Cairns is a natural hub for exploring some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes. Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, the city offers a rich variety of tours that suit all interests—from aerial views to underwater adventures and rainforest explorations. We particularly enjoy the scenic flights over the reef, which provide a breathtaking perspective, and the full-day reef cruises that let you snorkel or dive in crystal waters. For those who prefer a slower pace, the self-guided trip to Kuranda offers a perfect blend of rainforest scenery, cultural markets, and historic rail journeys. Whatever your style, Cairns’s tours promise memorable experiences and a deeper connection to this extraordinary part of the world.
1. Cairns: Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight
Flying over the Great Barrier Reef is a must-do for any trip to Cairns. This scenic flight lasts around 40 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of Green Island, Arlington Reef, Middle Cay, and more. The pilot’s live commentary makes it easy to learn about the reef’s scale and beauty from above. The large window seats in the air-conditioned aircraft mean you won’t miss a moment of the vibrant coral formations and marine life below. Keep an eye out for humpback whales from July to August, making it an exciting bonus during those months. It’s a quick, spectacular way to appreciate the reef’s grandeur without getting wet.
This flight is perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a memorable overview of the reef’s vastness. The reviews give it a 4.9/5 from over 2,300 travelers, who praise the clear views and professional commentary. At just $151 per person, it’s a reasonably priced way to tick off one of Australia’s most iconic sights from a new angle. Bottom line: a stunning, affordable introduction to the reef that’s ideal for all ages.
2. From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran
If you want to spend a full day immersed in the reef, this 9-hour cruise by a high-performance catamaran is a top pick. It takes you to two outer reef locations, where you can snorkel, swim, or just relax while watching marine life such as turtles, fish, and colorful corals. This tour is highly rated (4.8/5 from over 3,100 reviews) for its smooth ride and quality onboard amenities. The chef-prepared lunch with tropical fruits adds a special touch, and the eco-friendly certification reassures environmentally conscious travelers.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to experience two different reef sites, giving you varied underwater vistas. The crew’s professionalism ensures a safe and informative trip, making it suitable for both snorkelers and divers. It costs $178 per person, which provides excellent value considering the full day of adventure and comfort. Bottom line: a comprehensive reef experience that balances adventure, comfort, and eco-consciousness.
3. From Cairns: Self-Guided Kuranda Trip with Train and Skyrail
This flexible, self-guided tour combines the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway with the soaring Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. For $129, you get a full day of exploring the rainforest village at your own pace. The scenic railway takes you through lush, World Heritage-listed rainforest, while the Skyrail offers a bird’s-eye view just meters above the canopy. Once in Kuranda, you can browse the markets, visit wildlife parks, or simply enjoy the village atmosphere.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love a bit of independence and want to customize their day. The reviews highlight the ease of travel and the stunning views, making it popular for families and nature lovers alike. It’s a good value for the full day of scenic transport and exploration. Bottom line: perfect for those seeking an immersive, flexible rainforest experience with easy transfer logistics.
4. Cairns: Outer and Coral Cay Snorkel and Dive Cruise
For those eager to get submerged in the reef’s underwater world, this 9-hour luxury cruise offers a chance to snorkel and dive at two iconic sites: Wonder Wall and Aquarium. The tour is rated 4.8/5 from over 1,250 reviews for its passionate crew and well-organized schedule. It features a guided drift snorkel tour, giving you the chance to glide effortlessly while seeing extraordinary sea life like turtles, rays, and barracudas.
The smorgasbord lunch, including smoked salmon and prawns, adds to the indulgence. The tour emphasizes eco-tourism, aligning with responsible travel values. The $171 price reflects the high-quality experience and access to some of the reef’s best sites. It’s best suited for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts seeking a relaxed, comprehensive day without feeling rushed. Bottom line: an excellent choice for underwater lovers wanting a guided, comfortable reef adventure.
5. Cairns: Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge Tour
This 11-hour tour takes you to two UNESCO-listed sites: the Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge. You’ll experience the forest’s ancient beauty, take in coastal views, and enjoy a Wildlife River Cruise of the Daintree River. The tour includes a Welcome to Country and Smoke Ceremony, adding cultural depth to your rainforest immersion. Visiting Cape Tribulation, where the reef meets the rainforest, provides a unique landscape.
Rated 4.6/5 from over 2,100 reviews, this trip combines natural wonders with cultural insight. The full-day format suits travelers wanting a comprehensive experience of rainforest and reef environments. For $136, it offers a good balance of guided activities and free time. Bottom line: a well-rounded, immersive day for nature and culture enthusiasts.
6. From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Half-Day Snorkeling Tour
If your schedule is tight, this half-day reef tour is an excellent quick fix, with 4 hours on a fast vessel reaching two reef sites. Rated 4.8/5 from nearly 900 reviews, travelers appreciate the personalized experience with a maximum of 27 guests, ensuring plenty of one-on-one time with the guide. The focus is on snorkelers, with equipment provided, including wetsuits and prescription masks.
The tour’s value lies in its efficiency—perfect for travelers who want a reef taste without a full day on the water. It departs at different times, giving flexibility. For $118, it provides quality reef access and a chance to see marine life up close. Bottom line: ideal for a quick, high-quality reef experience that fits into a busy schedule.
7. Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour with Lunch
This luxury full-day trip on a 35-meter superyacht offers five hours of snorkeling at two reef locations. For $162, it provides a comfortable, upscale experience with an included chef-made BBQ lunch. The tour visits two exclusive mooring sites, and the crew’s professionalism ensures a smooth, safe adventure. You can relax on deck or explore underwater with snorkel gear.
Rated 4.7/5 from reviews, travelers love the combination of luxury, access, and variety. The glass of wine with cheese on the return makes it feel special. It’s suited for travelers wanting a premium reef day without sacrificing comfort. Bottom line: a high-end, hassle-free reef experience that balances quality and value.
8. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour
For a classic reef experience, this 8-hour trip offers about 5 hours on two reef sites, rated 4.6/5 by over 1,400 reviewers. It includes snorkel and dive equipment, tropical buffet lunch, and guided snorkel tours. The boat features hot showers and amenities, making it a comfortable day on the water.
This tour appeals to those who want a full taste of the reef’s beauty without the extravagance of a superyacht. The price of $181 reflects its comprehensive approach. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a reliable, well-organized day in the water. Bottom line: a solid choice for reef lovers seeking ease and variety.
9. From Cairns: Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation 4WD Tour
This 8-hour 4WD tour explores the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation in depth. It includes a river cruise to spot crocodiles and wildlife, plus a visit to the famous Cape Tribulation Beach. The guide shares insights into the flora and fauna of this World Heritage area.
Rated 4.6/5 from over 1,200 reviews, it’s good for travelers who want a mix of adventure and education in the rainforest. The free Daintree ice cream is a quirky highlight. The tour’s focus on wildlife and scenic vistas makes it suitable for active travelers. Bottom line: a full, engaging day in one of Australia’s most iconic rainforest landscapes.
10. From Cairns: Waterfall Tour with Lunch
This 10-hour tour takes you through the lush Atherton Tablelands, with stops at Millaa Millaa, Josephine Falls, Babinda Boulders and Lake Eacham. The itinerary includes multiple swims in waterfalls and visiting scenic spots. The tour features morning and afternoon teas, plus a hearty lunch.
Rated 4.7/5 from over 800 reviews, it’s perfect for travelers who love combining scenic drives with water-based activities. The highlight is the chance to cool off in the waterfalls, especially Josephine Falls. The $98 price makes it accessible for a full day of outdoor fun. Bottom line: an excellent choice for active travelers seeking waterfalls and rainforest scenery.
11. Cairns: Fitzroy Island Full-Day Trip with Optional Extras
A ferry whisks you to Fitzroy Island, where you can hike, snorkel, or just relax. This 8-hour trip costs $64 and offers up to 7 hours of leisure time. You can upgrade with snorkel gear, a glass-bottom boat tour, or lunch. The island’s tranquil beaches and coral reefs make it a popular day trip.
Rated 4.5/5 from over 1,300 reviews, travelers enjoy the freedom to tailor their activities. The island’s accessible trails and coral reefs offer a straightforward, relaxing escape. Bottom line: great for families and travelers wanting a flexible, scenic day by the water.
12. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch
This 9-hour tour allows you to explore the reef’s colorful ecosystem with up to 5 hours of water time. Rated 4.7/5 from over 670 reviews, it includes indigenous welcome and guidance, adding cultural context. The trip offers snorkeling, lunch, and optional scuba diving.
The focus on cultural storytelling alongside underwater exploration makes this a rich experience. The included snorkel gear and lunch add convenience and value. It’s suited for travelers interested in both marine life and indigenous culture. Bottom line: an engaging, informative reef trip with cultural depth.
13. Cairns: Skyrail, Kuranda, and Rail Tour with Hotel Transfers
This full-day tour combines the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Scenic Railway, and hotel transfers. For $138, you get a seamless journey through the rainforest landscape to the charming village of Kuranda. The Skyrail offers stunning canopy views, while the rail journey provides historic charm.
Rated 4.6/5 from over 850 reviews, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed day immersed in rainforest scenery with easy logistics. The combination of transport and sightseeing makes it a practical, scenic outing. Bottom line: ideal for those who prefer guided comfort and scenic views over adventure.
14. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Scenic Helicopter Flight
For a truly spectacular day, this combo tour includes a full-day reef cruise plus a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight. Costing $243, it offers unmatched photo opportunities and reef exploration. The cruise features snorkeling and scuba diving, while the helicopter gives you breathtaking views from above.
Rated 4.6/5 from 838 reviews, travelers love the chance to see the reef from both below and above. The added helicopter ride is a highlight for many, providing a sense of scale and beauty. It’s suited for travelers seeking a luxurious, memorable adventure. Bottom line: a premium, versatile day combining marine and aerial perspectives.
15. From Cairns: 40-Min Scenic Reef Window Seat Airplane Flight
This quick, 40-minute flight offers a window seat on a high-wing aircraft, giving you a spectacular view of the reef and Green Island. Rated 4.8/5 from 378 reviews, it’s a top-rated short adventure that fits into tight schedules.
The in-flight commentary enhances the experience, providing context for what you see. The flight is a standout for those who want a bird’s-eye view without a full day on the water or in the air. At $178, it’s a cost-effective way to see the reef’s scale and color. Bottom line: perfect for time-pressed travelers wanting a memorable aerial snapshot.
How to Choose Your Cairns Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If your priority is seeing the reef from above, the Outer Edges Scenic Flight or the Scenic Reef Window Seat Flight offer quick, awe-inspiring views. For underwater exploration, the full-day reef cruises like the Outer Reef Full-Day Tour or the Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch provide immersive experiences with excellent value.
Interested in rainforest adventures? The Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge Tour and the Self-Guided Kuranda Trip give you a taste of Australia’s lush landscapes. For a bit of everything, the Skyrail and Kuranda combo or the Reef & Helicopter tour deliver scenic transport combined with marine or aerial highlights.
Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and interest in cultural experiences (like indigenous storytelling). Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Cairns offers a diverse selection of tours that cater to all kinds of travelers—whether you’re after a quick aerial overview, a full-day reef adventure, or an immersive rainforest journey. For a truly memorable trip, we suggest balancing your interests with your schedule and budget. The reef’s shimmering waters and the rainforest’s silent grandeur will leave you with stories to tell.
Happy planning, and don’t forget—early booking often ensures the best options. Whatever you choose, Cairns’s tours promise unforgettable moments in one of Australia’s most beautiful regions.