Ultimate 5-Day Cairns Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Cairns

Cairns, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Coffee Tree

Start your day with a delicious brekkie at the Coffee Tree, where the local ingredients will fuel your adventure ahead.
Located nearby on Grafton St, a short walk from the waterfront.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Enjoy a refreshing swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a popular spot for both locals and visitors boasting stunning views.
Head towards the waterfront, it’s just a 5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rusty's Markets

Indulge in fresh local produce and international cuisines at Rusty's Markets; it's a true foodie haven.
A 10-minute stroll through the city center to the markets.
AUD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Cairns Botanical Gardens

Explore the beautiful Cairns Botanical Gardens, home to tropical plants and vibrant wildlife.
Take a quick Uber or refer to bus schedules to the Gardens.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Savour modern Australian cuisine featuring local ingredients and fresh seafood.
Return to the Esplanade area for a scenic 15-minute walk.
AUD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Great Barrier Reef

Cairns, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast on the Boat

Depart early for a day-long adventure to the Great Barrier Reef, enjoying a light breakfast served on board.
Meet at the Cairns Marina, a short walk from your accommodation.
Included in tour, 1 hour

9:00AM

Snorkelling Dive

Dive into the crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable snorkelling experience among colourful coral reefs and marine life.
This is included in your Reef tour package.
AUD150, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on the Reef

Enjoy a buffet lunch offered on the boat while soaking in the magnificent reef views.
Lunch is prepared and served aboard.
Included in tour, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Experience the reef from a unique perspective aboard a glass bottom boat, perfect for those who prefer to stay dry.
Tour guides will provide all necessary equipment and directions.
AUD60, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Cairns

Head back to Cairns, reminiscing about your incredible day while watching the sunset over the ocean.
The tour boat takes care of your return.
Included in tour, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Precinct

Enjoy a casual dinner at The Precinct, where you can find a menu filled with delicious Australian pub-food fare.
It's a short walk back from the Marina, around 10 minutes.
AUD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Daintree Rainforest

Daintree, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at Nimbin Tea House

Enjoy a quaint breakfast at the Nimbin Tea House, featuring delightful local teas and home-made pastries.
Drive or book a tour to the Daintree area, where this café is located.
AUD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Guided Daintree Rainforest Tour

Join a guided tour through the ancient Daintree Rainforest, learning about its unique ecosystem and breathtaking flora and fauna.
The meeting point is at Daintree Village close to the entrance of the rainforest reserve.
AUD130, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Mossman Gorge Café

Refuel with lunch at the Mossman Gorge Café, set amidst scenic surroundings and offering delicious bush tucker options.
Travel over to Mossman Gorge, a short drive from the rainforest.
AUD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Mossman Gorge Walk

Take a guided walk through the stunning Mossman Gorge, where you may see ancient rainforest species and crystal-clear rivers.
You'll start and end the walk at the café.
AUD30, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Cairns

Enjoy your drive back to Cairns, reflecting on the lush beauty of the Daintree.
Drive or book transport back to your hotel.
AUD25, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Waterbar & Grill

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner of fresh seafood at Waterbar & Grill, perfectly complemented by ocean views.
It's a short drive from the city centre or you can take a 20-minute walk.
AUD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Kuranda Day Trip

Kuranda, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bayleaf Cafe

Start with breakfast at Bayleaf Cafe, known for their amazing coffee and vibrant breakfast options.
A quick 10-minute walk from the city centre.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kuranda Scenic Railway

Embark on a breathtaking journey aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, offering awe-inspiring views of waterfalls and rainforest.
Board the train at Cairns Central Station.
AUD100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kuranda Village

Discover charming shops, markets and attractions in the picturesque village of Kuranda.
Explore the village on foot after disembarking the train.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kuranda Hotel

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Kuranda Hotel, famed for its casual atmosphere and hearty meals.
The hotel is conveniently located in the Kuranda Village.
AUD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Soar above the treetops on the Skyrail cableway, enjoying unparalleled views of World Heritage-listed rainforest.
Board the cableway from the Kuranda station to return to Cairns.
AUD120, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Cairns

Make your way back to Cairns and reflect on the day filled with adventure and natural beauty.
The cableway takes you back to the starting point.
Included in tour, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cairns Night Markets

Enjoy a casual dining experience at Cairns Night Markets, where you can sample numerous international street foods.
Take a short walk to the markets, just 15 minutes away.
AUD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relax and Departure

Cairns, Australia

8:30AM

Breakfast at the Cock & Bull

Savour a hearty breakfast at the Cock & Bull, offering a traditional Aussie breakfast to kickstart your day.
It's located towards the southern end of Cairns, a 10-minute drive.
AUD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relax at Palm Cove Beach

Spend your last morning relaxing at the stunning Palm Cove Beach, known for its beautiful shoreline and calm waters.
Drive or take a shuttle bus to Palm Cove, about 30 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Chill Café

Indulge in a delicious meal at Chill Café, known for their fresh salads and seafood right by the beach.
Located at Palm Cove, right next to the beach.
AUD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Return to Cairns and Departure

Head back to Cairns in time for your departure, soaking up the final moments of your adventure.
Drive back to Cairns or take a shuttle service.
AUD30, 1 hour
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