Meet the wildlife of Far North Queensland
Discover the extraordinary wildlife of Far North Queensland (FNQ) through its remarkable natural habitats and wildlife experiences. The start point for your adventure is Newcastle Airport, with a flight of only 2 hours and 50 minutes to Cairns.
Zoos and wildlife experiences (all less than 45 minutes from Cairns)
- Australian Butterfly Sanctuary: The largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit in Australia with over 1,200 tropical butterflies, including the stunning Ulysses and Cairns Birdwing species.
- Rainforestation Nature Park: Board an amphibious World War II Army Duck for a unique rainforest tour on both land and water. Cuddle a koala, hand-feed kangaroos and glimpse cassowaries, alongside cultural insights from the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience.
- Hartley's Crocodile Adventures: Experience one of Australia's best crocodile shows, boat cruises with croc feedings, and interactive wildlife presentations.
Animals unique to FNQ
- Cassowaries: Meet the ‘gardeners of the rainforest’ – these large, flightless birds boast vibrant blue and black feathers and play a crucial role in maintaining forest health.
- Mahogany Glider: Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the endangered Mahogany Glider, capable of soaring great distances between trees. Spotting this elusive creature is a rare and thrilling experience!
- Tree Kangaroo: Discover the Tree Kangaroo, a fascinating marsupial perfectly adapted to life high in the treetops. These unique animals, found only in FNQ, are a true wonder of nature.
Wildlife in the wild
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Daintree Rainforest: Step into the world's oldest and most enchanting rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a place where ancient trees whisper tales of time and nature's marvels unfold at every turn.
- Atherton Tablelands: Discover a breathtaking blend of rainforest, wetlands, and savannah in the Atherton Tablelands. This diverse landscape offers incredible opportunities to spot tree kangaroos, elusive platypus, and a vibrant variety of birds. It's a paradise for nature lovers, teeming with life and endless exploration.
Embark on an adventure in FNQ. Book your flight from Newcastle Airport to Cairns with Jetstar and get ready to meet some incredible wildlife!