Some people go on holiday to relax out by the pool, chilling out and sipping on an icy beverages. Others want something a little more thrilling. If you’re an adrenaline seeker, head on over to Cairns for some extreme adventure activities. All of the hot spots are within driving distance and are easy to get to once you’ve got your Cairns Airport car hire sorted thanks to East Coast Car Rentals.
Bungy jumping
AJ Hackett Bungy, in the middle of a tropical rainforest, is a popular place for this adrenaline-inducing activity. Australia’s first and only bungy tower is open 7 days a week from 10am – 5pm, and is just 15km out of Cairns – a mere 20 minute drive.
The tower is 50 metres high, was purpose built and is fitted out to the max. There are 16 different jump styles so you can find what’s suited to you, whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline seeker or this is your first time.
From Cairns’ highest viewing platform, you’ll get spectacular views of this phenomenal location. The vibrant and dense rainforest will be all around you, and the mountains and Coral Sea are off in the distance. You can see all the way to Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef.
After you’ve been kitted out, walk the plank, push your limits and launch yourself off. The thrill is exhilarating and unlike any other. If you want a memento, you can get photos and a full HD video of your jump, shot from all angles.
Skydiving
If, after bungy jumping, you’ve got a taste for adventure sports, go skydiving – it’s sure to offer a massive adrenaline rush. There are many opportunities available here, but start with Skydive Cairns, a company that was established in 1989 and has become a well known and respected brand.
It doesn’t matter what age you are or if you have no experience because Skydive Carins offers tandem skydives. When you jump with a certified skydiver, there’s a 100 per cent safety record. You can rest assured you’re safe when you’re freefalling at 200 kilometres an hour.
Because of the warm climate, you can go any time of the year. During the plane ride, you’ll see the Great Barrier Reef and the World Heritage Rainforests stretching out below you. The absolutely stunning area, made up of lush forests, balmy seas, and bustling cities, can be seen all at once when you’re on top of the world and making your way back to the ground.
Whitewater rafting
If you’re after an exciting whitewater rafting experience, Carins doesn’t disappoint. The Tully Gorge Rivers offer a variety of rafting areas, some of which are more tame, but most of which are wild. You can choose an easier section of the river if that’s more up your alley, or if you’re after something more extreme, there are raging torrents of water waiting for you. Wherever you are, it’s all about working as a team as you make your way down the river.
The guides are well trained and fully experienced – they know what to expect and how to deal with anything that might happen. They’ve done the journey so many times that the bends, dips and turns are completely familiar. The inflatable boats that are made to tough it out and have self-draining floors so you don’t find yourself at the bottom of the river. You have to be at least 13, and if you’re under 18, you have to come with a form signed by your parent or guardian.
Surrounded by rich natural vegetation rising from the water on both sides, the experience is one bound to engage all of your senses.