Hands On Country Eco Tour
- Half-day tour
- Departing from the Cairns Marlin Marina at 9.00 am
- Returning at 12.00 pm
- Tours departing every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Join this Hands On Country Eco Tour & embark on a journey with a small group, guided by the Traditional Owners of the Mandingalbay clan from the Yidinji Nation. Explore a breathtaking wetland environment merely a 10-minute cruise away from the bustling city center of Cairns. As you cruise along Hills Creek, meandering through its mangrove forests, the opportunity arises during low tide to spot our renowned saltwater crocodiles, inhabitants of this river. This unique tour provides you with exclusive access to an Indigenous Protected Reserve teeming with fish, birdlife, and ancient stories.
Upon reaching the other side, a brief bus ride transports you to a working Indigenous Ranger base. This marking is the commencement of the Mayi Bugan Rainforest Trail. Here, you will be guided by Indigenous experts to unveil the secrets of native foods, bush medicines, and the age-old Aboriginal traditions, customs, and artifacts. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature while indulging in light refreshments.
Finally, the journey concludes as you return to Cairns Harbour. Here, you will disembark at the Marina conveniently located near the Cairns CBD, replete with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Highlights
3-hour Indigenous experience
Itinerary
8:45 am: Check-in at the Mooz Gelato and Juice Bar – Marina Point, 5/2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns. Look for our A-Frame sign out front of the cafe. Our guides will meet you there, and walk you down to our river cruise vessel.
9:00 am: Currently departing from Finger Wharf C at the Cairns Marlin Marina
- Cruise up Hills Creek
- Once on the other side, take a short bus ride
- Guided bush-walk
12:00 pm: Return to Cairns Marlin Marina
Included
• Half Day tour 3 hours in duration departing from the Cairns Marina.
• Fully guided river cruise across Cairns Harbour to river system lined with Mangrove Forests.
• Exclusive access to the Mandingalbay Indigenous Protected Reserve (IPA)
• Mandingalbay Yidinji welcome and traditional smoking.
• Guided bush-walk discovering the Mandingalbay Yidinji native bush foods and medicine.
• Light refreshments (traditional damper, tea, coffee, and fresh tropical fruit).
• Return transfer by vessel to Cairns Marina
What to bring
- Bottle of water (no plastics please)
- hat, sunscreen
- personal insect repellent
- closed-in shoes good enough for a short bush walk
- poncho or light waterproofs if raining
- camera and any prescribed medications
What to wear?
- Sturdy, covered flat footwear, sun protection (a hat and sunscreen), and insect repellent.
Important Information
The minimum age for this tour is 5 years old.







Reviews
There are no reviews yet