Cairns Explorer Tour: Crystal Cascades, Behana Gorge & Welsh's Pyramid Day Trip
Spend a day inland from Cairns exploring rainforest waterfalls, swimming holes at Crystal Cascades and Behana Gorge, and the striking Welsh’s Pyramid. This accessible full‑day tour combines short walks, swimming stops, and local history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Use mineral-based sunscreen to protect coral and reduce chemical runoff in swimming holes; reapply after heavy sweating or swimming.
Wear water‑friendly shoes
Sticky soles or water shoes help on wet rocks and scramble sections at certain pools.
Hydrate and pack a snack
Carry at least 1–1.5 L of water and light snacks—the tour has limited time between stops for refueling.
Watch for changing weather
Tropical showers can come suddenly; bring a lightweight rain jacket and secure electronics in dry bags.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Red Arrow Walk lookout in the Cairns Botanic Gardens for compact wet‑tropics displays
- •Upper Crystal Cascades upstream pools—often quieter than main falls (access varies)
Wildlife
- •Rainbow lorikeets and other nectar‑feeding parrots
- •Freshwater turtles and small native fish in calmer pools
Conservation Note
These sites sit within or near the Wet Tropics World Heritage area; visitors should follow Leave No Trace practices, use reef‑safe products, and avoid disturbing vegetation or wildlife.
The route crosses country long used by the Yidinji people and later developed during European settlement for sugarcane—Gordonvale’s mill remains a local landmark tied to that industry.
What to Bring
SwimsuitEssential
Quick‑dry swimwear for pools and waterfalls.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet on slippery rocks and in shallow streams.
Reef‑safe sunscreen & hatEssential
Protects skin in tropical sun and is kinder to waterways.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Useful for garden trails, lookouts and short walks between sites.
Common Questions
Is swimming allowed at Crystal Cascades and Behana Gorge?
Yes—both sites have accessible swimming holes, but conditions vary; follow local signage, avoid swimming after heavy rain, and never dive into unknown pools.
Where does the tour start and how long is it?
The tour departs from Cairns and runs about 5 hours, with multiple short stops including the Botanic Gardens, viewpoints, and waterfall swim spots.
Is the tour suitable for children and strollers?
Yes; the operator notes stroller access for infants and short, family‑friendly walks, though some pools require steps or short uneven sections.
Do I need to bring cash for admissions or food?
No admission fees are listed for included stops, but bring cash or card for optional food, souvenirs, or personal purchases during the day.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Cairns, Queensland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, mostly flat walks and optional swims; minimal sustained uphill hiking.
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