Visit Cairns: what are the best things to do and see in this northern town of Queensland?
L’ Australia is a land of adventures, everyone knows now. But if there is a destination to choose to ensure the best sensations strong, it’s good Cairns ! This city with a subtropical climate located in the extreme northeast of the country-continent is not the largest of Australian cities but has a very rich natural environment that you can enjoy a maximum. You will see through your reading, they are not the ones activities missing Cairns ...
Here are the best things to do in Cairns:
1. Dive into the Great Barrier of Coral
Wikimedia - Janderk
A dream for some, a checkbox for others, scuba diving on the most beautiful dive site of the planet (and only one living organism visible from the moon) is an exceptional experience! If the Great Barrier of Coral extends over 2,600 kilometres along the Queensland coast, it is well within Cairns you will have the best spots to dive. From Cairns, you will find a great choice of excursions to spend a day on a boat and perform one or more "dips". Nothing commits you to dive if you're scared or not confident. You can simply do something snorkelling and observe reefs and fish (and even sharks, harmless). This will cost you about 100 AUD$ a day (meal, a dip, and the day on the boat included), and 150 $ with a second jump. It is very accessible so. For what wants to graduate PADI , you will find all information on site or on the site.
2. Explore the lush tropical forest
You will notice that Cairns is in the hollow of many jungle-covered mountains. There is a multitude of national parks in which you can go alone or with a guide. The ideal is to take a guide because it will bring you directly to the most beautiful points. During the discovery you will walk through the jungle or on the canopy (above the jungle). Rivers, fauna and flora are on the menu. During your day, you can enjoy it to visit a crocodiles farm for example. At choice you have the surrounding parks Daintree National Park , Wooroonooran National Park , or more ready Kuranda State Forest .
3. Go for a rafting day
Two important and ideal rivers for rafting are located in the vicinity of Cairns: Tully River and Barron River . Local companies organize rafting days for about 200 AUD$ with meals and transport included. According to the season of the year, there are more or less rapids but the practice of rafting remains accessible to all. Good moments in the lively waters of North-Queensland!
4. Dive into a basin above a waterfall
WARNING: . This place is not known to many because its access is very limited. For lovers of strong sensations, you have the opportunity to jump from rocks (from 5 to 15m high) above the Barron Falls ! However, be careful, it is at your own risk... How to get there?
On this map you can see that you have to go to Kuranda by car. Once there, find the Weir Rd (Dam crossing). Then look for the railroad. Leave your car and walk along the railroad, which is theoretically forbidden... Be careful, a train goes from time to time. After 3 or 400m walk, go to the left before the red panel « Block limit and you will find rocks with a water point to dive. A basin is at the edge of the falls (it is quite high), you have to be careful. If you don't want to try, go to the point of view of the falls, accessible from Kuranda. Look. this video on Youtube To give you an idea.
5. Relax and swim in the lagoon of Cairns
Cairns, although placed by the water, does not have beaches directly accessible from the city centre. For this, you have to take the car and drive a few kilometers to finally find a beautiful beach. It's just a matter of time. jellyfish (male) did not invade the water... In any case, you can come to bathe in lago found on the Esplanade . This is where locals and holidaymakers preferably find themselves when the sun does not hit too hard. Ideal for relaxing and sunbathing.
6. Get out in the best bars and clubs of Cairns
Not large (165 000 inhabitants), Cairns however, Nightlife Very lively. With pubs/clubs such as Gilligan’s or Woolshed, you can go out and meet people. We'll come back. where to go out to Cairns in a new subject.
7. Take a tour of Kuranda's panoramic train
This train leaves Cairns and arrives in Kuranda. During the journey, the train will cross the rainforest, tunnels, bridges, and beautiful landscapes. This is another way to discover the Cairns region.
Flickr – robdownunder
8. Evade in Cape Tribulation or Port Douglas
North of Cairns, here are two destinations to be in the heart of nature and calm. Leave at least 2 days to discover one of the oldest forests in the world, the Daintree , located just north of the small town Port Douglas .
9. Jump in parachute or elastic
Many people come to Cairns to perform parachute jumps or elastic jumps . So if you still have a solid budget, don’t hesitate to book your parachute jump in Cairns, because during your fall you will have a great view of the Great Barrier of Coral. As for the elastic jump, the spot is at the entrance of the forest. Both are very impressive!
How do I get to Cairns?
The best way to get to Cairns is obviously the plane. At the start of the continent, there are no direct flights to Cairns: depending on the company, you will then stop in Sydney, Melbourne or Dubai before landing at the Cairns International Airport. For a flight at the best price, visit our partner's website Ulysses .
Where to stay in Cairns?
If you choose to visit Cairns you can read our article on best places to stay in Cairns . hotels. Cairns is known for its pleasant and welcoming character and therefore is not on the left side of the accommodation! Cairns is a city of favourite bagpackers. From pubs, to the most popular youth hostels to more residential hotels or apartments: you just have to choose according to your tastes and colors. You will find a cheaper hotel on this Compare hotels .
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