To chat face-to-face to a local about all the best things to see and do in the Atherton Tablelands, step into a Visitor Information Centre.
The picturesque mountain retreat of Kuranda is 25km northwest of Cairns. Known as the "Village in the Rainforest", it offers wildlife attractions including the Koala Gardens, Butterfly Sanctuary and Rainforestation, as well as markets, quaint cafes and boutiques to explore. A special way to access Kuranda is via gondola on the Skyrail high above the spectacular Barron Falls, or take a step back in time on the Kuranda Scenic Rail.
If feeling the mist of a waterfall in the middle of the rainforest spells bliss, look no further than the region’s natural swimming spots. In the Atherton Tablelands, the best places to cool off are only a drive away. Take your pick and find natural water slides and freshwater creeks dotted throughout the rainforest, or lakes such as Eacham, Tinnaroo or Barrine. Follow the World-Heritage Wet Tropics waterfall circuit, which includes natural beauties like Millaa Millaa, Zillie and Elinjaa Falls.
Explore the lush greenery that is Queensland’s Wet Tropics, where the views are magnificent no matter which way you turn. Be overwhelmed by the magnitude of Curtain Fig Tree, famed for its age (over 500 years old), size (50 metres high and 39 metres wide) and vertical roots. Or, mount your bike and take a self-guided tour through the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike park.