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Night Wildlife Walk in the Cairns Botanic Gardens

5.0(166)Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 166 reviews2 hFree cancellationBy Aussie Macro Photos
Dwarf Tree Frog

About this activity

Most people walk through Cairns Botanic Gardens and see plants. Expert local macro-photographer Bridgette Gower walks through and sees a thousand tiny creatures.

With over 2,000 hours in these gardens, she knows where White-lipped Tree Frogs shelter, where Net-casting Spiders set up at dusk, and which host plants the caterpillars favour. On this two-hour night walk, she shares all of it, from Striped Possums to Papuan Frogmouths.

The route changes with the season. Frogs are reliable year-round. Expect eyeshines before you see the creatures behind them, and the chance to photograph a Papuan Frogmouth sitting perfectly still.

Groups are capped at eight. Bridgette gives real attention to your questions, interests, and camera settings. Photography guidance is part of the experience.

Camera hire available from A$40 to A$80. Beginner to advanced options. Reserve after booking, pay on the day.

Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and long sleeves.

What's included

  • ✓Admission into the Botanic Gardens (Free)
  • ✓Camera hire available from A$40-$80 (reserve after booking, pay on the day)
  • ✓Photography guidance throughout
  • ✓Safety briefing at meeting point
  • ✓Expert guided nature walk (1.5-2.5 hours depending on option selected)
  • ✓Head torches provided

Not included

  • ✕Food and beverages
  • ✕Transport to and from the meeting point
  • ✕Camera hire (available to add on, not included in the tour price)

Meeting and pickup

  • Cairns Botanic Gardens main entrance, Collins Avenue (Free parking is available on Collins Avenue. The closest cross street is McCormack Street.). Look for the Telstra Public Phone Box at the entrance. Meet your guide 10 minutes before departure or 30 minutes if renting camera equipment.

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Not suitable for children under 8 years of age
  • Not suitable for guests with limited mobility on uneven terrain
  • There are water stations throughout the walk
  • There is no obligation to take photos and we welcome all guests to enjoy the walk through nature
  • Camera hire must be reserved after booking. Contact the operator with your preferred option (beginner, intermediate, or advanced). Payment is on the day.
  • Wildlife sightings vary by season and cannot be guaranteed.
  • The route may be adjusted based on seasonal conditions.
  • Premium (adults-only) and Family (groups with kids) options available to select during checkout
  • Private Walks available for people with accessibility needs.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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