Cairns offers two standout walking tours that pack a punch in a short time.
History buffs will appreciate the 1.5-hour Cairns History Walking Tour, covering 40,000 years of local lore from indigenous times through colonialism.
For a modern twist, the Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour showcases the city’s creative side.
We love these tours for their small group sizes (max 12) and accessibility features.
Both are great value, with public transport access and a lowest price guarantee.
These tours provide an excellent introduction to Cairns’ past and present.
Check out our top picks for walking tours in Cairns and the Tropical North below.
Good To Know
- The Cairns History Walking Tour offers a captivating 1.5-hour exploration of the city’s past, covering topics like colonialism, pirates, and the opium trade.
- The Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour showcases Cairns’ vibrant artistic culture, including street art, tattoo parlors, vegan cafes, and foodie trends.
- Both tours offer a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 12 travelers and are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Tour participants receive 10% off vouchers for the Cairns Museum and Tropik Nutrition, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tours start and end at convenient locations with easy access to public transportation, allowing travelers to continue exploring the city on their own.
Cairns History Walking Tour
For those looking to uncover Cairns’ rich past, the Cairns History Walking Tour offers an immersive experience. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 98% of travelers recommending it, this 1.5-hour tour explores the city’s history dating back over 40,000 years.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore topics like colonialism, pirates, and the opium trade, while also discovering the area’s unique architecture, art, and outdoor Aboriginal artworks.
The tour group is capped at 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Starting at the Cairns Museum, the route is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with surfaces suitable for those with mobility needs.
The tour returns to the starting point, making it easy to continue your Cairns adventure. With a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options, the Cairns History Walking Tour is an engaging and informative way to uncover the city’s captivating past beyond the reef and surf.
Read our full review: Cairns History Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour
Looking to learn about Cairns’ thriving creative scene? The Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s vibrant artistic culture.
This 1.5-hour walking adventure, rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5, takes you on a journey through the second hipster capital of Australia.
Led by an enthusiastic guide, you’ll discover street art, tattoo parlors, vegan cafes, elite barbers, and the latest foodie trends. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into the hip and cool aspects of Cairns, with a maximum group size of 12 travelers ensuring an intimate experience.
The tour starts at the Cairns Museum and ends at the Oceana Walk Arcade, with convenient public transportation nearby.
As a bonus, you’ll receive 10% off vouchers for the Cairns Museum and Tropik Nutrition, allowing you to continue your exploration of the city’s cultural offerings.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Cairns’ dynamic artistic landscape.
Read our full review: Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
What Are the Best Places to Spot Wildlife in Cairns?
You’ll spot diverse wildlife at Cairns Esplanade, where you can see wallabies, birds, and marine life. The Cairns Botanic Gardens are also great for spotting butterflies, birds, and small mammals like possums.
How Accessible Are the Walking Tours for People With Disabilities?
The walking tours in Cairns are generally quite accessible for people with disabilities. Many operators offer specialized tours and accommodations to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the natural wonders of the region.
What Is the Dress Code for the Walking Tours?
The dress code for walking tours is typically casual and comfortable. You’ll want to wear lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and bring sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Dress for the weather and terrain you’ll be exploring.
Can We Customize the Walking Tour Itinerary to Our Preferences?
Yes, you can typically customize the walking tour itinerary to your preferences. Many tour operators offer flexible options, allowing you to focus on the sights and experiences that interest you most during the tour.
What Are the Public Transportation Options to Reach the Starting Point?
You can reach the starting point of the walking tour using public buses or ride-share services. Buses and rideshare apps provide convenient and affordable transportation options to the tour’s departure location.
Worth The Stay
Cairns and the Tropical North offer a diverse range of walking tours that’ll let you explore the region’s history, culture, and vibrant street art scene. Whether you’re interested in uncovering Cairns’ past or exploring its hip, contemporary side, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to discover all this captivating destination has to offer.