Queensland Tour: Gold Coast, Brisbane, Cairns, and Daintree Forest

One Planet Journey’s Claudia Pino goes Down Under, exploring Queensland’s exquisite nature and fascinating Indigenous culture while dodging crocodiles. Her tour takes her on a road trip through the fabled Gold Coast, vibrant Brisbane, alluring Noosa and Rainbow Beach, and the stunning Whitsundays, before ending up in the chilled-out Cairns. Inspired storytelling with a dose of practicality for readers heading to Australia.

Quietly following the group leader, we finally reached the entrance of the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre in the Wet Tropics Heritage Area in Queensland, Australia. During the tour, we participated in a smoke ceremony led by the local aboriginal group, the Kuku Yalanji people. This ritual is not only required to honour and respect the traditions, but also for cleansing and protection before entering the rainforest. 

As I made my way through the large group, the aromatic smoke from the fire swirled around me. I couldn’t help but think about the echoes of the countless generations who inhabited the area for thousands of years. The soft rustling of leaves and the far-off calling of birds in the distance set up a magical atmosphere that drew me further into the very heart of Queensland. 

That moment highlighted the deep bond with nature and heritage I sought on my journey.

As I later learned, Kuku Yalanji people live in a perfect balance with the natural world. Their traditional lands stretch from Cooktown to Mossman’s South in the north and to Palmer River in the west. My trip through Queensland ended in Cairns, with an exploration of the Daintree Rainforest. The high trees, native fauna, rich history, and captivating legends make this area worth a visit. 

Follow me on this Queensland tour through the wonders of a stunning side of the land Down Under. 

Introducing Queensland, Australia

Queensland is a vibrant and colourful state in Australia, known for its biodiversity, magnificent beaches, lush rainforests in the north, and the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef. 

This state is the second biggest in Australia, named after Queen Victoria, who sanctioned its independence from New South Wales in 1859. Often referred to as “Sunshine State”, its wonderful weather and long coastlines make it a favourite destination for surfers across the country. 

On top of that, people touring Queensland acknowledge it as the only place where two landmarks with UNESCO global recognition meet: The Great Barrier Reef and the Queensland Wet Tropics. 

It is, in all regards, a treasure trove of natural beauty, landscapes, and cultural heritage.

I decided to explore Queensland by bus, driven not only by the desire to fully enjoy the landscapes, but also by practical necessity. The vastness of Australia and limited transport options make buses the most convenient option. Although trains or planes seemed to be faster, they were more expensive and did not allow the connection to the land I was looking for. Moreover, the bus is often the most preferred choice by backpackers, as it provides more customisation and a much more intimate way of experiencing the journey. 

Tour Queensland’s Highlights and Heritage

Despite the slow travel by bus, the trip definitely gave me time to appreciate the subtle changes in the scenery. I cruised through Queensland, soaking in the breathtaking natural beauty and the rich tapestry of its cultural heritage. The traditional lands of Aboriginal groups spread across the state. Each community has a special relationship with their land and their stories and customs bring depth to the experience of visiting Queensland.

Gold Coast

My tour of Queensland started on the modern Gold Coast, where a contemporary, luxurious outlook meets a mesmerising coastline. Burleigh Beach, Coolangatta, and Surfers Paradise offer everything from great shopping to fine dining, plus awesome surfing. European settlers renamed the city, originally known by the traditional name Kurrungul, to enhance its appeal, which fostered the appearance it has today. 

Brisbane

Next, I took a bus to Brisbane, the capital of Queensland and the third largest city in Australia, with a mix of urban life and green spaces. Rich in parks, museums, and art galleries, Brisbane has one of the most vibrant evening scenes in Australia as well. Here, I learned about the Turrbal and Jagera people, traditional custodians of this land, who maintain a strong cultural presence within the region.

Noosa 

As I travelled northward, I reached Noosa, a coastal town with a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with its pristine beaches and a breathtaking National Park. In addition, this area still sees the influence of the traditional Gubbi Gubbi community.

Rainbow Beach

From the seaside allure of Noosa, I moved to Rainbow Beach with its dramatic cliffs and beautiful scenery. This town is one of the main access points to the nearby Fraser Island and home to the Butchulla people. 

A must-visit here is the Carlo Sand Blow. Travellers can reach this gigantic sand dune after a short walk to enjoy a perfect sunset spot. 

The Whitsundays

Venturing further north, I arrived at Airlie Beach, where my journey took me to the Whitsundays, a series of 74 tropical islands. The area is ideal for sailing, snorkelling to explore the Great Barrier Reef, and relaxing on white sand beaches, with Whitehaven Beach being a popular spot. This land is traditionally owned by the Ngaro, also known as Saltwater people, a name which reflects their deep connection to the sea.

Cairns

At last, I reached Cairns, the starting point for my exploration of the tropical Queensland area and its cultural heritage, including an unforgettable one-day trip.

Cairns is lively with a laid-back attitude, making it an ideal base for exploring Far North Queensland. It offers a bit of everything, from trendy bars to vibrant nightlife, markets and cultural activities. Discover authentic Australian Aboriginal culture or take a train to Kuranda village, using the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway.

Swimming in this part of Australia can be somewhat tricky because of the local fauna. However, it’s possible to enjoy a bit of the beach life by reaching the nearby Clifton Beach or Palm Cove (before jumping into the water it is important to find out about the presence of jellyfish and crocodiles).

Once in Cairns, I joined a one-day trip focussed on the natural beauty of the area. During this experience, I visited the Daintree Forest, encountered crocodiles, and enjoyed one of the best ice-creams in the state.  

First stop: Daintree Forest & Mossman Gorge

The tiny bus pulled up in front of my hostel. After collecting all the guests – the adventure companions, as I like to call them – the group proceeded to its premier destination: the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, located in the southern portion of the Daintree Rainforest. The territory, considered one of the world’s oldest rainforests, gained UNESCO recognition in 1988. 

My tour began with a warm greeting from a local Indigenous guide. The air was dense with the aroma of plants and the sounds of nature as he guided towards the smoke ceremony point. He showed the forest’s splendour and conveyed its spirit. 

He introduced us to herbs used in bush medicine, highlighted the importance of the forest’s flora and fauna, and related stories passed down through generations. Later, he pointed out ancient trees, explaining their role in the environment and spiritual significance to the Kuku Yalanji. His tremendous love and knowledge of nature shone through. This helped me experience the forest in a new light—not as a tourist, but as a guest on hallowed territory. 

The visit proceeded with a relaxing walk on the boardwalk all the way to the Mossman Gorge, a breathtaking natural wonder with crystal-clear streams, enormous boulders, and rich foliage. 

From there, it is possible to trek along one of the many rainforest circuit tracks, which allow visitors to explore even further out.

Second Stop: Crocodile Cruise 

From the tranquillity of the rainforest, after a quick lunch break at a local restaurant, we progressed to the adrenaline of a crocodile cruise on the Daintree River. 

Despite the heavy rain, while cruising on the river, we had the opportunity to observe the animals in their natural habitat and the stunning mangroves that easily steal the spotlight. Our guide’s insightful commentary, mixed with the chance to look at crocodiles up close, made for an exciting experience. 

Third Stop: Thornton Beach

Our initial Queensland tour plan included a visit to Cape Tribulation, the iconic point where the two UNESCO sites meet. However, due to a major landslide that occurred months prior, our route changed, and we travelled to Thornton Beach instead.

Once there, a sign warning of crocodiles greeted us. Paying attention to these caution signs is critical to avoid any unpleasant experiences. 

We kept a safe distance from the sea and the little streams that flowed from the forest. Aside from that, Thornton Beach provided a calm and picturesque scene, with fine sand framed by lush tropical flora and moderate waves touching the coast.

Fourth Stop: Daintree Ice Cream Company

We ended our journey by visiting the Daintree Ice Cream Company, nestled in the heart of the rainforest. The shop has an excellent assortment of flavours, which vary daily depending on the availability of fresh, local fruits. 

The peculiarity of this place is that the ice cream is made with zero-km ingredients, containing seasonal and tropical fruits. I tried the shop’s signature cup with Coconut, Passion Fruit, Yellow Sapote, and Wattleseed. 

The location is enchanting as well, with a surrounding tropical garden and enough space to relax before heading home. If you are lucky, you should be able to spot some historical cassowaries or wild boars!

Learning from Indigenous Wisdom

My visit to the Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge gave me an incredible insight into local traditions and wisdom. These make Australia more than a tourist destination; they turn it into a place where one can foster a deep and personal connection to one of the world’s oldest living cultures.

What struck me the most about my journey was the significance of honouring and respecting the Indigenous communities, and the deep spiritual ties with the land. For instance, the Kuku Yalanji people, who share a vast understanding of their area, passed down through oral traditions, art, and daily rituals. 

Travelling through lands and heritage, I experienced a great sense of awe and reverence for nature. Every plant and animal had a unique position in the complex web of life, perfectly balanced and respected.

Slow travelling across Queensland, Australia’s Sunshine State, for this tour, allowed me to appreciate the State’s diverse environments and rich Indigenous heritage, deepening my experience. I hope my journey inspires you to plan your visit and experience the charm of this magnificent destination.  

Looking back, thinking about the profound connections between places and people, the importance of slow and deep travelling becomes evident. At the end of the day, travelling is more than visiting new destinations: it is also getting to know local stories and the significance behind them. 

Practical Tips

If you wish to plan your own Queensland adventure, here are a few tips to enhance your journey:

Best time to tour Queensland: Since the climate varies, I suggest going during the dry season to enjoy the most pleasant weather.

Packing Essentials: Light clothing, sun protection, repellents, and comfortable walking shoes.

Sustainability and Cultural Respect: Respect the environment and communities. Take with you all that you bring and, if possible, choose to support local businesses. 

Accommodation: Options include luxury resorts, hotels, hostels, and campsites to suit all budgets.

Safety: Take precautions, especially when swimming or participating in adventurous activities. Be aware of wildlife and adhere to local customs and norms.

Have you been on a Queensland tour in Australia? What part did you like most? Let us know in the comment section! Subscribe to our newsletter and benefit from travel guides, sustainable tourism and luxury travel tips, insightful interviews, and inspirational places to visit. One Planet Journey – The World’s First Deep Travel Magazine.