TNQ Writer
Exploring the tropics can open up a whole new world of adventure and excitement. With a range of wonderful tours and experiences that cater to the varying accessibility needs of travellers, there’s something for everyone in Tropical North Queensland.
Led by Out There Travel Care, accessible tourism in Tropical North Queensland is becoming more bolder than ever. With over 10 years of experience in providing care and support for their clients, the company shifted into tourism in a bid to help make their favourite local hotspots accessible to all. Catering for holiday makers with differing abilities, Out There Travel Care’s carers are set to join travellers personally on a range of incredible tours. In collaboration with the team, we’ve put together a list of the best accessible tours across the Tropical North.
How to book a tour companion
The Out There Travel Care team will do the groundwork to ensure your tour is as accessible and breezy as can be. Simply contact the team with your preferred activity and dates on 07 4255 6888. You can also send them an online enquiry or ask your local tour desk. Once your plans are in motion, the team will complete a Care Requirements Form with you over the phone to help select the best experience for you. After this, your Tour Companion will be confirmed within 48 hours, and the team will book your activity for you.
See the world from above with Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway
As one of the premier experiences in the tropics, Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway is a brilliant way to spend a sunny day. For your train journey upwards to the hill-top town of Kuranda, you can enjoy an accessible carriage where you’ll find support with boarding. The seats located directly near the accessible spaces can be booked for you and your carer, and if you use a mobility device, the support team can assist you in strapping it down with down straps.
As for the stations, Freshwater, Cairns and Kuranda are all generally accessible, however Barron Falls is accessible by stairs only.
For passengers who are deaf, hard of hearing or blind, the Kuranda experience is made accessible with high visibility handrails, contrasting surface colours, raised text and braille on the toilet signs.
Ready to see the world from above as you make your way back to Cairns on Skyrail? This experience is proudly inclusive. The cableway can be slowed or stopped to allow for easy access onto and off the gondolas, and there’s wheelchair access to all areas of the Skyrail experience thanks to the use of ramps. Accessible bathrooms are also on site.
For more information on the accessibility of the Kuranda Scenic Rail and the Skyrail, contact Out There Travel Care on 07 4255 6888.
Learn about nature at the Cairns Aquarium
If immersing yourself in the weird and wonderful world of the deep blue is up your alley, you’ll love a day trip to Cairns Aquarium. As one of the country’s favourite aquariums, it’s also exciting to note that the establishment is completely accessible, fit with elevators, ramps, accessible bathrooms and hire-on-arrival wheelchairs. Service and guide dogs are also welcome.
Whether you want to get up close to the species and ecosystem of the tropics at your own pace, join a tour or ogle at the beauty of marine life at night, you’ll love slipping into the stories of nature with Cairns Aquarium.
For more information on the accessibility of the Cairns Aquarium, contact Out There Travel Care on 07 4255 6888.
Take the trip of a lifetime on a helicopter
Soar over the Great Barrier Reef
For those who love a thrill, taking a helicopter flight across the scenic tropics is one of the best ways to explore the area in a unique way. The Out There Travel Care is set to make your experience in the air with Nautilus Aviation as comfortable and as accessible as possible. By providing a carer to accompany you to set up the experience and help you gain access to the helicopter, you’ll love this incredible experience as you gaze at the dancing colours of the Great Barrier Reef below.
For more information on the accessibility of Nautilus Aviation flights, contact Out There Travel Care on 07 4255 6888.
Catch a fish with Reef Runner Fishing Charters
If you’ve always wanted to catch your own dinner, here’s your chance! Offering full and half day private charters to the Great Barrier Reef, Reef Runner Charters can provide an experience that is as unforgettable as it is accessible. With the assistance of Out There Travel Care, you can hop on board a modern 10m Kelvacat with twin 300hp engines, before taking off to the world’s most beloved reef.
With accessible seating and amenities, this is an experience that can be made completely access-friendly with the assistance of your carer and Out There Travel Care.
For more information on the accessibility of Reef Runner Fishing Charters, contact Out There Travel Care on 07 4255 6888.
Accessed That Podcast
Presented by Queensland.com, this incredible podcast delves into accessible travel. Julie Jones, the mind behind Australia’s first accessibility-focused travel magazine, Travel Without Limits, joins this episode to share her family’s travel adventures, navigating the unique challenges of having a child with cerebral palsy, Braeden.
