Queensland Backpackers discovers Cairns

 Cairns - Queensland Backpackers

Cairns is the Adventure capital of Australia and should be at the top of every backpackers list of places to visit

 

 

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest – its heaven for backpackers with so many great things to see and do, places to party,  its a great place to learn to scuba dive, go jungle surfing or bungy jump the only bungy tower in Australia

Once a small and struggling sugar cane hamlet, Cairns is now a thriving, internationally renowned resort city.  But don’t worry—this place isn’t all glitz and glamour. With a number of beautiful cascades, a rich and vibrant cultural scene, and number of laid-back bars and cafes, it’s the perfect place for the tried and tired backpacker to recuperate.

 

Tjapukai Cultural Park: If you’re looking to develop a deeper understanding of indigenous communities and indigenous cultural traditions, this is the place to do it. The Tjapukai are a group of Australian Aborigines inhabiting the tropical wetlands of the Queensland province. There cultural is rich and unique, with a number of unique traditions. A highlight of this indigenous owned and operation cultural park is the Creation Theatre, which beautifully renders the story of the story of creation. The Dance Theatre is also worth checking out, as are the fascinating boomerang and spear throwing demonstrations. There is also a Tjapukai by Night dinner-and-show event which features a fireside corroboree.

 Crystal Cascades

Crystal Cascades & Lake Morris: If you’re looking for a picturesque place to take a refreshing swim, Crystal Cascades is your best option. Here, several beautiful waterfalls tumble into crystal-clear pools. From the cascades you can also hike to the city’s vast reservoir, known as Lake Morris. The trail is fairly steep so make sure that you have a solid pair of hiking shoes.

 

Cairns Lagoon: There technically isn’t a beach in Cairns. On the bright side, however, there is a vast saltwater lagoon perfect for sunbathers and swimmers alike. It’s even illuminated at night.

 

Cairns Tropical Zoo: Situated right on the coastline, this beautiful zoo boasts wild crocodiles, snakes, koalas, and kangaroos. It’s well worth a visit.

 

Flecker Botanic Gardens: Looking to spend an afternoon shrouded in rainforest foliage? Head to Flecker Botanic Gardens, where you will find a vast array of greenery, from expansive tropical gardens to rare rainforest plants. It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon with a book. An added bonus? Right across the street you’ll find the Tanks Art Centre. This unique art museum consists of three, expansive World War II era tanks filled to the brim with local artwork.

Cairns Art Gallery

Cairns Regional Gallery: This beautiful 1930s era building boasts a renowned collection of artwork, with a special emphasis on both local artwork and aborigine artwork. For a look at even more Cairns artwork, afterwards stop by the Cairns Regional Gallery.