Updated on: Wednesday November 19, 2008

Going Outback From Cairns

Ask most people and they will tell you that  the tropics is full of rainforests, palm trees and reefs. Not so, there is an 'outback' near Cairns!  It's located just behind the Atherton Tablelands and you do not have to go as far as the Northern Territory to see it. If you want to do something  'different' then these tours will give an outback, "Aussie bush" experience that you will always remember. Most people do not realise  the absolute splendour that can be found away from the maddening crowds and towns. So come and experience the magic of another world, you not be disappointed!!

The Mareeba Wetlands

You do not have to venture too far for this unique tour, around an hour or so drive from Cairns. Go for a day of exploration in the outback country of tropical north Queensland. Suitable for individuals and/or small group tours daily to the Mareeba Wetlands, a 2000- hectare tropical savannah conservation reserve on the Atherton Tablelands, 75 kilometres west of Cairns.

Discover the interesting biodiversity of the seasonally dry savannah woodlands, enriched by the flora and fauna utilising the 150 hectares of lagoons in the wetland area. Well-informed and experienced guides share their knowledge of the environment to ensure maximum enjoyment and understanding of this very special destination.

The Mareeba Wetlands is an oasis of lagoons in the savannah woodland country of the outback. It provides an attractive habitat for a variety of plant and animal species of both wetlands and dry country. Most obvious are the many water birds which gather on the lagoons, especially in the drier months. Kangaroos, wallabies and wallaroos are also numerous in the reserve, and are most often seen in the late afternoon. Numerous other interesting creatures inhabit the reserve - mammals, reptiles, fishes and of course the Spinifex termites whose mounds dominate many areas in the landscape.

A bird watcher's, nature lover's or photographer's paradise!!

Departs from Cairns Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun commencing with an 11:00am pickup from your Cairns accommodation and returns around 6:30 pm.

You have the option of travelling to Kuranda via the Skyrail or you can leave Cairns on the small air-conditioned coach which picks up passengers in Kuranda on the journey to Mareeba.

Mt Mulligan Station

After a little convincing from a friend we decided to go up to Mt Mulligan to check it out.  Although we have to admit that we have been very much  'coast' people of late we love the bush and are still at home out west and this place is amazing.

Owen is the owner/operator of this tour and the station and what he doesn't know about station life in outback Queensland probably no one knows!!

The thing that attracted us the most to this tour was the fact that instead of spending heaps of dollars buying a didgeridoo (and you don't even know if it is authentic!), you can make your own. You can also go horse riding, bushwalking, swimming in the beautiful swimming holes, and even  exploring,  as well there are remains of an old 1880's coal mining  town.  Mt Mulligan homestead is actually all that is left of this town, as it was once the town hospital.

All the meals are provided for you (great country cooking!) and you'll really enjoy getting away from the coast , the big towns and cities and enjoy the great hospitality of old fashion country folk without having to spend a fortune. 

Accommodation available - Twin Share / Double / Triple

Free transport to/from Cairns area

Mt Mulligan Station Weekend Escape

Departs Cairns @ 0800 hrs on Saturdays
Returns Cairns @ 1800 hrs Sunday evening.

3 Day Outback Experience

Departs Cairns @ 0800 hrs on Mondays / Returns Cairns @ 1230 hrs Wednesday
Departs Cairns @ 1330 hrs on Wednesdays / Returns Cairns @ 1800 hrs Friday evenings.

Advanced bookings are essential

7 Day 'Desert Venturer' Cairns to Alice Springs Safari

Day 1 - Cairns to Hughenden


We take you to the beautiful Atherton Tablelands for a swim at Millstream Falls then to the smallest pub in Australia at Lynd Junction. We call in at magnificent Porcupine Gorge then continue onto our overnight pub accommodation at the Grand Hotel in Hughenden. (LD


Day 2 - Hughenden to Boulia


Journey through to Winton, home of the Waltzing Matilda to the Information Centre (visit optional at own expense), then stop for lunch at Middleton Pub - population 6. We then head to our overnight accommodation at Wirrelyerna Cattle Station. (BLD)


Day 3 - Boulia to Alice Springs


It's an early start as we travel on the mighty Plenty Highway one of Australia's oldest stock routes, seeing the giant termite mounds and keeping an eye out for the ever-present wildlife. We stop for lunch at Jervois Cattle Station and visit to the Atitjere Aboriginal Community. Having conquered the desert, we head into Alice Springs for our overnight accommodation (dormitory included or upgrade to motel available at own expense). (BLD)


Day 4 - Alice Springs


A day at leisure to relax and enjoy the Red Centre town of Alice Springs. Overnight dormitory included or upgrade to motel room available at own expense. (No meals)


Day 5 - Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta & Uluru


Travel to the Outback Camel Farm for an optional camel ride (at own expense). Journey on to Uluru (Ayers Rock) and explore the 'Valley of the Winds' in majestic Kata Tjuta (Olgas). Enjoy a glass of sparking wine while watching the desert sun set over Uluru then enjoy dinner before curling up at our permanent campsite in tents or under the outback sky in authentic Aussie bedrolls (swags). (LD)


Day 6 - Uluru to Kings Canyon


An early start is required for one of the highlights of the tour - the Uluru sunrise. You can enjoy a walk around the base exploring its mysterious rock formations and Aboriginal art sites while watching the changing light on the desert or choose to climb. A visit to the Cultural Centre offers the chance to view and purchase Aboriginal arts and crafts. After lunch, we depart for Kings Canyon for our overnight camp and delicious camp oven cooking. (BLD)


Day 7 - Kings Canyon to Alice Springs


Climb and explore Kings Canyon viewing the impressive formations of the 'Amphitheatre', the 'Lost City', the picturesque 'Garden of Eden' and the breathtaking North and South Walls. Then enjoy a refreshing dip in the waterhole (summer only). After lunch we head to Alice Springs viewing the rugged desert scenery along the way. (BL)

Departs Cairns 6.30 am Tues & Sat - Arrives into Alice Springs approx. 6.30 pm