Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls Day Tour from Cairns — Millaa Millaa, Lake Eacham & Josephine Falls
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short walks (5–30 minutes) and some uneven terrain. Swimming is optional.
Overview
Escape Cairns for a crisp highland day through the Atherton Tablelands—swim in a volcanic crater lake, stand beneath Millaa Millaa Falls, and slide into the pools of Josephine Falls. A flexible small-group tour pairs local knowledge with eco-conscious practices for an efficient, unforgettable day.
Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls Day Tour from Cairns — Millaa Millaa, Lake Eacham & Josephine Falls
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The bus eases out of Cairns at first light, green logo catching the pale gold as hills rise and the humidity thins. By the time the coast slips behind, the air smells of wet earth and green leaves; the guide points toward a stand of giant figs and the group quiets. This is a day that trades tropical heat for highland cool—one that stitches swimming holes, rainforest loops, and lookout points into a single, moving afternoon.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring swimmers and a quick-dry towel
Lake Eacham and Josephine Falls are best experienced with a swim; pack lightweight swimwear and a towel to dry off between stops.
Wear shoes with grip
Trails around falls and lookouts can be slick and uneven—closed-toe hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers reduce risk of slips.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
Protect skin without harming freshwater ecosystems; apply sunscreen before arriving at a swimming spot and reapply afterward.
Listen to your guide around currents
Josephine Falls includes natural slides and stronger currents in places—obey signage and guide instructions to avoid hazards.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pademelons and wallabies in early morning/late afternoon
- Platypus sightings at dawn on calmer lakes
History
The Tablelands formed from volcanic activity that created crater lakes; the region is traditional land of Yidinji and Ngadjon-jii peoples with rich cultural connections to waterways and forests.
Conservation
Tours operate within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area—stick to marked trails, avoid introducing soaps to freshwater, and the operator offsets carbon emissions to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cairns
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit
For dips in Lake Eacham and the pools at Josephine Falls.
summer specific
Quick-dry towel
Dries fast between stops and fits easily into a daypack.
Sturdy walking shoes
Necessary for wet rocks and short rainforest trails.
Light rain jacket
Summer can bring sudden showers in the Wet Tropics; a packable jacket keeps you comfortable.
summer specific