For those who think they’ve seen all Australia has to offer after visiting Sydney and Melbourne, let me tell you, you’re far from finished. Australia isn’t just home to some of the world’s most vibrant, cosmopolitan cities; it’s a treasure trove of untamed beauty and boundless adventure. And here we are, standing at the edge of it all. Welcome to Cairns, the gateway to a tropical dream.

After a breezy three-hour flight from Sydney, we find ourselves ready to embrace the magic of the Pacific. Picture strolling along the Esplanade Boardwalk, the ocean breeze weaving through the palms, indulging in the flavors of the bustling night markets, or catching a glimpse of Australia’s wildest creatures in their element.

Gear up, because this isn’t just a journey, it’s a plunge into the extraordinary. The warm, crystalline waters of the Great Barrier Reef are calling, and we’re ready to dive right in.

Here’s a snapshot of someone (who happens to look a lot like me) living out his lifelong dream. A cheerful early morning pose, 30 meters underwater, captured in one of the world’s most breathtaking diving destinations, the Great Barrier Reef.

Diving at the Great Barrier Reef has always been a dream of mine for years, and it was one of the biggest reasons I traveled all the way from Sydney to Cairns. After an exhilarating two-and-a-half-hour ride on a catamaran, reputedly one of the fastest boats in Cairns, we finally reached our diving spots.

Stretching 2,300 kilometers along Australia’s sun-kissed coast, the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, is a living masterpiece. This underwater Eden, the world’s largest coral reef system, teems with life, enchanting adventurers and nature lovers with its breathtaking beauty.

After completing three incredible hour-long dives around Flynn Reef, I can confidently say this is a world you’d never want to leave. The vibrant marine life, stunning corals, mesmerizing reefs, and the serene underwater ambiance come together to create a sense of joy that lingers long after you resurface.

The reef supports over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, 134 species of sharks and rays, and thousands of other marine creatures, including endangered species like dugongs and green sea turtles. During our third dive, we ventured to a spot with the hope of encountering some sharks, and our wish was granted. We spotted two majestic reef sharks, and I found myself just a few meters away from them. It was an absolutely unforgettable moment.

The Great Barrier Reef was famously portrayed as the home of Nemo in Disney Pixar’s 2003 animated film, Finding Nemo. And I believe I’ve found a proof that the depiction was spot on. Here’s Nemo in the flesh!

The Great Barrier Reef is undergoing severe degradation (bleaching), driven by rising ocean temperatures from climate change, pollution, overfishing, illegal fishing, and the impacts of millions of visitors. I sincerely hope we can come together to safeguard this breathtaking masterpiece of nature for future generations.

If you’re in Australia, experiencing the country’s incredible wildlife is a must, and there’s no better place to encounter it all than Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, located just 40 minutes from Cairns. If driving isn’t your preference, plenty of tour companies offer convenient half-day trips from Cairns.

At Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, you’ll get the chance to get up close and personal with one of Australia’s most iconic and beloved creatures, koalas.

Meet the emu! This towering bird is a symbol of Australia, featured on the country’s coat of arms alongside the kangaroo.

But did you know Australia once declared war on emus? Yes, you read that right, the Great Emu War of 1932! It all started when thousands of emus invaded farmlands in Western Australia, wreaking havoc on crops. Desperate farmers turned to the government for help, and the army stepped in with machine guns.

What followed was a battle of wits (and wings). The emus, fast and unpredictable, proved to be master escape artists, dodging bullets with ease. After a month of chaotic attempts, the operation was abandoned, with only about 1,000 emus culled, far fewer than expected.

In the end, the emus emerged victorious, their numbers thriving despite the effort to stop them.

Meet the cassowary! A bird often labeled as one of Australia’s most dangerous. Despite their fearsome reputation, these towering creatures are surprisingly docile. To me, they feel like one of the closest living relatives to dinosaurs, with their striking features and ancient aura.

The Komodo dragon hardly needs an introduction. With venomous saliva and over 50 types of bacteria, a single bite from this formidable reptile can potentially be fatal to humans.

Ever heard of the kookaburra? This adorable bird has easily become one of my favorite animals. With its large head, funny look and a distinctive, laughter-like call, the kookaburra holds a special place in Australian culture, and also in my heart!

A magnificent green iguana.

Well, I am not gonna lie, but my first encounter with a kangaroo was a bit… one-sided. It was pleasant for me, but I’m not sure the kangaroo felt the same way since it ended up sitting on my table as a burger!

At Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, you’ll not only have the chance to pet and feed koalas but also kangaroos (and many other animals) that bouncing freely around the park. Don’t worry, they’re super friendly!

Now, it’s time to embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of Australia. Many don’t realize it, but in the northeast corner of the land Down Under lies one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests. As you venture through the dense jungle, with towering trees above and exotic wildlife hidden in the underbrush, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a truly remarkable ecosystem that has flourished for over 135 million years, long before the Amazon even came into existence.

The Daintree River flows through the heart of the rainforest, its dark, glassy waters mirroring the vibrant green canopy above. But don’t be fooled, this beauty harbors its dangers. The river basin is home to some fierce predators, so stay alert while you soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

Where the rainforest meets the sea…

If you’re seeking a true connection with nature, the Daintree Rainforest is an essential stop on your Australian adventure.

After a long day in the rainforest, plunging into the freezing cold stream that runs through it was one of the highlights of my trip. That said, I highly recommend exercising extreme caution and not getting swept away by the strong current which might be fatal while in the water.

With this post, I’m wrapping up my journey through Australia. Cairns is a place that truly embodies the adventurous spirit of the country. It’s a destination where you can immerse yourself in awe-inspiring natural wonders, encounter unique wildlife, and marvel at the stunning ocean that surrounds it. I sincerely hope to have the opportunity to experience the pristine nature of Cairns once again in the near future.