←Australia travel guide
Queensland, Australia
Cairns
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest
AdventureBeachesNature & OutdoorsWildlife
Cairns is a tropical city in far north Queensland best known as the main gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. With a relaxed esplanade, marina and warm climate, it is a popular base for diving, snorkelling and rainforest excursions.
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Best time to visit
May to October (dry season)
Region
Queensland
Main airport
Cairns CNS (CNS)
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Plan Your Trip
Getting Around Cairns
Tours, stays, transfers, and flights — curated partner options are on the way.
Tours & Activities
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Coming soonWhere to Stay
Hotels, apartments, and guesthouses across every neighbourhood — booking options are on the way.
Coming soonAirport Transfers
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Coming soonTravel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Australia
Most visitors require either an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601), an eVisitor visa (subclass 651), or a Tourist visa (subclass 600) before travelling to Australia. Citizens of many countries can apply for an ETA or eVisitor online within minutes. Check your specific passport nationality using the Yoogo visa checker.
The ETA and eVisitor visas allow stays of up to 3 months per visit, while a Tourist visa can grant up to 12 months. Most travellers on standard visitor authorisations are admitted for 3 months.
You need a valid passport with at least 6 months' validity, a valid Australian visa or ETA, a completed Incoming Passenger Card (provided on the flight), and evidence of sufficient funds and a return or onward ticket.
Australia is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. Crime rates are low by international standards. The main hazards are natural — extreme heat, UV radiation, jellyfish, and some venomous wildlife. Standard travel precautions apply.
The Australian Dollar (AUD, symbol A$) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including contactless tap payments.
English is the official and dominant language of Australia. A small number of indigenous languages are also spoken. Australian English has its own distinctive accent and slang.
Australia is a large continent with varied climates. Generally, September to November (spring) and March to May (autumn) offer comfortable temperatures across most regions. Avoid the tropical north during the wet season (November–April). Sydney and Melbourne are best in summer (December–February).
Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef, watch the sunrise at Uluru, walk the Bondi to Coogee coastal path, explore the Daintree Rainforest, take the scenic Great Ocean Road drive, visit Sydney Opera House, spot kangaroos and koalas in the wild, and explore Melbourne's world-famous laneways.
Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) handles the most international traffic. Melbourne Airport (MEL), Brisbane Airport (BNE), and Perth Airport (PER) are also major international gateways.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Australia has high medical costs for non-residents, and many adventure activities require specific cover. The Australian government cannot pay your medical bills overseas, and Medicare is not available to most tourists.