Chillagoe Caves. Photo courtesy of robstephaustralia via Flickr.
Danger, adventure, and raw beauty abound in the great Down Under and naturally, no visit is complete without experiencing first hand one of the greatest wonders of the world – the Great Barrier Reef.
However, all the surf and sand can send you a little salty, so why not step away from the beach and step into the nearby outback in Cairns, Northern Queensland.
About two hours from the beach tropical paradise of Cairns is the Chillagoe-Mungana Karst Caves National Park, which contains the breathtaking limestone Chillagoe Caves. There are a whopping 600 to 1,000 ancient limestone caves in the Chillagoe-Mungana area to explore, but it is recommended to jump on a tour or grab a local guide to help you navigate this slice of Australian outback.
For those thrill seekers or experienced cavers, you can grab gear at the national park’s Caving Club and jump down into the depths of the cave complex. Caving journeys can go anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on your passion!
The Chillagoe area also has several significant Indigenous art sites and the relics of a once-booming mining town from the 1870s and 1920s.
Of course you will come face-to-face with the extraordinary wildlife Australia boasts – this time on land!
To get out and explore the Chillagoe area, either jump on an organized tour leaving from Cairns Centre, or rent a car and head out on the highway yourself. Make sure you pack enough water and mosquito spray (depending on the time of year you are traveling).
Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s Cairns tours and things to do, Cairns attractions, and Cairns travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Cairns for a customized tour!
March 28, 2012 by Viator
Sightseeing, Things To Do, Tours & Activities