Cairns draws crowds for good reason. Its climate is exquisite, its laid-back vibe infectious, and its privileged location—nestled between tropical rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef—is unmatched. Welcome to Australia's backpacker capital!

Cairns through time

Inhabited for thousands of years by Aboriginal Australians, the Cairns region was discovered by James Cook during his expedition along the northeast coast of the continent in June 1770. The captain stayed briefly to repair his vessel before continuing northward. A century later, Europeans returned to exploit gold deposits discovered inland. From 1876 onwards, Cairns began to develop as a town. Just years later, in 1892, it was chosen as the starting point for constructing a railway to Tableland. An immigration wave followed, and the population surpassed 3,500 residents by 1903.

Cairns was officially incorporated as a city in 1923. It flourished in the early 20th century through agricultural development (particularly sugar cane) and dairy industries. During World War II, the city served as a base for Australian and Allied troops.

Cairns' tourism boom began after the war and has thrived since the opening of an international airport in 1984.

Cairns, a backpacker's paradise

Cairns stretches languorously along the Coral Sea coast in the northeast of Queensland. It's a destination that seamlessly blends relaxation with adventure.

Cairns the city: embrace the cool-attitude

First things first: Cairns has no natural beach. The shoreline is lined with mangroves. To compensate, Australians had the brilliant idea of creating an artificial lagoon on the city centre's waterfront. The Esplanade features an open-air swimming pool where you can enjoy the water, relax on the lawns, have a barbecue—all free to use! A crossroads for backpackers worldwide, it's equally a meeting place where you'll encounter young travellers from every corner of the globe. After a relaxed afternoon, discover Cairns' nightlife. Head to pubs and clubs like the Woolshed or Gilligan's for unforgettable evenings.

Cairns the seascape: gateway to the Great Barrier Reef

From Cairns, cruises whisk you away to explore Australia's Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system. Accompanied by experienced guides, dive into the ocean to witness coral gardens and kaleidoscopic fish. Back on the surface, set your sights on pristine islands like Green Island, renowned for its white-sand beaches and sapphire waters, Hinchinbrook Island with its national park status, or Fitzroy Island.

Cairns the rainforest: venture into exceptional wilderness

Escape into the mountains and forests surrounding Cairns. Just kilometres away, the Kuranda Rainforest unfolds like a Tarzan-worthy jungle. From the city, board the Kuranda scenic railway to traverse the forest, crossing bridges, passing through tunnels and discovering splendid landscapes at every turn.

Further afield, the Daintree National Park and Wooroonooran are equally captivating. Depending on the trail, hiking winds through the forest heart or takes you along the canopy. You'll encounter rich flora and fauna, plus rivers perfect for rafting (Tully River and Barron River). Craving thrills? Try the Bungy Jump—a bungee leap above the jungle. From a platform 50 metres high, harnessed and ready, plunge headfirst into the void at speeds exceeding 100 km/h! An experience that will stay with you forever.

Moreover, you needn't venture far from Cairns to connect with nature. South of the city centre, the quirky Wildlife Dome, perched atop the Reef Hotel Casino, houses a miniature rainforest beneath a vast glass dome. In this unconventional zoo, you'll find parrots, koalas, crocodiles, cockatoos, wallabies, and more.

Practical information

When to visit Cairns?

Cairns boasts a glorious tropical climate. It's warm year-round. However, some seasons are more conducive to tourism than others. In summer, from October to March, the rainy season is intense, with cyclone risks. Choose winter to visit Cairns. During this season, while southern Australia endures cold, grey weather, the region enjoys sunny days with temperatures hovering around 25 to 30°C.

Cairns International Airport connects to all major Australian cities. It operates flights to Paris with a stopover in Singapore, plus direct links to New Zealand and Japan. Shuttles depart the airport hourly for the city, though taxis are also available.

For overland transport, Cairns is served by Queensland Rail trains. From Brisbane, Queensland's capital, expect approximately 25 hours of travel. The road journey is slightly quicker. From Brisbane, situated 1,700 km south, via the Bruce Highway, allow around 20 hours of driving non-stop. Cairns is also accessible from Darwin, 2,800 km west, via the Barkly and Stuart Highways.

Downtown Cairns is easily explored on foot. The city has a railway station and a good bus network. You can hire a car to explore the surrounds or take a boat for seaside travel.

What to do in Cairns?

• Enjoy water activities on Cairns' Esplanade
• Join a boat excursion to discover the Great Barrier Reef
• Explore the jungle of Kuranda State Forest
• Experience the Bungy Jump above the tropical rainforest
• Unwind at Gilligan's for an evening out, and more