Things To Do In Yungaburra
Located just over an hour's drive southwest from Cairns, Yungaburra is a quaint, historical village in the heart of the central tablelands of Tropical North Queensland. Surrounded by rolling hills, beautiful rainforests, freshwater lakes, creeks, and waterfalls, you’ll be surprised at what this small town and its surroundings have to offer. Renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, let’s take a little looksy at some of the best things to do in Yungaburra for adults and children of all ages alike.
Getting From Cairns To Yungaburra
When getting to Yungaburra from Cairns, a car is going to be your easiest and most direct mode of transport. As mentioned at the top, the drive is about one hour, taking you on a scenic journey through the lush Atherton Tablelands. If you don’t have access to a car, you might want to rent one for the day. Take your time winding your way up Gillies Range Road, where you’ll be greeted with stunning picturesque views of the mountains and valley surrounds.
Alternatively, jump on our Northern Experience Eco Day Tour where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride! You'll get to visit Yungaburra as well as other nearby highlights such as Paronella Park, Millaa Millaa Falls, Babinda Boulders, and more!
Best Things To Do In Yungaburra
Yungaburra Markets
First things first, if you’re planning a trip to the central tablelands, you have to visit The Yungaburra Markets! It’s a popular destination for families and well, anyone of all ages really. The markets are a great place to sample a wide range of the local goodies from about 250 regional growers, producers and artisans, as well as being the place to purchase handmade gifts and keepsakes.
Located at the Bruce Jones Market Grounds, the markets run on the 4th Saturday of every month (3rd Sunday in December) from 7:30am - 12:30pm.
Curtain Fig Tree
Fancy a stroll in nature? Then visiting the Curtain Fig Tree is a definite must do. Situated in the Mabi Forest, it’s one of the largest fig trees in the world, over 500 years old, and home to a variety of native wildlife. Our Northern Experience Eco Day Tour visits this natural beauty where an experienced guide shares the interesting history of how the Curtain Fig Tree evolved over hundreds of years. Keep your peepers peeled for the rare and elusive Lumholtz tree kangaroo, too!
Peterson Creek Wildlife and Botanical Walking Track
On the topic of nature walks, another one of the best outdoor activities in Yungaburra is to take a wander along Peterson Creek Wildlife and Botanical Walking Track.
Access is located at the end of Pender Street, and you’ll find it’s one of the best places to spot an assortment of wildlife. Some of the creatures you might spy include turtles, bush turkeys, possums, Kingfisher birds, and probably the most popular is the platypuses paddling about! If you’re really lucky and arrive early morning or at dusk, you may even spot the aforementioned tree kangaroos.
Lloyd’s Suspension Bridge is a highlight here too!
Historic Yungaburra Old Town Loop
Consider yourself a history buff? Then I think you’ll enjoy this one. Yungaburra has the most heritage listed buildings of any Queensland town, save for the larger regional city centres. Many of the sites residing in the heart of the village remain preserved in all their early 1900’s glory. You can pick up a map of the old town loop from the tourist info centre, which provides a delightful brief history of Yungaburra and each building marked on the map. This is free and self-guided, making it perfect to start and finish whenever you like.
Best Things to do in Yungaburra with Children
Yungaburra Platypus Viewing Area
Further down the way from Peterson Creek is a platypus viewing area located just on the Gillies Highway, where you can park up and have a little squiz for more Platypuses. While it's said they’re most active during the early morning and dusk, there have been reports of mid-day sightings too. So, don’t forget your camera! You may also see turtles, lizards, and other creatures!
The Avenue of Honour
Situated along the bank of Lake Tinaroo, The Avenue of Honour is a national memorial created in honour of not only all men and women who have served in conflicts across the globe, but also commemorates Australian soldiers who served against acts of terror in Afghanistan.
Illawarra flame trees line the Avenue, symbolising the cycle of life and the final journey home of the fallen. There’s also a special spot dedicated to the hard working explosive detection and special ops military working dogs. It’s one of the few monuments of its type located outside of Canberra.
Gallo Dairyland
While this one is located just outside of Yungaburra (about a seven minute drive), Gallo Dairyland is one of the best things to do in Yungaburra with children. This fully working dairy farm has an animal nursery where children can interact with calves, pepper the pig, turkeys, chickens, and geese.
The cheese factory is also open to visitors where you can see where the Gallo cheese and chocolate range is made. Best of all, they offer cheese and chocolate tastings. Um, yes please! Don’t need to tell me twice. The cafe is also a local fave, sporting delicious farm fresh produce. Making it a great experience to take the kidlets to.
Other Atherton Tablelands Things To Do
Looking for something a bit more energising? There are many other outdoor activities to do that are just a short drive from the town of Yungaburra.
Some of the best include fishing at Lake Tinaroo, kayaking at Lake Barrine or if you’re feeling up for it, going for a swim at Lake Eacham. There is said to be a freshwater croc residing at Eacham crater lake, but don’t pay him any mind, he’s rarely spotted and quite shy. It's a local favourite swimming hole.
Is Yungaburra Worth Visiting?
With its charming atmosphere, rich history, and friendly locals, Yungaburra is a great place to visit for families and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, day trips from Cairns, a place to relax, or are just stopping by on your journey through this idyllic part of the central tablelands, it’s a popular tourist destination that’s worth visiting and has something to tickle everyone’s taste buds.
