Nothing says adventure like a trip to the adventure capital of Australia!
For the last stop on my series of trips around “Oz”, I decided to go to Cairns, Queensland, Australia. I don’t think I realized what I was getting myself into before I went. Cairns was an absolute blast! I’ve picked out some of my favorite activities from Cairns to share with you all. I think it’s best if I let the pictures do most of the talking!
Whitewater Rafting in the Barron River
A side note on safety from the rafting company I used (http://www.cairnsrafting.com.au/info/faq/)
How safe is White Water Rafting?
Like any adventure activity, rafting carries with it inherent risks and you will be required to sign an indemnity form to this effect on the day. On each trip our River Medics examine the health questionnaires completed by our rafters, and are able to address concerns in relation to rafting such as medication, diabetes, and prior injuries. These select senior guides are also trained as Emergency Medical Technicians, with on-river oxygen and defibrillator kits to complement our comprehensive first aid and trauma kits. This enables us to keep rafting as safe as possible for people from all nationalities and walks of life, while still allowing everyone to experience the thrill of rafting.
What safety gear will I wear?
All of our rafters are fitted with life jackets and helmets as a safety precaution at the top of the river, you will need to wear these while in the raft.
Back to my rafting adventure….
While whitewater rafting I happened to fall out of the raft (just my luck!). At some point the raft was completely submerged in the water and I couldn’t breathe, so I lifted my head up for air and, before you know it, I was sucked in by the water! The situation went completely downhill from there –literally. Luckily, I was able to save myself from drowning (I was wearing a life vest and helmet) and swim back to the raft!
And now for the embarrassing picture of me falling out:
Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and now I know why! The variety of marine animals that live in the reef is incredible. Not to mention the beauty that unfolds once you poke your head underwater!
Cairns Wildlife Sanctuary
Horse Riding through the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
Until next time, Cairns!