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Top 5 Waterfalls near Cairns: A Natural Wonderland
Introduction
Cairns, located in the northern part of Queensland, Australia, is a picturesque city that boasts stunning rainforests, pristine beaches, and breathtaking waterfalls. If you’re planning to visit Cairns, exploring its magnificent waterfalls should be at the top of your list. In this article, we will introduce you to the top five waterfalls to visit in Cairns that will leave you spellbound.
Barron Falls: Nature’s Grandeur
Barron Falls, located in the Barron Gorge National Park, is a popular waterfall just a 20-minute drive from Cairns. This magnificent waterfall drops from a height of approximately 259 meters, creating a spectacular sight as the water cascades down the rocky cliff into the pool below. You can take a scenic train ride from Cairns to Kuranda and then hike to the waterfall. The best time to visit Barron Falls is during the wet season, between November to April, when the waterfall is at its fullest.
Josephine Falls: A Natural Waterslide
Josephine Falls, situated an hour’s drive south of Cairns, is a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into large pools, making it an ideal spot for swimming and picnicking. The smooth granite rock surface allows visitors to slide down and plunge into the crystal clear water below. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, it’s a picturesque spot for photography. The best time to visit Josephine Falls is during the dry season, between May to September, when the water is clear and calm.
Millaa Millaa Falls: A Film Star
Millaa Millaa Falls, located on the Atherton Tablelands, is a stunning waterfall about an hour and a half’s drive from Cairns. This waterfall is famous for its distinctive curtain of water that falls from a height of approximately 18 meters. It’s surrounded by lush green rainforest, making it a popular spot for photography and filming. In fact, Millaa Millaa Falls has been featured in many advertisements and movies, including the Herbal Essences commercial. The best time to visit Millaa Millaa Falls is during the wet season, between December to April, when the waterfall is at its most spectacular.
Nandroya Falls: A Hidden Gem
Nandroya Falls, situated in the Palmerston section of the Wooroonooran National Park, is a hidden gem about a two-hour drive from Cairns. It’s a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into a large pool, surrounded by lush green rainforest. The waterfall drops from a height of approximately 50 meters, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Australia. To reach the waterfall, you need to hike along the Palmerston Trail, which is a moderate to difficult hike. The best time to visit Nandroya Falls is during the wet season, between December to April, when the waterfall is at its fullest.
Crystal Cascades: A Refreshing Dip
Crystal Cascades, located just 20 minutes from Cairns, is a popular swimming hole. It’s a series of small waterfalls that flow into large crystal clear pools, surrounded by lush green rainforest. The water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming in the pools. It’s a perfect spot for swimming and picnicking, and there are several walking trails around the area. The best time to visit Crystal Cascades is during the dry season, between May to September, when the water is clear and calm.
In Conclusion: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Cairns is a city blessed with natural beauty, and its waterfalls are some of the most spectacular in the world. From the majestic Barron Falls to the hidden gem of Nandroya Falls, each of these waterfalls is a unique natural wonder that should be experienced. Cairns is a paradise for nature lovers, and these waterfalls are just a glimpse of the beauty it has to offer.
While exploring these top five waterfalls in Cairns is a must, the city has a variety of other attractions to offer as well. The Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Kuranda Village are just a few of the other places worth visiting. The city also boasts a vibrant dining and shopping scene in the city center.
Remember to come prepared for your waterfall adventure with your camera, sunscreen, and plenty of water. It’s important to respect the environment and follow any signs or regulations in the area to preserve these natural wonders for generations to come.
In conclusion, Cairns is a city that showcases the true beauty of nature. Whether you’re an avid hiker, photographer, or just looking for a scenic spot to relax, Cairns’ waterfalls offer something for everyone. So, plan your trip to Cairns and witness the natural wonder of these waterfalls for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!
You might also like our post about Cairns Most Luxurious Accommodations.
FAQs
What are the top five waterfalls near Cairns?
The top five waterfalls to visit in Cairns are Barron Falls, Josephine Falls, Millaa Millaa Falls, Nandroya Falls, and Crystal Cascades.
Where is Barron Falls located and how do I get there?
Barron Falls is located in the Barron Gorge National Park, just a 20-minute drive from Cairns. You can take a scenic train ride from Cairns to Kuranda and then hike to the waterfall.
When is the best time to visit Josephine Falls?
The best time to visit Josephine Falls is during the dry season, between May to September, when the water is clear and calm.
Where is Crystal Cascades located and what activities are available there?
Crystal Cascades is located just 20 minutes from Cairns and offers a series of small waterfalls that flow into large crystal clear pools, surrounded by lush green rainforest. The activities available there include swimming, picnicking, and several walking trails around the area.
What other attractions are there in Cairns besides the waterfalls?
Besides the waterfalls, other attractions in Cairns include the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Kuranda Village. The city also boasts a vibrant dining and shopping scene in the city center.
What is the best way to explore Cairns?
The best way to explore Cairns is by renting a car, as it gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit all the attractions at your leisure.
Can you recommend some good places to eat in Cairns?
Some good places to eat in Cairns include Ochre Restaurant, Salt House, and Waterbar & Grill.
