Best things to do in Yungaburra

See one of the largest and oldest trees in Queensland at Curtain Fig National Park, the region’s best known tourist attraction. This tree belongs to the strangler fig species, which normally germinate on top of another tree and eventually "strangle" the host tree. This unusual tree, however, tilted toward the host tree, with roots hanging down and to create enormous curtains. These aerial roots drop 15 meters (49 ft) to the ground, allowing the fig to feed directly from the soil. A wooden boardwalk around the tree allows visitors to see and photograph this 500-year-old giant from all sides.

At Historic Village Herberton, step back in time and explore over 50 buildings dating from as far back as 1870, including an apothecary, schoolhouse, printing press, and grocer’s store, as well as a dentist, dress shop, toy store, and jail. Each displays well-preserved artifacts showcasing Australia’s rich history. While you walk around, watch volunteers demonstrate traditional skills. After enjoying some homemade pie or cake in the teashop, browse the old-fashioned toys and trinkets for sale in the gift shop.

A crater lake blessed with clear, deep blue water and surrounded by thick, lush vegetation, the idyllic aesthetic of Lake Barrine makes it ideal if you’re seeking a leisurely natural experience. Created by a volcanic explosion, the lake is filled only by rainwater. A cruise service offers boat rides. If you’re in need of refreshment, try the lakeside teahouse.

A wide-ranging, attractive, and well-organized nature park and visitor center, Granite Gorge Nature Park affords you the opportunity to observe indigenous species, such as rock wallabies and possums, as well as to safely explore the local wilderness. Several swimming holes and paths are marked out, so the park offers plenty of scope for those preferring to wander rather than interact with the wildlife. You can also camp on location at this lush, picturesque park, and avail yourself of the center’s shower and kitchen facilities.

Sitting on 5 hectares (12.35 acres) by Mena Creek Falls, Paronella Park is the exquisite park Jose Paronella made a reality. To learn about the 7,500 tropical plants and trees that cover the park, take a 45-minute guided tour to hear the story of the park's creation before embarking on a self-guided botanical walk. Admire the castle and relax in the picnic area by the falls, and perhaps stay until the evening for a photo session on the flood-lit grounds.

One hour from Cairns on the Atherton Tablelands, share one man’s passion for crystals and fossils at The Crystal Caves. Journey through Rene’s man-made tunnels and grottos as you share his passion for natural crystals and prehistoric fossils on a self-guided tour. Covering an area of 300 sq m (3,200 sq ft), more than 600 specimens from all over the world are displayed to allow you to touch and photograph.