Cairns City Short Break

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside customs exit and delivered to your Cairns accommodation.

Welcome to Cairns, a city rich in history and natural wonders. For more than 40,000 years, this tropical paradise has been home to Indigenous Australians, with its cultural heritage still evident today. Settled by Europeans in 1876 during the gold rush, Cairns has since evolved into a thriving destination famously known as "where the rainforest meets the reef." As the gateway to the ancient Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers unparalleled access to two of nature’s greatest treasures. Explore the vibrant Esplanade, where you’ll find a stunning swimming lagoon, lively weekend markets, and a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Cairns is ready to welcome you to its unforgettable tropical charm.

Cairns is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and Queensland's tropical north. It is a laid-back town with a relaxed way of life, ideal for people who enjoy the outdoors and tropical nature. Have a stroll along Cairns esplanade, discover open-air markets, and grab a coffee in one of the brilliant al fresco cafes. After that, you can cool off in the sparkling Esplanade Lagoon. This saltwater pool is lined with parks, shady banyan trees, boardwalks, and barbeques. If you feel active and energized, you can join free outdoor exercise classes, such as yoga, Zumba, pilates, or beach volleyball, held six mornings a week along the Esplanade. In the afternoon, you can visit Cairns Botanic Gardens, with their spectacular plant collection. The gardens feature rainforest vegetation and many interesting species of flowers. You can bring your snacks for the picnic or grab a snack in the cafeteria. You should also explore the Cairns Aquarium, which is dedicated to local species and habitats, with over 16,000 specimens on display. It is home to incredible sea creatures, from sharks to snakes. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood in one of the gourmet restaurants or a refreshing cocktail in a waterfront bar with its amazing ocean views and great vibes.

Take the giant leap into the heart of the rainforest. Teetering 50 metres above a deep natural lagoon, the AJ Hackett Bungy Jump is the most epic experience. With 16 jump styles unique to Skypark, there’s a jump for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time jumper or a seasoned thrill seeker, this jump will push your limits to the max!

Cap off a perfect day in paradise with an unforgettable Cairns dinner cruise—step aboard a luxurious sailing catamaran and glide along the tranquil waters of Trinity Inlet. As the tropical port city transforms from day to night, soak in the serene ambiance, breathtaking views, and soothing sounds of this enchanting coastal haven.

On the Frankland Islands Reef Tour, you'll start with a comfortable coach ride from Cairns through scenic landscapes, including the World Heritage rainforest and Walsh’s Pyramid. Enjoy a calm river cruise down the Mulgrave River, followed by a short boat ride to Normanby Island, located in the Great Barrier Reef. As the exclusive operator permitted to land on Normanby Island, Frankland Islands Reef Cruises allows you ample time and space to explore. Your customizable day includes various optional activities like snorkeling, a semi-submarine tour, guided island walks, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a beachside buffet lunch. After your island adventures, you'll return to Cairns in the late afternoon.

Experience this scenic journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the 'village in the rainforest'. Your day begins in Cairns as you board the train for a morning departure. Travel through unsurpassed views of World Heritage-listed rainforest and waterfalls, including Stoney Creek Falls and the breathtaking Barron Gorge. You will wind your way through 15 tunnels and over 37 bridges on your journey before reaching Kuranda, where you will have several hours to explore the village and visit Rainforestation Nature Park. Here there are over 100 acres of parklands to explore where you can also enjoy an Army Duck tour and the Pamagirri Aboriginal experience. In the afternoon you will board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a journey up and over the rainforest canopy, back to the Skyrail terminal where you will be transported back to the Cairns railway station.

The mountain retreat of Kuranda Village is nestled into the world's oldest living tropical rainforest, just 25 kilometres northwest of Cairns. The tiny town is a vivid mix of quirkiness, interesting characters and natural beauty all perched atop a mountain. The colourful village is accessible by either driving up the mountain range, travelling up in the Skyrail Cableway, or winding through the Barron Gorge on board the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Once you are here, there are a range of things to experience. To get your fix of retail therapy, head to the Kuranda Markets and quaint stores throughout the village. Experience the surrounding nature on a river cruise, and get friendly with the local wildlife at the Kuranda Koala Gardens and Birdworld Kuranda.

This morning you will be collected from your accommodation before dawn and taken to the launch site to begin your adventure. Watch on as the balloon inflates and be amazed at its sheer size. Your guide will have you in the balloon ready for launch as the sun begins to rise, setting the scene for your breathtaking experience as you gaze out the views of the Atherton Tablelands and the Great Barrier Reef that greet you. As the flight is coming to an end, your pilot will slowly guide the balloon back to the landing point where the fun continues. Once you have landed, experience the pack down of the balloon and come together with the pilot and crew to share a toast with a glass of bubbly to celebrate your unforgettable experience.

You will be picked up from your Cairns accommodation and taken to the Cairns Airport.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!