Tully River Rafting | 2026 Special

Activities

• Transfers
• Meals
• White Water Rafting

Features

• Accommodation transfers from Cairns or Mission Beach
• Rafting gear
• Safety briefing and paddling instruction
• Guided rafting experience
• Over 27 rapids
• Grade 3 to 4 rafting
• Hearty pub dinner
• Digital action photos available for purchase

The Tour

Cairns or Mission Beach Pick-Up

Participants are picked up from their accommodations in Cairns or Mission Beach and travel to Tully, where the adventure begins. The scenic drive through the rainforest sets the stage for the day's excitement.

Golden Gumboot Meeting Point

Upon arrival in Tully, guests gather at the Golden Gumboot for a quick lunch break, which is optional and at the guest's own cost. This is also the meeting point for those opting to self-drive.

Tully Gorge and Gear Fitting

After lunch, guests travel into Tully Gorge, where they are fitted with rafting gear. The gorge, surrounded by lush rainforest, provides a picturesque backdrop for the day's activities.

Safety Briefing

Before entering the water, a comprehensive safety briefing and paddling instruction are provided by experienced guides. Each raft accommodates up to seven passengers and a guide, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Rafting on the Tully River

The main event is a three-hour rafting journey on the Tully River, navigating over 27 rapids. The river's grade 3 to 4 rapids offer a mix of thrilling fast-moving sections and calmer stretches, all set within the World Heritage rainforest.

Change into Dry Clothes

After completing the rafting section, guests change into dry clothes at the take-out point, preparing for the evening's activities.

Dinner at El Arish Hotel

The day concludes with a pub dinner at El Arish Hotel. This is an opportunity to relax, view photos from the day, and share experiences with fellow rafters before the return journey.

Return to Accommodation

Following dinner, guests are transported back to their accommodations in Cairns or Mission Beach, wrapping up a full day of adventure.

Tour options

• Cairns Return Transfers from $235 Includes transfers from Cairns, making it convenient for those staying in the city. Ideal for guests who want a hassle-free day with pickup from their accommodation.
• Mission Beach Return Transfers from $215 Features transfers from Mission Beach, perfect for those staying in this area. Offers the same rafting experience with the convenience of local pickup.
• Self Drive | Meet at Tully from $195 Designed for those who prefer to drive themselves to Tully. Guests meet at the Golden Gumboot, making it suitable for locals or those with their own transport.

What to bring

• Lace-up shoes or sandals that will not fall off your feet
• Swimming costume
• Change of clothes
• Sweater for the bus ride home
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Money for snacks, souvenirs, and photos

Meeting point

Cairns Return Transfers

Pickup is available from accommodation or central points across the Cairns area. Please be ready at your assigned pickup point between 10:25am and 11:00am. The tour departs from Cairns at 10:00am and returns around 10:00pm.

Mission Beach Return Transfers

Pickup is available from accommodation or central points across the Mission Beach area between 11:45am and 12:05pm. The tour departs from Mission Beach and returns around 8:00pm.

Self Drive | Meet at Tully

Make your own way to the Golden Gumboot, corner of Hort and Butler Streets in Tully. Meet by 12:55pm. Ensure you arrive at least 5 minutes early to be ready for departure.

Useful information

Minimum age

Participants must be at least 13 years old. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Swimming ability

Participants must be competent swimmers to join the rafting tour.

What to bring

Bring lace-up shoes or sandals that won't fall off, a swimming costume, a change of clothes, a sweater for the bus ride home, a towel, sunscreen, and money for snacks, souvenirs, and photos. Avoid wearing jewellery and leave valuables in your hotel safe.

Rafting experience

No previous rafting experience is necessary to participate in the tour.

Health considerations

The tour is not suitable for pregnant individuals. Guests with medical conditions or concerns about their physical ability should consult a medical practitioner before booking.

Accessibility

This tour involves white water rafting on the Tully River with over 27 rapids, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility.

Customer reviews

• Julia F. (5.0/5), 04-06-2022: Rafting down the Tully river was an amazing experience with the family. Very experienced river guides, made it a fun and memorable experience. Highly recommend.
• Lauren H. (5.0/5), 26-04-2022: A great day out. Our tour guide Andy went above and beyond to make the experience fun and enjoyable for us. I went by myself and was put in with a group of other young women, and felt at home right away. The rafting was both very scenic and fun.
• Fraz A. (5.0/5), 15-09-2021: Thanks from all of us for this great experience
• Jodie P. (5.0/5), 20-12-2019: We had the best time and everyone was very professional. Would highly recommend.
• Donna R. (5.0/5), 06-09-2019: Love the whole day