Awakening in Nature’s Classroom

Embark on a transformative journey at noon as the day unfolds with the Hands On Country Cultural Experience. Guided by Traditional Owners of the Mandingalbay clan from the Yidinji Nation, this half-day escapade immerses you in a profound exploration of the natural wonders just beyond Cairns. A brief cruise unveils the breathtaking wetland environment, a mere 10-minute voyage from Cairns Harbour.

This regenerative experience transcends tourism; it’s an invitation into an Indigenous Protected Reserve. Witness the richness of Hills Creek, bordered by mangrove forests concealing the stories of the land. At low tide you may even get a glimpse of the saltwater crocodile, guardians of this river.

Journey to a working Indigenous Ranger base, the launchpad for the Mayi Bugan Rainforest Trail. Indigenous Guides share the sacred knowledge of native foods, bush medicines, and the enduring traditions of the Aboriginal people. This educational odyssey fosters respect for nature, unveiling a more harmonious existence between people and planet.

Experience Inclusions:

• Guided river cruise across the stunning water of the Cairns Harbour.
• Exclusive access to an Indigenous Protected Reserve
• Mandingalbay Yidinji traditional welcome either through smoke or marking the face with traditional paint.
• Bus tour through the mangroves, wetlands, and market gardens
• Guided Mayi Bugan Rainforest Trail. Discover bush foods, tools, and medicine as well as sites of cultural significance.
• Morning Tea with local fruits
• Return transfer by vessel to Cairns Marlin Marina

Time and Duration:

• Meeting Time: 08:45 hrs
• Duration: 4 hours

Notes:

• Additional afternoon tours may be available on request – please ask.
• The days in this itinerary can be changed to suit your travel plans and flights.
• Please reach out with any questions about this Cairns Regenerative Traveller Package.
• Do you need accommodation too? Let us know your sleep style and we will get to work.
• Do you want us to build a unique itinerary that is personalised to your needs? Just ask :)

Be a Citizen Scientist & Marine Biologist

An incredible adventure awaits those who choose this unique and exclusive conservation and education program.  Join a small group of like-minded individuals as you embark on a day of real-world science, contributing vital data for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

Your journey begins with a personalised meet and greet with your dedicated expert Master Reef Guide, setting the tone for an immersive experience. With exclusive reserved seating for researchers, morning and afternoon tea, and a chef-prepared lunch, you’ll be well taken care of throughout the day.

Explore two Outer Great Barrier Reef locations, where you’ll receive personalised training in marine conservation and be fully equipped with research materials and data collection tools.

Dive into the turquoise waters for a fully supervised in-water activity at both locations, actively participating in data collection alongside your experienced guide. The adventure continues with an afternoon debrief and data entry on the way home, allowing you to reflect on your meaningful contributions.

This fully hosted educational activity is perfect for passionate snorkelers seeking to deepen their connection with the Great Barrier Reef. Be more than just an observer – actively contribute to the ongoing conservation of this world-renowned natural wonder.

Strictly pre-booking is required, ensuring a maximum of 6 to 8 participants for an intimate and educational experience tailored to experienced and confident snorkelers.

Don’t just witness the Reef; become a part of its sustainable future.

Experience Inclusions:

• Meet & Greet with your personalised Master Reef Guide at check in
• Exclusive research team seating
• Small group (6-8 guests)
• Morning and afternoon tea
• Visit to two Outer Great Barrier Reef locations.
• Personalised training in marine conservation
• All research materials & data collection tools
• Fully supervised in-water activity at both locations assisting our team in data collection
• Afternoon debrief and data entry
• High quality equipment
• Onboard chef prepared lunch
• All dietary requirements catered for on request
• Winter wetsuits / summer sunsuits
• Prescription masks
• Marine Park Fees and Levies

Time and Duration:

• Meeting Time: 07:00 hrs
• Duration: 9-10 hours

Notes:

• The days in this itinerary can be changed to suit your travel plans and flights.
• Please reach out with any questions about this Cairns Regenerative Traveller Package.
• Do you need accommodation too? Let us know your sleep style and we will get to work.
• Do you want us to build a unique itinerary that is personalised to your needs? Just ask :)

A Unique Cairns’ Experience

Embark on a captivating nocturnal adventure with local wildlife and photography expert Bridgette Gower, an exclusive experience that unveils the hidden wonders of the Cairns rainforest under the blanket of night.

As the sun sets, the rainforest awakens with a symphony of frog croaks and the enchanting sparkle of countless eyeshines, creating an ambiance like no other.

Guided by the knowledgeable Bridgette, a true aficionado of the rainforest’s nocturnal life, each Night Walk promises a unique exploration of nature’s mysteries. Encounter beloved White-lipped tree frogs and Northern Stony Creek frogs, their lively presence adding to the nocturnal symphony. For arachnid enthusiasts, marvel at the intricate world of Net-casting spiders, Mirror-ball Spiders, and massive Orb-weavers, while those less fond can rest assured as they gracefully go about their nightly routines.

The tour also introduces you to a diverse cast of characters, from Micro-bats to the elusive Papuan Frogmouths, Striped Possums, and the graceful Speckled Flying Foxes. Keep your eyes peeled for the serpentine grace of Pythons, the swift movements of Bandicoots, and the endearing Pademelons and Echidnas making their nocturnal appearances. A plethora of nocturnal insects, including moths, crickets, beetles, and stick insects, emerges, creating a dynamic and enthralling ecosystem.

For photography enthusiasts, this Night Walk offers an unparalleled opportunity to capture stunning images of these elusive creatures. Bring your camera, and let Bridgette guide you with expert advice on settings, composition, and techniques to ensure you leave with a collection of awe-inspiring images.

The tour runs for two enchanting hours from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, making it a perfect conclusion to a day in the tropics and contribute to the conservation of nature by adding your observations to citizen science tool iNaturalist.

Experience Inclusions:

• 2 hour expert guided walk
• Expert help capturing amazing photos of nocturnal critters
• Learn about wildlife in the tropics
• Head torch (if you don’t have your own)

Specialised Macro Camera Hire

Enjoy the choice of a range of OM SYSTEM camera equipment available for hire. Try your hand at macro photography, and capture some incredible images.

Get help from your expert guide and capture those images you’ve always dreamed of.

Contact us for all camera hire options and more information.

Time and Duration:

• Meeting Time: 18:30 hrs (19:00 hrs in wet season)
• Duration: 2 hours

Notes:

• The days in this itinerary can be changed to suit your travel plans and flights.
• Please reach out with any questions about this Cairns Regenerative Traveller Package.
• Do you need accommodation too? Let us know your sleep style and we will get to work.
• Do you want us to build a unique itinerary that is personalised to your needs? Just ask :)