All Cairns & the Tropical North Tours & Excursions in 2026

200+ results

Sort by: Featured

Experience Cairns White Water Tubing and Rafting

Morning Rainforest River Tubing: - Relaxing float through tropical scenery on the Barron River - Surrounded by lush rainforest, birdlife, and calm freshwater flows - Easy, beginner-friendly activity suitable for all fitness levels - A peaceful way to experience North Queensland's natural environment - Gentle pace with time to enjoy the scenery and unwind Afternoon Barron River Rafting: - Exciting white-water rafting on the Barron River for up to 2 hours - Set within the Barron Gorge National Park - Navigate grade 2 - 3 rapids - Guided by experienced river guides - Stunning rainforest and gorge scenery throughout the journey - Minimum age: 12 years

...More

Experience Cairns White Water Tubing and Rafting

1 dayFree Cancellation

Special Offer

1.5 Hour Cairns JetSki Coastline Tour to Palm Cove

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Book your Private Departure Transfer from Cairns city hotels to Cairns Airport (CNS). Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

...More

Cairns hotels to Cairns Airport(CNS) - Departure Private Transfer

10 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Shared Transfer Between Cairns and Port Douglas

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Discover the beauty of Green Island, a tropical coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef, with full day tour and included Introductory or Certified diving. Engage in snorkeling, explore the island’s unique rainforests, and relax on pristine beaches. Enjoy optional buffet lunch or semi submersible tour to complete your day in paradise. - Full day tours allow up to 5.5 hours on Green Island. - Choose between snorkeling gear or a glass bottom boat tour. - Family-friendly activities available for all ages. - Introductory dives for beginners, no experience necessary (min age 12yrs) - Certified diving (padi required, min age 12yrs)

...More

Explore Green Island with Diving options from Cairns

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Discover Cairns like never before with the Secrets of Cairns City Game, a fun self-guided walking tour and city game packed with puzzles, riddles and hidden stories! This GPS-based exploration game lets you experience Cairns while exploring famous spots such as Shields Street, Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Art Gallery, Cairns City Library, Cairns Freemasons Centre and Cairns Cenotaph. Play solo for a personal challenge or together with friends, family or colleagues. During the game you solve tricky questions, puzzles, riddles and creative photo tasks to score points, unlock extra clues and solve the final mystery. Pause whenever you want and continue later at your own pace. Compete for a place on the leaderboard or play competitively for team building, making this scavenger hunt and walking tour through Cairns perfect for every type of explorer.

...More

Secrets of Cairns: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Private Waterfall and Rainforest Day Tour

11 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

This murder mystery experience is a true whodunit with suspects, alibis and a twist ending. It involves open world gameplay, where you receive a set of leads (locations) that you have to visit and you decide the order. At each location, you will solve a puzzle by interacting with something real, a plaque, a statue, a facade in the Cairns city centre, and collect the evidence to piece together the case and find the culprit. We offer 24/7 customer support and built-in hints to guarantee that you never stay stuck. The app will also provide real historical facts and local legends about the landmarks you're visiting. You can play anytime, at any hour. It will take you ~90-120 minutes with optional cafe breaks and you can pause and resume whenever. Total walking distance is about 1.5 miles and the game ends in the same area where it started. It's perfect for date nights, solo adventurers, couples, friends, families with older kids, or team-building events.

...More

Cairns Murder Mystery Self Guided Detective Escape Game

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Organic Perfume Making Workshops

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5% savings

from

$87$83

Member Pricing

Cairns Tableland experience, Paronella Park and Herberton Village

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Skip the Line: Cairns Museum Single Admission Ticket

1 dayFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Discover Cairns on a sun-soaked waterfront walk where reef meets rainforest and history lingers beneath the palms. From the heritage charm of the Barrier Reef Hotel to the Esplanade Lagoon’s sparkling waters, this self-guided tour blends gold-rush stories, cyclone survival, Indigenous culture, vibrant markets and ocean views. Wander past art galleries, historic ports, tropical plazas and seaside memorials while the Coral Sea keeps you company. Easygoing, layered and full of character, Cairns invites you to slow down, explore deeply and end your journey where the city breathes easiest — by the lagoon.

...More

Cairns City Self Guided Walking Tour with an APP

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

5% savings

from

$12$11

Member Pricing

The Cairns Museum is two blocks walk from Cairns Esplanade and the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal
- Cnr Lake and Shields Streets, Cairns
- (within) Cairns School of Arts building

Skip the Line: Cairns Museum Admission Ticket

1 dayFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Small tour operator - that means you get the best service/attention. SE Asian language abilities and understanding customers culture and background. Packaged tour means you save time and money. Drinking water bottle for all customers. Not much people on board that means we are quick and don't waste time picking many customers from many places. Local Tour Guide and the ability to speak your local language if you are from Asia and SE Asian countries. Guest customer service. All tours are subject to change,price,availbility, weather conditions & cancellations by the operators due to Covid19 pandemic.

...More

Kuranda Day Tour, TKS-3 Wildlife Gold 930

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

⭐ Top-Rated Vacation Photoshoots 2025 We're not just photographers, we're storytellers capturing your holiday exactly as it feels. With over six years of experience photographing travellers around the world, our small team specialises in authentic, natural photography that truly reflects your trip. In Cairns, we combine creativity with local knowledge to show you hidden gems, secret angles, and the best light. You'll not only get beautiful, professional photos but also insider tips to make the most of your time here. We're proud to be recognised among the top-rated photography tours of 2025, trusted by travellers worldwide for our relaxed style and stunning results.

...More

Private Vacation Photoshoot with Photographer in Cairns

1 hourFree Cancellation

5% savings

from

$146$139

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Explore the historical and natural attractions of the Atherton Tablelands on this small-group day tour from Cairns. Look for native wildlife in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest; see wallabies at Granite Gorge Nature Park; take a boat cruise on Lake Barrine; and learn about Australia’s history at Herberton Historic Village. Hotel pickup and drop-off from central Cairns is included.

...More

Cairns hidden gems, Historic Village Herberton and Tableland

9 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Join us to explore the history and cultural significance of the majestic Cathedral Fig and Lake Barrine on the Atherton Tablelands on this 2-hour private tag-along tour. You meet your guide at the Cathedral Fig Tree carpark in Danbulla National Park where you will take a guided cultural walk through the rainforest to learn about the traditional rainforest Aboriginal lifestyles, and the role that fig trees play in cultural practices. Here you will also view a cultural display and presentation to learn about tools and weapons, foods, and traditional seasons. Getting back in your vehicle, you will follow your guide to Lake Barrine, just a 15-minute drive down the road. Gather by the lakeside where your guide will explain the creation story of the lake in Yidinji belief, and how the story is confirmed through scientific evidence. You will also take a short walk to view two ancient Kauri Pines and learn about the region's timber harvesting history, and its lasting impacts on the rainforest.

...More

Walk on Yidinji Country With a Traditional Custodian

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Kuranda Deluxe with Scenic Railway and Butterfly Sanctuary

Explore the enchanting Kuranda region with the Deluxe tour that combines a scenic railway journey and a visit to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. This 9-hour adventure begins with a coach pickup from Cairns/Palm Cove/Port Douglas, leading you to the Rainforestation Nature Park. Experience the Army Duck rainforest ride and the captivating Pamagirri Aboriginal cultural show and visit Australian wildlife in Wildlife Park. Savor a delicious Aussie BBQ lunch before immersing yourself in the magic of thousands of butterflies at the sanctuary. Conclude day with a scenic ride back to Cairns (or Freshwater Station for Palm Cove and Port Douglas guests) on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, surrounded by stunning rainforest views.

...More

Kuranda Deluxe with Scenic Railway and Butterfly Sanctuary

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Experience the ultimate Great Barrier Reef adventure with our Pure Snorkeling Fly & Cruise package. GSL Aviation Cairns have partnered with Pure Snorkelling to offer an unforgettable full-day experience combining aerial views and underwater exploration. Start your adventure with a birds-eye view of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. Soar overhead with GSL Aviation aboard a high-wing aircraft, with guaranteed window seats for everyone on-board. The 40 minute 'Reef Hopper' flight departs Cairns Airport and gives you an appreciation of the region that you can only get from the air. Following the flight, you'll head to the Cairns Reef Terminal ready to depart on an afternoon reef adventure with Pure Snorkelling. Experience Cairns' ultimate half-day reef trip to exclusive reef locations including Briggs, Sudbury, Moore, and Thetford Reefs, showcasing the best of the Great Barrier Reef with plenty of time to explore underwater.

...More

Fly & Snorkelling Adventures

9 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Book your Private Round-Trip Transfer from Cairns Airport (CNS) to Cairns city hotels and return. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private ,door to door airport transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

...More

Cairns Airport(CNS) to Cairns City - Round-Trip Private Transfer

20 minutesFree Cancellation

5% savings

from

$98$93

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Roof Bungy at Skypark Cairns by AJ Hackett

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Every course here is taught entirely on the Great Barrier Reef — never in a pool, never in a classroom, never overnight. Most dive schools make you choose: train in a heated pool in town for two days before you ever see the reef, or head out on a liveaboard for several nights. Sunlover's Moore Reef pontoon does neither. The purpose-built training area sits right on the reef — 1 to 3 metres, calm and sheltered, shallow enough to stand up in, but genuinely part of the ocean. Every skill is learned in salt water, from day one. And every night, you're back in your own hotel bed in Cairns. No liveaboard, no nights away. Why it matters? Real reef dives from day one, not a pool warm-up Home in Cairns every night — keep your holiday Fewest days of any comparable Cairns operator SSI certification, recognised worldwide

...More

Learn to Dive on the Great Barrier Reef

Member Pricing

Explore the lavishly decorated tombs of Ancient Egypt in Cairns, Queensland, with the Tomb of the Pharaohs guided tours. This immersive experience features meticulously recreated tombs and captivating stories shared by expert guides, transporting you back over 3,000 years into a world of ancient royalty. Walk through 11 stunning galleries filled with over 450 mesmerizing artifacts, including treasures from King Tutankhamun and Queen Nefertari. - Discover the lavish tombs of Pharaohs and Queens in Cairns - Over 450 artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and royal treasures - Accessible facility with free parking nearby and public transport options

...More

Tomb of the Pharaohs Night Tour and 2 Course Dinner in Cairns

3 hoursFree Cancellation

...

8 9 10

Must-Dos in Cairns & the Tropical North

1 / 2

7367c6bf-895c-4519-8341-4be60583310e

things_to_do

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.

More Tours in Cairns & the Tropical North

Attractions in Cairns & the Tropical North, Australia

Things to do near Cairns & the Tropical North

Cairns & the Tropical North Best Experiences

Popular on Viator

Tours by Duration Fishing Charters Climbing Airport & Hotel Transfers Horseback Riding Catamaran Cruises Attractions & Museums Outback Tours Water Tours Hot Air Balloon Rides Shore Excursions Private Drivers

All Cairns & the Tropical North Tours & Excursions in 2026

200+ results

Must-Dos in Cairns & the Tropical North

Green Island

Birdworld Kuranda

Mossman Gorge

Daintree Rainforest

Great Barrier Reef

Rainforestation Nature Park

Green Island

Birdworld Kuranda

Mossman Gorge

Daintree Rainforest

Great Barrier Reef

Rainforestation Nature Park

Green Island

Birdworld Kuranda

Mossman Gorge

Daintree Rainforest

People Also Ask

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

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

How much do Cairns and the Tropical North tours cost?

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

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

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

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

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?

What are the best outdoor activities to do 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?