Horse and Quad bike tour with a visit to a Petting Zoo

If you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor adventure close to Cairns, this Horse and Quad Bike Tour at KUR-Cow Barnwell Farm ticks all the boxes. While we haven’t done it personally, reviews suggest it’s a well-balanced mix of light-hearted farm fun, exciting ATV riding, and adorable animal encounters, all wrapped up in a friendly, welcoming environment.

We love that this experience offers something for all ages, whether you’re a hesitant first-time rider or a seasoned thrill-seeker. The stunning rural scenery, knowledgeable guides, and family-oriented vibe make it stand out. Plus, the visit to the petting zoo adds a charming touch emphasizing interaction with farm animals.

One thing to consider is that the ATV adventure is best suited for children aged 6 and above, and the horse riding has a maximum weight limit of 85kg. This makes it less suitable for very young kids or those with mobility challenges. Though, it looks perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of farm life with a dash of adventure.

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging outdoor activity that combines nature, animals, and a bit of adrenaline, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Good To Know

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• Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids as young as 4 for horse riding and 6 for ATV rides.
• Balanced Activities: 30-minute horse riding, 30-minute ATV adventure, plus petting zoo visit.
• Scenic Location: Rolling hill farm with rainforest views and creek crossings.
• Guided Experience: Friendly staff provide safety gear and thorough instructions.
• Authentic Farm Environment: Well-maintained, clean, and animal-focused.
• Convenient and Easy: Close to Cairns with an accessible, relaxed pace.

👉 See our pick of the 4 Best 3 Day Tours In Cairns and the Tropical North

What to Expect from the Tour

This two-hour farm adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kur-Cow Barnwell Farm, located just outside Cairns. You’ll start with a 30-minute horse ride across lush, rolling farmland—perfect for beginners and kids. The custom-built platform makes mounting and dismounting straightforward, and guides walk alongside, offering gentle hand-leads if needed.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable staff, especially mentioning Sharon and Ziggy, who make safety and comfort a priority. One guest appreciated how they felt safe and well looked after, which is crucial, especially if it’s your child’s first ride. Experienced riders can even enjoy a short canter in the arena after the trail, adding a bit of excitement.

Following a quick 10-minute break, where you can purchase cold drinks at the farm’s bar, it’s time for the ATV adventure. All helmets and vests are provided, with individual training and a short test ride to get everyone comfortable with the controls. The family-friendly track is designed to be accessible for all ages, with smooth roads and safety in mind.

For the adventure-seekers, the ATV ride lasts about 30 minutes and includes rainforest scenery, creek crossings, and mini mustering—an authentic farm experience that’s both fun and scenic. Reviewers mention that Ken, the guide, does a great job instructing and ensuring everyone has a safe yet thrilling ride.

The tour wraps up at the farm’s petting zoo, where you can say hello to a variety of farm animals. Many reviewers love the opportunity to take tons of photos at the Rainforest Swing—a perfect photo stop amid lush greenery.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: KUR-Cow Barnwell Farm — the heart of this experience. The farm is praised for its cleanliness and well-maintained animals. The staff’s friendliness shines through, making the entire experience approachable for families and solo travelers alike.

Horse riding: The 30-minute trail takes you across gentle hills with panoramic views of the farm’s surroundings. The custom platform helps those who might find mounting difficult, and the guides stay close at hand. Some reviewers appreciated the opportunity for beginners to build confidence, noting the staff’s patience and professionalism. For seasoned riders, the added option of canter in the arena offers a bit of extra fun.

ATV riding: After a short break, the focus shifts to the ATV adventure. The individual training ensures everyone is comfortable, and the family track means even children get to experience the thrill without feeling overwhelmed. The rainforest scenery, creek crossings, and mini mustering make this a highlight, especially with guides like Ken who are described as friendly and attentive.

Petting zoo: Concluding the day, the farm’s mini animal zoo offers a variety of adorable creatures you can interact with. Reviewers mention that animals are well cared for and that the entire setting feels natural and relaxed. It’s a great chance for kids to engage with farm animals and snap plenty of pictures.

The Value of the Experience

At $128.39 per person, this package offers good value, considering it includes both horse riding and ATV adventures, plus the petting zoo visit. Transportation isn’t included, but the farm’s proximity to Cairns makes it an easy, accessible option for those staying in the city.

What’s particularly appealing is the balanced mix of activities—it’s not just riding, but also interaction with animals, scenic views, and a relaxed farm environment. Guests consistently mention the friendly staff, especially highlighting guides like Sharon, Ziggy, and Ken, who prioritize safety and fun.

The small group size (up to 10 travelers) adds a personalized touch, allowing guides to tailor instructions and ensure everyone feels comfortable. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides for making the experience informative and fun.

The Experience in Context

This tour is ideal for families with children, especially those aged 4 and up, who want a safe introduction to farm life and adventure sports. It also suits animal lovers and nature enthusiasts looking for a relaxed yet engaging outdoor activity.

While the experience is primarily designed for beginners and casual riders, seasoned adventure seekers might find the ATV ride a bit tame compared to other more adrenaline-fueled activities. However, the scenic beauty and friendly atmosphere compensate for this, making it a nice, well-rounded outing.

Reviewers note that the farm staff are very accommodating, with some mentioning the ease of hotel pickup and drop-off, which adds to the convenience.

Final Thoughts

This horse and quad bike tour combines adventure, animal interaction, and scenic views in a family-friendly setting. The knowledgeable guides and well-maintained environment make it a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet fun outdoor activity near Cairns that offers genuine farm-life charm with a hint of adventure, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with children, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of rural Australia.

While it’s not a high-adrenaline experience, the friendly guides, scenic terrain, and adorable animals help make this a memorable outing. Considering the reviews, many guests agree it’s a must-do, and the small-group size makes it feel personal rather than commercialized.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes, children as young as 4 can participate in the horse ride, and those aged 6 and above can try the ATV. The activities are designed to be family-friendly with safety as a priority.

Are safety helmets and vests provided?
Absolutely. The farm supplies new helmets and vests for both horse riding and ATV adventures, ensuring safety during all activities.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including riding, breaks, and the petting zoo visit.

Is transportation included in the price?
No, transportation isn’t part of the package. The meeting point is at 112 Barnwell Rd, Kuranda, which is easily accessible from Cairns.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Check the weather forecast before booking.

Can experienced riders enjoy the activities?
Yes, experienced riders can opt to do a short canter in the arena after the trail, though the main ride is designed to be accessible for beginners.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum weight for horse riding is 85kg, which is good to keep in mind for larger guests.

Is there a group discount?
The tour offers group discounts, making it a good choice for families or groups traveling together.

Does the tour include a meal?
No, meals are not included, but there is an opportunity to purchase drinks at the farm’s bar during breaks.

What is the maximum group size?
The experience is limited to 10 travelers, creating a more personalized environment.

This farm adventure promises an authentic, enjoyable insight into rural farm life while offering a touch of excitement with its rides and animal encounters. Whether you’re traveling with kids, seeking scenic views, or just wanting a relaxed outdoor day, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.