Curtain Fig Tree

The departure is from Cairns, we head south travelling past Walsh’s Pyramid, one of the largest naturally formed pyramids in the world. Here your guide will stop so you can grab a photo of this unique North Queensland landmark. Now it’s time to travel up the World Heritage-listed Gillies Highway climbing 730 metres above sea level whilst enjoying the breathtaking views over the Goldsborough Valley. Just before the top of the amazing Gillies Range is a short photo opportunity at the Heales Lookout before heading into the gorgeous Atherton Tablelands. The first stop is the beautiful World Heritage Listed Lake Barrine Crater Lake National Park. On arrival, your tour guide will take you on a short walk to visit the 1000-year-old Twin Kauri Pines, true giants of the rainforest. Enjoy a Devonshire morning tea with freshly-baked scones before departing for the historical town of Yungaburra, which has the most Nationally Listed Heritage buildings in Queensland. Go on a driving tour around this quaint town, showcasing the many Nationally Heritage buildings. Next stop is The Curtain Fig Tree located in the Curtain Fig Tree National Park. This amazing feat of nature reaching 45+ metres up into the tropical rainforest canopy. Follow your guide on the boardwalk to learn about the amazing formation of this 600-800-year old epiphyte. Spy endemic wildlife species in the rainforest canopy, like the rare Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo. From here, head through the historical dairy town of Malanda, home to Australia’s oldest continuously running commercial picture theatre. Your guide will drive you around this charming town showcasing the beautiful old pub and theatre. Travelling through extensive beef, dairy, sugar cane, and other diverse types of farming areas, arrive at Millaa Millaa Falls, one of Australia’s most photographed waterfalls. Have an option of swimming under the cool waters or you sit back, relax, enjoy the tranquility of nature. Now it’s time to descend from the mountains down the Palmerstone Highway through sugar cane & banana fields to the coastal town of Innisfail, after leaving Innisfail you will enjoy a delicious lunch. Paronella Park is the next destination with a 45-minute guided tour in English, Chinese or Japanese. Be guided through the extensive National Trust Gardens while learning the rich history of Hose Paronella’s wonderful achievements and the colorful history of how he built his Spanish Castle in the rainforest; you will have amazing photo opportunities of the breathtaking Mena Creek and Theresa falls. Spend approx 2.5 hours here allowing plenty of free time to enjoy the rest of the park at a leisurely pace. Then, return to Cairns.

Begin your tour early in the morning by hopping on board a comfortable coach. Take in the the verdant landscapes of the Goldsborough Valley, before ascending to the cool tropical rainforest climes of the Atherton Tablelands. Ride next to towering rainforest trees which stand sentinel over the winding path. Stop at the Heales lookout for a spectacular vista over the valley and out to the Coral Sea. Head to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area's Lake Barrine which is in the Crater Lakes National Park. Learn about the area’s ancient natural history on a guided walk to the 1000-year-old twin kauri pines. Admire these true giants of the rainforest, before being whisked off to Devonshire Tea. Have some locally-grown tea and coffee served accompanied by scones with jam and freshly whipped cream. Continue to the historical town of Yungaburra where the coach stops for a photo or two before moving on to the Curtain Fig Tree, which towers more than 45 meters over the rare Mabi forest of Curtain Fig Tree National Park. Listen as your guide shares the unlikely story behind the formation of this 600-800 year-old epiphyte. Walk along the boardwalk while looking for local wildlife in the rainforest canopy, like green ring-tailed possums, eastern whip birds, Victoria’s rifle birds, and the rare Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo. Drive through the historical dairy town of Malanda. After Malanda, arrive at one of Australia’s most-photographed waterfalls, Millaa Millaa Falls. Jump into the cool rainforest waters as they tumble over 20 meters from volcanic lava flow formed over 1 million years ago. Refuel with a delicious la carte lunch before descending from the Atherton Tablelands via the Palmerston Highway. Pass through the traditional lands of the Mamu people. Take in views of expansive sugar cane and banana fields until you reach the coastal town of Innisfail. Reach the extensive National Trust-listed gardens at Paronella Park and go on a 30-minute guided tour that tells the story of the park’s memorable architecture, set amongst sprawling tropical gardens and inspired by founder José Paronella’s dream of a Spanish castle. Capture pictures of the Kauri Avenue to Teresa Falls, the Grand Staircase, and the suspension bridge over Mena Creek Falls. Go for another dip at Babinda Boulders (time permitting) where tranquil waters are nestled between striking granite boulders. Travel back to your pickup point in the city of Cairns in the evening with unforgettable memories of the stunning Atherton Tablelands and Paronella Park.

Explore the heart of Cairns with Barefoot Tours, where our seasoned guides transform every adventure into a personal odyssey. With extensive globetrotting experience and a deep affinity for Far North Queensland, our team is dedicated to unveiling Cairns’ hidden gems. Our tours transcend mere excursions; they are meticulously crafted experiences infused with passion, safety, and boundless enjoyment. From the pristine waters of Atherton’s volcanic crater lakes to mesmerizing waterfalls, we ensure your journey is nothing short of unforgettable. If you crave diverse landscapes, invigorating waterfall swims, and adventure at your own pace, you've found your ideal destination. Ready to exchange the Cairns heat for the tranquil vibes of Atherton Tablelands? Our small-group tours seamlessly transport you from Cairns to Queensland's most breathtaking national parks. Just an hour's drive away, Atherton Tablelands immerses you in a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Picture rolling hills, ancient rainforests rivalling those of the Amazon, and wildlife that will leave you awe-struck. Ever spotted a flightless cassowary or a kangaroo effortlessly navigating the treetops? You might just encounter these wonders on our journey! Throughout the day, you'll have ample opportunities to swim and explore the diverse terrain. Duration: Plan for approximately 11 hours for the complete experience, though each day varies based on weather, road conditions, and the fun we encounter! Why Choose Us? Seasoned and passionate guides Emphasis on safety and enjoyment Eco-friendly and carbon-neutral practices Customized, adaptable itineraries At Barefoot Tours, you're not simply booking a tour; you're becoming part of a family that cherishes adventure, respects the environment, and revels in the thrill of discovery. Join us in creating unforgettable memories in Cairns, a place we proudly call home and love to share.

Discover the natural beauty of the Atherton Tablelands and the Daintree Rainforest on a 2-day tour from Cairns. Learn about the history of the region, see the best waterfalls, and explore the untouched wilderness of the Daintree and Cape Tribulation. Travel in comfort among small, friendly tour groups as your guide shares their expert knowledge throughout the must-see attractions on the Atherton Tablelands. Enjoy priority access to Paronella Park, witness abundant rainforest plant and animal life at Lake Barrine and the Curtain Fig Tree, and relax with time to dip your toes in the cool, clear waters of Millaa Millaa Falls and Babinda Boulders. On day two, join Discovery Tours for a premium small group journey to Daintree and Cape Tribulation, soaking in sweeping views of the Daintree rainforest’s collision with the Coral Sea, visiting picture-perfect Cape Tribulation Beach, and spotting the area’s rare wildlife on a Daintree River Cruise.

Travel in comfort amongst our small, friendly tour groups as our Northern Experience Eco Tour guides share their expert knowledge throughout the must-see attractions on the Atherton Tablelands. Enjoy priority access to Paronella Park, witness abundant rainforest plant and animal life at Lake Barrine and the Curtain Fig Tree, and relax with time to dip your toes in the cool, clear waters of Millaa Millaa Falls and Babinda Boulders. On day two we join Discovery Tours for a premium small group journey to Daintree and Cape Tribulation, soaking in sweeping views of the Daintree rainforest’s collision with the Coral Sea, visiting picture-perfect Cape Tribulation Beach and spotting the area’s rare wildlife on a Daintree River Cruise.