Best of Cairns Tour Package: Your Ultimate Tropical Adventure
Discover the best of Cairns with our carefully curated Best of Cairns tour Package. This all-in-one experience is perfect for travellers who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, adventure, and culture that North Queensland has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, soaring above the rainforest, or relaxing in the tropical sunshine, this package promises an unforgettable journey.
This package is done in 3 days, in any order that you like.
Best of Cairns includes (Sample itinreray):
Day 1: Reef Experience Top Deck Club
Start your adventure with a luxurious day on the Great Barrier Reef. The Reef Experience Top Deck Club offers VIP treatment, including personal valet, gourmet meals, and exclusive access to the Captain’s wheelhouse. Enjoy snorkelling and diving as you explore the vibrant underwater world of the reef in style.
Day 2: Grand Kuranda, which includes Kuranda Scenic Railway and Cairns Skyrail
Step back in time with a journey on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. With stops at Barron Falls and other scenic viewpoints, this ride is as beautiful as it is relaxing.
Soar above the rainforest canopy with the Cairns Skyrail, offering stunning panoramic views of the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics. This aerial journey includes stops at Red Peak and Barron Falls stations, where you can explore boardwalks and learn more about this ancient ecosystem.
Day 3: Hot Air Ballooning
Cap off your Cairns adventure with a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the Atherton Tablelands. Drift gently above the landscape as the sun rises, offering breathtaking views and a serene start to your day. Celebrate with a glass of bubbly and take home a commemorative certificate and digital photo package.
Why Choose the Best of Cairns Package?
Perfect for couples, families, or solo travellers looking for adventure, relaxation, and luxury, the Best of Cairns Tour Package is your gateway to an extraordinary tropical escape.
Book your Best of Cairns adventure today, and let us take you through one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse regions. Your tropical paradise awaits!
This tour package invites you to fully experience everything Cairns offers. You’ll explore the iconic Great Barrier Reef, wander through ancient rainforests, and marvel at stunning skies. We handle every detail to make sure your trip is enjoyable and unforgettable.
You can do this tour in the order that suits you best!
Discover the Best of Cairns: Elevate Your Adventure with Our Exclusive Package
Immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of Cairns with our Best of Cairns package, designed to offer the ultimate tropical getaway. This package has everything from luxury experiences on the Great Barrier Reef to scenic journeys through the rainforest. Here’s a taste of what awaits:
Reef Experience “Top Deck VIP Club” – Elevate your Great Barrier Reef adventure with Reef Experience’s “Top Deck VIP Club,” where personalized service meets the wonders of the Reef.
Grand Kuranda – This is the Ultimate Kuranda tour!
Hot Air Ballooning – Cap off your Cairns adventure with a spectacular hot air balloon ride.
Our Best of Cairns package offers an unforgettable experience, combining luxury, adventure, and the natural beauty of North Queensland. Whether exploring the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, journeying through lush rainforests, or floating high above the landscape in a hot air balloon, this package ensures your time in Cairns is nothing short of extraordinary. Book your adventure today and discover the best that Cairns offers.
Reef Experience Top Deck Club Itinerary
Prepare for an unforgettable day of adventure on the Great Barrier Reef with our Reef Experience Top Deck Club. Here’s what your day will look like:
07:30 – Check-in at Cairns Marina
08:00 – Departure and Safety Briefings
08:30 – Marine Biology Presentation and Scuba Dive Briefing
09:45 – First Reef Site: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
12:30 – Lunch
13:00 – Cruise to Second Reef Location
15:00 – Depart the Great Barrier Reef
15:30 – Wine & Tropical Treats
16:30 – Arrive Back in Cairns
This carefully curated itinerary ensures you experience the best of the Great Barrier Reef in style and comfort. From start to finish, your day with Reef Experience Top Deck Club is designed to be as enjoyable and memorable as possible. We can’t wait to share this adventure with you!
Grand Kuranda
07:30 – Pickup from your Cairns City Hotel
08:50 – Travel on the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
10:25 – Arrive at Kuranda.
11:00 – Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
11:45 Meet outside the Butterfly Sanctuary for transfer to Rainforestation Nature Park.
Lunch.
Army Duck Rainforest Tour.
Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience.
Koala and Wildlife Park.
15:00 – Transfer to Skyrail Rainforest Kuranda Terminal.
15:15 – Skyrail Journey from Kuranda to Cairns.
16:30 – Return transfer to your Cairns Hotel.
Hot Air Ballooning Itinerary
Soar to new heights with our unforgettable hot air ballooning experience over the stunning Atherton Tablelands. From pre-dawn pick-up to a celebratory landing, this adventure offers a unique way to experience the beauty of North Queensland.
Pre-Dawn Pick-Up
06:30 – Take to the Skies
07:50 – Post-Flight Celebration
This hot air ballooning experience offers more than just a flight—it celebrates the stunning landscapes and the joy of adventure. From take-off to landing, every moment is designed to create lasting memories. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a seasoned balloonist, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Top Deck Club inclusions:
- Round Trip Bus Transfers
- Personal Valet Service (who will also be your snorkel and/or scuba guide)
- 1 x Scuba Diving included
- All equipment provided
- Access to Captain’s wheelhouse
Please note: 2 people per booking are required for the Top Deck Club experience.
Grand Kuranda
- One-Way Ticket on Kuranda Scenic Railway
- Admission to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
- Entry to Rainforestation Nature Park with the following:
- Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience
- Army Duck Rainforest Tour
- Koala and Wildlife Park
- Tropical Fruit Orchard
- Lunch at Rainforestation
- One-Way Ticket on Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- Return Transfers to and from your Cairns City Hotel
Hot Air Balloon Inclusions
Soar above the stunning landscapes of North Queensland with our Hot Air Balloon experience. Here’s what’s included in your flight:
- Free Transfers: Enjoy complimentary door-to-door air-conditioned coach transfers from most Cairns accommodations, hotels, and resorts, making your experience as smooth as possible.
- Spectacular Balloon Ride: Experience the thrill of a hot air balloon ride, offering unparalleled views of the Atherton Tablelands at sunrise.
- Expert Commentary: Learn about the region’s history and geography with expert interpretive commentary during your flight.
- Commemorative Certificate: Receive a Hot Air Balloon Ride Commemorative Certificate to remember your incredible experience.
- Digital Photo Package: Capture the memories with a digital photo package included with your flight.
- Celebratory Drink: Upon landing, enjoy a glass of bubbly or refreshing juice to celebrate your adventure in the skies.
These carefully curated inclusions ensure that your experiences in Cairns are filled with luxury, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re exploring the Great Barrier Reef, taking a scenic train journey, or floating above the Atherton Tablelands, we’ve thought of every detail to make your trip extraordinary.
Reef Experience Top Deck Club Optional Extras
- Underwater Digital Camera Hire
- Snack Bar Purchases
- Great Barrier Reef Souvenirs
- Bus Transfers from Outside the Cairns Business Area: If you’re staying outside the Cairns Business Area, we’ve got you covered. Optional bus transfers can be arranged to ensure you get to the marina easily.
- Second Scuba Dive
These optional extras are designed to make your Top Deck Club experience more memorable. Whether you want to capture the moment, indulge in snacks, or take home a souvenir, we have something for everyone.
What to Bring for Your Reef Experience Top Deck Club Adventure
To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable day on the Great Barrier Reef, here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:
- Cash and/or Credit Card: For any optional extras, souvenir purchases, or snack bar treats you might want to enjoy during your trip.
- Swimming Clothes: You’ll want to be ready to dive in and explore the reef, so pack your swimsuit.
- Towel: Essential for drying off after your snorkelling or diving adventure.
- Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the tropical sun with a good hat and sunglasses.
- Proof of Qualification (if you’re a Certified Diver): If you plan to scuba dive, remember to bring your diving certification.
What to Bring for Your Hot Air Ballooning Experience
Make the most of your hot air balloon adventure by coming prepared with the following:
- Your Ticket: Essential for boarding, so keep it handy.
- Walking Shoes: Comfortable shoes are necessary for getting in and out of the balloon and any post-flight activities.
- Camera: Capture the breathtaking views and memories of your flight.
- Dress in Casual Outdoor Layered Clothing: The early morning can be cool, so layered clothing is ideal. Avoid wearing white, as it can easily pick up dust and dirt.
- Peak Hat and Sunglasses: A hat and sunglasses will help protect you from the morning sun.
- Bottle of Water: Stay hydrated throughout your adventure by bringing a bottle of water.
By bringing these items, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic day of adventure and relaxation, whether exploring the depths of the Great Barrier Reef or floating high above the Atherton Tablelands.
Transfers from your hotel are included in all of our tour components.
Important Information for Reef Experience Scuba Diving
At Reef Experience, we’re passionate about sharing the wonders of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef with you. Knowing Queensland’s scuba diving regulations and guidelines is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Scuba Diving Laws and Regulations
Queensland, Australia, boasts the strictest scuba diving rules globally and holds the safest record. We adhere to the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all required regulations, including medical assessments as mandated by law.
To help us keep everyone safe, we recommend that all passengers complete our dive medical questionnaire. Please note that certain medical conditions, age factors, and medications may prevent you from being able to scuba dive. You can review our Reef Experience Medical Questionnaire to see if these conditions apply to you.
If scuba diving is a highlight of your trip and you have any concerns about your fitness to dive, we strongly suggest bringing a letter from your doctor stating that you are “Fit To Scuba Dive.” This can help avoid any disappointment on the day. Please remember that our crew members are trained professionals, and they have the sole discretion to decide who can safely participate in scuba diving or snorkelling activities. Unfortunately, no refunds are available if you are refused a dive due to a medical condition.
Flying After Scuba Diving
It’s crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure your safety after scuba diving:
- Single No Decompression Dive: Do not fly for at least 18 hours after diving.
- Multiple Dives: Do not fly for at least 24 hours after your last dive.
- Skydiving or Hot Air Ballooning: If you plan to skydive or go hot air ballooning, you must wait at least 24 hours after diving.
For the safest experience, we recommend waiting at least 24 hours after any dive before flying or participating in high-altitude activities.
We’re excited to provide you with an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef experience. By following these guidelines, you’ll help ensure your adventure is safe and enjoyable. Safe diving, and we look forward to seeing you on board!
Tour Conditions for Hot Air Ballooning
Thank you for choosing to fly with us! To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, please take a moment to review our conditions of travel:
Conditions of Travel
- Pricing: Our prices may vary depending on the day, season, and availability. The final price will be displayed at checkout.
- Weight and Mobility Queries: If you have any concerns regarding weight or mobility, please contact us before booking online. We’re here to help ensure your flight is safe and comfortable.
- Pregnancy Restrictions: For safety reasons, we cannot accommodate passengers who are more than 3 months (13 weeks) pregnant.
- Currency: All prices are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) per person.
- Timing: The times provided are indicative only and may vary depending on the season (summer, winter, spring). When you receive your full booking details, the exact start times will be confirmed.
Cancellation Policy
- A 100% charge applies if passengers fail to fly on the morning booked. Please provide at least 24 hours notice if you need to change your booking. Re-booking is subject to availability and may incur a fee—please ask us for details.
Flight Experience
Our classic flight offers a full flight experience tailored to the prevailing flying conditions on the day.
Photo Packages:
Where photos are included in your package, please note that they are subject to availability.
Self-Drive
If you are driving to meet us, please check and plan your route according to the current conditions of the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.
We’re committed to providing you with an unforgettable hot-air ballooning experience. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please reach out. Safe travels, and we look forward to soaring the skies with you!
Best of Cairns Luxury Getaway (3 Day)
Grand Kuranda
Cancellation Policy
A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any changes to the booking (date, names, etc) incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
- 20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more before departure
- 100% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
• Children’s prices are from 4 – 14 years of age
• We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing or itineraries; all of which are subject to change without notice.
• Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of
damage, delay or personal injury.
• All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other
expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger.
• Please inform us of any special requirements prior to your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team
• Infants 3 and under travel for free if nursed.
• Bus transfers may vary by 10 minutes either way due to traffic conditions. Please wait at your accommodation 10 minutes prior to pick up time
Hot Air Balloon from Cairns 🎈
Cancellation Policy
A minimum of 72 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any date change will incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during standard business hours (8 am to 5 pm, closed on Public Holidays), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day. Please be aware that cancellation attempts made through online chat or phone will not be processed.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
- 20% cancellation fee 72 hours or more before departure
- 100% cancellation fee within 72 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
• Children must be a minimum of THREE years old to travel on the balloon flight and children up to the age of TWELVE years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult on the balloon flight. Children aged THIRTEEN to SEVENTEEN years old can travel on the balloon flight by themselves, but must be accompanied by a responsible adult for the rest of the tour including bus transfers. Children less then THREE years old may travel with their parents on the tour, but must remain on the ground in the company of at least one responsible adult at all times.
• We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing or itineraries, all of which are subject to change without notice.
• Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay or personal injury.
• All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger. Please be aware that scuba diving and other in-water activities are not covered by all travel insurance companies.
• Please inform us of any special requirements before your date of travel, such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team
MEDICAL CONDITIONS:
- Passengers with medical conditions should check their suitability to fly prior to booking and advise our staff when booking. As the entire tour last more than 4 hours, passengers are advised to carry any necessary medication with them. Persons with medical conditions participating in the balloon flight and pack up activities do so at their own risk and the Operator accepts no liability for any damage or injury caused.
- The Operator recommends that pregnant persons do not fly in a hot air balloon and we will not carry passengers who are pregnant. Passengers who suspect they may be pregnant should check with their doctor before travel.
The Operator will not carry passengers who have participated in a scuba dive the night before their balloon flight. Passengers diving the day before travel should check with a qualified divemaster as to the safety of the passenger in participating in the balloon flight. The Operator usually does not fly above 4,500 feet altitude and most flights are around 2,500 feet altitude. Passengers diving the day before travel who participate in the balloon journey do so at their own risk and the Operator accepts no liability for any damage or injury caused.
Please refer to our website for our full Terms & Conditions: https://hotgetaways.com.au/about-hot-getaways/terms-conditions/
Reef Experience Top Deck Club ✨
Cancellation Policy
A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any changes to the booking (date, names, etc) incur a $20 administration fee.
We must notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to ensure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
- 20% cancellation fee 30 days or more prior to departure
- 50% cancellation fee if within 30 days prior to departure
- 100% cancellation fee within 14 days prior to departure
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. No refund or compensation will be issued for unused equipment, prepaid/pre-booked courses and/or Scuba dives, or guides if you cannot complete the entire tour. Please see Scuba Diving – Important Information below.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Check-in: If you are Making your own way (no return transfers booked), please check-in and board at 7.30 am. Reef Experience is located on A Finger, at Cairns Marlin Marina.
Terms and Conditions:
- A minimum of 2 adults are required to book the Top Deck Club service, per booking.
- Children’s prices are from 4 to 11 years of age. If booking as a certified diver, adult rates apply.
- If you have used a credit card to purchase your ticket for either Reef Experience or Reef Encounter directly from our websites, email or phone, please have this card present along with a matching valid photo ID of the cardholder at check-in. Boarding will be denied without them, or you may be asked to pay again.
- Open-Dated Ticket: In certain cases, Open-Dated tickets may be issued. These tickets are valid indefinitely but are non-refundable. Any fare increase must be paid at the time of rebooking. Once a customer accepts an Open-Dated ticket, the cancellation policy applicable to the original booking date will remain in effect.
- Schedules, vessels, dive locations, and itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances, with full consideration for your safety and enjoyment. We reserve the right to adjust tours, schedules, prices, and itineraries at any time without notice. We are not liable for any changes, cancellations, or delays, and we accept no responsibility for any loss, additional expenses, or out-of-pocket costs incurred as a result, whether caused directly or indirectly.
- Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, any loss, any damage, delays, deaths or personal injury.
- All passengers are strongly advised to purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance that covers personal injury and the events, including but not limited to your cancellation for any reason and the cancellation or alteration to the scheduled itinerary for reasons involving weather or passenger, crew or vessel safety. Please read your insurance policy's wording carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. Please be aware that all travel insurance companies do not cover scuba diving and other in-water activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical expenses, or other expenses are the passenger's financial responsibility.
- The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Encounter taking photographs or video recordings during the course of this activity/tour. The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Encounter receiving and using images of the passenger from third parties and using these images for marketing and promoting its services.
- Please inform us of any special requirements 48 hours before your travel date, such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the ‘Booking Message’ section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team.
Scuba Diving – Important Information:
- All Certified Divers must present a valid Certification Card. Failure to present a Certification Card may result in the customer being unable to participate in scuba diving. They can enjoy snorkelling activities instead. No refunds would be offered.
- The minimum age for Introductory Diving is 12 years old. The minimum age for certified diving and Open Water Courses is 10 years old. All junior divers must either be accompanied by a certified parent or guardian or must dive with a dive professional at an additional charge. If the diver is under the age of 18 years, parental or guardian consent is required for that diver to undertake a dive. The parent or guardian should sign the medical declaration as witness.
- Upon arriving at our vessel and before commencing any dive activities, all passengers must complete our liability forms. All information provided must be strictly accurate. If during the tour, it becomes apparent that a form has been incorrectly completed, either by omission or false statement, we reserve the right to prevent any customer from undertaking any scuba diving or snorkelling activities while on board our vessel. Any decision made in this regard will be at the absolute discretion of the Dive Crew aboard the vessel.
- The dangers and risks associated with scuba diving in an open ocean environment under variable conditions apply to our tours. We reserve the right to prevent any customer from participating in scuba diving if we determine that they are physically or medically unsuitable to do so or if it is in the best interests of our crew or other scuba divers. Our crew are trained professionals, and it is up to their sole discretion who they take diving and/or snorkelling. No refunds would apply.
- Please remember you must allow 24 hours from your last dive before flying.
Medical Conditions & Medications:
Queensland, Australia has some of the strictest scuba diving rules in the world but also the safest scuba diving record. We are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all rules, including medical, as is the law.
- All passengers participating in any Scuba activities must complete a [hga_dive_questionaire_text text="Medical Questionnaire"]. If you’ve answered yes to any questions or take any prescribed medication, you will need further medical clearance. This must be arranged prior to your day of departure.
- Medication: DO NOT presume that by taking medication is controlling your medical conditions, and you should be fine to scuba dive, as it is the medication that can be the problem when scuba diving. Particularly prescribed medication may require a medical clearance.
- The medical certification should be provided in English, preferably by a medical practitioner with experience in diving medicine, within 90 days prior to the scuba dive. The certificate must state that the person is medically fit to dive.
- No refunds are given for uncompleted dives due to medical conditions and/or prescribed medications or changes of mind.
Peak Season Surcharge - To be paid onboard on the day of travel:
➢ A Surcharge of $100 per person applies to 25 December 2025 & 2026 – Christmas Day
➢ A Surcharge of $50 per person applies to the following days:
• 18, 19, 20 & 21 April 2025 – Easter weekend
• 26 December 2025 – Boxing Day
• 3, 4, 5 & 6 April 2026 – Easter Weekend
• 26 December 2026 – Boxing Day
Reviews
There are no reviews yet