“Good travel information is the difference between arriving on the Tablelands overwhelmed by choices and arriving with the confidence to make the most of every hour you have.”
Visitor Information for the Atherton Tablelands: What You Need to Know Before You Go
The Atherton Tablelands is a large and diverse region — one that rewards preparation and punishes vague planning. Here’s the practical information that will help you make the most of your visit.
Getting There
The Atherton Tablelands is approximately one hour’s drive from Cairns, accessible via the Gillies Highway (through Gordonvale) or the Kuranda Range Road (past Kuranda). Both routes are sealed and suitable for conventional vehicles, though the Gillies Highway has a memorable series of switchbacks that some visitors find challenging on the way up. Self-drive is by far the most flexible way to explore the region, public transport options to and around the Tablelands are limited.
When to Visit
The Tablelands is a year-round destination. The dry season (May to October) offers cool, clear days ideal for walking, waterfall visiting, and wildlife spotting. The wet season (November to April) brings higher rainfall and occasionally flooded roads, but also lush, spectacular scenery and waterfalls running at full force. Check road conditions during the wet season, particularly for less-travelled routes.
Visitor Centres
The Atherton Tableland Visitor Information Centre in Atherton is the main regional tourist office and is staffed by knowledgeable locals. Cairns also has visitor information services that cover the Tablelands, and most Tablelands towns have at least a small information point or interpretive signage at key natural sites.
A Hot Getaways destination. Where Care is Our Compass.
