When it comes to planning the ultimate Australian road trip, Cairns is one of the most popular starting points. Perfectly positioned on the doorstep of both the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, Cairns offers endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and relaxation. And there’s no better way to explore this tropical region than with motorhome hire Cairns.
At Gallivanting Oz, we specialise in providing 4WD campers, motorhomes and campervans for hire, with personalised customer service to make the planning and booking of your holiday simple and stress free. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family, or group of friends, our expert team can help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs—along with insider tips and personalised support to make your Aussie adventure unforgettable.
Why Choose Cairns for Your Road Trip?
Cairns is a gateway to some of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. Imagine waking up in your motorhome to the sounds of tropical birds before heading out for a morning along the beach or taking a drive north through lush rainforest and ending the day at a secluded beachside campground. A road trip starting in Cairns gives you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace.
Campervan Hire Australia Cairns – Explore Your Options
If you’re considering campervan hire Australia Cairns, you’ll be pleased to know that the region has some amazing road trip itineraries. Many travellers choose to travel north toward Cape Tribulation and Cooktown for a tropical adventure, while others head south toward Townsville, Airlie Beach, and the Whitsundays.
Great Barrier Reef – One of the World’s Seven Natural Wonders
No trip to Cairns would be complete without experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Stretching over 2,300 kilometres and visible from space, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest living structure on Earth. From Cairns, you’ll have access to countless day trips and tours. The reef is home to vibrant coral gardens, colourful tropical fish, turtles, manta rays, and if you’re lucky, reef sharks! It’s the kind of place that leaves you speechless and is guaranteed to be a highlight of your adventure.
Travelling with a motorhome from Cairns gives you the flexibility to stay at any campground of your choice and choose tours that suit your interests and pace. Families often love the pontoon-based trips that offer safe snorkelling areas and glass-bottom boats, while adventure seekers might opt for outer reef dives. Whichever way you decide to explore, the Great Barrier Reef delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll carry with you long after your trip has ended.
Daintree Rainforest – The Oldest Living Rainforest on Earth
Just a short drive north of Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest transports you into another world. At over 180 million years old, it is recognised as the oldest living rainforest on the planet. Walking through its lush canopy feels like stepping back in time, with giant ferns, towering trees, and rare wildlife such as the endangered cassowary and the elusive tree kangaroo. Boardwalks and guided tours provide a fantastic way to learn about the unique ecosystem, while river cruises on the Daintree River often feature sightings of crocodiles basking along the banks.
Hiring a motorhome makes it easy to journey into this incredible environment at your own pace. There are campgrounds scattered throughout the region, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while still enjoying all the comforts of your vehicle. Many travellers choose to combine a trip to the Daintree with a visit to Cape Tribulation, making it one of the most rewarding experiences of any Cairns road trip.
Cape Tribulation – Where the Reef Meets the Rainforest
Cape Tribulation is one of the most unique places in the world because it’s where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Here, pristine rainforest stretches right down to untouched sandy beaches, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop. It’s a rare chance to see two of Australia’s greatest natural wonders in a single location.
With a motorhome, you can venture beyond the usual tourist spots and spend more time soaking up the beauty of Cape Tribulation. Many visitors choose to stay overnight in nearby campgrounds, where evenings are filled with stargazing and the sounds of the rainforest. During the day, there are plenty of activities to enjoy—jungle surfing (zip-lining), guided night walks, horse riding along the beach, and kayaking tours that give you a new perspective of the coastline. This destination embodies the adventurous spirit of Far North Queensland and is a must-see on any itinerary.
Please note: unless you are in a 4WD camper, stick to sealed roads! Our 2WD vehicles can travel 10km/12km on a well-maintained unsealed road to a registered campground or tourist attraction but they must stay on sealed roads all other times. If in doubt, ask!
Atherton Tablelands – Waterfalls, Crater Lakes, and Charming Country Towns
Southwest of Cairns lies the Atherton Tablelands, a lush highland region known for its cooler climate, rolling green hills, and rich volcanic soils. This area offers a striking contrast to the coastal tropics and is dotted with stunning waterfalls such as Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Ellinjaa Falls – each offering swimming holes perfect for a refreshing dip. The Tablelands are also famous for their volcanic crater lakes, including Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham, which are surrounded by walking trails and make ideal spots for a relaxing picnic. All are accessible in a 2WD camper.
Beyond the natural attractions, the Atherton Tablelands are home to charming towns and a thriving food and wine scene. You’ll find local markets, boutique coffee plantations, tropical fruit farms, and even cheese producers. Driving your motorhome through this scenic region allows you to stop and sample as you please, turning the journey into a culinary adventure. With its mix of waterfalls, lakes, wildlife, and rural hospitality, the Atherton Tablelands provide the perfect balance of nature and culture on your Cairns road trip.
By choosing motorhome hire Cairns, you’ll have the comfort of your own home on wheels while exploring these spectacular destinations.
For those with more time, a longer drive from Cairns all the way down to Brisbane or Sydney allows you to experience both the tropics and the stunning east coast beaches.
Cairns Campervan Rental – Freedom to Explore
Choosing a cairns campervan rental gives you complete flexibility. Unlike fixed itineraries or hotel stays, you can travel at your own pace, stay longer in the places you love, and change direction on a whim. The region has plenty of holiday parks, campgrounds, and even free camping options for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-track adventures.
Why Book Your Cairns Motorhome with Gallivanting Oz?
We pride ourselves on our exceptional reputation and commitment to helping travellers have the best experience possible.
Here’s what you can expect when booking with us:
- Clear and transparent pricing.
- No hidden surprises.
- Friendly, personalised service from a team that truly cares.
- Access to our Escorted Motorhome Tours, if you prefer a more social, fully supported travel experience
- We also have our Motorhome Plus guides if you are keen to book an independent holiday but want access to all our knowledge of travelling Australia! Complete with a route plan for trips around Queensland.
Many of our clients say the peace of mind they feel when booking through us is just as important as the motorhome itself.
Ready to Start Your Adventure?
There’s never been a better time to plan your Australian road trip adventure. With so many travellers discovering the joys of the open road, motorhome hire Cairns is one of the best ways to experience the country in 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of rainforest walks, days spent on the beach or simply relaxing under the stars, a motorhome gives you the freedom to make it all happen.
Get in touch with Gallivanting Oz today and let us help you plan the ultimate road trip. From the perfect vehicle to insider advice and exceptional customer care, we’re here to make your journey unforgettable.
