Mareeba is a stretch of unspoilt countryside and one of the richest regions for birdlife in Australia. A food lover’s paradise, Mareeba is also remarked for its exquisite natural areas, heritage sites and hot-air ballooning.

Things to do

For a journey back in time, visit the Mareeba Heritage Museum, located on the Atherton Tablelands. Stroll down the mock town street just outside the museum, then head indoors to browse period exhibits, including an early ambulance, restored family home and historical artefacts.

Nature enthusiasts should head to Granite Gorge Nature Park. You can go swimming in the Granite Creek Weir, hike through the bush, hand feed a colony of Mareeba Rock Wallabies or stay for the night in a campsite or cabin.

Looking for an adrenalin-pumping activity? Take to the skies with Cairns Ballooning. Go for a balloon flight at dawn over the Atherton Tablelands or glide gently through the skies above the farms of Mareeba Valley.

Enliven your taste buds at Jaques Coffee Plantation. Situated on the Atherton Tablelands, you can enjoy a beautiful backdrop of mountain peaks and panoramic views of 85,000 Arabica coffee trees while you sip on coffee and nibble on home-baked scones. The more adventurous can embark on microlight flights, gyro flights and Segway tours.

Getting around

Mareeba is one hour’s drive west of Cairns and the easiest way to get around is by car. The Cairns airport is about 60 kilometres away.