A$3,000 | 10 days | from Sydney | Comfortable
Why you'll love it
Cairns is the gateway to two World Heritage areas: the Great Barrier Reef offshore and the Daintree Rainforest to the north. It scores 10 out of 10 for nature and 9 for adventure, so it suits travellers who want reef trips, rainforest and waterfalls from one base.
The best time to visit Cairns is June to October, the dry season, with warm sunny days and lower humidity. In the warmer months, swim at the Esplanade Lagoon or at the netted beaches along the coast.
Take a day boat to the outer reef to snorkel or dive, or visit Green Island or Fitzroy Island. Ride the Skyrail and the Kuranda Scenic Railway up into the rainforest, and head north to Palm Cove, Port Douglas and the Daintree. In town, the Esplanade has the lagoon, a boardwalk and casual seafood.
Cairns suits families, couples and anyone who wants the reef and the rainforest in one trip.
Your trip cost
For 10 days from Sydney