The ultimate Atherton Tablelands waterfall circuit itinerary

Day one

Starting in Cairns, grab your caffeine fix before hitting the road to Babinda Boulders for the first swimming hole of the trip. Surrounded by vibrant rainforest, this popular spot is an iconic Cairns attraction you won't want to miss.

Please note: Stick to the designated swimming areas (indicated by signage) and do not swim in strong currents or poor weather conditions, especially after heavy rainfall.

Further on you'll discover Josephine Falls – nature's real-life playground with fresh mountain-fed waters, a rope swing, and a natural waterslide. 

Chasing waterfalls is fun, but if you want to break up the day with other activities, you'll find plenty on this loop. Stop in at Mamu Tropical Skywalk to walk through the canopy of the Wet Tropics Rainforest in Wooroonoon National Park.

From here you can hit three more waterfalls close by today – Tchupala Falls, Wallicher Falls and Nandroya Falls.

Spend your first night at Canopy Rainforest Tree Houses and Wildlife Sanctuary in a luxury timber and glass treehouse perched high in the rainforest.

Day two

Ahead of exploring the next group of waterfalls, fuel up on breakfast at The Falls Teahouse.

Today you'll be jumping between the three most photographed waterfalls in Australia – Millaa Millaa Falls, Ellinjaa Falls and Zillie Falls. It's worth stopping in at the entire trio as each waterfall offers something different. 

All that action deserves a lunch to remember at Mungalli Creek Biodynamic Dairy and Farmhouse Cafe where all products are made on premises with their own produce, as well as locally sourced ingredients. Relax on the cafe verandah which looks out to Mt. Bartle Frere - Queensland's highest mountain. 

Think you can squeeze in one more waterfall? Mungalli Falls is just around the corner and is the only privately-owned World Heritage-listed waterfall in Queensland. You'll also find a platypus viewing platform along the way.

For tonight's accommodation, make your way to Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat.

Day three

On the final day of the Waterfall Circuit before you loop back to Cairns, it's heavy on the food gems but you won't be disappointed with the choices. 

Head straight to Lake Barrine – an enchanting natural lake hidden in World Heritage-listed rainforest. To explore his water-filled crater (left by a volcanic eruption), hop onto a relaxing rainforest and wildlife cruise to see this complex ecosystem up-close. While you're here, enjoy old-fashioned tea house sandwiches and baked pumpkin scones with cranberries and local butter.

Ready for a refreshing dip? Stop off at the serene blue lake of Lake Echam and take some time to stroll around the 3km track for forest-fringed views of the lake. 

Not far from here is the charming town of Yungaburra, where you'll find plenty of local history, so take a moment to stroll around and check out the locally made arts and crafts. The Yungaburra Hotel is also known for its wholesome, home-cooked, country meals, live music sessions and local events. A short drive out from here, you'll find Curtain Fig Tree – a giant tree with several aerial roots hanging down from its branches that look like curtains. It's over 500 years old and definitely worth a look.

For the second half of the day, head directly back to Cairns or stop in at one of the following en-route. 

• Shaylee Strawberries: Strawberry picking, homemade gelato, sorbet and jam.
• Gallo Dairyland: Cheese and chocolate – need we say more?
• Coffeeworks: Coffee, chocolate, liquors and gifts.
• Mt Uncle Distillery: Tours and tastings. Settle in and explore the story behind each drop. 
• Skybury Café and Roastery: Freshly roasted coffee straight from the farm, yummy cakes, scones and snacks, as well as its trademark sweet red papaya.

Feeling inspired to hop your way around even more swimming spots? Here's a guide to the best waterfalls in Queensland.