From this stylish international city, the islands, rainforest and reef of tropical North Queensland are at your doorstep. Snorkel, dive or do a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, a spectacular abode of coral islands and the ultimate haven for marine life that has even been listed as a World Heritage site! Enjoy the oceanfront energy of the Cairns Esplanade and trawl the restaurants, shops and bars. Go white water rafting in the nearby rivers and take the scenic railway to the tranquil, butterfly-fringed village of Kuranda. Don't miss a day trip to the magical Daintree Rainforest, thought to be the planet's oldest surviving tropical rainforest.

Places to Visit

• Wander the Cairns Promenade.
• Dive & Snorkel the Reef – a World Heritage-listed spectacular of coral islands, sponges and seaweed.
• Ride down a raging Tully River just an hour south of Cairns or float your inflatable boat down the rapids of the Barron River. You can enjoy the gentle ride on the Russell River, after a trek through the rainforest and swim in crystal clear pool.
• Climb up the mountain ranges and through tropical rainforest, waterfalls and national park on a relaxing one-and-a-half hour train journey to Kuranda.
• Visit the Daintree. The planet's oldest surviving tropical rainforest is just a two hour drive north of Cairns and home to Australia's most diverse range of plants and animals.
• Travel between Cairns and Port Douglas covering a 70km stretch of coastline, on the Captain Cook Highway which is one of the most highly recommended drives in the country.