Full-day Tour at the Atherton Tablelands with Food Tasting

Full-Day Tour at the Atherton Tablelands with Food Tasting: A Journey Beyond the Reef

If you’re visiting Cairns and want to experience more than just the Great Barrier Reef, this full-day tour to the Atherton Tablelands is an excellent choice. For around $194 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring a region that rises from 400 to 1200 meters on the Great Dividing Range. The itinerary boasts visits to ten different locations, including waterfalls, national parks, local farms, and a distillery, all topped with food and drink tastings.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: First, the variety of scenery and activities—from rainforest walks to wildlife encounters to sampling local spirits. Second, the personalized guidance from knowledgeable hosts, like Simon and JJ, who make the experience both informative and engaging.

One potential consideration is the length of the day; it’s a full 10-hour outing, so be prepared for an active, sometimes busy schedule. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and culinary delights—especially those eager to explore beyond Cairns’ more famous attractions.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes from rainforest to savannah.
• Intimate small-group setting enhances the experience.
• Multiple tasting opportunities — food, coffee, spirits, and dairy.
• Expert guides share fascinating facts about the region.
• Wildlife encounters, waterfalls, and geological sights.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth journey.

Exploring the Atherton Tablelands: What You Can Expect

This tour combines the best of Far North Queensland’s natural beauty, local produce, and interesting history. It’s designed to appeal to travelers who want a comprehensive and authentic experience that connects scenery, wildlife, and culture, all wrapped in a friendly, small-group atmosphere.

The Itinerary Breakdown: Why Each Stop Matters

Stop 1: Barron Gorge National Park & Kuranda Village

Your day begins with a scenic tour of the rainforest at Barron Gorge, famous for its lush foliage and rugged cliffs. The rainforest walk offers a chance to see the canopy up close and learn about the ecology from your guide, Simon. This setting sets the tone for a day filled with natural wonders.

You’ll also visit Kuranda, a charming village with markets and arts, giving you a taste of local culture in a relaxed setting. The 20-minute walk here is free of charge but offers a lovely introduction to the area’s vibe.

Stop 2: Skybury Coffee & Papaya Plantation

Leaving the rainforest behind, the journey moves to the savannah landscape around Mareeba. At Skybury, you’ll enjoy morning tea with freshly baked scones paired with papaya jam and cream. Tasting the locally roasted coffee is a highlight—it’s a chance to appreciate Australia’s vibrant coffee culture outside of the cities.

This stop is praised for the delicious food and the insights into local agriculture, which makes you appreciate the region’s farming history.

Stop 3: Granite Gorge Nature Park & Wallabies

Next up is a wildlife encounter at Granite Gorge, where endemic wallabies hop freely. Your guide will take you on a short trek, and many travelers note the rare, unadorned wallabies are a real treat. The 40-minute stop offers a chance to photograph these unique creatures and enjoy some peaceful nature.

Stop 4: Mt. Uncle Distillery

No visit to the Tablelands is complete without tasting some spirits. At Mt. Uncle, you’ll sample a selection of award-winning liquors and spirits. The 45-minute tasting session, hosted by knowledgeable staff, introduces you to the region’s distilling craft—especially appreciated by those who enjoy a good local tipple. Learning about the distillery’s history adds depth to each sip.

Stop 5: Gallo DairyLand

Traveling through lush farmlands, your guide explains the region’s geology and history before arriving at Gallo Dairyland. Here, you’ll enjoy cheese and chocolate tastings. The one-hour stop provides a perfect blend of cultural insight and delicious samples, giving you a taste of Australia’s dairy tradition.

Stop 6: Curtain Fig National Park

The famous Curtain Fig Tree is over 500 years old and a marvel to behold. An elevated boardwalk takes you around this natural wonder, providing excellent photo opportunities and insights into its ecology. The 15-minute stop is free but leaves a lasting impression with its imposing presence.

Stop 7: Bromfield Swamp & WW2 History

Visiting Bromfield Swamp offers a unique glimpse into the area’s paleoenvironmental and historical significance. This extinct volcanic crater was a WW2 troop station and is now a nationally important wetland. It’s a quick 15-minute stop, but one that enriches understanding of the region’s past.

Stops 8 & 9: Millaa Millaa Falls & Lake Eacham

The highlight waterfalls—Millaa Millaa—are among Australia’s most photographed. Here, you might want to take a refreshing swim, a favorite among visitors. It’s a 25-minute stop filled with photo opportunities and the soothing sound of cascading water.

Next, you’ll visit Lake Eacham, a crater lake surrounded by rainforest. The 30-minute stop offers afternoon tea and the chance to relax or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

Stop 10: Lake Barrine

Finally, the tour concludes at Lake Barrine, a large volcanic crater lake sitting at 730 meters altitude. With dense rainforest and abundant birdlife, it’s a peaceful spot to reflect on your day. You’ll spend about 20 minutes here, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere.

Why This Tour Excels: What Travelers Love

Multiple reviews praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of tour guides, especially Simon. They mention how the guides’ depth of knowledge on flora, fauna, geology, and history adds a layer of richness to each stop. One reviewer notes, “Simon was a great host,” emphasizing the personal touch that elevates this experience beyond just sightseeing.

Food and drink tastings also score high. From local coffee and fresh scones at Skybury to spirits at Mt. Uncle and cheeses at Gallo Dairyland, the culinary experiences are curated to showcase regional specialties. Travelers often comment on the quality and variety, making the tour feel like a journey through Far North Queensland’s flavors.

The scenic stops—waterfalls, fig trees, and volcanic lakes—are consistently described as breathtaking. Many mention the smaller group size (max 11 travelers) as a big advantage, allowing for a more personal and flexible experience.

What Could Be Better?

A few mention the length of the day—it’s a full 10 hours—so travelers should be prepared for a full itinerary. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, some may find the schedule a bit packed.

Value and Practicality: Is It Worth the Cost?

At $193.54, this tour offers a comprehensive look at the Atherton Tablelands with multiple stops and food tastings included. When you consider the cost of individual admissions (such as national parks, distillery tastings, and food), the price seems reasonable for the depth of experience.

Transportation in a modern Toyota Hiace ensures comfort, and the small group size enhances interaction and flexibility. The pickup service adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in Cairns.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers who want to see waterfalls, wildlife, and lush landscapes, but also enjoy culinary experiences. It’s perfect for small groups looking for a more personalized and insightful day outside busy tourist spots. If you’re eager to learn from guides passionate about the region’s environment and history, this tour will satisfy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you travel in a comfortable modern Toyota Hiace, with pickup offered from Cairns.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 10 hours, including travel time and all stops.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour is interactive and personable, so be sure to specify any dietary needs. The hosts will do their best to accommodate.

Can I swim at Millaa Millaa Falls or Lake Eacham?
Yes, both waterfalls and crater lakes are suitable for swimming if the weather allows and you wish to take a dip.

Is alcohol tasting included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy tastings of spirits and liquors at Mt. Uncle Distillery, with up to 4 tastings.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 11 travelers, offering an intimate experience.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and carrying your driver’s license might be useful for alcohol tastings, as proof of age is required.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Please specify any mobility requirements; the tour staff will do their best to accommodate, but some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

Wrapping It Up

This full-day Atherton Tablelands tour offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, wildlife, and flavors, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded, authentic experience outside Cairns. The combination of scenic beauty, local produce, and engaging guides makes each moment memorable.

Travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, delicious tastings, and interactive learning will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s perfect for adventurers, foodies, and nature enthusiasts alike, looking to deepen their understanding of Far North Queensland’s diverse environment and culture.

If you’re after a day packed with stunning sights and authentic experiences—far from the crowds—this tour might just be the highlight of your trip. Be prepared for a full, fun, and educational journey through one of Australia’s most beautiful regions.