All Cairns & the Tropical North Tours & Excursions in 2026

Cruises & Sailing

200+ results

Best Seller

The Cairns, Australia coastline can be viewed from above and below on a snorkeling and diving excursion to the Great Barrier Reef.

4.7

(3,799)

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

Free Cancellation
8 hours 30 minutes

from $193

See snapping crocs in action on this half-day tour to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Departing from Cairns or Palm Cove, explore the five different zones of this eco-park and working crocodile farm, including a narrated boat tour through a coastal lagoon. Stroll along elevated boardwalks to observe cassowaries, turtles, lizards, and koalas, and admire the mighty stars of the attraction at the thrilling Crocodile Attack Show.

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4.6

(196)

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures Half-Day Tour from Cairns

Free Cancellation
5 hours

from $91

Explore the lush beauty, amazing wildlife, and rich heritage of Tropical North Queensland on this customizable full-day trip to Kuranda from Cairns. Travel to this enchanting rainforest village aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, and choose from a variety of activities including visits to Birdworld and Rainforestation Nature Park. Hang out with koalas and exotic birds, browse local markets, and more. At the end of the day, glide through the treetops back to Cairns on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

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4.4

(1,092)

Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip from Cairns

Free Cancellation
7 hours

from $113

Experience the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns without giving up your entire day. This streamlined snorkeling tour uses a fast vessel to reach a nearby reef site quickly, so you spend more time in the water and less time traveling. Once there, a dedicated snorkel guide helps you get set up and leads you around the reef—making it an easy, time-efficient way to see vibrant coral and marine life.

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4.8

(431)

Cairns Half Day Tour a Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Experience

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $126

4.1

(207)

Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $77

Special Offer

Get set for a wet and wild adventure as you hurtle down the Mulgrave River on a giant tube! Hang on tight as you navigate small rapids and then soak up the scenery as you drift through the rainforest. This fun-filled morning tour includes hotel pick-up and round-trip transport from Cairns, plus around 2 hours of tubing. Best of all: there’s no experience necessary, so everyone can give it a go!

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4.7

(678)

Cairns Rainforest River Tubing

Free Cancellation
4 hours 30 minutes

from

$63

$67

Likely to Sell Out

Guided boardwalk through the Daintree Rainforest with your guide

Head out on a rainforest adventure on the original Daintree Rainforest Tour. Take a guided walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest and along the flawless white beaches of Cape Tribulation with your guide. Then, hop aboard a river cruise and listen to commentary about the local wildlife as you try to spot crocodiles. Then, take a freshwater swim in the heart of the rainforest and enjoy a homegrown tropical fruit ice cream.

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4.7

(1,051)

Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation Full Day Tour

Free Cancellation
10 hours

from $168

Meet your crew at the Pier Shopping Centre in Cairns and check in for your adventure. Head to the Cairns Marlin Marina and board a fast vessel for an exhilarating trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the World heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef with a guided snorkel at 2 stunning locations chosen by our skipper for the best experience. Enjoy a small-group experience with quality snorkelling equipment, a snorkel guide, and flotation devices. Stay fuelled with lunch and snacks, and purchase drinks on board. Snorkel gear, a stinger suit, and flotation devices are included, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. - Snorkel at two locations on the Great Barrier Reef - All essential snorkelling equipment provided - Lunch and snacks included, with drinks available for purchase - Small group setting for a personalised experience

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4.9

(36)

Great Barrier Reef Small Group Snorkelling Adventure

Free Cancellation
7 hours

from $182

Special Offer

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders and Aboriginal heritage of Australia's Tropical North Queensland on this full-day tour from Cairns. First, head to the Mossman Gorge to take part in a traditional smoke ceremony with the indigenous Kuku Yalanji people. Then, enjoy lunch in the Daintree Village. After lunch, join a wildlife cruise on the Daintree River where you might see a crocodile, and learn about the fragile ecosystem of this impressive, serpent-like river system. Finally, head to Thornton’s Beach, where the rainforest meets the reef.

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4.6

(1,979)

Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip

Free Cancellation
10 to 12 hours

from

$151

$161

Special Offer

Make the most of your time in Tropical North Queensland with this all-in-one day trip through the Atherton Tablelands. Take in natural beauty and cultural insight in one comprehensive experience. Start beneath the ancient Cathedral Fig Tree, where a guide reveals the rainforest’s deep spiritual and ecological roots. Take a dip in the waters of Lake Eacham, enjoy a hearty pub lunch made with local ingredients, and visit two of the region’s most scenic waterfalls—Millaa Millaa and Josephine Falls. Along the way, spot native wildlife such as tree-kangaroos, and end your journey at the Babinda Boulders.

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4.7

(745)

Cairns: All Inclusive Waterfalls and Rainforest Tour

Free Cancellation
11 hours

Half Day Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour

Free Cancellation
5 hours

from $147

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kuranda Rainforest independently can be time-consuming and complex, with transport, tickets, and timing to manage. This full-day tour from Cairns simplifies the experience by combining the region’s highlights into one seamless itinerary. Journey to Kuranda aboard the historic Scenic Railway, visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, tour Rainforestation Nature Park in an amphibious Army Duck, and see koalas, dingoes, and native wildlife at the Koala and Wildlife Park. An immersive Dreamtime walk with a Pamagirri guide, and an Australian barbecue buffet lunch are included, before returning to Cairns via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

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4.6

(614)

Grand Kuranda including Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway

Free Cancellation
10 hours

from $236

Travel by air-conditioned catamaran from Cairns Marina to our Moore Reef Pontoon located on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, perfectly positioned and equipped for you to explore this reef that is teeming with colourful coral and fascinating fish. Spend 4 hours exploring the reef by taking advantage of the free inclusions such as glass bottom boat tours, all snorkelling equipment, underwater observatory, fish feeding presentation, an enclosed ocean pool for kids and buffet lunch. The pontoon also features an upper sundeck to relax in the sun and look out over the turquoise waters in between activities. This is where you'll find the waterslide - the only theme park waterslide on the reef! Dial up the adventure and add on optional extras like include Introductory or Certified diving, Seawalker Helmet dive, Guided Snorkel Tour or even a Scenic helicopter flight.

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4.3

(844)

Sunlover Reef Cruises Cairns Great Barrier Reef Experience

Free Cancellation
8 hours

from $216

Clown fish guard their anenome on the coral reef off Fitzroy Island, Cairns.

Spend a full day on Fitzroy Island with fast catamaran transfers from Cairns and plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. Cruise from the Marlin Marina to the island, then enjoy up to seven hours to snorkel the surrounding reef, view marine life from a glass-bottom boat, relax on the beach, or walk rainforest trails within the national park. Choose from a range of packages, including simple transfers or options which include snorkeling or glass-bottom boat activities, depending on your interests and budget.

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4.2

(694)

Fitzroy Island Day Tour from Cairns

Free Cancellation
7 hours 30 minutes

from $76

Journey to the rain forest village of Kuranda via two unique transit options on this memorable full-day tour from Cairns or Port Douglas. Skip the line and enjoy Gold Class service aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, winding through lush mountain passes and waterfall gorges along the way. In the opposite direction, glide above the treetops in a gondola and soak up spectacular views of the mountains and coastline on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. In Kuranda, enjoy leisure time to explore the heritage markets, learn about aboriginal culture or interact with native wildlife.

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4.5

(586)

Skip the Line Kuranda Scenic Railway Gold Class and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Free Cancellation
8 hours

from $162

Spend a day on the Great Barrier Reef at two different snorkel and dive sites on this luxury catamaran cruise from Cairns. Travel in style aboard a fast, comfortable catamaran to the outer edge of Upolu Reef, "Wonder Wall," and the Upolu Cay reef area, where you can choose to snorkel or dive (additional cost) and observe the coral that's teeming with colorful fish. Refuel with a buffet lunch on board the catamaran, ensuring there's

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4.8

(1,929)

Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

Free Cancellation
9 hours

from $183

Go snorkeling or scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day cruise from Cairns. Relax on board your 80-foot (25-meter) luxury catamaran as your captain sails to two exclusive locations on the Great Barrier Reef. Choose to snorkel or dive, with full instruction provided by guides, and see an array of colorful fish, sea turtles, and corals. Your tour includes morning and afternoon tea, and a buffet lunch, with additional beverages available for purchase.

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4.9

(2,612)

Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

Free Cancellation
9 hours

from $193

Likely to Sell Out

Enjoy aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef on a scenic flight from Cairns. With window seats guaranteed, this flight features informative commentary from your pilot as you fly over the city of Cairns, then head out over the turquoise sea to Green Island and Palm Cove. Pass over Arlington Reef, Upolu Reef, Double Island and North Queensland’s coast before heading back to the mainland. Your flight also includes a free transfer courtesy bus from your centrally located accommodations in Cairns.

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4.8

(223)

Great Barrier Reef 40 Minute Scenic Flight from Cairns - Reef Hopper

Free Cancellation
40 minutes

from $182

Travel over and through the rainforest on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

On this fun filled day tour you can take in the magnificent views aboard the Kuranda Scenic Rail, spend some free time in the mountaintop village of Kuranda, then soar above the rainforest canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Our coach will then transfer you to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – the best place to see crocodiles in Tropical North Queensland! At Hartley’s you’ll explore the Melaleuca Wetlands on a boat cruise, marvel at the death roll of a Saltwater Crocodile and explore the wildlife park - home to Koala’s, Wallabies and Queensland’s Southern Cassowaries.

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4.4

(25)

Kuranda, Scenic Rail, Skyrail and Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

Free Cancellation
8 hours

from $187

If you want to enjoy a tropical island beach paradise from Cairns but don’t have a lot of time, this half or full-day trip to Green Island is ideal. Be transported by fast catamaran from Cairns to save time. Choose between a glass-bottomed boat tour or the use of snorkeling equipment. Get access to the island’s pool or take a self-guided walk of the island if you want to be more active.

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4.2

(297)

Snorkelling or Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

Free Cancellation
3 to 12 hours

from $89

Make the most of your time in Kuranda with a single ticket to Rainforestation Nature Park—no need to juggle multiple bookings or plan a complex itinerary. Just minutes from Kuranda village and easily reached from Cairns, this all-in-one experience combines wildlife encounters, a rainforest tour in an amphibious Army Duck, and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. It’s an effortless way to see native animals, explore lush rainforest, and connect with Australia’s First Nations culture, all in one place and at your own pace.

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4.1

(35)

Kuranda Rainforestation Nature Park Ticket (BNP)

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $49

Ensure a memorable experience on the Outer Great Barrier Reef on this full-day cruise aboard a catamaran. Head for Michaelmas Cay and Hastings Outer Reef and plunge into the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel among its rich marine life or include an introductory or certified dive (additional cost). Includes a buffet lunch and morning and afternoon tea on board, all snorkeling gear, and wetsuits or stinger suits.

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4.9

(1,033)

Seastar Luxury Outer Great Barrier Reef Island and Reef Tour

Free Cancellation
7 hours 30 minutes

from $186

Likely to Sell Out

Discover the natural wonders of Tropical North Queensland on a full-day tour to Chillagoe Caves and Granite Gorge. Travel from Cairns by rugged 4WD vehicle with a naturalist guide, passing over the McAllister Ranges and the Great Dividing Range as you explore the Australian Outback. Visit Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park, drive near the wetlands to spot Australian native wildlife, and stop by historic mining towns. This small-group tour also included morning tea and a pub lunch.

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4.8

(211)

Chillagoe Caves and Outback Day Trip from Cairns

Free Cancellation
11 hours 30 minutes

from $168

They say the rainforest meets the reef at Cape Tribulation, and you’ll see why on this day tour from Cairns. Hop on board the Daintree River ferry to get to the Cape. Tour the rainforests and beaches safely with a guide, looking out for saltwater crocs, cassowaries, and other tropical wildlife. Cool off with a swim in a freshwater creek and relax on pristine beaches. This is a fun-filled day and an easy way to visit this wild area.

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4.9

(518)

Cape Tribulation Day Tour from Cairns

Free Cancellation
11 hours

from $154

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Top Attractions in Cairns & the Tropical North

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People Also Ask

What are the best tours in Cairns and the Tropical North?

There are plenty of high-quality tours and experiences in Cairns & the Tropical North. According to previous travelers, here are the best tours to book right now:

Are guided tours in Cairns & the Tropical North worth it?

Yes, guided tours of Cairns & the Tropical North are definitely worth it, especially if it's your first time "down under." With a guide at the helm, you don't need to worry about logistics, especially getting around, which can be tricky if you drive on the right-hand side of the road back home. Your guide can also fill you in on what you need to know when it comes to dangerous flora and fauna; Tropical North Queensland is a beautiful place, but there are definitely pretty things best admired from afar.

Per one customer who booked the Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran, "This full day trip is seriously amazing and so worth it, you'll totally lose track of time. The whole crew was super helpful and really wanted to make sure you were comfy. Huge thanks to Parker, Darcy, Simon, and the team for taking such good care of me, especially since I'm a nervous swimmer. The vibe, the boat, the crew, the food, and especially their knowledge of the reef, timing, and water safety, I mean really hats off to Passions of Paradise. I'd totally do it again with these guys. Highly recommend!"

How much do Cairns and the Tropical North tours cost?

Guided tours in Cairns and the Tropical North aren't as cheap as tours in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, but that's because many tours incorporate outdoor activities that require more staff and overhead. The most affordable tours are self-guided tours and group walking tours starting around US$30 per person. Tours that include a trip to the rainforest or getting out on the water will set you back at least US$40 per person. And if one of your bucket list items is to visit the Great Barrier Reef, expect to pay a minimum of US$100 per person for a highly-rated tour.

For a tour at the lower end of the price range, consider the Cairns History Walking Tour for US$37 per person. In just 90 minutes, you'll hear about 4,000 years of history as you cover the city's main attractions, at least from the outside. You'll make brief stops at the Cairns Museum, Cairns Art Gallery, Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, and the Crystal Ball Bookstore. Pricier tours include the best-selling Cairns Half-Day Tour a Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Experience from US$123 per person. Slip into your Stinger Suit™ (included), grab a snorkel mask and fins (also included), and spend up to two hours exploring underwater at the colorful Upolu Reef. The tour price also includes light snacks as well as professional guides who will make sure you're safe while educating you about life at the Great Barrier Reef.

What activities are included on Cairns and the Tropical North tours?

Cairns and the Tropical North tours cater to an array of interests, but are best suited for those who are curious about nature and enjoy the outdoors. Activities run the gamut from hiking and tubing in the rainforest to snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, and even encountering crocodiles, hand-feeding kangaroos, and cuddling koala bears. There are also plenty of activities centered around celebrating Aboriginal art and culture.

To see as much of Cairns and the Tropical North as possible in a short period of time, look for highly-rated multi-day tours. For example, the Cairns Super Saver: Reef Cruise, Daintree & Kuranda Rail/Skyrail package covers the city, gives you a healthy dose of the Daintree Rainforest, and ventures to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef where you'll enjoy snorkeling at two reefs. Modes of transportation on this 3-day tour include automobiles, boats, cable cars, and even a train.

How many days in Cairns and the Tropical North is enough?

For most people, 4–5 days in Cairns and the Tropical North is enough, especially when combined with visiting other areas of Australia. Spend one day getting your bearings in Cairns, where stopping by Cairns Aquarium should be mandatory, another day relaxing on the beach, and 2–3 days dedicated to visiting the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef. Cairns is the gateway to both, and it would be remiss not to see them while you’re this far north.

What are the best attractions in Cairns and the Tropical North?

What are the best day trips around Cairns and the Tropical North?

There are tons of great trips to take from Cairns and the Tropical North. According to traveler reviews, these are the best day trips to book right now:

View all of Viator's top Cairns and the Tropical North day trips.

What are the best affordable things to do in Cairns and the Tropical North?

What are the best tours and things to do in Cairns and the Tropical North for couples?

Couples will find plenty of romantic tours in Cairns and the Tropical North. Here are some of the top activities to book now, according to previous travelers:

View all of Viator's top romantic tours in Cairns and the Tropical North.

What are the best outdoor activities to do in Cairns and the Tropical North?

It's no secret that Cairns and the Tropical North is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top outdoor tours to book right now:

View all of Viator's top outdoor activities in Cairns and the Tropical North.

What are the best museums and cultural attractions in Cairns and the Tropical North?

What are the best tours and things to do in Cairns and the Tropical North for families?

Cairns and the Tropical North has enough activities to entertain every member of your family. Here are some of the top kid-friendly tours to book now, according to previous travelers:

View all of Viator's top family-friendly tours in Cairns and the Tropical North.

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All Cairns & the Tropical North Tours & Excursions in 2026

200+ results

Top Attractions in Cairns & the Tropical North

Green Island

Kuranda Koala Gardens

Birdworld Kuranda

Mossman Gorge

Great Barrier Reef

RainForeStation Nature Park

Green Island

Kuranda Koala Gardens

Birdworld Kuranda

Mossman Gorge

Great Barrier Reef

RainForeStation Nature Park

Green Island

Kuranda Koala Gardens

Birdworld Kuranda

Mossman Gorge

People Also Ask