cairns rainforest tours: Tropical Horizons
Tropical Horizons — Waterfalls, Wildlife and Paronella Park
Tours departing Cairns' and the Northern Beaches, the tour ascends the Lamb Range providing panoramic views of the Mulgrave River Valley from Heale's Lookout. Great photo opportunity.
Board the first morning cruise on the calm waters of the extinct volcanic crater, Lake Barrine. View the Lake's abundant wildlife and marvel at the vibrant, old growth World Heritage listed rainforest surrounding Lake Barrine whose deep waters are filled by crystal clear rainwater. Back on land a short walk reveals the Twin Kauri Pine Trees — amongst Australia's largest trees, these 1000 year old forest giants are relics saved from our pioneering timber industry. The knowledgeable tour guide will escort you along boardwalks to the ancient Giant Curtain Fig Tree — an amazing accomplishment of nature! The surrounding forest is also home to the elusive and shy Lumholz Tree Kangaroos.
You then commence the tour of the beautiful Waterfalls Circuit weaving around the mountains and the Tablelands. Commencing with world-famous Millaa Millaa Falls you then drive along quaint country roads to view Zillie Falls where you will get some great photographic shots you will treasure forever. Whilst proceeding to Mungalli Falls, the tour travels through rich dairying pastures to Mungalli Creek Dairy which is North Queensland's only certified organic dairy farm producing bio-dynamic dairy products — sample their cheeses and delicious yoghurts. These are also available in all local supermarkets, shops and restaurants. An excellent 2-course lunch is included in the restaurant that is uniquely situated atop Mungalli Falls: the Tablelands' tallest falls.
Upon arrival at the multi Award Winning Paronella Park you will be greeted by one of the park's knowledgeable guides. First however you will experience a welcoming performance by the local youthful Indigenous Aboriginal dancers — the Baddagun people, followed by a leisurely tour of the National Trust listed Heritage Gardens and Castle Ruins. There is free time to view the museum and the remains of North Queensland's first hydro-electric plant which Jose Paronella built on the beautiful Mena Creek — feed the fish and the turtles below the falls.
The Tour Specialists tip
You will be amazed and mesmerized by Paronella Parks history and Romance. This is such a wonderful place to visit again and again. The waterfalls circuit is lots of fun and you get to experience the natural beauty that nature offers us. Well worth doing this tour.
