Is There A Hop On Hop Off Bus In Cairns?
To our knowledge there aren’t currently any active hop on hop off bus companies operating in Cairns. But there are lots of exciting alternatives, from bus tours and day trip packages to car rental companies and public transport! You can still tour around Cairns to your heart’s content, and with so many different options, you can do it on your terms.
People are often spoiled for choice when they first visit Cairns. There is so much to see in and around this Tropical North Queensland spot, whether it’s the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, the tropical Daintree Rainforest and all the unique wildlife that thrives within it, the colossal waterfalls or the vibrant, bustling city.
Those hoping to tick a few of these destinations off their Cairns bucket list will be pleased to know that, although there isn’t currently a hop on hop off bus service, there are lots of fun, hassle-free ways to get around and see the best of the city and its surroundings.
Hop On Hop Off buses in Cairns
At the time of writing, there are no major hop on hop off bus companies, like Big Bus Tours or City Sightseeing, running in Cairns.
But, fear not! There are lots of alternative tours available that can take visitors to the top attractions and scenic spots in and around Cairns.
Best ways to see Cairns
If you’re hoping to explore Cairns city in particular, and see highlights like the Esplanade, the lagoon, the Botanic Gardens, or Rusty’s Markets, you’ve got options.
The good news is that Cairns is a totally walkable city, and there are lots of ways to get around without relying on a car. So, if you want to set off and discover the city on your own terms, it’s easily done! For more information on travelling around the city, check out our detailed guide on how to get around Cairns.
However, if you’d prefer to have a local guide you around in comfort, then the Half Day Cairns City Sights & Surrounds Tour might be right for you!
Set off in an air-conditioned bus and uncover some of the best local sights that Cairns has to offer, from the Botanic Gardens and the Cairns Museum, Barron Gorge, St Monica’s Cathedral, and even Palm Cove - all in the space of an afternoon!
Day tours from Cairns
If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and want to explore further than the hustle and bustle of Cairns City, there’s a wide range of day tours suitable for all types of visitors.
Whether you’re in the mood for lush green rainforests, thundering waterfalls, or tropical coral reefs, there are thrilling day tours from Cairns that cater for all ages and types of travellers. Check out a few of our favourites! But don’t forget to take a peek at our Day Trip Combos to squeeze in as much fun as possible.
Uncle Brian’s Fun, Falls & Forest Cairns
No one does day tours like Uncle Brians! Get picked up by Gus the Bus from your Cairns City accommodation and set off on the adventure of a lifetime through the Atherton Tablelands region. As part of your full-day tour, you’ll get to make a splash at Millaa Millaa Falls, Josephine Falls, Lake Eacham, and Babinda Boulders, go platypus-spotting at Yungabarra, feast on a lunch at the Tea House, enjoy guidance from a hilarious, expert guide, and take home a heap of photos from your fun-filled day.
Daintree & Cape Trib Premium Small Group Tour
Let Discovery Tours whisk you away to see some of the most pristine and well-preserved natural wonders in the world. Uncover the ancient relics of Daintree (the oldest rainforest on Earth), stroll along the one and only Cape Tribulation beach, and take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Mossman Gorge, before indulging in an included lunch option, and some exotic Daintree ice cream flavours.
Tropic Wings Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail
Travel to and from the beautiful rainforest village of Kuranda in total style and comfort with this dreamy day tour! Set off from Cairns City and travel though the lush green mountain range aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Once you’ve made it to the top, you’ll get to enjoy up to four hours of free time around Kuranda, browsing it’s boutique stores, rainforest markets, and unique culinary treats. Why not visit the Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld, or the Koala Gardens to experience some wildlife up-close while you’re in the area? When it’s home time, you’ll get to enjoy a relaxing journey back down the mountain with Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Reef Magic Pontoon Day Tour
If you’re planning to see the best of Cairns, a trip to the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute must. There are plenty of day tours that can take you to visit the famous Reef, so be sure to explore all of your options if an ocean adventure is what you’re after. That being said, a trip to the Reef Magic pontoon promises one of the most action-packed days out that suits tourists of all types. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with younger explorers, whether you’re a diving enthusiast or a non-swimmer, this tour has something for you. Spend a full five hours on the pontoon with options to snorkel, scuba dive, enjoy an underwater observatory, or even take a helicopter tour straight from the deck!
Pamagirri Authentic Aboriginal Experience
During your time in Cairns, we recommend taking some time to learn about the rich, authentic indigenous culture, from their customs and traditions to their fishing and art, to their Dreamtime stories and dances.
For a thorough, well-rounded tour, we recommend the Pamagirri Authentic Aboriginal Experience. This full day tour, hosted by local Pamagirri guides, takes visitors to the Koala and Wildlife Park, the beautiful town of Kuranda, and through croc-infested creeks on the WWII Army Duck. Also included in the tour are spear throwing, didgeridoo, and boomerang demonstrations, a hands-on Indigenous art workshop, lunch in Kuranda village, and your transfers to and from Cairns City.
