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.

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.7

(3,829)

from $200

Begin your visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures with breakfast in the company of a koala and its keeper. After morning hotel pickup in Cairns or Palm Cove, transfer to Hartley's in time for your hot Aussie breakfast and conversation with the keeper about the koalas. Then you can explore at your leisure: take a boat cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon to watch crocodiles feeding. Enjoy informative and entertaining wildlife presentations throughout the day, and see Australian wildlife up close, including kangaroos, wallabies, snakes, cassowaries, quolls and more.

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Breakfast with the Koalas at Hartley's Crocodile Park from Cairns or Palm Cove

6 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(39)

from $120

Cape Tribulation.. where tropical rainforest meet secluded and beautiful beaches.

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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Cape Tribulation Day Tour from Cairns

11 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(523)

from $159

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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Cairns: All Inclusive Waterfalls and Rainforest Tour

11 hoursFree Cancellation

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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Sunlover Reef Cruises Cairns Great Barrier Reef Experience

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.3

(855)

from $223

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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Cairns Rainforest River Tubing

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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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Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures Half-Day Tour from Cairns

5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(201)

from $95

Enjoy an unforgettable animal encounter with a visit to Hartley's Crocodile Adventures from Cairns. Brave a face-to-face meeting with menacing crocodiles or hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies with guidance and supervision from the friendly staff, then get up-close to other Aussie creatures like Koala's, cassowaries, quolls and snakes. Best of all, your self-guided tour includes entrance tickets, hotel pick-up and round-trip transport from Cairns.

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Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Day Trip from Cairns

6 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(91)

from $90

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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Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(1,999)

from $174

Explore Northern Queensland’s natural beauty on a full-day tour of Cape Tribulation and the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Daintree Rainforest from Cairns. Start the day spotting koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles at a wildlife park in Port Douglas, then head to Cape Tribulation beach. Take a guided hike through the rainforest, looking out for native birds such as cassowaries. End with a cruise on the Daintree River and perhaps spy wild crocodiles.

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Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness (TCT)

12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(141)

from $196

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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Snorkelling or Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

3 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.1

(304)

from $92

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

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(28)

from $194

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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Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation Full Day Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(1,069)

from $174

Likely to Sell Out

Take a day trip from Cairns to Kuranda on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and return via the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Alternatively, make the 1-way journey by railway and return by skyrail. Enjoy a tranquil ride as you soar above the rainforest canopy, with views from Cairns all the way to the Great Barrier Reef, and spend free time in Kuranda Village. If you wish, upgrade your transport with admission to the Rainforestation Nature Park — the latter option with or without lunch.

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Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Day Trip from Cairns

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(233)

from $117

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

40 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(233)

from $210

Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.1

(218)

from $80

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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Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip from Cairns

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(1,106)

from $117

Kuranda Village, Army Duck Tour with Train and Skyrail (KDB)

9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.2

(72)

from $179

Venture off-the-beaten-track and explore the UNESCO-listed wilderness of Australia’s tropical north on this full-day tour from Cairns. Journey along the Captain Cook Highway; take a guided hike through the Mossman Gorge and cool off with a dip in the Mossman River. After lunch (included), look out for crocodiles on a scenic cruise down the Daintree River, then continue to Cape Tribulation to trek through the Daintree Rainforest and enjoy magnificent views over the Great Barrier Reef. This small-group tour is limited to 14 people for a personalized experience.

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Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge and Daintree Rainforest Day Tour

11 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(865)

from $206

Get an overview of the Atherton Tablelands region on a comprehensive day tour from Cairns. With a guide to show you the best spots, such as crater lakes, rain forest hikes, and waterfall swims, learn about the ecology and geology of the region. Highlights include Lake Eacham, Milla Milla Falls, Josephine Falls, and Babinda Boulders. A 2-course lunch, national park fees, and round-trip transportation from central Cairns accommodations included.

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Fun, Falls and Forests Day Trip from Cairns

12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(954)

from $123

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

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(590)

from $168

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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Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(1,960)

from $189

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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Grand Kuranda including Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(618)

from $246

Dive into the spectacular underwater realm of the Great Barrier Reef on this full-day snorkel and scuba cruise from Cairns. Travel aboard a luxurious catamaran to three renowned dive sites to swim among coral gardens and tropical marine life. All experience levels are welcome, and guides are on hand to assist with your choice of snorkeling, introductory scuba diving, or certified diving. A buffet lunch plus morning and afternoon tea on the catamaran are included.

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Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(445)

from $224

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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

Great Barrier Reef

RainForeStation Nature Park

Green Island

Birdworld Kuranda

People Also Ask