Tropical Thrills Family Holiday Itineary

Welcome to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, where adventure meets nature. A gateway to scuba diving, snorkelling, reef cruises, fishing, rainforest walks, and remarkable bird and wildlife encounters. 

This evening join a Mandingalbay Yidinji guide from Cairns Marina for a river cruise through East Trinity wetlands, experience a Welcome to Country, hear ancient stories, enjoy light canapés, and return at dusk with city lights shimmering across the water. This immersive journey blends culture, conservation, and serene coastal beauty for visitors.

Accommodation: Cairns - 1 Night

This morning you will board a ferry and enjoy a scenic crossing to Fitzroy Island, where turquoise water and rainforest‑covered slopes signal your arrival in a tropical paradise.

Once ashore, you will be transferred to your accommodation, giving you time to settle in and take in the island’s relaxed atmosphere. Fitzroy Island is a protected national park where reef and rainforest sit side by side, offering clear waters, coral beaches and lush walking trails. It’s an inviting base for unwinding, exploring at your own pace and soaking up the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

Accommodation: Fitzroy Island - 2 Nights

Fitzroy Island is a tropical paradise where guests can choose to either relax and escape or dive right into adventure. 

Explore rainforest walking trails, escape and unwind on a deserted beach or take the opportunity to snorkel, dive, sea kayak and discover the magic of the Great Barrier Reef. Fitzroy Island is accessible, affordable and friendly. The island's safe, sheltered waters and pristine natural environment are here for everyone to explore and enjoy whether you're here for a day, or a longer stay.

After a final morning on Fitzroy Island, make your way to the jetty and board the ferry for a relaxed journey back across the Coral Sea. Collect your rental vehicle on arrival.

Approaching Cairns, the skyline and mountain backdrop come into view, signalling your return to the mainland. Once ashore, step back into the city’s warm tropical atmosphere, where waterfront promenades, dining options and easy access to the region’s natural wonders await for the next stage of your journey.

Accommodation: Cairns - 3 Nights

Make a return day trip to Kuranda. Here, you’ll step straight into nature with a World War II Army Duck tour, exploring the rainforest and learning about its unique plants and wildlife. 

Wander through the Tropical Fruits Orchard, home to more than 40 exotic species, then experience the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience with traditional dance and a guided Dreamtime Walk. Finish your visit at the Koala and Wildlife Park, where kangaroos, wallabies and even Tasmanian Devils await.

Approximate Distance: 30 km | 18 miles   Total Driving Time: 45 mins (each way)

Behana Gorge delivers an unforgettable canyoning experience just minutes from Cairns.

Surrounded by lush rainforest, this iconic location features waterfalls, crystal clear pools, natural rock slides, jumps, and granite wall abseils. Perfect for first timers, families, and adventurous travellers, the experience is safe, scenic, and fun. Expert guides provide full instruction, quality equipment, and support throughout, making Behana Gorge an ideal way to explore Tropical North Queensland beyond the ordinary.

Begin your day travelling from Cairns to Port Douglas, following a spectacular coastal drive where rainforest meets the Coral Sea. On arrival, step into Wildlife Habitat, an immersive experience showcasing Australia’s diverse ecosystems. 

Wander through open Wetlands, Rainforest, Savannah, Nocturnal and Woodland environments, meeting koalas, kangaroos, cassowaries and crocodiles along the way. Hand‑feeding friendly wildlife and joining keepers for close encounters brings each habitat to life. Dedicated to conservation, the Tropical Animal Rehabilitation Centre also provides care for injured and orphaned animals, making this an inspiring visit for families and nature lovers.

Approximate Distance: 70 km | 43 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Accommodation: Port Douglas - 4 Nights

Set out on a full-day sailing and snorkelling adventure to the pristine Mackay Coral Cay, designed for ocean lovers and conservation-minded travellers. 

Glide across turquoise waters before exploring vibrant coral gardens at your own pace, where giant clams, sea turtles, and colourful reef fish thrive in their natural environment. Marine biologists accompany the journey, offering engaging presentations and insights into the reef’s delicate ecosystem and fascinating marine life. Perfect for underwater photography or relaxed exploration, this eco-focused experience blends adventure and education, creating a meaningful and immersive connection with the Great Barrier Reef’s extraordinary natural beauty.

Included Meals: Lunch

Enjoy the ultimate barramundi adventure with lunch and transfers from Port Douglas. 

Begin with an introduction to the team, the farm, and fish, followed by an engaging fish feeding display. Learn Barra fishing skills as guides share clear tips before one hour of catch and release action. Continue with a small group walk through the farm that highlights daily operations and hands on moments that include fish feeding and gentle hand sampling of Barramundi in production ponds. Enjoy a Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Tasting Board that showcases fresh local produce. The visit ends with the inspiring better fish for a better World demonstration. Guests depart with renewed respect for local aquaculture.

Included Meals: Lunch

Ideal for nature lovers and water enthusiasts, this tour begins with an interpretive river walk along a shallow or dry riverbed, guiding guests upstream through lush rainforest. 

The journey then shifts to a new section of the river, where participants receive river sleds for the next stage of exploration. From here, they can drift peacefully beneath a dense green canopy before experiencing the thrill of faster-moving currents. Blending tranquillity, adventure, and immersion in the natural environment, this experience offers a unique way to connect with the river’s changing moods and landscapes.

Say farewell to the forest and return to Cairns to drop off your rental car and board your onward flight. We know you will enjoy your Tropical North Queensland vacation, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional Australian experience. 

We hope you will return soon to discover even more highlights of this incredible continent.

Approximate Distance: 70 km | 43 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins