- Email
Davies Creek Falls and Emerald Creek Falls have long been must-see stops on any trip to Mareeba.
Explore the best of Tropical North Queensland where the rainforest meets the outback in the Mareeba Shire, part of the beautiful Atherton Tablelands. Just 40 minutes from Cairns and you’ll find yourself in the rainforest village of Kuranda – another 20 minute drive and you’re surrounded by the golden savannah and coffee farms of Mareeba.
This region is made for road trips. Scenic drives wind past waterfalls, wildlife parks and heritage towns. From rainforest walks and river cruises to outback caves and country pubs, the Mareeba Shire is a journey through two worlds; tropical and timeless, all in one unforgettable trip.
Start your adventure in Kuranda, the rainforest village where creativity and nature meet. You may wish to arrive on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Scenic Railway or by car. Begin at the Kuranda Visitor Information Centre for maps and tips, then spend the day exploring the village’s colourful markets, unique wildlife attractions, and scenic rainforest walks.
Discover local art galleries, boutique shops, and cafés tucked along leafy streets, or simply wander and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. From rainforest cruises and scenic lookouts to cultural experiences and family-friendly activities, there’s plenty to fill your day in Kuranda.
As the sun sets, make your way to Mareeba, the heart of the Shire. Unwind under the stars at the nostalgic Mareeba Drive-In, or enjoy an evening meal at one of the town’s local restaurants.
Stay overnight in comfort – with options ranging from traditional motels and cosy B&Bs to glamping retreats and bush stays. However you travel, the Mareeba Shire offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic country hospitality.
Follow the coffee bean trail painted on the footpath and you’ll find yourself at Coffee Works Mareeba. Here, freshly roasted coffee, handmade chocolates, and cafe bites make the perfect start to your day.
Next, head west to Hectic Valley Farm in Mutchilba, a family-run property where you can hand-feed farm animals, and soak up that real country feel. Perfect for the kids!
Back in town, explore the Mareeba Heritage Museum and Visitor Information Centre for a fascinating look at the region’s past, while car lovers will enjoy Blundell’s Classic Ford Museum, home to beautifully restored vintage vehicles, tractors and more.
Afternoons are best spent outside, swim at the iconic Emerald Creek Falls, hike through Davies Creek National Park, and keep an eye out for Aboriginal rock art along the way. When the heat sets in, Emerald Creek Ice Creamery is a must. Try their small-batch ice creams made on site or browse locally made jams, candles, and gifts.
End the day where it began — with coffee. Visit one of Mareeba’s plantations along the Coffee Capital Drive and see how the region’s beans go from crop to cup.
Take the scenic drive west along the Wheelbarrow Way to Dimbulah, about 45 minutes from Mareeba. Stretch your legs along the main street, grab a coffee at Camp 64 or Crew House Café, and enjoy a taste of small-town hospitality before continuing further west to Chillagoe.
As the road unfolds, the scenery shifts from green farmland to striking limestone bluffs and outback red earth. Stop by the Chillagoe Hub and Visitor Information Centre to book a Queensland Parks and Wildlife ranger-led cave tour – the best way to explore the region’s incredible cave systems and learn about its geology and history.
Afterwards, visit the heritage-listed smelter ruins, admire the gravity-defying Balancing Rock, or cool off with a swim at the Chillagoe Weir.
If you’re staying overnight, you’ll find welcoming country hospitality at the Post Office Hotel, Chillagoe Cabins, or Chillagoe Eco Lodge and Observatory, where you can stargaze under some of the clearest skies in Queensland. End your day watching the sunset turn the outback landscape gold before heading back east the next morning.
Want to explore more of Chillagoe? See the full itinerary here.
If you’ve got an extra day to explore, the Mareeba Shire still has plenty to offer before you head back toward the coast.
Option 1: Rewind Time in Irvinebank
Head south from Mareeba toward Irvinebank, a hidden gem filled with history and character. Visit the Loudoun House Museum to learn about the town’s tin-mining heritage, then pop into Brian’s Shed to see an impressive collection of vintage machinery. Don’t miss the historic Queensland National Bank building, one of Irvinebank’s most photographed sites. If you’re visiting in October, time your trip with the Irvinebank Festival for live music, markets, and small-town hospitality. Stay overnight with free camping in town or book a scenic spot at Mount Albion Station Camping.
Option 2: Scenic North to Mount Molloy & Julatten
Prefer to keep heading north? Take the scenic highway toward Mount Molloy and Julatten, where the landscape shifts from open savannah to lush mountain rainforest. In Mount Molloy, stretch your legs at the Labyrinth, stop by the historic Mount Molloy Hotel for a drink or meal, and visit the Old Sawmill Site to learn about the town’s timber history.
Continue to Julatten, a quiet rural community known for its cooler temperatures and excellent birdwatching — especially at Abattoir Swamp Environmental Park. Stop in for lunch at the Julatten Hotel and take in the surrounding mountain views.
If you’re travelling self-contained, Cool Clean & Green is a popular Hipcamp stay — book ahead as spaces fill quickly. Other great options include Tableland Caravan Park or the architect-designed cabins at Sweetwater Lodge.
The next morning, follow the scenic drive back toward Mossman and Port Douglas.
Whether you explore inland through Irvinebank or north through Julatten’s green hills, an extra day in the Mareeba Shire offers more discoveries and plenty of reasons to return.
Recent Comments