Adventure brief
Behana Adventure Tour
Navigate waterfalls by abseil, jump, and swim on the Behana Adventure Tour with Cairns Waterfalls, 30 minutes from Cairns. Safe, guided, and unforgettable rainforest thrills await.
Just a 30-minute drive from the vibrant city of Cairns lies Behana Gorge, an adrenaline-fueled playground where rainforest meets cascading waterfalls and natural pools. Cairns Waterfalls invites thrill seekers and nature lovers alike to tackle their signature Behana Adventure Tour — a dynamic 5-hour journey that pushes your limits while showcasing the rugged beauty of Queensland’s Wet Tropics. This highly guided experience is tailored to everyone with a keen sense of adventure and solid swimming skills, welcoming guests aged 8 and up.
At the start, qualified instructors equip participants with helmets, harnesses, and life jackets, ensuring safety is paramount. From there, the course unfolds through a series of steep abseils down rock faces, exhilarating jumps into crystal-clear plunge pools, and refreshing swims through tranquil natural waterways. Behana Gorge itself is carved from ancient volcanic rock, its sheer cliffs punctuated by a sequence of waterfalls that command respect and inspire wonder.
The lush rainforest surrounding you is home to unique flora like the towering fan palms and bird species such as the stunning Ulysses butterfly. Each descent reveals a new vantage point, making each moment both a physical challenge and a feast for the senses. Cairns Waterfalls stands out not just for its expert guides but for its commitment to sustainable tourism — their carbon-neutral tours help preserve this fragile ecosystem.
Small groups capped at 12 ensure a personalized adventure, while optional shuttle transfers from Cairns CBD make logistics seamless. Whether you’re abseiling down a slippery drop or floating beneath a waterfall’s mist, the Behana Adventure Tour delivers a raw, immersive rainforest encounter that sets it apart from standard hikes or swims. It’s a rare combination of heart-pounding action and natural splendor that cements Cairns Waterfalls as a must-do operator for outdoor adventurers visiting Far North Queensland.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Strong Swimming Skills Requiredessential
You’ll encounter multiple swims in natural pools; confidence and ability in water are essential.
- 02Wear Closed-Toe Shoesessential
Bring sturdy, wet shoes with good grip to navigate slippery rocks safely during the tour.
- 03Bring a Dry Change of Clothesinfo
You’ll end up wet and possibly muddy—packing dry clothes will keep you comfortable post-adventure.
- 04Consider the Photo Packageinfo
Document your adventure hands-free with Cairns Waterfalls’ professional photo and video packages.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Closed-Toe Water Shoes
Protects feet on slippery rocks and supports movement through wet terrain.
summerEssentialQuick-Dry Swimwear
Allows comfort during swims and keeps you from staying wet all day.
allEssentialLightweight Waterproof Jacket
Helpful for unexpected rain showers during the trip.
springHands-Free Action Camera Mount
Capture your climbs and jumps without needing to hold the camera.
allLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Quiet swim spots along side streams beyond the main jumps, Secluded rock ledges offering unique views of the gorge’s waterfalls
Local fauna
Ulysses butterfly, Australian tree frog
Historic heritage
Behana Gorge lies within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, recognized for its ancient rainforest ecosystems dating back over 100 million years.
Mindful exploration
Cairns Waterfalls operates carbon-neutral tours aiming to minimize environmental impact and supports local conservation efforts within the World Heritage site.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Top of the gorge near the first waterfall, Mid-course rock platforms, Pools beneath the largest cascades
- Subjects
- Waterfall descents, Rainforest flora, Adventure group action shots
- Best times
- Morning light, Early afternoon, Late golden hour
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is prior abseiling experience required?
No, all necessary abseiling techniques are taught by professional guides during the tour.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Guests must be at least 8 years old. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits are provided during cooler months to keep you warm in the water.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled in unsafe weather conditions to ensure guest safety.
Is transportation from Cairns included?
Return shuttle service from Cairns CBD is available for an additional fee.
Can I bring a camera on the tour?
Yes, but cameras must be hands-free using mounts like a chest or helmet harness.