Tablelands, Waterfalls & Paronella Park
Adult $209|Pensioner $200|Child 4-14yrs $159|Infant $70
Departs daily 7.30am – 6.00pm
Join our 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.
Discover the natural beauty and history of the Atherton Tablelands on this full-day tour, covering over 300km packed with pristine rainforest waterfalls, ancient tropical rainforests and the intriguing history of heritage-listed Paronella Park. Amongst a small group in our air-conditioned bus, our expert guides reveal the secrets of the rolling landscapes and charming townships of the Tablelands, taking time to pause for unforgettable scenic views, rainforest encounters and of course, a dip in the cool rainforest waters of Milla Milla Falls and Babinda Boulders.
Inclusions
- Naturalist guide
- Wet Tropics Rainforest of Wooroonooran National Park
- Atherton Tablelands
- Millaa Millaa Falls (one of the most photographed waterfalls in Australia)
- Lake Barrine
- Curtain Fig TreeExplore
- Tropical North Queensland
- Paronella Park Entrance
- Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned coach
Detailed itinerary
Your full-day discovery tour of the Atherton Tablelands and Paronella Park starts with a coach pickup from your Cairns accommodation or alternative meeting point, between 7.15am – 7.45am.
Travelling south from Cairns in our air-conditioned coach, your first photo opportunity is at the towering Walsh’s Pyramid, a Cairns icon and one of the largest naturally formed pyramids in the world at over 900 metres in height.
Our first stop in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area comes at Lake Barrine, in Crater Lakes National Park, where a short guided walk with our expert guide reveals the area’s ancient natural history
After your walk it’s time for Devonshire tea: enjoy freshly-baked scones with jam and cream, washed down with locally-grown, fresh brewed tea and coffee in the historical town of Yungaburra, where your guide will share the township’s logging past, taking you on a driving tour around this quaint town and showcasing the many heritage-listed buildings. From Yungaburra it is a short drive to the Curtain Fig Tree, which towers more than 45 metres into the rare Mabi forest of its namesake, Curtain Fig Tree National Park. Enjoy a fascinating boardwalk tour, with your guide who shares the unlikely story behind the formation of this 600-800 year-old epiphyte, while also looking out for unique wildlife in the rainforest canopy, like green ring-tailed possums, eastern whip birds, Victoria’s rifle birds the rare Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo.
Drive tour through the historical dairy town of Malanda, enjoy an a la carte lunch before arriving at the spectacular Millaa Millaa Falls. Seem familiar? It’s one of Australia’s most-photographed waterfalls!
We descend from the Atherton Tablelands via the Palmerston Highway and through the traditional lands of the Mamu people, passing expansive sugar cane and banana fields to the coastal town of Innisfail arriving at the Mena Creek hotel for lunch.
The extensive National Trust-listed gardens at Paronella Park are our next stop, where a 45-minute guided tour in English, Chinese or Japanese tells the story of the park’s memorable architecture, set amongst sprawling tropical gardens and inspired by founder José Paronella’s dream of a Spanish castle.
Photo opportunities abound here, from Kauri Avenue to Teresa Falls, the Grand Staircase and suspension bridge over Mena Creek Falls. With 2.5 hours here, you’ll have ample time to explore the grounds, appreciate its history and capture some memorable moments.
Time to head north towards Cairns, stopping at a local banana farm where you can buy your very own taste of the tropics with local bananas, papaya and seasonal, home-grown fruit.
it is approximately a 50-60 minute drive back to the city of Cairns and onwards to your accommodation, arriving between 6.00 – 6.30pm.
What to bring
- Swimmers
- Towel
- Change of clothes
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Extra cash or credit card for additional purchases
Explore related tours
Adult $145|Child$80|Family $390
Gold class option 9.30 train only $60 per person
Train departs Cairns 8.30am or 9.30am
Return Skyrail 2.30pm or 3.30pm
Tour not bookable online – please contact us P 07 40283567
Experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway from Cairns Central or Freshwater Station, choose from 8:30 am or 9:30 am trains (Gold Class upgrade available). Explore the Kuranda markets Wednesday through to Sunday and the many attractions of Kuranda, then return on the Skyrail as you guide over the rainforest canopy. Includes return transfers from Skyrail to Cairns Railway Station.
Adult $145.00 | Child $80.00 | Family $390.00 | Gold class option 9.30 train only $60.00 per person
Adult $79| Child 2-11yrs $55
Family 2A+2C $213
Departs from Cairns Marina 5.15pm –
Discover the enchanting beauty of a Cairns tropical sunset.
Join us for a relaxing 90-minute cruise through the calm waters of Trinity Inlet, one of Cairns’ hidden gems. As the day ends, watch the sky transform into a canvas of golden hues and deep purples, with the city skyline and lush mountains as your backdrop.
Sit back and unwind with a complimentary drink in hand.
Capture unforgettable views of Cairns, the mangroves, and distant ranges bathed in sunset light.
Enjoy a serene, peaceful atmosphere, perfect for couples, friends, and solo travellers.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply soaking up the magic of Tropical North Queensland, this is an experience you’ll always remember.
Adult from $239 Child (7-14yrs) $215 not suitable for under 7yrs
Depart daily from Port Douglas only at 7.30am – 4.30pm
Discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest in style. Enjoy guided interpretive walks, a gourmet lunch and a wildlife cruise on Cooper Creek to spot crocodiles and birdlife. Friendly local guides who will share the stories, culture and ecology that make this World Heritage-listed rainforest so extraordinary.
This unique Daintree Rainforest experience will have you discovering Mossman Gorge in depth. Start the day with a secret location to commence your ‘River drift’ tour,. Enjoy lunch and a traditional smoking ceremony ending the day with a 1.5 hour guided rainforest walk in the Gorge…..
Adult $270.00 | Child $225.00 5 - 15 yrs | Family 2A+2C $910.00 2A+2C
Adult $69| Child 2-11yrs $49
Family 2A+2C $187
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.
Adult $69.00 | Child 2-11yrs $49.00 | Family 2A+2C $187.00
Adult $315|Child $228
Departs Port Douglas 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Silversonic from Port Douglas takes you to explore three stunning and exclusive outer edge locations at the renowned Agincourt ribbon reefs in superb style and comfort. Spend 5 hours at the reef enjoying unlimited snorkelling and some of the best diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Includes Port Douglas hotel transfers, hot and cold Tropical Buffet Lunch & all snorkelling and dive equipment included.
Departs Cairns Daily 2.00pm -5.30pm
$145 per person 12yrs + with hotel transfers
$128.00 per person -Self drive to Lake Placid
+ $30.00 per person pay on board rafting levy
Just a short drive north of Cairns, the Barron River offers the perfect introduction to white water rafting. This action-packed afternoon adventure includes up to 2 hours on the water, navigating through spectacular rainforest scenery, rugged granite boulders, and exhilarating rapids.
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!
$145.00 per person 12yrs + with hotel transfers | $128.00 per person -Self drive to Lake Placid | $30.00 per person pay on board rafting levy
$1189.00 per person
Departs Daily from Port Douglas
11.10am – 3.30pm
Short on time or want to experience the Great Barrier Reef on a return scenic flight. Takes in the highlights of the inner reef. There is simply no better way to appreciate the sheer size and scale of the Great Barrier Reef than from the air. Expect picture-postcard views of the reef and an abundance of wildlife – sharks, turtles, rays and even whales (July to Nov).
Spend 2 hours – 15 minutes at the Quicksilver pontoon to enjoy snorkelling, semi submersible coral viewing tour, underwater observatory and a delicious buffet lunch.
Adult $145|Child$80|Family $390
Gold class option 9.30 train only $60 per person
Train departs Cairns 8.30am or 9.30am
Return Skyrail 2.30pm or 3.30pm
Tour not bookable online – please contact us P 07 40283567
Experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway from Cairns Central or Freshwater Station, choose from 8:30 am or 9:30 am trains (Gold Class upgrade available). Explore the Kuranda markets Wednesday through to Sunday and the many attractions of Kuranda, then return on the Skyrail as you guide over the rainforest canopy. Includes return transfers from Skyrail to Cairns Railway Station.
Adult $145.00 | Child $80.00 | Family $390.00 | Gold class option 9.30 train only $60.00 per person
Adult $79| Child 2-11yrs $55
Family 2A+2C $213
Departs from Cairns Marina 5.15pm –
Discover the enchanting beauty of a Cairns tropical sunset.
Join us for a relaxing 90-minute cruise through the calm waters of Trinity Inlet, one of Cairns’ hidden gems. As the day ends, watch the sky transform into a canvas of golden hues and deep purples, with the city skyline and lush mountains as your backdrop.
Sit back and unwind with a complimentary drink in hand.
Capture unforgettable views of Cairns, the mangroves, and distant ranges bathed in sunset light.
Enjoy a serene, peaceful atmosphere, perfect for couples, friends, and solo travellers.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply soaking up the magic of Tropical North Queensland, this is an experience you’ll always remember.
Adult from $239 Child (7-14yrs) $215 not suitable for under 7yrs
Depart daily from Port Douglas only at 7.30am – 4.30pm
Discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest in style. Enjoy guided interpretive walks, a gourmet lunch and a wildlife cruise on Cooper Creek to spot crocodiles and birdlife. Friendly local guides who will share the stories, culture and ecology that make this World Heritage-listed rainforest so extraordinary.
This unique Daintree Rainforest experience will have you discovering Mossman Gorge in depth. Start the day with a secret location to commence your ‘River drift’ tour,. Enjoy lunch and a traditional smoking ceremony ending the day with a 1.5 hour guided rainforest walk in the Gorge…..
Adult $270.00 | Child $225.00 5 - 15 yrs | Family 2A+2C $910.00 2A+2C
Adult $69| Child 2-11yrs $49
Family 2A+2C $187
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.
Adult $69.00 | Child 2-11yrs $49.00 | Family 2A+2C $187.00
Adult $315|Child $228
Departs Port Douglas 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Silversonic from Port Douglas takes you to explore three stunning and exclusive outer edge locations at the renowned Agincourt ribbon reefs in superb style and comfort. Spend 5 hours at the reef enjoying unlimited snorkelling and some of the best diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Includes Port Douglas hotel transfers, hot and cold Tropical Buffet Lunch & all snorkelling and dive equipment included.
Here’s why thousands of customers loveCairns Discovery Tours.
🗓️ Flexible Cancellations
Enjoy peace of mind with our flexible booking policy. Most Cairns Discovery Tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure with a full refund. We make exploring Cairns stress-free, so you can book with confidence.
💳 Book Now, Pay Later
Secure your place on our popular Cairns day tours with Klarna’s Book Now, Pay Later option. Lock in your adventure today and pay in easy installments — perfect for planning your Cairns holiday without upfront costs.
🌴 Local Since 1995
For over 28 years, Cairns Discovery Tours has been proudly locally owned and operated. Established in 1995, we’ve shared the tropical beauty of Cairns with thousands of travellers, offering authentic, community-connected tour experiences.
👩🏫 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.
