North Queensland is a stunning region of Australia that is famous for its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife. You’ll never be short of exhilarating activities, with the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests and busy towns.. Here is a suggested travel itinerary for exploring North Queensland.
Start your trip off in Cairns.
Making our way north in Queensland, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful destinations to find accommodation in. From the beautiful town of Townsville, to the quiet streets of Cardwell, make sure you plan your accommodation ahead depending on when you visit. Peak months can get quite busy for all of the destinations mentioned in the article.

Shanenk, Canva.com
As you go north, stop in Cairns. Your last stop before the Great Barrier Reef, the town is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and stunning natural scenery. Spend your first day exploring the city and getting your bearings. In the evening, head to the night markets for some shopping and delicious food.
On your second day,it’s finally time to see the Reef. There are numerous operators offering snorkelling and diving tours, and you can choose to explore different areas of the reef. There are also glass-bottom boat tours available, which are perfect for those who prefer to stay dry. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, colourful fish, and even dolphins!
On your third day, take a trip to Kuranda, a picturesque village located right in the middle of the rainforest. To get there, take the scenic railway from Cairns, which winds its way through lush rainforest and past spectacular waterfalls. Once in Kuranda, explore the markets, visit the butterfly sanctuary, and take a walk through the rainforest.
Continue on to Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a relaxed and laid-back town that is known for its stunning beaches and access to the Great Barrier Reef. Spend your first day exploring the town and relaxing on Four Mile Beach. In the evening, head to the Marina Mirage for dinner and a sunset cruise.
On your second day, set off from Port Douglas and make your way to the Reef again, this time for a slightly different activity. Snorkelling and diving are both great options, and you can see a range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
End your trip with the Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is a spectacular region of North Queensland, Australia, that is renowned for its unique wildlife, stunning scenery, and rich Aboriginal heritage. If you have just two days to explore this incredible region, here is a suggested itinerary.
For day 1, start at the Daintree Discovery Centre, which is located just south of the Daintree River. Here you can learn about the history and ecology of the rainforest through interactive exhibits and guided tours. You can also take a treetop walk to get a bird's eye view of the canopy.
Next, take a scenic drive through the Daintree Rainforest to the Mossman Gorge. This stunning swimming hole is surrounded by lush rainforest and is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and hiking.
In the afternoon, take a guided walk through the rainforest with a local Aboriginal guide. They can share stories about their culture and the traditional uses of the plants and animals in the area. You can also learn about the Dreamtime stories of the Kuku Yalanji people.
As the sun starts to set, head to Thornton Beach to watch the sunset over the Coral Sea. This is a stunning spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of the region.
Start your second day with a crocodile river cruise on the Daintree River. The river is home to a range of wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, and a cruise is a great way to see them up close. You can also spot a range of bird species and learn about the ecology of the river system.
Next, head to Cape Tribulation, the perfect mix of rainforest and reef. Take a walk along the beach and soak up the stunning scenery. You can also take a snorkelling or diving tour to explore the Great Barrier Reef, which is just off the coast.
For lunch, head to PK's Jungle Village, which is located in the heart of the rainforest. Here you can enjoy a range of local dishes, including fresh seafood, vegetarian options, and Australian classics like burgers and steak.
End your day with a visit to the Bat House. This unique attraction is home to thousands of fruit bats, which can be seen flying overhead at sunset. It's a unique and memorable way to end your two days in the Daintree Rainforest.
With this itinerary, you can experience the beauty, culture, and wildlife of North Queensland and have the best time.