Follow influencer Jimmy Jan’s jam-packed 4 day Cairns itinerary for the ULTIMATE accessible adventure.
Filled with some of the best things to see and do in Cairns and its surrounds, prepare to skydive over the reef, explore lush rainforests and more. This itinerary has it all! So dive in and make your Cairns adventure a reality!
Day 1: Arrival & Settling In
Arrive in Cairns
Cairns Airport Accessibility Info: At Cairns Airport, inclusivity and accessibility are more than just words – they're a commitment to creating a seamless experience for everyone. Drop-off and pick-up zones have been designed for those with disabilities to ensure convenience, but adherence to parking regulations is essential. Government regulations forbid leaving vehicles unattended, yet assistance is welcome. Airlines may offer wheelchair and baggage support if arranged beforehand, while bringing a companion to assist the passenger is also advisable. Drivers should be aware of the 2.4m height clearance at these zones. Accessible parking spots near terminal entrances are clearly marked and require a valid permit. Check-in counters have been thoughtfully modified for wheelchair accessibility, ensuring that every step of the journey is smooth. Cairns Airport's Disability Access Facilitation Plan extends its reach to security screening, hearing loops, restrooms, aircraft access, and flight information, leaving no aspect untouched in its pursuit of inclusivity.
Hotel Check-In
Accessible Accommodation in Cairns:
Cairns has a treasure trove of accessible accommodations that cater to a range of budgets and preferences. Opting for a hotel near the Cairns Esplanade guarantees you easy access to the picturesque wheelchair-friendly walkways, perfect for leisurely morning strolls and breathtaking sunset views over Trinity Inlet.
Jimmy enjoyed at stay at The Riley, where contemporary, chic accessible rooms await, some offering vistas of the Esplanade and Trinity Inlet. The highlight of this haven is the sprawling 1000 square metre lagoon-style pool, complete with a man-made beach that beckons relaxation.
There’s also the DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns hotel, where accessible lodgings come with the added bonus of an interconnecting room option – an excellent choice for families or larger groups embarking on a Cairns adventure.
Elevate your experience at the Novotel Cairns Oasis Hotel, nestled in the vibrant shopping and dining district, just a stone's throw away from The Esplanade. Accessible accommodation with interconnecting rooms is on offer, surrounded by a resort-like ambiance and a generous pool featuring its very own sandy beach. The gradual slope of the shoreline offers easier access, catering to guests with mobility considerations.
For those conscious of their budget, the Cairns Plaza Hotel provides an accessible haven with double and single beds, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Esplanade.
Day 2: Reef Exploration & Dining Delights
7am: Cairns Car Hire
If you didn’t have time yesterday, this morning is the perfect time to pick up a hire car to get about Cairns and surrounds! There are plenty of options when it comes to car hire in Cairns that accommodate for those who may require additional assistance. For example, wheelchair-accessible vehicles to rent are ready and available (so long as you book in advance) and make a visit or holiday both convenient and easy. Plus, with a range of vehicles and rental plans to suit your needs, there’s something for everyone and every budget!
Drive from Cairns to Port Douglas (Approx. 1 Hour)
9:15am to 4:30pm: Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Port Douglas
This Great Barrier Reef tour offers a unique and inclusive experience for disabled passengers. With a chair lift that enables easy access into the water for "snorkeling", The Operator ensures mobility-impaired individuals can fully participate in the adventure. The electric hoist is designed to lower passengers into the water, allowing for partial or full participation with the use of flotation devices. This exclusive feature is available only on the Agincourt 3 floating platform, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
While the Outer Barrier Reef may have some limitations in terms of accessibility, with stairs being the primary means of access to the underwater observatory, swim platforms, and semi-submersible coral viewing vessels, This is the most suitable vessel for wheelchair passengers. The vessel features ramp facilities from the vessel to the floating platform, as well as oversized toilet cubicles designed to accommodate most wheelchair passengers. There is also a wheelchair-accessible toilet for added convenience.
Departing from Port Douglas, there is so much to see and do on this tour. From relaxing in the air-conditioned interior and grabbing a drink at the fully-licensed bar, or basking in the ocean breeze while enjoying a delectable lunch that includes tropical delights like fresh prawns, pasta, meats, salads, and fruits.
The tour wraps up around 4pm.
Book an Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Port Douglas HERE.
Day 3: Kuranda Rainforest Experience
Kuranda Tour Departing Port Douglas @ 11am
Enjoy a sleep-in or morning relaxing along Cairns’ esplanade on Day 3, before making your way back to Port Douglas for a quintessential Queensland day tour through Kuranda Village!
Kuranda Scenic Railway (KSR) aims to provide an inclusive experience for all passengers, regardless of their ability or needs. They offer an accessible carriage on every service to accommodate individuals with disabilities and have designed the railway to be accessible for individuals using various mobility devices such as walking frames, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters.
During the journey, the accessible carriage offers four designated spaces for wheelchair or mobility scooter users. Passengers have the option to remain in their mobility device or transfer to a seat.
The accessible carriage and spaces are located within the Gold Class seating area. In addition to the designated spaces, passengers can also choose to travel in their mobility device or transfer to a Gold Class seat. Carers or companions are welcome to travel alongside the passenger.
KSR's staff are also available to provide assistance throughout the journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for all passengers. The tour ends at approx. 7pm.
Book your Kuranda Scenic Train and Skyrail Tour HERE.
Day 4: Bungy Jump, Swing & Aquatic Adventures
Get up bright and early for an unforgettable skydiving experience in Cairns. Skydive Cairns is the premier tandem skydiving company in Australia. Since tandem skydiving is accompanied, the core activity is well suited to people with mobility needs. The main considerations are how to get to and enter the aircraft. At most drop zones, on most occasions, if you need to you can drive your wheelchair directly to the plane or helicopter (on the few occasions that this isn't possible, alternative arrangements will always be made). Getting into the aircraft will always be done with the assistance of your instructor.
Each disability is different and for this reason, you will require a medical certificate from your doctor stating it is safe for you to skydive. It is important to inform us of your disability before making a booking.
This Cairns drop zone offers a warm tropical climate, spectacular views of the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage rainforests. Why would you do it anywhere else? And trust us...it's addictive!
After landing, jump in a 20-minute Uber to Skypark Cairns and get ready for more adventure. Experience an adrenaline hit as you bungee jump off a 50m tower, in World Heritage Rainforest, and revel in knowing you have achieved the ultimate personal challenge!
Skypark is dedicated to providing professional and inclusive experiences for people who use wheelchairs. The staff are highly trained and take pride in ensuring a memorable and safe jump experience for all guests, including those with disabilities.
With 16 different jump styles to choose from and being the only bungy tower in Australia, Skpark Cairns offers you an experience that you will never forget!
This evening, be sure to book some tickets to Cairns Aquarium for an afternoon of aquatic wonders. Explore marine life and enjoy the Twilight Experience + Dinner. Guided by an Ecologist, gain an insight into the unique changes of the region's nocturnal creatures as they move about in the shadows, and see brightly coloured reef fish seek shelter as predatory nighttime sharks, rays, and groupers awaken. Then, enjoy a 3-course gourmet banquet surrounded by marine life within the Oceanarium before returning back to your hotel.
Whether it's leaping from heights, dining with the shark, or enjoying the Cairns sunshine, the thrill of accessible adventure awaits all year round in Cairns! Nature's wonders come alive with inclusive experiences that span across the seasons, while our top Queensland accessible tours offer unparalleled experiences, each suited to different times of the year. Contact us HERE to find out more, or, ask us to tailor a unique Queensland holiday itinerary just for you!
