Most travelers will find that 5 to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Australia trip with stops in both Cairns and Port Douglas. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Sydney. Get inspired with the below ideas for Cairns and Port Douglas trips.
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How many days do you need in Cairns & Port Douglas?
- Most travelers spend 5-10 days in Cairns and Port Douglas combined, allowing them to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of Far North Queensland.
- With 11 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip, broadening their Australian adventure and experiencing diverse landscapes.
- The most common extension is Sydney, a vibrant city offering iconic landmarks and cultural experiences.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Recommended Itineraries for Cairns & Port Douglas
Recommended Itinerary for 5 Days
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cairns | Cairns |
| Day 2 | Day Trip to the Great Barrier Reef | Cairns |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Port Douglas | Port Douglas |
| Day 4 | Daintree Rainforest Tour | Port Douglas |
| Day 5 | Return to Cairns, Depart |
Embark on a captivating five-day getaway exploring the wonders of Far North Queensland. Your journey begins in Cairns, where you can immerse yourself in the rich Aboriginal culture and savor the unique local cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, a haven for these delicate creatures. The highlight of your trip will undoubtedly be a day trip to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system. Here, you can choose to cruise across the turquoise waters, snorkel amongst vibrant marine life, or explore the reef’s intricate ecosystem in a glass-bottom boat. After your reef adventure, journey to the charming town of Port Douglas. While there, encounter fascinating local wildlife and embark on a guided tour of the ancient Daintree Rainforest, home to the Kuku Yalanji Indigenous people. Learn about their traditions and connection to the land, creating lasting memories of your time in this unique corner of the world. This itinerary provides a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Extended Itineraries
12-Day Itinerary Including Sydney & Uluru
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Sydney | Sydney |
| Day 2 | Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb & Opera House | Sydney |
| Day 3 | Blue Mountains Hiking Day Trip | Sydney |
| Day 4 | Whale Watching Cruise | Sydney |
| Day 5 | Fly to Uluru | Uluru |
| Day 6 | Uluru Sunrise & Field of Light Experience | Uluru |
| Day 7 | Fly to Cairns | Cairns |
| Day 8 | Day Trip to Kuranda | Cairns |
| Day 9 | Great Barrier Reef Excursion, Transfer to Port Douglas | Port Douglas |
| Day 10 | Day Trip to Daintree Rainforest | Port Douglas |
| Day 11 | Explore Port Douglas | Port Douglas |
| Day 12 | Depart Port Douglas |
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey that combines Australia’s most iconic natural wonders and vibrant cities. This highlights tour begins in Sydney, where you’ll have the opportunity to scale the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, marvel at the architectural masterpiece that is the Opera House, and embark on a thrilling whale watching cruise. Escape the city bustle with a day trip to the majestic Blue Mountains, known for their stunning eucalyptus forests and dramatic cliffs. From Sydney, you’ll fly into the heart of the Australian outback to witness the awe-inspiring Uluru. Experience the magic of sunrise over this ancient monolith and immerse yourself in the captivating Field of Light art installation. Your adventure continues with a flight to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the vibrant rainforest village of Kuranda and encounter adorable koalas. Dive into the underwater paradise of the Great Barrier Reef before transferring to the relaxed coastal town of Port Douglas. Conclude your trip with an exploration of the lush Daintree Rainforest, a World Heritage site teeming with unique flora and fauna. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, ensuring a truly memorable Australian experience.
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