19 Phenomenal Waterfalls in Cairns and surrounding areas

Tropical North Queensland is home to World Heritage Listed sites such as the Daintree rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. It is the perfect place to throw on a snorkel and explore the world below or get lost in the rainforest in search of some local animals.

But, the beach and the reef isn’t for everyone. Far North Queensland, and in particular Cairns and the Atherton Tablelands, are filled with stunning rainforests and waterfalls.

In fact you don’t have to venture far from the city as you’ll find some of the best waterfalls in Cairns and the surrounding areas.

These waterfalls will provide you with a quick jaunt out of the city, or day trip exploring the Cairns waterfall circuit.

No matter where you end up, you’ll find a beautiful cascading waterfall with a waterhole at the bottom for you to cool off in.

Don’t go chasing waterfalls, or maybe in this case do?

Pinterest Graphic for the best waterfalls in Cairns

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1. Babinda Boulders and Devils Pools

Babinda Boulders waterfalls in cairns

Babinda boulders are a series of rapids in Babinda creek near the small town of Babinda close to the Wooroonooran National Park.

Despite not technically being waterfalls they are still a must on your list of things to do in Cairns.

The water at Babinda Boulders is crystal clear and surrounded by a lush tropical rainforest which provides the perfect back drop for a swim in the natural water hole.

There is a short hike along the river which provides some excellent views of the water cascading over the boulders, hence why they have the made list of best waterfalls in Cairns.

At the end of the short walk is the fast flowing water at Devils pools. It is strongly advised not to swim here as the water goes through caves in the rocks before exiting further down the river.

Sadly, many deaths have occurred in the treacherous waters, so save your swimming for Babinda boulders closer to the car park.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: 1 Munro St, Babinda QLD 4861
Time from Cairns: 56 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 65 kilometers
Top tip: Be mindful as flash flooding is prone in the area

2. Baron Falls

Barron Falls in the forest near Cairns

Barron Falls, located at Kuranda in the Barron Gorge National Park, are spectacular waterfalls due to the power of the water cascading over the rocks.

The falls are very easy to access for every body. The viewing point to the falls is located at the end of an elevated walk way through the beautiful, calm and quite rainforest. The walk along the elevated platform is ten minutes long, but be mindful of the platform as it can be slippery when wet.

If you are afraid of heights, this one might test your nerve in a couple of places but it is all worth it when you see the gorgeous Barron Falls.

If you are visiting the village of Kuranda on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, you will be able to see the waterfall from the train and have some time at a viewing platform to see the falls.

Another option to access the falls is to the SkyRail from either Cairns or Kuranda and get off at the Barron Falls stop and you can access the elevated walkway from the SkyRail Terminal.

If you are visiting during the wet season you are in for a treat. The increased volume of water cascading over the falls takes them to the next level. The powerful force of the water crashing over the rocks is something to see.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Centenary Park, Coondoo St, Kuranda QLD 4881
Time from Cairns: 35 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 31.2 kilometers
Top tip: Take a ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway for spectacular views

3. Clamshell Falls

Located in the Wooroonooran National Park along the Behana Creek you will find many beautiful deep green pools.

Clamshell Falls is some what of a local secret, and despite their close location to Cairns you will rarely find another travellers exploring the falls.

The deep gorge is filled with granite boulders surrounded by idillic rainforest and beautiful swimming holes.

The Behana Gorge is the local catchment area for many Cairns suburbs and the main waterfalls, Clamshell falls are located right next to the catchment area.

The hike to the waterfall is a 6km return hike, despite being paved the hike is mainly uphill and can be a little challenging if you’re not used to hiking.

Along the track (facing upstream) you will get a stunning view of Walsh’s Pyramid. Don’t forget your camera, as this is not the only photogenic spot along the track.

If you don’t mind jumping from rock to rock, you will be able to enjoy the pristine water hole at the bottom of Clamshell Falls, this makes the hike 100% worth it.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Behana Gorge Rd, Aloomba QLD 4860
Time from Cairns: 51 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 37 kilometers
Top tip: The hike requires a fair level of fitness but it is worth it

4. Crystal Cascades

Crystal Cascade waterfall in Cairns after the rains in the wet season

Aptly named, the Crystal Cascades are filled with many cascading waterfalls that flow over the boulders.

The walk to the cascades is only short and along a paved walk way. At the end of the walk you will find the waterfall with a deep water hole at the bottom of the falls, which is perfect for swimming.

Crystal Cascades is one of the closest waterfalls to the city center and is a travellers favourite due to the vicinity to Cairns and the ease to access the falls.

Along the path to the main falls you will find many other water holes along the way, some of which are provided with a beautiful shade to escape the searing sun on a hot day.

The falls are well set up for a day trip, as you will find a lovely BBQ area and a toilet block. This makes for a perfect lunch spot, so don’t forget to pack yourself a picnic.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Redlynch Intake Rd, Lamb Range QLD 4870
Time from Cairns: 21 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 18.8 kilometers
Top tip: Pack a picnic and make use of the BBQ facilities

5. Davies Creek Falls

Davies Creek Falls flowing into the swimming hole below

Davies Creek Falls is like something out of a movie, or one of those picture perfect Instagram post, thanks to the infinity pool at the top of the falls.

From the infinity pool at the top of the falls you are provided with gorgeous panoramic views over the beautiful green tropical forest.

The hike to the infinity pool is over many rocks and can be quite muddy and slippery so make sure to have appropriate footwear.

If hiking to the infinity pool is not your thing you will find plenty of hidden water holes to stop at along the track to the falls.

The road to the carpark is a gravel road but in the dry season most cars will be able to make the journey. 800 meters from the carpark is a beautiful look out.

There are also plenty of circuit and short walks that you can complete that are just as beautiful as the main falls.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Davies Creek Rd, Mareeba QLD 4880
Time from Cairns: 57 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 56.8 kilometers
Top tip: There are beautiful camping spots near by

6. Emerald Creek Falls

Shandos, Travelnuity

Emerald Creek Falls in Cairns

One of the best waterfalls to visit around Cairns is Emerald Creek Falls. Sure, it’s not the biggest or the most spectacular waterfall in the area, but you reach the falls after a wonderful short hike, there’s multiple swimming holes and it’s even dog-friendly.

Emerald Creek Falls is located on the Atherton Tablelands, about 16km outside the town of Mareeba. While the final 6km stretch of road to the falls is unsealed and at times corrugated, it still should be passable by 2WD vehicles, at least during dry weather.

At the carpark, you can’t yet glimpse the falls, only the lower reaches of Emerald Creek. To reach the falls, it’s a 1.6km return hike to the bottom of the falls or a longer 1.9km hike to a lookout spot overlooking them, both excellent photo spots. The former track ends with a clamber over slippery granite boulders, and shouldn’t be attempted during or after wet weather.

It’s possible to visit Emerald Creek Falls year round, as long as the road is accessible, although how much rain has recently fallen will affect your experience. 

Swimming at the base of the falls is only possible during the dry season, when the falls are more subdued, and ideally only for experienced swimmers. The safer spot to swim year round is further down the creek, in one of the many pools, closer to the carpark.

As Emerald Creek Falls are not located in a national park, dogs are permitted to join you when visiting, but need to be kept on a leash. There are multiple caravan parks dotted around Mareeba, most that are also pet-friendly. 

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Emerald Falls Rd, Mareeba QLD 4880
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 7 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 71.9 kilometers
Top tip: The safest place to swim is in the pool closest to the carpark

7. Ellinjaa Falls

Ellinjaa Falls surrounded by trees with the sun shining through

Despite coming first alphabetically, Ellinjaa Falls is the last of the falls in the Cairns Waterfall Circuit.

In the dense lush rainforest, Ellinjaa falls are simply picturesque and surprisingly beautiful.

Hidden behind the falls, is a rock shelf where you can sit and admire the view from a different perspective.

The walk from the carpark is a short walk along a sealed path and requires minimal fitness. However, on wet days, the path can become quite slippery.

The swimming hole at Ellinjaa Falls is a beautiful, and often quiet, place to cool off from the hot and humid weather.

Ellinjaa Falls are another set of waterfalls near Cairns that are beautifully set up with BBQ facilities that make for the perfect picnic stop during your waterfall excursion.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: 1174 Theresa Creek Rd, Millaa Millaa QLD 4886
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 104 kilometers
Top tip: Admire the view from behind the waterfalls

8. Fairy Falls

Leslie, Backpacker Thailand

The waterfalls at Fairy Falls cascading through the rock faces

Located in the lush woods near Crystal Cascades, Fairy Falls is a drop-dead gorgeous waterfall. If you have enough time for a day trip from Cairns, come to Fairy Falls for a cool down and a swim in crystal-clear water.

It takes around 25 minutes to get from Cairns city to Crystal Cascades, from where you can access the Fairy Falls. The Cascades aren’t accessible by public transportation, so you’ll have to drive here.

When you leave the car at Crystal Cascades car park, the start of the trail will be on your left. Look for the black trail start sign, located right next to the entrance to the forest.

For the next ten minutes, go along the route through the lush tropical rainforest until you reach the secluded waterfall.

Once there, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view that looks like a little piece of paradise in the middle of a rainforest.

Hot summer days are the best time to visit. It’s not recommended to visit the falls after a heavy rainfall, since tracking conditions might become dangerous.

Useful info: The trail to the falls is roughly 10 minutes long and includes some rock jumping and climbing. It’s not suitable for small children.

It’s recommended to wear comfy shoes and knee braces, as you’ll be climbing a few large and wet stones.

Unfortunately, Fairy Falls doesn’t cater to people with access needs, and there is no phone reception on the way to the falls.

Thinking of visiting the Fairy Falls and aren’t sure where to stay? If you’re looking for elegance and comfort, the best choice is Pacific Hotel Cairns.

If you are looking for an alternative suitable for backpackers, Mad Monkey Backpackers Village is a great choice if you want an alternative that is good for backpackers.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Lamb Range QLD 4870
Time from Cairns: 21 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 18.8 kilometers
Top tip: Combine Fairy Falls with a visit to Crystal Cascades

9. Josephine Falls

Erika, Erika’s Travelventures

Josephine Falls in Cairns, Queensland

Josephine Falls is one of the most well-known and best waterfalls to visit near Cairns. Visiting Josephine Falls is a popular day-trip activity from Cairns because of its close proximity to town, ease of access to reach the falls, and the freshwater swimming holes that can be enjoyed. 

Once visitors arrive at the Josephine Falls car park (a 45-minute drive from Cairns), a 700-metre paved path takes visitors to where the falls are located.

The falls are broken down into three sections, which means even if there are many other people there, it can feel less crowded.

The farthest section is the best for photo opportunities, because it is a viewing platform overlooking the top of the falls. No swimming or climbing on the rocks here is allowed due to safety reasons, so visitors will be able to take unimpeded photos of the beautiful Josephine Falls.

The middle and bottom paths lead to platforms that make it easy to climb into the sections of the falls and the pools of freshwater.

These swimming areas are kid-friendly and perfect for cooling off from the Far North Queensland heat. They also have many smooth boulders, fun for climbing and also sliding down where natural water slides have formed. 

Many amenities are available at the Josephine Falls car park as well, including bathrooms and a large picnic area, making it a perfect place to spend a day with friends or family. The best part is, access to all of this is FREE. 

The closest accommodation to Jospehine Falls is in Mirriwinni, a tiny town on the Bruce Highway that is home to a hotel of the same name, Mirriwinni Hotel, which has a classic Aussie pub attached. 

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Josephine Falls Walk, Bartle Frere QLD 4861
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 4 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 74.6 kilometers
Top tip: The three sections of the waterfalls make it feel like there aren’t crowds of people

10. Little Millstream Falls

Located in Millstream Falls National Park, Little Millstream Falls, as the name would suggest, is the smaller waterfall located in the park.

However, despite the name and the fact that it is smaller it is still very impressive. The waterfall is made up of three cascading waterfalls which lead into a very deep swimming hole.

It is a perfect swimming hole where you might be lucky enough to encounter a platypus.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Millstream QLD 4888
Time from Cairns: 2 hours
Distance from Cairns: 131 kilometers
Top tip: Make sure to swim at Little Millstream Falls as you can’t at Millstream Falls

11. Millstream Falls

Located 500 meters along The Millstream is Big Millsteam Falls. These waterfalls near Cairns are often missed by travellers but they should be on everyones waterfall bucket list (other people have a waterfall bucket list right?)

Mainstream Falls has been touted as “Australia’s Widest Single-Drop Waterfall” and as the title would suggest, it’s pretty impressive.

The only way to access the falls is along a short and sealed pathway that leads to a lookout at the top of the falls, sadly, you cannot access the base of falls which means this is not the place for swimming.

If you would like to go swimming make sure you stop by Little Millstream Falls.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Millstream QLD 4888
Time from Cairns: 2 hours
Distance from Cairns: 131 kilometers
Top tip: Make sure to swim at Little Millstream Falls as you can’t at Millstream Falls

12. Mena Creek Falls

A rope bridge crossing Mena Creek Falls with a ruined building to the right of the falls

Located within Paronella Park these waterfalls can be viewed for a price from within Paronella Park or you can look at them from the viewing platform across the river.

The single-tier waterfalls cascade over 7 million year old basalt rocks which are just magical as the sun is setting for the day.

You can take in the views from above as you cross the suspension bridge or from ground level at the Castle of Paronella Park.

José Paronella emigrated to Australia in the early 1900s from Spain and dreamed of building a castle. His dreams came true when he built the castle in the 1930s.

There are camping facilities inside the park and there is a wonderful twilight tour that occurs through out the park that is highly recommended.

Please stay out of the water as there are loads of signs warning you of crocodile sightings.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: 1648 Innisfail Japoon Rd, Germantown QLD 4871
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 26 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 108 kilometers
Top tip: Check out the views at sunset for a truly magical experience

13. Millaa Millaa Falls

Chris, the Aquarius Traveller

Millaa Millaa falls in Cairns, Queensland

When searching for waterfalls in the Cairns region, you can’t go past the Millaa Millaa Waterfall. 

Boasted as the most photographed waterfalls in Australia, you can swim in the waterhole below and only a short drive from Cairns.

Even luckier, it’s running all year round and not that difficult to plan a visit.

Millaa Millaa Falls is located about one and a half hours from Cairns, along Theresa Creek Road and part of the Waterfall Creek Circuit.

This circuit includes other waterfalls like Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls. It’s more convenient to drive yourself, but there are day tours available from Cairns, if needed.

There is plenty of parking with 100 metre staircase to the falls, along with a small parking section for those with limited mobility.

You have a large garden or grassed area surrounding the falls, along with picnic tables, barbeques, and toilet facilities.

Therefore, it’s often used for large family or lunchtime gatherings with picturesque views. Conveniently, there is a lookout platform for those unable to walk down to the edge.

The falls themselves are a large drop of over 18 metres, with a shaded crisp waterhole in the bottom. If you can brave the chilly waters, then it can be a great spot for freshwater swimming.

The summer will have more water-dropping than the winter season, although excess rains can overflow the waterhole into the grassy areas.

Pack the car up with a blanket and a picnic, for a day that you won’t forget. The rainforest sounds and running water will be hypnotic, meditating, and release any kind of stress in your life.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Millaa Falls Road, Millaa Millaa QLD 4886
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 36 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 101 kilometers
Top tip: Crowned the most photographed waterfall in Australia

14. Mungalli Falls

Jeanine, Lets go a Wandering

Mungalli Falls near Cairns in the wet season after a heavy rain

It is well worth including Mungalli Falls when you plan your next waterfall adventure, being the only privately owned World Heritage listed waterfall in Queensland.

Including the Mungalli cascades, the multi-tiered waterfall has a collective drop of over 70 metres.

A carpark is available, a short distance from the cascades, which can be viewed from the platform or a safe distance from the edge.

Alternatively, the cascades can be viewed from the bridge, used to access the bush walk down to the base of the falls.

Take the track to the right for the bush walk down to the bottom viewing platform, the falls and glow worm site, which is a 45 minute return trip.

The walk down to the base requires a moderate level of fitness to traverse the steep descent and return accent.

To preserve the natural surroundings of the waterfall and area it is recommended to stay on the path at all times.

There is an additional platform at the top of the waterfall that can be more easily accessed for visitors with mobility issues and in times of flood when the path to the bottom is inaccessible.

This platform provides an alternative view of the waterfall and the stunning mountain surroundings.

In addition to the waterfall viewing platforms there is a platypus viewing platform across the road from the upper cascades. Where you may catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures.

Mungalli falls can be visited throughout the year as it is a permanent waterfall. However, during Feb-Mar heavy rain from the wet season may make the track down to the base tier of the waterfall impassable.

The falls are approximately a 1 hour and 40 minutes’ drive from Cairns.

Taking the Bruce highway from Cairns, for an hour towards Innisfail before turning right onto Palmerston Highway at the Millaa Millaa/Atherton turn off.

Alternatively, the falls are 15 mins from Millaa Millaa Falls on the Atherton Tablelands waterfall circuit.  

Whilst in the area 5 mins from the falls you will discover Rainforest Heart, an Australian Tropical Bushfood orchard and cellar door.

Continue to the Mungalli Creek Biodynamic Dairy and Café open 10:00-16:00, morning/afternoon tea, a platter lunch, or a snack.

Alternatively, return 15 minutes along the Palmerston Highway, where you can experience the spectacular Mamu Rainforest canopy walkway.

When in Cairns stay at the Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, next door to Cairns Aquarium and only a block from other attractions in Cairns.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: 280 Junction Rd, Millaa Millaa QLD 4886
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 43 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 131 kilometers
Top tip: Stop by the Mungalli Creek Biodynamic Dairy and Café and pick up a platter for lunch

15. Nandroya Falls

Nandroya Falls, falling down a crack in a mossy cliff face

Located in the Wooroonooran National Park, is Nandroya falls, one of the best waterfalls in Cairns.

Situated in a clearing at the end of a gorgeous 3km walk (the circuit is 6kms).

Before reaching the 50-meter cascading waterfall the walk takes your through lush rainforests, by deep gorges and waterfalls before entering a clearing where you will be greeted with Nandroya.

Nandroya has the impressed 50-meter waterfall as well as a lower level which is wider and the perfect place for swimming and capturing some gorgeous photos.

The walk begins at Henrietta Creek camp ground which has plenty of toilet and picnic facilities.

If you’re on the look out for some local wildlife, keep your eyes peeled as there have been Platypus sightings in the area.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Wooroonooran QLD 4860
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 49 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 119 kilometers
Top tip: Keep your eye out for a Platypus

16. Spring Creek Falls

Once upon a time Spring Creek Falls was called, Black Rock falls, these days however, it is called Spring Creek Falls.

Getting to the Falls includes some scrambling over rocks and boulders up the Mowbray Valley but the surroundings are incredibly beautiful. You will be surrounded by beautiful tree canopies and smaller water holes.

The end of trail is marked by the large Spring Creek Falls. It is a lovely place to swim but the water is quite deep so be mindful of your own swimming capabilities. Also, watch out for the yabbies.

Check out All Trails for the exact location of the waterfall and the track to reach the path.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Mowbray QLD 4877
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 60 kilometers
Top tip: Stick to the dry season, it can be a little rough in the wet season

17. Stoney Creek Falls

Despite being very close to Cairns CBD, Stoney Creek Falls will make you feel as though are a world away from a main city.

Dense tree canopies that beautifully filter through some shade keep you cool and protected from the sun as you make the journey to the crystal clear swimming hole.

If you don’t fancy going too from the carpark, you will find a large (and deep) swimming hole about 5 minutes from the carpark.

However, if you wander about 25 minutes further down the track you will come to the larger Stoney Creek Falls. It is well worth the trek and you can cool off with a swim at the Falls.

Stoney Creek Falls is located in the Barron Gorge National park, so if you are checking out the Barron Falls or heading to Kuranda for a day trip make sure to add Stoney Creek Falls to your list.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Stoney Creek Road, Kuranda QLD 4881
Time from Cairns: 17 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 14.5 kilometers
Top tip: Do not venture down stream towards the Barron river, it is not safe for swimming

18. Wallicher Falls

Also located in the Wooroonooran National Park not far from Nandroya falls are the Wallicher Falls.

In fact, if you’re keen for a bit of a walk (around 7km) return you can walk from the Henrietta Creek camp ground to the Wallicher Falls.

If a 7km wander isn’t your cup of tea, or if its too hot you can drive to the trail. From the carpark you can walk 1km and you will find yourself at the gorgeous segmented falls.

At the bottom of the falls is a beautiful swimming hole. Which the perfect place to take a break after your hike, no matter whether you took the 1km or the 7km trail.

From Palmerston Highway, you will pass Tchupala Falls on the way to Wallicher Falls. This another great place to stop for a swim!

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Palmerston Hwy, Wooroonooran QLD 4860
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 122 kilometers
Top tip: Makes a great stop on a road trip from Townsville to Cairns

19. Zillie Falls

It’s quite fitting that Zillie Falls is the last on my list of “Best Waterfalls in Cairns” because it also happens to be the last stop on the Cairns Waterfall Circuit.

Only five minutes down the road from Milla Milla Falls, Zillie falls are just as impressive (if not more) but for some reason, are much less popular than Milla Milla Falls, which makes it the perfect waterfalls near Cairns because you can almost have them to yourselves.

The 30 meter single drop falls rush over the edge of an eroded basalt column. The viewing point is at the top of falls.

There is also a relatively unknown and hard to find track which leads into a 35 minute walk to the bottom of the falls of an epic view of the 30 meter tall waterfall. The track is muddy and some what hard to navigate so be mindful of your step and the direction you are talking.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Theresa Creek Rd, Wooroonooran QLD 4860
Time from Cairns: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Distance from Cairns: 106 kilometers
Top tip: Lookout for the fruit bats in the trees near the carpark

Bonus: Wallaman Falls

So, it is up to you if you can classify Wallaman Falls as “Waterfalls in Cairns” or even waterfalls near Cairns as this one is a bit of a trek.

By a bit of trek, I mean 3 and half hours and 287kilometers. If you’re an Aussie, especially an Aussie that lives on a farm we might consider this a trip “down the road” but for other travellers you might want to stay a night near by.

However, despite the distance from Cairns if you are in Cairns you need to add these your list of Best Waterfalls in Cairns because they are absolutely stunning.

One reason to add Wallaman falls to your bucket list is that they are the biggest waterfalls in Australia. They stand at an impressive 268 meters high.

The lookout at the top falls give you a view over the entire waterfalls and just how tall they are. Venture through the forest down to the base of the falls to hear the falls crashing into the water hole below and to get a really check on just how tiny we are in comparison to nature.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:
Location: Lookout Rd, Wallaman QLD 4850
Time from Cairns: 3 and a half hours
Distance from Cairns: 287 kilometers
Top tip: Makes a great stop on a road trip from Townsville to Cairns

The Cairns Waterfall Circuit

If you are short on time or you don’t want to drive miles and miles looking for waterfalls the Cairns Waterfall Circuit, also known as the Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Circuit is a great option.

The Waterfall Circuit includes, Milla Milla Falls, Ellinjaa Falls and Zillie Falls.

The circuit gives you a mix of lush rainforest, beautiful picnic spots, stunning swimming holes and of course, dramatic waterfalls.

The Cairns Waterfall Circuit is 100km one way and will take you the better part of the day. Especially if you follow Tropical North Queensland’s cute itinerary.

Best Waterfall Tours in Cairns

Take a tour off the the Atherton Tablelands and some of the main waterfalls, such as Josephine Falls, Milla Milla Falls, Zillie Falls and more.

This small group tour departs from Allbout Cairns and returns 11 hours later after spending the day exploring freshwater holes and, natural waterslides and gazing at the 500 year old fig tree.

Your tour includes transportation, morning and afternoon snacks and self made sandwiches as well as tea and coffee.

This organised group tour is perfect if you don’t have a car or don’t want to hire your own car for your stay.

Helpful Tips for visiting the waterfalls in Cairns

  • Be mindful of your own swimming capabilities as some of the waterfalls are very deep
  • Read all signs and head all warnings given
  • Pack a picnic
  • Take your bathers, towel and thongs (flip flops)
  • Make sure you have a map either paper or google maps
  • Be mindful on the tracks, especially in the wet season as they can become very muddy and slippery

Wrap up: The Best Waterfalls in Cairns

Cairns and the surrounding areas have many beautiful waterfalls to visit. Each waterfall is almost more beautiful than the one before.

Waterfall hoping is the perfect way to spend a day (or a week) in Cairns. No matter how long you are in Cairns for, make sure to stop by a waterfall or two.

FAQs: Waterfalls in Cairns

Can you swim in waterfalls in Cairns?

Yes, you can swim in most waterholes at the bottom of the waterfalls in Cairns.

Be mindful of the slippery rocks that are present at most waterfalls and follow all signs provided at the waterfalls.

Are there crocodiles in waterfalls Cairns?

Generally speaking there are no crocodiles in the waterfalls in Cairns. However, when visiting Far North Queensland is always best to keep your eyes open as crocodiles can venture inland.

Follow all warning signs and advice given and if in doubt, stay out of the water.

When is the best time to visit the Cairns Waterfalls?

The best time to visit the waterfalls in Cairns and the surrounding areas is in the wet season.

During the wet season there is an increased amount of water raging over the falls providing a much more dramatic scene.

The warmer and humid weather also means that the chilly water at the bottom of the falls will be more refreshing rather than bone cold.

Fiona xoxo

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