Top Reasons to Go

Top Reasons to Go

Reef Visits

The Great Barrier Reef, which teems with extraordinary sea life, is one of the certified wonders of the world. Boats leave from Cairns and Townsville every day (though Cairns is a better base) on diving, snorkeling, and deep-water fishing excursions; for those who would rather not get wet, there are glass-bottom boat trips.

National Parks

Queensland has one of the most extensive and organized park systems in Australia, from the varied ecosystems of Lamington National Park on the New South Wales border to the gorges and Aboriginal rock paintings of Carnarvon National Park, northwest of Brisbane, and the rain forests of the Daintree, north of Cairns. National Park entry is free, and many parks have ranger stations, walking tracks, well-equipped campgrounds, and great wildlife, including fresh- and saltwater crocodiles (although the latter are only safe to look at from a distance).

Wild Queensland

If you have the time, an explorer's curiosity, or just wish to see one of the world's last wild jungles, take a trip north from Cairns. The remaining pockets of ancient untouched wilderness that warrant the area's listing as a World Heritage Site provide one of the most archetypal Australian adventures you can have.