- Casual clothing, walking shoes, swimwear, hat, umbrella, drinking water and sunscreen. We recommend 400ASA film and flash for rainforest photography.
©2009 Cairns Visitor Centre
Destination Southern Atherton Tablelands, Ma Mu Walkway, Waterfall Circuit & Paronella Park
Duration Day Tour
Departing Cairns Daily 08.00am
Returning Cairns 6.30pm
The high elevation rainforests of the Atherton and Southern Tablelands are vastly different to coastal rainforest surrounding Cairns and support a wide variety of wildlife, many species being unique to the Tablelands.
Your day starts with a pick-up from Cairns accommodation, traveling south of Cairns and up along the Gillies Highway Range to arrive at the Crater Lake Barrine. Enjoy freshly baked scones and morning Devonshire tea before boarding the first morning cruise on the calm waters of the extinct volcanic crater, Lake Barrine. Be the first cruise in the morning to view the Lake's abundant wildlife and marvel at the vibrant, old growth World Heritage listed rainforest surrounding Lake Barrine whose deep waters are filled by crystal clear rainwater. Back on land a short walk reveals the Twin Kauri Pine Trees - amongst Australia's largest trees, these 1000 year old forest giants are relics of the past.
Take in the enormity of this majestic landscape including the North Johnstone River. Your experienced Cairns tours driver/guide will escort you along boardwalks to the ancient Giant Curtain Fig Tree - an amazing accomplishment of nature! The surrounding forest is also home to the elusive and shy Lumholz Tree Kangaroos.
It is then on to commence your tour of the Waterfalls Circuit. Each of the waterfalls is unique and is viewed from a different aspect. All waterfalls flow in abundance all year round!
Commencing with world-famous Millaa Millaa Falls (featured in many commercial television advertisements and films where a quick swim is possible) you will drive along quaint country farming roads and rich dairying pastures. Relax and enjoy the serenity whilst enjoying an excellent two course lunch, which is served outdoors in our private gazebo situated atop of Mungalli Falls, which are the Tableland's tallest falls.
After lunch you will arrive at the Ma Mu Rainforest Canopy Walkway and Tower. From the canopy walk you will take in the enormity of this majestic landscape including the North Johnstone River. Stand high in the rainforest with both spectacular viewing platforms and tower canopy views of the remote wilderness. Smell feel and touch the remoteness of this ancient landscape.
Descending the range, you arrive at multi award wining Paronella Park where you will be escorted by the park's knowledgeable guide. Commencing with a private, leisurely tour of the National Trust listed Heritage gardens and castle ruins. There is free time to view the museum and the remains of North Queensland's first hydro-electric plant which Jose Paronella built on the beautiful Mena Creek - feed the fish and the turtles below the Falls.
Your tour concludes with a scenic drive home passing Mt Bellenden Ker and Mt Bartle Frere two of Queensland highest mountains.
Arrive back into Cairns at approximately 6.30pm.
Tour Includes
Rates
All prices include GST. * A small fuel levy is payable to the driver/guide upon boarding please inquire about the exact levy amount when making your booking.
What to bring