A laid-back yet vibrant city, Cairns is the gateway to this incredible World Heritage-listed region. From here, connecting with nature goes deeper. Learn about and experience the local Indigenous culture and explore the rainforest nearby. Discover sophisticated coastal dining, shopping and sprawling untouched beaches. This is also your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and there are amazing eco-accredited operators to take you to learn about the reef creatures and even participate in some conservation. The Daintree River has boat tours where you can see stunning wildlife including crocodiles, eat locally-made ice-cream and there are specialist guides for spotting native animals like cassowaries. A lifetime isn't long enough to see everything this destination has to offer ... there's a reason why it's considered to be among the oldest and most diverse natural landscapes in the world. 

Any time of the year other than cyclone season is good to visit. Bushwalking and cycling are pleasant in the Atherton Tablelands, particular during the winter months. Spring and autumn are popular with nature-lovers, as weather is warmer and animal activity highest. It is also slightly less crowded. .