Adventure brief
Explorer - Waterfalls & Rainforest Tour
Journey through Cairns’ vibrant waterfront and ancient rainforests on Barefoot Tours’ Explorer Waterfalls & Rainforest Tour. Discover hidden gems, crystal-clear waterfalls, and the region’s rich natural history.
Cairns, Queensland, serves as the gateway to some of Australia's most dynamic natural wonders—where the tropical Great Barrier Reef meets the ancient World Heritage Rainforest. Barefoot Tours’ Explorer - Waterfalls & Rainforest Tour offers an immersive six-hour experience that reveals both the landscape’s raw beauty and its intriguing history. Unlike standard sightseeing trips, this tour moves at a thoughtful pace, weaving together striking vistas, engaging stories of Cairns’ past, and intimate moments in nature’s quieter corners.
Starting from the Cairns Esplanade, known for its lively waterfront and family-friendly lagoon, the tour dips into the city's roots as a vital port for nearby goldfields and a strategic World War II location. Along the Northern Beaches, once a military training ground, visitors encounter expansive coastal panoramas and pristine sands where the land meets the Coral Sea. The heart of the trip lies in the ascent into Queensland’s ancient rainforest, home to pristine waterfalls like Crystal Cascades and Behana Gorge.
Towering, moss-draped trees and the chorus of native birds set the stage for stops at lookout points that reveal the area's unique topography and ecological significance. Endemic flora and chance encounters with native wildlife highlight this region’s remarkable biodiversity. Barefoot Tours stands out by marrying cultural richness with natural exploration, honoring the Aboriginal heritage embedded in the land and sharing conservation insights along the way.
Practical touches such as designated swim stops in crystal-clear pools ensure guests leave with refreshing memories as well as vivid photos. Whether you’re drawn to Cairns for its reef or rainforest, this tour offers a layered perspective on the landscape that shapes northern Queensland. With local guides and carefully selected stops, Barefoot Tours delivers a genuine connection to this extraordinary environment.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring swimwear and towelessential
Plan to dip into refreshing waterfall pools during the tour—pack your swimsuit and a quick-dry towel.
- 02Wear sturdy, non-slip footwearessential
Some trails and waterfall areas can be wet and slippery; solid shoes improve safety and comfort.
- 03Carry insect repellentinfo
Rainforest hikes often come with mosquitoes and other insects; repellent helps prevent bites.
- 04Bring cash for snacks or lunchinfo
Though lunch isn’t included, stops along the route offer options to buy refreshments or bring your own food.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Swimsuit
Essential for swimming in natural pools and waterfalls along the tour.
summerEssentialSturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction and comfort on wet and uneven rainforest paths.
EssentialLight rain jacket
Protects against sudden tropical showers common during warmer months.
summerEssentialInsect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and other insects at bay in humid rainforest environments.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Walshes Pyramid hiking lookout, Secluded swimming spots at Crystal Cascades
Local fauna
Green tree frog, Ulysses butterfly
Historic heritage
Cairns was initially developed as a port for goldfields in the nearby Great Dividing Range and played a strategic role during World War II.
Mindful exploration
The intact rainforests and waterways are protected through ongoing efforts balancing tourism with preservation of native ecosystems and Aboriginal cultural sites.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Cairns City Lookout, Behana Gorge Waterfall, Walshes Pyramid summit
- Subjects
- Rainforest canopies, Waterfall cascades, Coastal panoramas
- Best times
- Morning light, Late afternoon, After rain showers
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is swimming allowed during the tour?
Yes, designated swimming stops are included, so bring your swimsuit and towel.
Are meals included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included; however, the tour makes stops where you can purchase food or bring your own.
What age groups are suitable for this tour?
Guests aged 8 and above can participate, making it a family-friendly experience.
How much walking is involved?
Expect moderate walking on varied terrain, including some uneven and slippery areas near waterfalls.
Is there shade available during the tour?
Yes, much of the tour takes place under rainforest canopy providing natural shade and shelter.
What happens if the weather is poor?
Tours may be adjusted or rescheduled in case of unsafe weather conditions like heavy rain or cyclones.