encounter
16 Dec 2026, Wed
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
20 Dec 2026, Sun
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
9:30 PM
Riviera
Carnival Luminosa
1 Jan 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:30 PM
Carnival Luminosa
12 Jan 2027, Tue
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
10:00 PM
Silver Moon
17 Jan → 18 Jan
Cairns Port
Sun, 8:00 AM
Mon, 6:00 PM
Westerdam
Carnival Luminosa
18 Jan 2027, Mon
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:00 PM
Carnival Luminosa
19 Jan 2027, Tue
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:00 AM
6:00 PM
Quantum of the Seas
Carnival Encounter
3 Feb 2027, Wed
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
4 Feb 2027, Thu
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
6:00 PM
Costa Deliziosa
12 Feb → 13 Feb
Yorkeys Knob Port
Fri, 8:00 AM
Sat, 5:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
21 Feb → 22 Feb
Cairns Port
Sun, 8:00 AM
Mon, 9:00 PM
Crown Princess
2 Mar 2027, Tue
Cairns Port
9:00 AM
6:00 PM
Queen Victoria
4 Mar 2027, Thu
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Grand Princess
Carnival Splendor
5 Mar 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:00 PM
Carnival Splendor
6 Mar → 7 Mar
Yorkeys Knob Port
Sat, 9:30 AM
Sun, 5:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
9 Mar 2027, Tue
Yorkeys Knob Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Quantum of the Seas
12 Mar 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
9:30 PM
Riviera
13 Mar 2027, Sat
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Grand Princess
Viking Orion
15 Mar → 20 Mar
Cairns Port
Mon, 8:00 AM
Sat, 6:00 PM
Viking Orion
Carnival Luminosa
17 Mar 2027, Wed
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:30 PM
Carnival Luminosa
21 Mar 2027, Sun
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Viking Venus
21 Mar → 25 Mar
Cairns Port
Sun, 10:00 AM
Thu, 6:00 PM
Crystal Serenity
5 Apr 2027, Mon
Yorkeys Knob Port
7:00 AM
5:00 PM
Celebrity Solstice
Carnival Encounter
9 Apr 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
11 Apr 2027, Sun
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Seabourn Quest
Waterfall and Rainforest Tour Cairns, Australia

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.

More Info

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

7:30 am
5:30 pm
Special Deal
2 Daintree Rainforest overnight tour from Cairns
New Tour - Twin and Double Rooms require a minimum of 2 people per booking.

2 Day Daintree Rainforest tour from Cairns. Visit Mossman Gorge, Welcome to Country ceremony, Daintree River Wildlife cruise, overnight in Cape Tribulation. Please note this is a limited – exclusive experience, please reach out if it shows no availability online, we can request

 

More Info

$331.00 Single shared bathroom | $507.00 Single with bathroom | $373.00 Twin/Double with bathroom

7:00 am
7:00 pm
Mossman River rainforest scenery on Daintree tour from Cairns

Adult $269|Aust Pensioner $259
Child $209 (4-14yrs only)
not suitable for children under 4yrs
Departs Daily 7.00am

Discover the Daintree Rainforest in Comfort – Small Group Touring (Max 14 Guests)
Travel along the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef Drive to explore Mossman Gorge, enjoy a restaurant lunch at the Daintree Tea House, 1 hour cruise on the Daintree River and visit Cape Tribulation Beach—where the rainforest meets the sea. With scenic stops at Rex Lookout, Flagstaff Hill Port Douglas, and a sweet treat option at the Daintree Ice Cream Company, this full-day tour offers an immersive nature experience in air-conditioned comfort. A full day exploring our spectacular natural backyard.

More Info

Adult $269.00 | Aust Pensioner $259.00 | Child $209.00 (4-14yrs only)

7:00 am
6:00 pm
Special Deal
2 Day 1 night Daintree & Great Barrier Reef Tour from Cairns
New Tour - Prices are per person no child prices

2 Day Cape Tribulation and Great Barrier Reef Tour from Cairns and Port Douglas. Overnight in the world’s oldest continuous living Rainforest on the planet and explore the untouched Great Barrier Reef from Cape Tribulation.

More Info

$556.00 Single shared bathroom | $732.00 Single ensuite | $598.00 Twin/Double ensuite

7:00 am
7:00 pm
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

More Info

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

7:00 am
12:00 pm
Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns with Pure Snorkelling

Half Day Great Barrier Reef Tour
Adult $209 |Child 6-14yrs $159
Family 2A+2C $670
Depart Cairns Daily 12 noon – 5.00pm

Cairns newest & fastest purpose built vessel to the Outer Barrier Reef. Only 40 snorkelers per trip. Join our expert snorkel team, made up of Master Reef Guides and Marine naturalists, on a crowd-free adventure with over 2 hours of snorkelling time. Get ready to discover the Great Barrier Reef.

More Info

Adult $209.00 | Child 6-14yrs $159.00 | Family 2A+2C $670.00

12:00 pm
5:00 pm
Special Deal
Cairns Whale Watching Tours
Travel 15th July - 6th September 20268.30am and 10.45am departure from Cairns

Adult $159.00| Child 4-14yrs $89
Family 2A+2C $496
Includes 1.5 hour dedicated Whale Watching tour plus free time at Fitzroy Island
Depart Cairns 8.30am – 2.45pm or 10.45am – 4.45pm

Experience an unforgettable day of nature and relaxation. Cruise off the coast of Cairns to witness the spectacular migration of Humpback Whales, then spend time unwinding on a tropical island with snorkelling, hiking, marine life, and stunning beaches.

Adult $159.00 | Child $89.00 4-14yrs | Family 2A+2C $496.00 2A+2C 4-14yrs

8:30 am
Book Now
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway over tropical rainforest near Cairns

Please read inclusions & itinerary for changes during Skyrail upgrade 20th July – 26 October 2026
Departs Daily 10.30am – 5.45pm
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.

 

More Info

Adult $210.00 | Child 4-14yrs $110.00 | Family 2A+2C $557.50 | Gold Class upgrade $67.00 per person

10:30 am
5:45 pm
View all popular tours

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.

Very good support from Marianne to organize our Cairns visits, both for diving and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef and for Kuranda and Rainforest Cape tribulation tours ! You can trust she will arrange every modification needed at her best ! Loved the trip in Cairns also thanks to Marianne, who listens and adapts to your interests and time ! Big Thank you, Marianne!
Michelle White
Michelle White
22 days ago
Great tour. We covered a lot of ground without feeling rushed. The day was well organised & seamless with a very knowledgeable tour guide/ driver.
madam howling
madam howling
8 days ago
I’m not often impressed enough to comment I certainly am with Maryanne Nothing was too much effort, even to ringing me at 9pm on Friday night to change a trip Refunded was processed within ten minutes of cancellation, new options provided All the five star reviews are true!
Mark Rodahl
Mark Rodahl
7 months ago
Cairns Discovery Tours is such a wonderful company. They all were essential in giving us an unforgettable experience on our first trip to Cairns. Maryanne is so friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful in finding perfect excursions for us. Her Daintree Rainforest tour with the awesome Jeremey as our guide was truly amazing ! On top of all of this, everyone was so kind and helpful to recover and return to my wife a lost sentimental bracelet. I can not thank them all enough for making our vacation so special and memorable. You are all the best !
Ali Almazroei
Ali Almazroei
29 days ago
I had an incredible time with Cairns Discovery Tours! The entire experience was seamless, but I especially want to highlight the amazing help I received from Maryanne. She was absolutely wonderful throughout the booking process—her assistance in coordinating all the different spots and managing the details made my trip stress-free and truly enjoyable. If you're looking for a professional and helpful team in Cairns, I highly recommend them. Thank you, Maryanne, for all your hard work!"
Soon Fatt Woo
Soon Fatt Woo
6 months ago
We booked a whole day trip out to Daintree , Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation. Our guide was Jeremy. He was really fun and knowledgeable and I think he made all the difference in the World on this excursion. Without him, we would be lost not knowing what to look at and what to look out for. Highly recommended excursion if you can get a guide like Jeremy!!!