If you’re looking for the ultimate Cairns road trips, you’re in for an adventure of a lifetime. Cairns, situated in tropical North Queensland, Australia, is the gateway to breathtaking landscapes, lush rainforests, and the majestic Great Barrier Reef. Embarking on road trips from Cairns allows you to explore the region’s natural wonders at your own pace. Here are the top 5 road trip adventures from Cairns, perfect for day trips, overnighters or a weekend adventure.
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Cairns Road Trips Transportation
If you don’t have your own transportation, check out the range and availability of hire cars & 4WD’s from Europcar. Additionally if you plan to stay overnight or longer at one or more of these Cairns Road Trips destinations, you may like to combine your transport and your accommodation with a Jucy Campervan!
Cairns to Port Douglas
Distance from Cairns: 70km approximately 1 hours drive)
Must Do Adventures: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure | Drift River Snorkeling In the Daintree @ Mossman Gorge | Daintree Discovery Centre
This iconic coastal drive is a must-do for any road trip enthusiast. The journey covers approximately 70 kilometers along the stunning coastline, offering panoramic views and hidden gems. Starting from Cairns, you can stop by Palm Cove, a pristine beach known for its picturesque palm trees.
As you make your way North, around 20 mins from Palm Cove is the Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures experience. Your all day entry includes a Lagoon Cruise, crocodile feeding presentations, a free-flight aviary and more. Skip the queue and get your Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure entry tickets online
Continuing your journey, you’ll encounter the Mossman Gorge, where you can take a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters. Why not book yourself onto a 2hr or Day River Drift Snorkeling Tour, where you can explore the ancient Daintree forest and spot for fish and turtles under the water.
Be sure to also visit the Daintree Discovery Centre. Skip the entrance lines with a pre-booked ticket to access the canopy tower and 23m tall aerial walkway that looks out over the rainforest.
Finally, you’ll reach Port Douglas, a charming coastal town renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning beaches (including Four Mile Beach), and you can access Great Barrier Reef Tours from Port Douglas also.
Cairns to Cape Tribulation
Distance from Cairns: 140kms (approximately 2 hrs & 40 mins drive)
Must Do Adventures: Kulki Boardwalk | Daintree Forest Night Walk
This road trip adventure takes you on a 140-kilometre drive through the captivating Daintree Rainforest. As you traverse this ancient rainforest, you’ll witness breathtaking scenery and encounter unique wildlife. Along the way, make sure to explore Mossman Gorge and its refreshing swimming holes.
Upon reaching Cape Tribulation, you’ll be greeted by beautiful and secluded beaches. Be sure to wander the Kulki Boardwalk (600m return) to explore the sandy beaches and rocky headlands.
While in Cape Tribulation you may like to enjoy the unique experience of a Daintree Rainforest Night Walk to meet the nocturnal creatures underneath the canopy of one of the world’s oldest rainforests.
Cape Tribulation is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef on one of the many tours that depart from here.
Cairns to Kuranda
Distance from Cairns: 30km (approximately 40mins drive)
Must Do Adventures: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway | Barron Falls | Koala Gardens
The road trip to Kuranda offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. Begin your journey from Cairns and hop aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, an iconic heritage train. This historic railway takes you on a scenic 1.5-hour journey through lush rainforest and awe-inspiring landscapes, including the Barron Gorge National Park.
You can also see the magnificent Daintree Rainforest from the air on the Skyrail Rainforst Cableway. This gentle ride takes you up high over the rainforest before descending into the rainforest where you can experience it up close.
Upon arrival in Kuranda, explore the vibrant local markets, walk through the rainforest, and even have a close encounter with a cuddly koala. Must do attractions include Koala Gardens and Birdworld.
Cairns to Cooktown
Distance from Cairns: 330km (approximately 4 hours drive)
Must Do Adventures: Crocodile Spotting Sunset Cruise
For history enthusiasts and adventurers alike, the road trip from Cairns to Cooktown is a captivating journey through time and wilderness. Covering a distance of 330 kilometers, this drive takes you along the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Along the way, explore golden beaches, take a dip in pristine waters, and even embark on a thrilling crocodile spotting tour.
Sunset Tours with Riverbend Tours depart from Cooktown daily (*where there are enough passengers). This evening crocodile spotting tour is equally relaxing and exciting.
In Cooktown, a town steeped in gold rush history, delve into local museums, hike through the rainforest, and embrace the rich Aboriginal culture.
Cairns to Atherton Tablelands
Distance from Cairns: 80km (approximately 1 & 1/2 hours drive)
Must Do Adventures: Milaa Milaa Falls | Crater Lakes National Park
Experience the beauty of the Atherton Tablelands on this scenic road trip. The gateway to the Atherton Tablelands is in Atherton located approximately 80 kilometers south of Cairns. As you drive through picturesque landscapes and rolling hills, you’ll encounter charming towns and stunning waterfalls. Take time to explore local markets, sample delicious local produce, and cool off with a dip in refreshing waterfall pools.
The Atherton Tablelands is a natural wonderland filled with waterfalls and swimming holes, crater lakes and pristine flowing streams. The most popular of these attractions that are also close to Atherton include Millaa Millaa Falls and Crater Lakes National Park
The Atherton Tablelands also offer wildlife spotting opportunities and exhilarating hot air balloon rides for a truly unforgettable adventure.
Cairns Road Trips Accommodation
If you are looking for somewhere to stay while you are road tripping, check out Cairns Caravan Parks. Or perhaps enjoy a little bit of luxury in between road trip adventures at the Shangri La Cairns. You can also search for the best deals and availability on accommodation in Cairns (or your road trip destination) at HotelsCombined.com
Cairns Road Trips Summary
In conclusion, Cairns road trips offer an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and unforgettable encounters with Australia’s iconic landmarks. From the coastal wonders of Port Douglas to the ancient rainforests of Cape Tribulation. These road trips from Cairns provide a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, fuel up your vehicle, buckle up, and embark on an epic road trip adventure from Cairns to explore the wonders of tropical North Queensland.
If you are looking for some adventure without leaving Cairns, check out these adventures in Cairns, that don’t require you to leave the city!
Lauren Angove is an adventurous Perth (Western Australia) Mum of two boys who loves to blog about her experiences to inspire other mid-lifers to choose their most adventurous lives now. Keep up to date with her latest adventure inspiration and advice at Always Adventure Ready on facebook.