How to Get to Cairns. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Connections

Cairns Airport (CNS) serves as the main international and domestic airport for Far North Queensland.

Operating Airlines

Domestic: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex connect to major Australian cities.
International: Air Niugini (Port Moresby), Singapore Airlines (Singapore), Jetstar (Tokyo, Osaka, Bali, NZ).
Check current schedules, as routes change.

Seasonal Variations

Flight availability and prices fluctuate throughout the year. Prices are usually highest during the Australian dry season (May-October).

When to Book

Highest prices: Dry season (May-Oct) & major holidays (Christmas, Easter).
Lower prices: Wet season (Dec-Mar) due to fewer tourists.
Particular ways to other countries are seasonal; plan accordingly.

Services at CNS

Cairns Airport (CNS) has two terminals, Domestic (T2) and International (T1), joined by a covered walkway. Both terminals have amenities for travelers.

What to Find

You will find ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Getting to City

The airport is approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) north of downtown, with multiple transport options.

Airport Transfers

Fast & Flexible

Taxi: Available outside terminals, AUD $25-35 to city.
Rideshare: Uber operates, similar pricing to taxis, designated pick-up points.
Shuttle Bus: Shared-ride services (Cairns Courtesy Bus), AUD $15-20 per person one-way.
Car Rental: Desks for major companies in arrivals area, for exploring the region.

Cost-Effective

Public Bus: Sunbus Route 123 connects airport to city center, around AUD $4.50.
Less direct, could need a walk to accommodation.
Public bus operates on limited hours.
Consider flexibility versus cost for your choice.

Airport Tip

Departure Timing

For international flights, schedule your arrival for the airport 3 hours before your scheduled departure.

Domestic Flights

For domestic flights, allow 1-A couple of hours before to departure; 1 hour if you only have carry-on luggage, and 2 hours if you are checking bags.

Online Check-in

Online check-in is recommended if available, as it makes your airport process smoother.

Land Transportation

Regional Rail

Cairns is good-joined by highway and rail to other parts of Queensland.

Queensland Rail

Spirit of Queensland: Connects Cairns to Brisbane, operating five times a week.
Stops at major towns: Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Maryborough West.
Kuranda Scenic Railway: Tourist service from Cairns/Freshwater to Kuranda.

Long-Distance Buses

Long-distance bus services present extensive connections throughout Queensland.

Operators

Greyhound Australia: Wide-ranging services to major cities and towns.
Premier Motor Service: Another option for the coast travel, often a budget-friendly alternative.
The main bus terminal is conveniently located in the Cairns City center.

Driving in Cairns

Self-driving offers flexibility for exploring Far North Queensland. Ensure you meet license and age criteria.

License & Age

Valid home country driver's license (if in English), otherwise International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies: drivers at least 21, some 25+ for certain types.
Credit card in the driver's name for a deposit.

Driving Conditions & Safety

Be aware of particular safety concerns upon...ing are driving in the region.

Road Rules & Tips

Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are required for all occupants.
Speed limits strictly enforced (50 kilometers per hour in urban areas, 100/110 km/h highways).
No mobile phone use while driving. Strict drink driving laws (BAC limit 0.05%).

Biosecurity Check

Strict biosecurity laws apply to all arrivals.
Declare all food, plant material, and items of animal origin.
Not doing so declare may result in fines or penalties.

Officials may inspect, treat, or confiscate undeclared items.
Protect Australia's unique environment from pests and diseases.
Review specific prohibited items before travel.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise & Ferry Access

Cairns functions as a port for both large cruise ships and smaller vessels.

Maritime Connections

Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal: Accommodates visiting cruise ships in city center.
Reef tours start from Marlin Marina or Reef Fleet Terminal.
Regular passenger ferries to Fitzroy Island and Green Island (45-min journey).

River Cruises

Limited public river transportation options exist within Cairns, but tour operators offer beautiful cruises.

Local Experiences

Scenic river cruises on Barron River or Daintree River.
Often focus on wildlife spotting, like crocodile tours.
Book through specific operators for these encounters.

Border Procedures

For international cruise ship arrivals, immigration and customs procedures are handled by Australian Border Force officers, similar to airports.

City Proximity

The Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal is within walking distance of the city center.

Ground Transport

Taxis and rideshare services are also available for connections to land transportation from the terminal.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

When planning your departure from Cairns, understand the procedures and timing recommendations for a smooth exit.

Notes

Australia does not levy specific exit fees directly on passengers.
These fees are typically included in the price of your airline ticket.
Standard airport security checks apply to all departing travelers.

Airport Facilities

Cairns Airport offers various facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities

You will find stores, cafes, and restaurants.
The worldwide terminal includes duty-free shopping.
Lounges are available for eligible passengers. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport.

Ground Transport Connections

Taxi Access

Taxis are available outside both terminals for direct lifts to your accommodation or city center.

Rideshare Pick-up

Uber and other rideshare services have designated pick-up points at the airport.

Shuttle Services

Shared shuttle buses provide economical transport to various hotels in Cairns.

Departure Readiness

The Cairns Public transport By train and bus Station offer simple waiting areas and ticket counters, with cafes located nearby for refreshments before your journey.

How to Get to Cairns