You've finally reached Cairns, the tropical wonderland in North Queensland and gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. With lush rainforests, white sand beaches, and the most extensive reef system in the world, you know this vibrant city will be an adventure. But with so many options, how do you choose what to do and see during your time here? The best way is to book an exciting combo tour.

All you need to do is hold on tight, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the wonders of Cairns.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef on a Snorkeling and Diving Adventure

A trip to Cairns isn't only complete with exploring the Great Barrier Reef. This natural wonder of the world is home to thousands of species of fish and coral, and the best way to experience its beauty is with a snorkelling or scuba diving tour.

You'll travel aboard a high-speed catamaran to pristine reef locations, gearing up with all the necessary equipment for a few hours of underwater adventure. If this is your first time snorkelling or dove, don't worry - the friendly staff provide instructions and guidance so you can get in the water confidently.

Once you plunge below the surface, you'll find yourself in an underwater paradise. Exotic fish of every colour - electric blue damselfish, rainbow-hued parrotfish, even the occasional sea turtle or reef shark - swim through forests of hard and soft corals. The kaleidoscope of colours and otherworldly shapes makes it easy to lose track of time as you peacefully drift along.

See Incredible Wildlife on a Rainforest Tour

One of the best ways to experience the wonders of the tropical north is on a rainforest tour from Cairns. The rainforests around Cairns, like the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and the Mossman Gorge, are home to an incredible array of wildlife. On a guided rainforest tour, you can spot rare birds like the Cassowary, colourful parrots, and the Azure Kingfisher.

With an experienced guide, you'll learn all about the ancient trees, exotic plants, and hidden waterfalls as you walk scenic trails. They can highlight hidden creatures and share local Aboriginal legends about the rainforest. Some tours offer extras like a tropical lunch, swimming in waterfalls, or cruising the Daintree River to spot saltwater crocodiles! A rainforest tour should be at the top of your list in Cairns.

Experience Indigenous Culture on an Aboriginal Center and Bush Tucker Tour

Experience Indigenous Culture on an Aboriginal Center and Bush Tucker Tour. An Aboriginal cultural tour is a must-do in Cairns. You'll learn about native Aboriginal tribes, see traditional dance performances, and taste unique Aussie bush foods.

Visit an Aboriginal Cultural Park

Two highly rated Aboriginal experiences are the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and Kuranda Aboriginal Village. At Tjapukai, you'll see cultural dances, learn how to throw a boomerang and spear and hear stories of the local Djabugay people. Kuranda Village offers traditional dance shows, didgeridoo playing, and basket-weaving demonstrations. Both provide insights into native Aboriginal heritage and a chance to shop for handcrafted goods.

Try Unique Aussie Cuisine

As part of these tours, you'll sample native bush foods like lemon myrtle, native mint, bush tomatoes, and kangaroo. Bush foods refer to plants, nuts, and berries that native Aboriginals have consumed for centuries. Lemon myrtle has a citrus flavour and is used to make tea, sauces, and desserts. Native mint has a refreshing peppermint-like taste and is used in salads. Bush tomatoes resemble cherry tomatoes and are tangy and raisin-sweet. Kangaroo meat is a lean, sustainable protein source. These foods showcase native Australian flavours you won't find anywhere else.

Learn Cultural Traditions

You'll see traditional dance performances like the Torres Strait Island dance or the Kun-barling Gay Songman, a ceremonial rainforest dance. Men demonstrate hunting skills and play the didgeridoo, a wind instrument made from a hollow tree branch. Women teach weaving and basket-making using native grasses and plants.

An Aboriginal cultural tour offers a glimpse into Australia's first people through interactive experiences, bush tucker tastings, and traditional performances. It's a memorable way to experience the destination's history, cuisine, and natural scenery. Add this to your Cairns adventure—you'll have a deeper connection to the land and its native inhabitants.

Relax After Adventures at a Luxury Day Spa

After a day exploring the Great Barrier Reef or trekking through the Daintree Rainforest, your body will appreciate some rest. Treat yourself to an indulgent spa at one of Cairns' luxury day spas.

Island Spa

Escape to a peaceful tropical oasis at Island Spa within the five-star Riley Resort. With 12 deluxe treatment rooms and magnificent ocean or rainforest views, Island Spa offers a blissful setting for your spa experience. Choose from various massage therapies, facials, body wraps, and beauty treatments. Their signature "Island Indulgence" package includes a facial, massage, body scrub, and spa lunch. Pure bliss!

Elements Spa

Nestled in a Balinese-style sanctuary, Elements Spa provides a tranquil retreat right in the heart of Cairns. Their extensive menu incorporates organic Australian-made Sodashi products and focuses on creating balance through the four elements. Try their "Water" package, which includes a hydrating facial and relaxing massage, or the "Fire and Earth" package with a rejuvenating body wrap and hot stone massage. Elements Spa also offers complete spa facilities like a lap pool, steam room and spa baths.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a whole host of unique tours and activities to experience the wonders of Cairns. Whether you want to get up close to wildlife on a reef or rainforest tour, enjoy adventure sports, learn about the local indigenous culture, or relax on a sunset cruise, Cairns has something for everyone. With stunning natural scenery, unique wildlife encounters, and a vibrant tropical vibe, this is a destination you'll never forget. So start planning your adventure in Cairns today!