Cairns,
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Queensland
Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef
Exploring the Wonders of Cairns
and the Great Barrier Reef
Cairns, located in the tropical north of Queensland, is renowned for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The city is a gateway to an incredible marine world, where turquoise waters meet vibrant coral reefs, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers alike.
The Great Barrier Reef, with its 2,300 kilometers of marine biodiversity, is a paradise for underwater explorers. Whether you're taking a boat trip, diving, or snorkeling, the reef's kaleidoscopic marine life never fails to leave visitors in awe. Cairns itself is surrounded by lush rainforests, with its vibrant Esplanade providing a perfect balance of urban amenities and tropical relaxation.
The nearby Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest living rainforests, offers immersive nature walks and wildlife encounters. Cairns is an all-encompassing destination, offering the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
A Family Adventure in Cairns:
From Snorkeling to Scenic Train Rides
In early June 2023, we set off from Port Moresby to Cairns for an unforgettable family adventure, crossing the Torres Strait to experience the iconic Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, we were mesmerized by the vibrant marine life and coral formations, an experience that left us in awe of nature’s beauty.
Beyond the reef, we explored Kuranda, a quaint village nestled in the rainforest, accessible by a scenic train ride that offered stunning views, including the impressive Barron Falls.
Our time in Cairns was the perfect blend of ocean and land-based adventures, with each moment spent discovering something new.
Whether hiking through rainforests or relaxing by the coast, Cairns offered us an ideal family getaway filled with both excitement and serenity.
Exploring the Great Barrier Reef:
A Family-Friendly Adventure
When it comes to discovering the Great Barrier Reef and its thriving marine life, you’re spoiled for choice. A boat tour is perfect for a classic day trip; a helicopter ride offers breathtaking aerial views; and multi-day cruises give access to more remote, untouched spots. For an even more exclusive experience, a seaplane flight is also an option.
Traveling as a family, we chose the boat excursion—a popular and accessible option that docks at a floating platform about 50 kilometers off the coast.
Most excursions include snorkeling, scuba diving, and sometimes glass-bottom boat rides—making it easy for everyone, even the youngest travelers, to marvel at the wonders of the reef.
A Day in Kuranda: Train Rides,
Waterfalls, and Koala Cuddles
To wrap up our day in the most spectacular way, we hopped on the Skyrail cableway for a breathtaking ride over the vast tropical rainforest. Gliding silently above the canopy, we were treated to sweeping views of this lush natural wonder—a truly unforgettable finale to our Kuranda adventure.
After our unforgettable experience on the reef, we continued our adventure with a visit to the charming village of Kuranda. Tucked away in the heart of the rainforest, Kuranda is a destination you have to earn—getting there means boarding a scenic heritage train that feels like stepping back in time to the early 1900s.
As we wound our way through the mountains, breathtaking landscapes rolled past the windows, culminating in a moment of awe as we passed a majestic waterfall.
Once in Kuranda, we wandered through its lively little streets before heading to Kuranda Koala Gardens to meet some of Australia’s most iconic animals.
Cuddling a koala, watching kangaroos up close, and even spotting crocodiles—this magical wildlife encounter was the perfect way to round off a timeless day in the rainforest.