Tropical North Queensland is where two World Heritage areas meet. On one side lies the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest living structure. On the other, the Wet Tropics, home to the Daintree, the oldest continuously surviving tropical rainforest on Earth. For schools, universities and international study groups, there are few better outdoor classrooms anywhere in the world.
Students can snorkel among sea turtles and coral gardens one day, then walk through rainforest with plant lineages millions of years old the next, all from a Cairns base.
Why Cairns for an educational trip
- Two World Heritage areas in one trip. The reef and the rainforest sit side by side, so students see how two of the planet’s most important ecosystems connect.
- Learning that sticks. Lessons on biodiversity, conservation and environmental change come alive when students can see them for themselves.
- Easy to reach. Cairns has an international airport, and Reef Experience departs from Marlin Jetty at the Cairns Marina, in the heart of the city.
- Experiences for every age and ability. From primary school groups to university field trips, programmes can be shaped around your students and your learning goals.
What students can learn
- Marine science: how coral reef ecosystems work, why they matter and the marine life that depends on them.
- Rainforest ecology: ancient plants, rare wildlife and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
- Connected ecosystems: how what happens in the rainforest catchment affects the reef, from mountain to coral.
- Conservation and sustainability: how these World Heritage areas are protected, and how visitors can help.
- Geography and environmental change: landscapes, climate and human impact, seen first-hand.
Trip ideas for educational groups
A day on the Great Barrier Reef
Spend the day on the outer reef with Reef Experience. Students can snorkel with support from a friendly, experienced crew, observe tropical marine life in its natural habitat and learn about reef conservation. You can also compare other Cairns reef tours.
Reef and rainforest in two days
Pair a reef day with a day in the Daintree and Cape Tribulation, the place where the rainforest meets the reef. It is the simplest way to show students both World Heritage areas. See Daintree Rainforest tours from Cairns. For rainforest-focused programmes, see our sister guide to school groups and educational tours in the Daintree.
A longer study tour
For international and university groups, a longer stay can add the Kuranda rainforest village and the Atherton Tablelands, with their waterfalls, volcanic lakes and wildlife. Explore Kuranda tours, Atherton Tablelands tours and multi-day Cairns tour packages.
Planning your group trip: common questions
“We have a class of 40 students. Can we all go to the reef on the same day?”
Tell us your group size and preferred dates and we will check availability and recommend the best option for your group. The earlier you get in touch, the more choice you will have.
“Some of our students are not confident swimmers. Can they still take part?”
Yes. Reef Experience carries safety and flotation gear on board, and the crew are on hand to support students in the water, and water activities are always subject to each student’s comfort and individual safety requirements. Let us know about any students who need extra support when you enquire, so we can plan for them. Our reef safety tips and guide to accessible reef tours have more detail.
“We are an international university group planning a field trip. Can you help us combine the reef and the rainforest?”
Absolutely. Share your learning goals, group size and travel dates, and we will help you put together a reef and rainforest programme that fits your course.
“How far ahead should we book?”
As early as you can, especially for school holidays and peak travel periods, when reef trips and accommodation fill quickly. Start planning where your group will stay with our guide to Cairns accommodation.
Plan your educational trip to Cairns
Email [email protected] with your group size, student ages, preferred dates and any learning goals, and we will help you plan an unforgettable reef and rainforest experience.
