10-Day Tropical North Queensland Loop Itinerary

Morning: After collecting your motorhome from the friendly team at Cruisin’ Motorhomes Cairns, settle in and stock up on fresh local produce at Rusty’s Markets (if you’re there Thursday–Sunday).

Afternoon:  Head straight to the waterfront to explore the lively Cairns Esplanade. Kids and grown-ups alike will love cooling off in the Lagoon – a sparkling, sandy-edged public pool with ocean views. Wander the promenade, watch pelicans glide across the sky, or stretch your legs on a scenic boardwalk shaded by trees.

Evening: Dine outdoors at Salt House or Ochre Restaurant, where tropical ingredients and waterfront views combine for a perfect first-night feast. Then, enjoy a stroll at the Cairns Night Markets.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: NRMA Cairns Holiday Park, 12-30 Little St, Manunda QLD 4870. Powered site.

Image: Rusty’s Markets, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Rise early for one of the most iconic experiences on the planet – a full-day adventure to the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you opt for a snorkelling cruise or a scenic flight over heart-shaped coral cays, you’ll witness a world of dazzling blues and marine life.

Afternoon: Float above vibrant coral gardens, swim with curious fish, and – if you’re lucky – spot a sea turtle gliding gracefully through the water. Enjoy a tropical buffet lunch onboard and soak in the endless ocean views as your vessel carries you from one coral wonderland to the next.

Evening: Return to Cairns feeling exhilarated and sun-kissed. Wind down with a sunset stroll by the harbour, then enjoy a laid-back dinner at Ollie’s Italian and an optional drink at Hemingway’s Brewery.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: NRMA Cairns Holiday Park, 12-30 Little St, Manunda QLD 4870. Powered site.

Image: Passions of Paradise – Great Barrier Reef Tours, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Today is all about the rainforest. Head to the base of the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and glide silently above the canopy, where giant ferns, butterflies, and treetop birds surround you.

Afternoon: Arrive in the mountain village of Kuranda, a bohemian gem with vibrant markets, handcrafted art, and delicious treats. Enjoy a locally roasted coffee, meet fluttering friends at the Butterfly Sanctuary, and take a moment to appreciate the timeless beauty of nearby Barron Falls – powerful, majestic, and sacred to the Djabugay people.

Evening: Back in Cairns, treat yourself to wood-fired pizza at Flynn’s Italian by Crystalbrook or sample the famous local prawns. Rest up at the same peaceful campground.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: NRMA Cairns Holiday Park, 12-30 Little St, Manunda QLD 4870. Powered site.

Image: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Leave the city behind and head south to one of Far North Queensland’s best-kept secrets – Babinda Boulders. Here, crystal-clear rainforest water flows over smooth granite boulders, forming cool swimming holes and natural spas.

Afternoon: Continue to Paronella Park, a magical place where history, romance, and rainforest intertwine. Feed fish in lily ponds, cross suspension bridges, and discover secret staircases among towering Kauri trees.

Evening: As dusk falls, the park glows with subtle lighting, casting long shadows and adding mystery to the ruins. Take the enchanting night tour!

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Paronella Park, 1671 Innisfail Japoon Rd, Mena Creek QLD 4871. Powered site.

Image: Paronella Park, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: As you drive toward Mission Beach, the landscape shifts – sugarcane fields give way to lush rainforest and glimpses of turquoise sea. Start your morning with a stroll through the coastal rainforest on the Ulysses Link Walking Track, keeping your eyes peeled for the elusive cassowary stepping silently through the ferns.

Afternoon: Gaze out toward Dunk Island, its rainforest-cloaked peaks rising from the Coral Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short water taxi ride to the island for snorkelling, kayaking, or a rainforest hike with million-dollar views.

Evening: After a sun-drenched day, wind down with a tropical cocktail and fresh seafood dinner at The Garage Bar & Brewhouse.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Mission Beach Hideaway Holiday Village, 58-60 Porter Promenade, Mission Beach QLD 4852. Powered site.

Tip: Make sure your vehicle batteries are full, the next two nights will be at unpowered sites!

Image: Mission Beach, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Today’s drive takes you inland through charming country towns and rolling pastures to the majestic Girringun National Park. Feel the anticipation build as you ascend the winding road toward Wallaman Falls, with glimpses of deep green valleys and misty peaks along the way.

Afternoon: Stand in awe at the lookout, where Wallaman Falls plunges 268 metres into a rainforest-clad gorge – Australia’s tallest single-drop waterfall. If you’re up for it, take the steep rainforest trail down to the base and feel the cool spray on your skin as water thunders into the pool below.

Evening: Head to your campsite and cook a homemade meal in the fully equipped kitchen of your motorhome. As night falls, light a campfire, listen to frog calls echo through the trees, and fall asleep under a canopy of stars far from city lights.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Wallaman Falls camping area, Girringun National Park, Wallaman QLD 4850. Unpowered site.

Image: Wallaman Falls, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: The mountain air is fresh and cool as you head to the Paluma Range, where ancient cloud forests meet sparkling streams. Once you arrive, get a refreshing dip at Little Crystal Creek, framed by a graceful stone bridge and surrounded by birdsong and mossy rocks.

Afternoon: Explore the highland village of Paluma, wander through mist-shrouded rainforest trails, and discover lookouts with sweeping coastal views stretching to the Coral Sea. The area feels like a secret world suspended above the tropics – peaceful, mysterious, and deeply serene.

Evening: Camp beneath the forest canopy at Big Crystal Creek Campground. As the temperature drops slightly with the elevation, cosy up in your motorhome with a warm drink and a delicious homemade meal.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Big Crystal Creek camping area, Crystal Creek QLD 4816. Unpowered site.

Image: Big Crystal Creek, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Rise early and journey to Jourama Falls – a lesser-known treasure where clear water cascades over granite boulders in tiered falls. Wander shaded tracks and rock-hop along quiet streams, enjoying the peace of this uncrowded paradise.

Afternoon: Continue to Forrest Beach, a wide, wind-swept stretch of coast where you can enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of Hinchinbrook Island – wild, mysterious, and largely untouched.

Evening: Watch the sun sink into the ocean, grab a relaxed pub dinner, and fall asleep to the sound of waves rolling onto the sand.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Forrest Beach Hotel, 1 Ash St, Forrest Beach QLD 4850. Powered site.

Tip: Make sure your batteries are full, the following night will be at an unpowered site!

Image: Forrest Beach, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Head north once more toward the majestic Wooroonooran National Park and one of its star attractions – Josephine Falls. This multi-tiered waterfall tumbles over smooth rock ledges into clear, emerald pools. Slide down the natural rock slide or simply bask in the sun on warm boulders.

Afternoon: If time allows, take a short detour to the Eubenangee Swamp walking track – a quiet wetland where towering palms sway above a lily-filled billabong, home to hundreds of bird species. It’s a serene and soul-soothing stop before returning to Cairns.

Evening: Enjoy a quiet night at the rest area. After nine days of unforgettable sights and sounds, take a moment to savour the comfort of your motorhome, knowing you’ve truly experienced the best of the north.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Rotary Park Rest Area, 27 Howard Kennedy Dr, Babinda QLD 4861. Unpowered site.

Image: Josephine Falls, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Ease into the final day with breakfast at a leafy café like Caffiend or The Chambers. If you’re up for it, wander the Cairns Botanic Gardens and breathe in the scents of tropical blooms one last time.

Afternoon: Pick up some last-minute souvenirs at The Pier or browse local art at the Cairns Art Gallery. Drop off your motorhome by 3:30 pm at the Cairns branch.

Evening: Finish your journey with a sunset harbour cruise – the perfect way to reflect on the adventure you’ve just lived.

Image: Spirit of Freedom, Tourism and Events Queensland