Half-Day Rafting Barron River
This Half Day Rafting adventure on the Barron River is perfect for first-timers and families. Especially anybody looking to spend a few thrilling hours on the river!
Get your Thrills and Spills

Prepare yourself for plenty of thrills and excitement as we paddle over grade 2 and 3 rapids. Surf the rafts into the free-standing waves, and then go over the enormous drop at Rooster Tail. The Half Day Rafting tour is certainly the ideal opportunity to experience the incredible natural beauty that we call home. So, just bring a smile and be ready to have the time of your life! All the equipment and instruction is provided on the day, so you don’t need any experience to join.
Picturesque River views

The beautiful Barron Gorge National Park is just a 20-minute drive from the centre of Cairns. Making this the closest river to go Half Day Rafting in!
It’s well known for its rugged rainforest mountains, steep ravines, the mighty Barron Falls and of course, Barron Gorge, which has been carved out over thousands of years by the Barron River.
Clean, Green Energy
Due to the operation of the 66 MW Barron Gorge Hydro, the Barron River plays a vital role in the generation of clean, green energy. They adjust the water release schedule based on capacity, production, and volume, therefore we adjust our Barron rafting programme accordingly. With this in mind, you will get the best possible Half Day Rafting experience on the Barron River.
On the other hand, maybe you want to kick it up a notch? Check out the Full Day Tully Rafting adventure instead!
Highlights
What are the best parts of your day?
- Up to 2 hours White-water Rafting
- Grade 2 and 3 Rapids
- 8 Person inflatable Raft
- All equipment included
- Safety Training
Itinerary
And how does your day look?
- 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm – Pickups from Cairns City & Northern Beaches accommodation
- 2:30 pm – Travel to the Barron River Gorge start point and get fitted with rafting gear.
- 2:45 pm – 3:00 pm – Safety briefing and paddling instructions
- 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Raft down the Barron River conquering awesome grade 2 & 3 rapids!
- 5:00 pm – 5:30 pm – Exit the River, change into dry clothes and head over to the Lake Placid Tourist Park for some tea and coffee, view photos of your trip and compare river stories.
- 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm – Kick back and relax as we transfer you back to your accommodation
Included
So what is included?
- Return transfers from Cairns and Northern Beaches
- 2 Hours White Water Rafting
- All tuition and safety equipment
- River Guides (Professional and Certified)
- Barron Gorge National Park (Stunning rainforest)
Optional Extras
- Digital photos available for purchase – $55.00
- Shoe Hire – $5.00
What to bring
And what will I need to bring?
- Wear a swimming costume under your clothes
- You must wear shoes – reef sandals, sneakers or anything with an ankle strap is also suitable.
- Bring a towel as well as a spare change of clothes
- Leave all of your jewellery at your accommodation
How to get there
But how will I get there?
Hotel pickups are included from Cairns or Northern Beaches accommodation.
If you are joining the self-drive option, the meeting point is at the Lake Placid Carpark at 101 Lake Placid Rd. Please wait by your car, where the bus meets you and take you up to the River starting point.
Important Information
There is a $30 per person Rafting Levy that is payable on the day of travel.
In order to join the Barron River Rafting, you should have some swimming ability and basic understanding of English. Due to the nature of White Water Rafting, unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for anyone who may be pregnant.
Generally speaking, the day’s activities will occur as per the schedule. However, in some circumstances, timings may change due to weather or circumstances outside our control. With this in mind, we recommend reconfirming your trip 48 hours prior to travel.
The minimum age to participate is 12 years, those under 18 years must travel with a responsible guardian or adult.
For your safety you will not be permitted to raft if we detect you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol and in these instances, no refund will apply.
Please leave all jewellery and valuables at your accommodation
Medical Conditions:
Please note that some medical conditions, disabilities and impairments may exclude participants from rafting for safety reasons, e.g. pregnancy and serious vision impairments. Passengers should disclose any medical conditions, disabilities and impairments at the time of booking.
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