Paronella Park: Our most recommended tours and activities

Cairns: Paronella, Lake Barrine & Millaa Millaa Falls Tour

1. Cairns: Paronella, Lake Barrine & Millaa Millaa Falls Tour

The departure is from Cairns, we head south travelling past Walsh’s Pyramid, one of the largest naturally formed pyramids in the world. Here your guide will stop so you can grab a photo of this unique North Queensland landmark. Now it’s time to travel up the World Heritage-listed Gillies Highway climbing 730 metres above sea level whilst enjoying the breathtaking views over the Goldsborough Valley. Just before the top of the amazing Gillies Range is a short photo opportunity at the Heales Lookout before heading into the gorgeous Atherton Tablelands. The first stop is the beautiful World Heritage Listed Lake Barrine Crater Lake National Park. On arrival, your tour guide will take you on a short walk to visit the 1000-year-old Twin Kauri Pines, true giants of the rainforest. Enjoy a Devonshire morning tea with freshly-baked scones before departing for the historical town of Yungaburra, which has the most Nationally Listed Heritage buildings in Queensland. Go on a driving tour around this quaint town, showcasing the many Nationally Heritage buildings. Next stop is The Curtain Fig Tree located in the Curtain Fig Tree National Park. This amazing feat of nature reaching 45+ metres up into the tropical rainforest canopy. Follow your guide on the boardwalk to learn about the amazing formation of this 600-800-year old epiphyte. Spy endemic wildlife species in the rainforest canopy, like the rare Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo. From here, head through the historical dairy town of Malanda, home to Australia’s oldest continuously running commercial picture theatre. Your guide will drive you around this charming town showcasing the beautiful old pub and theatre. Travelling through extensive beef, dairy, sugar cane, and other diverse types of farming areas, arrive at Millaa Millaa Falls, one of Australia’s most photographed waterfalls. Have an option of swimming under the cool waters or you sit back, relax, enjoy the tranquility of nature. Now it’s time to descend from the mountains down the Palmerstone Highway through sugar cane & banana fields to the coastal town of Innisfail, after leaving Innisfail you will enjoy a delicious lunch. Paronella Park is the next destination with a 45-minute guided tour in English, Chinese or Japanese. Be guided through the extensive National Trust Gardens while learning the rich history of Hose Paronella’s wonderful achievements and the colorful history of how he built his Spanish Castle in the rainforest; you will have amazing photo opportunities of the breathtaking Mena Creek and Theresa falls. Spend approx 2.5 hours here allowing plenty of free time to enjoy the rest of the park at a leisurely pace. Then, return to Cairns.

Paronella Park and Mamu Tropical Skywalk Ticket Combo

2. Paronella Park and Mamu Tropical Skywalk Ticket Combo

Spend a great day out south of Cairns at 2 top attractions. Plan your own day and embrace the flexibility of staying as long as you like at each location. At Mamu Tropical Skywalk, listen to the stories of the original indigenous peoples of the rainforest and the early European settlers. Enjoy the scenic majesty of this world heritage and learn more about the site with audio guides provided in 8 languages. This wheelchair and stroller-friendly attraction offers light refreshments for sale. At Paronella Park, a short 35-minute drive from the Skywalk, join a 45-minute guided tour telling the story of one of Australia's early settlers, Jose Paronella. Spend the rest of your time strolling the avenues and learning about the flora and fauna with a comprehensive botanical guide. You can also choose to have lunch at the cafe on the deck, feed the fish, cross the suspension bridge above the falls, or stroll 200 meters up the road to the wonderful Mena Creek Hotel for lunch or a cool drink.

Cairns: Paronella Park Ticket

3. Cairns: Paronella Park Ticket

Allow a minimum of 3-hours to experience the wonder of Paronella Park. All you need is to purchase your Paronella Park ticket, and then you have the choice to join the following tours if you wish. Alternatively, you can walk around as you please. Paronella Park is open every day, from 09:00 until 19:00. Step back in time and be amazed by the ingenuity and determination shown by one man with a dream. Today, Paronella Park is a celebration of the Paronella family's achievements, particularly those of its founder, José Paronella. Paronella Park has something for everyone. Fantastic photo opportunities, remarkable architecture, an incredible story, 5 acres of tropical gardens, a fully restored and operational 1930s hydroelectric generator, wildlife and fish feeding, a boutique caravan and camping grounds, a café with fresh local produce and much more. You will arrive not knowing what to expect, and depart with memories you will cherish forever. You can join in the following ways, as you wish: - The Dream Continues Tour: A 35 minute guided walk takes the visitor through the highlights of the park and tells the story of José Paronella’s dreams and vision. Departs every 30 minutes from 09:30 until 16:30 - The Darkness Falls Tour: You will be shown the secrets and delights of Paronella Park at night - a special way to extend the Paronella Park experience. 18:15 each night. Duration is approximately 45 minutes

Paronella Park Full Day Tour

4. Paronella Park Full Day Tour

Experience the ultimate journey of a lifetime as we take you on an extraordinary full-day escapade exploring the mesmerizing wonders of nature. Join us as we begin our expedition, starting with the breathtaking Babinda Boulders and then continuing to the enchanting Paronella Park. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of Babinda Boulders, where crystal-clear waters cascade over ancient rocks, creating a magical oasis. Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings, let the soothing sounds of nature wash over you, and feel the serenity that only such a remarkable place can offer. But our adventure doesn't stop there. We'll then transport you to the legendary Paronella Park, a place straight out of a fairy tale. Step into a world where dreams come true, as you explore the enchanting castle ruins, lush gardens, and captivating waterfalls that make this destination truly unique. Let your imagination run wild as you uncover the secrets and stories that lie within this remarkable historical site. Throughout the day, our knowledgeable guides will regale you with intriguing tales and fascinating facts, bringing each destination to life. They'll ensure that every moment of your journey is filled with wonder, excitement, and a deep appreciation for the natural and cultural treasures that await. So, embark on this extraordinary adventure with us and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let us whisk you away on a day filled with awe-inspiring beauty, enchanting tales, and unforgettable experiences. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of Babinda Boulders and Paronella Park. Book your place now and prepare to be amazed.

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Things to do in
Paronella Park

Paronella Park

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What people are saying about Paronella Park

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 102 reviews

It was a long drive. However, the trip was worth it. The scones served at the Teahouse at Lake Barrine were delicious. We enjoyed a big and sumptuous lunch before heading to our next destination. It was fascinating to see the Millaa Millaa waterfalls and Paronella Park was interesting. Besides being a good driver, Danny was friendly & very knowledgeable as well. It was an excellent tour. We highly recommend it!

Although the road trip there and back was long, the journey was worth the effort of an early start. The guide was knowledgeable and courteous and it was a pleasure to have him as our guide. Paronella was the highlight.

Jimbo was an amazing guide. His knowledge about every single thing related to the tour was rich. Morning tea was great, lunch was amazing and the tour itself just couldn’t be better. Hope to see u again

Paronella Park is a memorable experience and the history behind it brings it all back to life. It's beautiful!

Excellent tour guide, and wonderful day trip, the park is worth to go