Far North Queensland

Meet the Locals

Start your adventure with a scenic coastal drive from Cairns to Port Douglas, the far north’s very own great ocean road with panoramic views of the sparkling Coral Sea. The first stop is Mossman Gorge, which is in the southern sector of the world-famous Daintree National Park. The gorge has been carved out by the cold mountain waters of the Mossman River, which winds through large granite boulders, bordered by lush green rainforest. It’s a magical place and you’ll be welcomed by the traditional owners, the Kuku Yalanji people, who will also cleanse you of evil spirits during a smoke ceremony. Also, enjoy a refreshing swim in the cascading waters. Cross the mighty Daintree River and head to the beach for lunch. Experience waterfront dining and enjoy the sand between your toes. After lunch, it’s time to explore the ancient rainforest environment on an interesting guided tour of the Marrdja Botanical Boardwalk. Highly trained guides will give expert rainforest interpretation, which will inform and impress. Be amazed at the huge diversity you will encounter, you will discover everything from low-lying ferns and shrubs, to the massive rainforest canopy and even mangrove ecosystems - all in one short easy walk. You can choose to taste locally made ice cream, at your own cost, and prepare for a photo opportunity at the Alexandra Range Lookout, which provides sweeping views over the Daintree River, its rainforest delta, and out to the Coral Sea. In the afternoon, experience a wildlife cruise on the river. During the cruise, you may see a crocodile, while learning about the fragile ecosystem of this impressive serpent-like river system. On the return journey to Cairns, drive through Port Douglas, a picturesque beachside village with a laid-back vibe and loads of bars and cafes.

Explore Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation on a small group tour. Ride a 4WD vehicle as you spot wildlife, catch incredible views, and try regional food along the way. After being picked up in a 4WD around 7:00 AM, make your way north along the Captain Cook Highway. Stop first at the Daintree Cruise Centre for a cup of coffee and biscuits before setting out to explore the Daintree River on a 1-hour guided cruise. During your cruise, you may spot estuarine crocodiles, from youngsters to massive 4-meter adults. Learn about the birds and wildlife that make this area their home. Then, make your way to the Alexandra Range Lookout, located in the heart of the rainforest, to enjoy spectacular views of the rainforest, the ocean, its surrounding reefs, and the majestic Daintree River. At the Jindalba boardwalk, you'll go on an informative 45-minute guided tour to experience the Park's beauty up close. See ancient 900-year-old palms, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Boyd’s Forest Dragon. Enjoy lunch at Lync Haven, an animal refuge, where you'll be treated to BBQ lunch steaks and tasty garden fresh salads, fish, or a vegetarian burger. After lunch, have a look at some of the animals here which include different species of python snakes and Boris the Estuarine Crocodile. You can even hand-feed some of the Kangaroos in care — an amazing experience. Your journey continues, heading further north to Emmagen for an afternoon tea stop. You’ll have ample time to enjoy a beautifully refreshing swim in this amazing freshwater mountain stream. Then, indulge in a feast of exotic tropical fruits and enjoy a sample cup of traditional Billy Tea, made in a traditional Australian Billy (by your guide) and damper, all of which enhance the tranquil surroundings. Head to Cape Tribulation beach itself for a leisurely stroll along the beach to admire the views. Those feeling a little more energetic can take the short botanical boardwalk to the Cape Tribulation beach lookout. After Cape Tribulation beach, if there's time, stop at Daintree’s hidden secret, the Daintree ice creamery. Your taste buds will be tantalized with exotic tropical fruit homemade ice cream. As the day comes to the end, head back toward Cairns. You will be dropped off at your accommodations at around 6:30 PM.

Get picked up at your hotel and stop at the renowned Mossman Gorge, the first sight on your Daintree Forest tour. Embark on a guided walk and then hop aboard a river cruise on the Daintree River, home to the elusive estuarine crocodile. Observe stunning native and migratory bird life, butterflies, and breathtaking scenery. Cross the Daintree River, journey to Alexandra Lookout, and enjoy sweeping views extending from the Daintree River Estuary to the Coral Sea. Stop for morning tea under the canopy of this prehistoric rainforest. Have some muffin biscuits, coffee, Daintree Tea, and water.  Continue on to Cape Tribulation, with a stop at Kulki Lookout for unparalleled views of the rainforest and beach. Stop at Noah Valley, a World Heritage private property that plays host to some of the most spectacular, pristine rainforest found anywhere in the world. Take a stroll along The Gateway to Paradise and see one of the most primitive flowering plants still in existence. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear rainforest stream while your barbecue lunch is prepared in a private retreat surrounded by rainforest. Savor a lunch of steak, fish, and sausage, served with salads and a warm damper (Australian-style bread) followed by a tropical fruit platter. Follow lunch with an interpretive guided rainforest walk through the heart of the Daintree rainforest. Discover how all living parts of the Daintree Rainforest depend on each other for survival. Conclude the tour with a visit to Daintree Ice Cream Company.

Just a few kilometers out of Broome, head north on Cape Leveque Road. Journey over rugged terrain on unsealed sections of road to your first stop, Beagle Bay Aboriginal Community. Enjoy morning tea and see the famous pearl-shell alter of the Sacred Heart Church. Head further north to Lombodina, where traditional owners will take you on a guided walk of their community. Visit their craft shop where you will find many local handmade products. Next stop is Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm for a chef prepared lunch followed by an insightful tour of the pearl farm. Enjoy an afternoon swim in the beautiful turquoise waters of Kooljaman. Sit back and relax or stroll along the sandy white beach. Opt for the return scenic flight (must be pre-booked) down the beautiful coast to arrive in Broome at approximately 5:00 PM or head back to Broome by coach, arriving at approximately 7:30 PM.

Join this fast, comfortable cruise, with five hours spent visiting two spectacular Outer Great Barrier Reef destinations. Travel on 'Evolution'- a brand new, purpose-built, state of the art, 35-meter (120ft) catamaran for a maximum of 124 passengers during COVID restrictions and 180 during usual operations. The computer-stabilized vessel provides a superior ride in all weather conditions and cruises at high speeds of up to 30 knots, providing comfort and safety. Visit exclusive, protected locations on the pristine Outer Great Barrier Reef with superior reef quality. Professional, friendly and attentive staff ensure a safe and enjoyable fun-filled experience. This vessel is the most stylish and luxurious reef vessel available in Cairns. Depart the marina at 8.15am and travel to the true outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. There are Several exclusive mooring locations to be chosen from, depending on the day's conditions. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. Choose from an abundance of seating inside air-conditioned, modern lounges or outside on full-length sundecks for sunbathing. Spend 5 hours snorkelling on the reef and enjoy the free guided snorkelling tour which will take you all around the best snorkel and visibility locations. Spot diverse marine wildlife below, coral gardens and much more. Take to the skies for your 10-minute Scenic Helicopter Flight to and from the exclusive Heli-Pontoon on the Outer Reef. Have your camera ready as you lift off from the heli pad for an incredible scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef. Appreciate from the air, the sheer size of the reef system as you search for marine life in their natural habitat. Be amazed at the colors and beauty of the coral gardens before touching back down to re-join the crew on board the vessel. For lunch, enjoy a delicious Aussie BBQ including steak, fish, prawns, and tropical salads (vegetarians are catered for.) A complimentary glass of wine and a light snack are served on the return journey back to Cairns. Book a marine biologist tour onboard the boat. Return to Cairns at 4:30 PM.

Journey to the Atherton Tablelands which is located 1 hour’s drive from the city via the scenic Gillies Highway. Discover a cool highlands where you will sample some tropical fruit skewers and enjoy a special coffee or local tea at an 80-year old lakeside teahouse. Arrive in the historic village of Atherton for a tasting and shopping treat at “The Humpy,” the best place to go for freshly harvested produce straight from the growers. Marvel at the array of vegetables, tropical fruits and hundreds of varieties of nuts, dried fruits and locally produced jams and sauces. Enjoy some seasonal fruits and different hot peanuts and macadamia nuts, and get some time to browse to make any purchases. Continue to the Mount Uncle distillery to taste some of their award-winning liqueurs and spirits, and sample their new boutique beer before a delicious lunch of local produce with more beer or a glass of wine. Wander around the stunning property nestled in coffee and banana plantations and meet the friendly animals. Venture down a secret bush track to De Bruey's Boutique Wines on a mango orchard between the peaks of the Great Dividing Range. Learn how they make high quality wines from tropical fruits and sample 15 different tropical fruit wines, liqueurs, cream liqueurs and ports! Move on to the Jacques Family coffee plantation and get an insight into the finer details of coffee, from the tree to the cup, in the air-conditioned theater. Stroll through the coffee bushes and gardens, and end with a cup of Jacques coffee made just as you like it and served with homemade scones with jam and cream. Head to The Rainforest Retreat to watch the sun go down as you sip some Queensland wines and beers or dip your toes in a beautiful mountain stream before heading back to Cairns.

Join this 3.5-hour guided walking tour for an urban adventure through Cairns’ craft beer and spirit scenes. Meet your guide in the heart of the city and spend a fun afternoon visiting award-winning local breweries. Kick off your tour at the biggest brewery in Cairns where you can learn all about the beer-making process. Enjoy a beer of your choice before moving on to the next two microbreweries to taste more local beers. Before your tour wraps up, your guide will take you to Wolf Lane Distillery. A local gin distillery in the center of the city where you will enjoy a gin tasting.

Start your day with a self-guided tour through the aquarium and explore the ecosystems and habitats of Tropical North Queensland. Complete your experience with a 2-course lunch at Dundee’s Restaurant with a stunning sea life backdrop before being collected from the aquarium for your afternoon guided sightseeing tour of Cairns. Discover Cairns in air-conditioned comfort with your local guide as you explore the city’s rich history. Get glimpses of its cultural heritage and iconic landmarks. Marvel at the world’s largest themed stained glass windows at Saint Monica’s Cathedral. Enjoy a 20-minute guided tour of the Cairns Museum with free re-entry included. Afterward, indulge in a delicious afternoon Devonshire tea before visiting the Cairns Botanical Gardens. Take delight in the stunning city and mountain views before visiting Lower Barron Gorge National Park and Surprise Creek Falls. Also visit stunning Palm Cove, one of Cairns' Northern Beaches.

Following pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, start the day at the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Marlin Marina. Admire the breathtaking cathedral of St. Monica's, which features the world's largest themed stained glass windows. Discover the city's vibrant history and rich cultural heritage with a visit to the newly refurbished Cairns Museum. Housed in the School of Arts building, enjoy the exclusive 20-minute guided tour of the museum with a local expert. Travel to the leafy suburb of Edge Hill for a guided walk through the Cairns Flecker Botanic Gardens, renowned for having one of the best exhibitions of tropical plants in Australia. Explore the butterfly-lined pathways under the green canopy as your guide explains the various plants you see along the way. Enjoy a delicious Devonshire Tea of homemade scones served with jam and cream and a choice of tea or coffee at a local cafe before continuing to one of Cairns scenic lookouts with panoramic views of the city and the Coral Sea. Visit the Lower Barron Gorge National Park and Surprise Creek Falls. Continue further north to stunning Palm Cove, lined with old paperbark trees. Stroll to the end of the jetty to enjoy the stunning beach setting and natural surroundings before being returned to your hotel.

You will thoroughly enjoy and remember Port Douglas. This unique food and wine experience from Port Douglas will be tasting some of the best food and wine that the Atherton Tablelands has to offer. Be taken through a variety of contrasting landscapes from lush rainforests to stunning ochre savannah plains. The rich volcanic soil allows farmers to grow many diverse crops from bananas, coffee, sugar cane, avocados, mangoes, macadamia nuts, citrus and more which you will learn about once you taste your way around the regions 'food bowl.' Sit back and relax, take in the beautiful views as you take in a fascinating and tasty journey through another gem of Far North Queensland. Choose the self-drive option if you'd like to follow the tour in your own vehicle. Use the provided CB radio to listen to the guides' fascinating commentary. Stop 1: Rainforestation Nature Park Your first stop will be Rainforestation Nature Park. Here, enjoy a beautiful tropical breakfast including seasonal fruits, organic jams, damper with local coffee and tea. Stop 2: De'bruey's Boutique Tropical Winery Head up the Kuranda Range to De Bruey's Boutique Wines located near Mareeba on a 15 hectare mango orchard cradled between the peaks of the Great Dividing Range. All wines are made on-site using a blend of tradition and innovation which produces high-quality wines from a rich diversity of tropical fruits. Sit on the back deck sipping deliciously different tropical fruit wines, liqueurs, cream liqueurs and ports whilst overlooking the beautiful surrounding of gum trees waterfall, terraces and lake. Stop 3: Skybury Coffee and Papaya Plantation Next, be whisked away to the Skybury Coffee and Papaya Plantation. Learn about the nuances of coffee. Then, feast on a delicious lunch of local produce, topped off with desert. Sip on a nice cup of coffee. Stop 4: Gallo Dairyland Head towards the historic village of Atherton. Driving through this thriving hub a patchwork of amazing farmland and rolling green hills will appear before you. You are on your way to a fully operational dairy farm spread across 1000 acres of rich red volcanic soil with a gourmet cheese factory. Here, taste a selection of their delicious cheeses whilst gazing out over the picturesque landscape. Meet some friendly animals before heading back to Mareeba through a variety of diverse crops. Stop 5: Platypus Hut - Queensland wines and beers And if that is not enough, head across the savannah 'Outback,' past giant termite mounds and classic red dirt to a unique 160 acre private property. Here, you can soak up the stunning rainforest and pristine environment which is a sanctuary for bird and animal species. Watch out for a passing kangaroo and head down to 'the Platypus Hut' where you can sit in this tranquil setting as the sun goes down and watch for dive-bombing kingfishers and the elusive platypus (or dip your toes into the most beautiful mountain stream whilst tasting some Queensland wines and beer and homemade Tableland dips. Then, head down the Julatten range and be dropped back to your accommodation at 17:30.