Cairns Round trip
Day 1: Cairns - Mission Beach
You collect your motorhome in Cairns and drive south out of the city to the seaside town of Mission Beach, where you stay for two nights. The town boasts a long, palm-fringed beach, and just off the coast lie several tropical islands.
Day 2: Mission Beach
We recommend taking the boat to Dunk Island, where you can explore walking trails through the national park. The island is home to lush rainforest filled with colourful flowers and a wide variety of birds. Prefer to take it easy? Simply relax on one of the island’s quiet beaches.
Looking for something more adventurous? Whitewater rafting on the Tully River is a great alternative.
Day 3: Mission Beach - Palm Cove
From Innisfail, you’ll leave the Bruce Highway and head inland towards the Atherton Tablelands. Start your day with a visit to the scenic Milla Milla Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in Australia. Then continue towards Yungaburra to see the impressive Curtain Fig Tree, a striking example of nature’s creativity. From there, make your way north to the mountain village of Kuranda. You can explore the local markets or hop on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. A stop at one of the intermediate stations offers a great view over the rainforest canopy, with colourful birds, tropical flowers, and a spectacular look at Barron Gorge. Afterwards, you’ll drive back towards the coast and follow the road north to the relaxed resort town of Palm Cove, where you’ll spend the next two nights.
Day 4: Palm Cove
You have a full day to relax on the beautiful beach of Palm Cove. You can also use the day to visit the famous Great Barrier Reef by cruise (departure from Port Douglas).
Day 5: Palm Cove - Daintree National Park
You’ll continue your journey to Cape Tribulation, where you’ll stay for two nights. In the morning, you can make a short stop in the tropical town of Port Douglas. On your way north, visit Mossman Gorge for a walk through the rainforest and a refreshing dip in the clear river. Then head to the Daintree River, where you can join a river cruise to spot crocodiles in their natural habitat. After crossing the river by ferry, follow the winding road through ancient rainforest all the way to Cape Tribulation.
Day 6: Daintree National Park
You have a full day to relax in Cape Tribulation. If you feel like exploring, you can take a walk through the rainforest or along the beach, where the jungle meets the sea. For those seeking more adventure, the rugged Bloomfield Track is an option (only by 4WD).
Day 7: Daintree National Park - Cairns
The last day of your trip, you will drive back to Cairns to return the motorhome.