Cairns Travel Forum

HI
I ll arrive from Japan to Cairns in 3 weeks and I will be travelling from Carins to Brisbanne 14 days, (backpacker)
I was thinking about stay in Cairns 3 days,
-Cape Tribulation (how can I go? Going in my own i do not want to rent a 4x4) ,
-Go to the reefs and stay sleeping in a boat or island for 1 or 2 night ( any advice? company??
-In my way to Brisbanne by bus where do you recommend to stop?
...
In Bribane I ll stay 2-3 days and from there to Byron Bay but if you could give me advice about the questions below I ll be happy enough
Thanks in advance
Also looking for mates to share the trip (any forum)

Hi there,
You don't need a 4x4 to get to Cape Tribulation. The roads are sealed all the way from Cairns to Cape Trib.
I suggest that being by yourself and not driving, you should do a day tour from Cairns to the Cape. There are many of these that go each day. When you get here you just head down to the Esplanade ( Street near the water/big swimming pool/board walk area) and here you will find lots of backpacker trips you can take.
There are at least 3 companies that do the outer reef experience. You will also be able to select one of these the day you arrive, again either at the backpacker place you are staying or at one of the information centres along the Esplanade.
I love the Quicksilver trip to the outer reef, make sure you go to the outer reef:)Not Green Island or the Lowe Isles.Outer Reef so much better:)
OR you will be able to look for a 1 night stay over out on the reef somewhere.
That is if the weather is good. It should be, if it rains a bit it won't matter as it will still be warm/hot.
I think you should stay in Cairns for at least 4 full days. The SkyrailTrain is also some thing that is fun to do.
There are lots of backpackers here, we do have many visitors from Japan, you may find someone at the backpackers that are also looking for someone to do the sights with.All the above are very easy to do, plus companies will pick you up from accommodation.Cairns isn't a big city, it's easy to get around, good plublic transport. Please be aware that like any city, it's not a good idea to walk around alone late at night. I am afraid we do have people being attacked for their belongings, just don't go off the beaten track walking back to your accommodation.If you use common sense, it will be fine:)
To enjoy this area, try at least 4 days here...

On your way to Brisbane I would suggest that you stop at Hervy Bay, this is where you can grab a day tour of Fraser Island, this is a wonderful experience.
There are backpacker tours of Fraser Island as well.
Whitsunday area is wonderful.
Airlie Beach is the happening place.

Have a great trip
Anne