https://www.tourismtown.com/ The latest news from Tourism Town - The Tourism Marketplace - Find and book authentic experiences.. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3312/ Hidden among the tropical foliage of Green Island lies one of the Great Barrier Reef's most unexpected treasures. Marineland Melanesia has welcomed visitors since the early 1960s, making it one of the longest-running attractions on the island. Home to more than 50 crocodiles, the attraction features marine aquariums with coral, reef fish, and giant sea turtles. A remarkable display of Melanesian tribal carvings adds a cultural dimension that delights visitors of all ages. Just a short walk from the jetty, Marineland Melanesia is a must-visit during any full day on Green Island. Green Island Cairns offers a range of ferry packages with ample time to experience this iconic attraction alongside the island's beaches, boardwalk, and world-class snorkelling. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3310/ Barron River Rafting will be unavailable from 14 to 18 September 2026 inclusive due to scheduled maintenance. Tully River Rafting is now scheduled to resume on 11 September, following an extended maintenance closure. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3309/ Nestled in the tropical rainforest highlands above Cairns, Kuranda is one of Tropical North Queensland's most enchanting destinations. Kuranda Train & Skyrail makes it easy to arrive in style, whether by the legendary Scenic Railway or the soaring Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Once in Kuranda, visitors discover a charming village alive with artisan markets, local galleries, wildlife encounters, cafes and restaurants tucked beneath the rainforest canopy. The Original Kuranda Markets and Heritage Markets showcase handcrafted jewellery, clothing, art and local produce from talented local makers. Wildlife lovers can visit Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens or the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, all within easy walking distance. Free time in the village is built into every package, making it the perfect tropical escape. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3308/ North Queensland's most serene half-day adventure has visitors gliding through ancient rainforest on the guided River Drift experience, available through Daintree Rainforest. Departing from Port Douglas and Mossman, the 3.5-hour eco-friendly tour takes guests beneath a lush canopy of World Heritage listed rainforest. Expert guides share fascinating knowledge of the unique ecology, plant life, and wildlife lining the riverbanks, turning a gentle float into an unforgettable immersion in one of Earth's most ancient landscapes. Rated 4.9 out of 5 by guests, the River Drift is praised for its tranquillity, expert commentary, and up-close encounters with the natural world. It suits families, couples, and solo travellers seeking a quieter, more intimate way to experience the Daintree. The tour is eco-certified and designed to leave a minimal footprint, protecting this extraordinary environment for future generations. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3307/ For travellers seeking something extraordinary, Cairns Reef Tours offers a rare overnight reef adventure through Coral Sea Dreaming, one of the most intimate ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Departing Cairns with a small group, the vessel sails to exclusive reef sites. Guests snorkel vibrant coral gardens, spot sea turtles, reef fish and experience magical night dives beneath the stars. The skilled crew prepares fresh, delicious meals on board while guiding guests through the reef's most spectacular locations. Qualified dive instructors cater to certified divers and beginners alike. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable crew, intimate atmosphere and personal service, rating it among the most memorable reef experiences available from Cairns. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3302/ Kuranda Scenic Railway will temporarily close on four occasions in 2027 while Queensland Rail carries out major maintenance and infrastructure works along the Kuranda Range corridor. Each closure will run for five days, with services cancelled on the following dates: 10–14 May 2027 7–11 June 2027 11–15 October 2027 1–5 November 2027 The planned works include bridge substructure remediation, Stage 2 of the Kuranda Range Stabilisation Project, drainage and vegetation management, geotechnical inspections and other priority maintenance. Queensland Rail says the additional closures will allow complex works to be completed safely and efficiently, while helping improve asset condition, reduce future maintenance needs and minimise operational and safety risks. The investment is aimed at supporting the long-term reliability and sustainability of the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway journey for future generations. Travellers and tourism operators planning for 2027 are encouraged to take the closure dates into account when organising itineraries. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3299/ After dark, the Daintree Rainforest reveals a magical world that few travellers ever witness. The Cape Tribulation Night Walk takes guests along an easy boardwalk through the world's oldest rainforest, guided by passionate local experts. As the jungle awakens, nocturnal creatures emerge: tree frogs call from the canopy, golden orb spiders spin impressive webs, and possums move silently through ancient trees. Expert guides share deep knowledge of the forest's ecology, turning every step into a discovery. The walk suits all ages, from young families to seasoned adventurers. Departing from Cape Tribulation in the heart of the Daintree, this experience consistently rates as a top highlight of any Far North Queensland visit. Book through Daintree Rainforest and discover what the ancient forest hides after dark. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3297/ Skyrail Rainforest Cableway will reopen on Wednesday, August 19, following a temporary closure for works on its cableway upgrade project. While the upgrade continues, Skyrail will operate a temporary Kuranda to Barron Falls Loop Experience five days a week, from Wednesday to Sunday. Skyrail will remain closed on Mondays and Tuesdays through to October. Guests can board between 10am and 3.30pm, with around one hour recommended for the experience. At Barron Falls, visitors can enjoy the free Skyrail Audio Guide App, complimentary Ranger Guided Tours, The Edge Lookout, the Historical Precinct and the Rainforest Interpretation Centre. Advance bookings are essential. Pre-booked shuttle bus services will also operate between Smithfield and Kuranda terminals. Skyrail’s usual packages and tour combinations with Kuranda Scenic Railway, including self-drive options, will continue to be available. The Skyrail team says upgrade works remain on track and will continue behind the scenes while the temporary service operates. https://www.tourismtown.com/cairns/news/3294/ Kuranda Scenic Railway continues to operate daily, giving visitors the chance to experience one of Tropical North Queensland’s most iconic rainforest journeys while Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is temporarily closed for its Upgrade Project. Travelling through the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, the historic rail journey features dramatic scenery, waterfalls and plenty of local history along the way. Return rail packages remain a popular option, giving visitors more time to explore Kuranda and its attractions. Package options can include Rainforestation Nature Park, Kuranda wildlife experiences and Gold Class upgrades for those looking to make the rail journey a little more special. Every package also includes free time in Kuranda, where visitors can explore the Original and Heritage Markets, cafés, restaurants, galleries, arts and crafts, and other local experiences. Kuranda Scenic Railway is currently operating to a temporary timetable, so travellers should check current departure times before visiting.