Lunch in Cairns combines practical Aussie dining with unforgettable experiences. The best tours pack in maximum value: BBQ lunches aboard Great Barrier Reef cruises serve up fresh seafood while you’re surrounded by coral reefs and tropical fish. I love how the Kuranda Rainforest tours include guided walks and a hearty lunch – perfect for spotting cassowaries and tree kangaroos. The Atherton Tablelands excursions offer the best bang-for-buck, pairing waterfall visits with stops at charming local cafes. Most impressive are the Aboriginal cultural tours, where traditional smoking ceremonies lead into authentic bush-tucker lunches. These aren’t just meals – they’re real Australian experiences.
Let’s look at our favorite food-focused tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Outer Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour offers a delicious BBQ lunch with a glass of wine and cheese as part of the inclusive experience.
- Atherton Tableland Wilderness Tour includes a provided lunch at The Top Rail in Malanda, offering a chance to enjoy local cuisine.
- Aboriginal Art and Culture Full-Day Trip does not specifically mention a lunch experience but provides a comprehensive culture throughout the day.
- While the Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tours and Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour do not include lunch, they offer opportunities to explore local eateries during the excursion.
- The background information does not provide clear details on the best standalone lunch experiences in Cairns, though the Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour seems to offer a highly rated lunch option.
From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Trip With Lunch
Visitors to Cairns can embark on an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef snorkeling adventure, complete with a delightful buffet lunch.
This 9-hour excursion takes guests to two unique reef sites, where they can explore the diverse ecosystem for up to 5 hours. Snorkelers can spot vibrant marine life, including clownfish, angelfish, and even turtles.
The tour also features an indigenous welcome and cultural insights, as well as morning and afternoon tea.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise is an excellent value for money and a must-do activity in Cairns.
Read our full review: From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Trip With Lunch Review
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Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour With Lunch
Travelers seeking a comprehensive Great Barrier Reef experience can embark on a full-day tour from Cairns that whisks them to two remarkable outer reef sites.
For ₹13,476 per person, the tour offers 5 hours of snorkeling, a chef-prepared BBQ lunch, and a glass of wine with cheese on the return journey.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 717 reviews, the tour receives praise for its professional guides, spacious boat, and delicious food.
Snorkel and dive equipment, safety briefings, and optional activities like a semi-submersible tour enhance the experience.
Guests must bring sun protection and note age and medical requirements for diving.
Read our full review: Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour With Lunch Review
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Cairns: Best of the Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour & Lunch
For those seeking a comprehensive rainforest experience, the Cairns: Best of the Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour & Lunch offers an immersive journey through one of the world’s oldest and most biodiverse ecosystems.
Priced from $188.56 per person, the 10-hour tour includes a scenic railway ride, visits to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and Rainforestation Nature Park, a barbecue buffet lunch, and cultural experiences with the Pamagirri Aboriginal people.
Travelers can expect to encounter a variety of native wildlife, from koalas to crocodiles.
With a maximum group size of 10 and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a well-organized and personalized rainforest exploration.
Read our full review: Cairns: Best of the Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour & Lunch Review
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From Cairns: Atherton Tableland Wilderness Tour With Lunch
One of the most captivating day trips from Cairns is the From Cairns: Atherton Tableland Wilderness Tour With Lunch. This 10-hour tour costs $95.24 per person and is likely to sell out, so it’s best to reserve your spot early.
The itinerary highlights include visiting Millaa Millaa Falls, exploring Wooroonooran National Park, swimming at Josephine Falls and Lake Eacham, and spotting platypus in Yungaburra. Lunch is provided at The Top Rail in Malanda.
The tour includes round-trip transfers from Cairns City and the Northern Beaches, with pickup times ranging from 6:45 AM to 8:00 AM.
Travelers highly rate the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, the beautiful locations, and the overall enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: From Cairns: Atherton Tableland Wilderness Tour With Lunch Review
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Cairns: Aboriginal Art and Culture Full-Day Trip With Lunch
With its immersive exploration of Aboriginal art and culture, the Cairns: Aboriginal Art and Culture Full-Day Trip with Lunch transports visitors on a captivating journey.
Priced at $169.39 per person, this 1-day tour provides a comprehensive experience, including an art class, guided walks, a traditional smoking ceremony, and a delicious lunch.
Highlights include creating a unique canvas at Janbal Gallery, learning about ancient Aboriginal highways, and exploring the stunning Mossman Gorge.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 6 reviews, this tour offers an exceptional value for travelers seeking an enriching cultural encounter in Cairns.
Read our full review: Cairns: Aboriginal Art and Culture Full-Day Trip With Lunch Review
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Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling or Dive Tour and Lunch
Exploring the Great Barrier Reef is a must-do experience for visitors to Cairns. The full-day tour from Cairns provides an opportunity to experience the stunning marine life and landscapes of this natural wonder.
At $163 per person, the tour includes a 1.5-hour boat ride to the outer reef, up to 5 hours of snorkeling at exclusive sites, and a delicious tropical buffet lunch.
With high-quality equipment and knowledgeable guides, the tour ensures a safe and enjoyable reef experience. The tour has received excellent reviews, with customers praising the friendly staff, abundant marine life, and well-organized itinerary.
For those seeking an unforgettable day on the Great Barrier Reef, this tour is a top choice.
Read our full review: Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling or Dive Tour and Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Option for the Included Lunch?
The vegetarian/vegan option for the included lunch is usually available. Many restaurants in Cairns offer plant-based dishes to accommodate various dietary requirements and preferences, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all guests.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tours?
Participants can typically bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or provide included meals that should be taken into consideration.
How Do I Retrieve My Booking Details or Make Changes?
To retrieve your booking details or make changes, you’ll need to contact the tour operator directly. They’ll be able to access your account and assist you with any updates or modifications to your reservation.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tours?
There are typically no age or fitness requirements for the tours. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can generally join, though some activities may have certain restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific details.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tours?
Travelers should bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a water bottle. It’s also recommended to bring a camera to capture the scenic views. The tour operator may provide additional guidance on what to bring for the specific activities.
The Sum Up
Cairns offers a variety of exceptional lunch experiences. From snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef to exploring the Atherton Tableland, these tours provide a chance to savor local cuisine while immersing oneself in the region’s natural wonders. Whether seeking adventure or culture, Cairns’ lunch experiences promise to satisfy both the palate and the spirit.