Barron River Rafting

Ride the Rapids and Soak Up the Stunning Barron Gorge!

  • Free cancellations*
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Full details

Exciting Grade 2–3 Rapids Set in Stunning Barron Gorge National Park

Feel the rush on the Barron River! Navigate exciting rapids and soak in the stunning rainforest scenery on this half-day Cairns adventure.

Our guide to Barron River Rafting

Looking for a high-energy way to explore the rainforest? This half-day Barron River rafting tour, just 20 minutes from Cairns, delivers the perfect mix of thrills and stunning scenery. Set in the heart of Barron Gorge National Park, you’ll tackle Grade 2–3 rapids — perfect for first-timers, families and anyone chasing safe adrenaline-fueled fun.

Float between paddle-powered rapids and calm stretches, taking in towering cliffs, lush rainforest and tropical wildlife. Your expert guides lead up to two hours of rafting, provide a full safety briefing and supply all equipment — all you need to do is hang on, paddle and enjoy the ride!

After your adventure, relax with convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off from Cairns or the Northern Beaches. Suitable for ages 12+, this fuss-free rafting tour is the ultimate way to add excitement to your Tropical North Queensland getaway!

Departs

Daily, year-round except 25th December and 1st January.

Start times

Hotel pick-ups begin from 2:00 pm. Your exact pick-up time will be confirmed when you reconfirm your tour locally.

Duration

Around 4 hours with up to 2 hours on the water.

Terms and conditions

Terms and conditions for Barron River Rafting

  • You will receive a voucher for this experience. Please read it thoroughly.
  • You MUST reconfirm your booking locally at least 24 hours in advance.
  • A Rafting Levy of AUD30.00 per person is payable locally on the day. The rafting levy is a compulsory charge covering Land Management fees, government charges and taxes, dam water release and part recovery of public risk insurance (amount subject to change without notice). Payable directly to Raging Thunder.
  • This trip is suitable for all levels of fitness. All passengers must be able to fit into the supplied life jackets.
  • Important: Minimum age is 13 years. All participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian co-sign the liability waiver.
  • Bring lace-up shoes (that WILL get wet), a swimsuit and towel (you will need to be wearing your swimsuit at the time of pick-up), a spare change of clothes, and don't forget the sunscreen. You will be provided with safety equipment, including a life jacket, helmet and spray jacket.
  • All tours depart at the discretion of your guide based on weather conditions and safety reasons.
  • A medical questionnaire and liability waiver are required to be completed and signed.
  • PLEASE NOTE: you MUST HAVE a competent swimming ability and be able to understand and follow River Guide instructions in English, to participate in Barron River Rafting. This is for your safety. English speaking and comprehension will be assessed by River Guides at the time of pick-up; if there are concerns about your ability to understand instructions and communicate with our River Guides, you will not be able to participate in the tour and no refund is available or will be provided.
  • Rafting is not suitable for anyone who is pregnant.
  • For your safety you will not be permitted to raft if we detect you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, in these instances no refund will apply. If you have any medical conditions you are worried about, please talk to our friendly team.
  • We highly recommend having your own travel insurance.
  • If you have a medical condition or you are unsure that you are physically able to participate in the activity, we recommend that you consult with a medical practitioner.
  • Hire shoes are available for hire at $5/pair if you do not wish to get your own shoes wet.
  • Action digital photos of the day will be available to buy, at the end of the tour.
  • Prior to your rafting trip you will be required to complete a medical questionnaire and sign a liability waiver (either online or on paper). 

*CANCELLATION POLICY: 

Free cancellations and amendments are allowed for bookings cancelled with the tour operator up to 24 hours before your chosen activity date. Please keep in mind that there is a significant time difference between Australia and the UK, so be sure to allow for this when making your cancellation. After the 24-hour window, no amendments or refunds will be provided.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions for Barron River Rafting

Can I change the date of my tour?

Dates may be changed locally at the discretion of the tour operator. It MUST be resquested up to 24 HOURS before the tour departs.

What if I miss my coach pick-up?

If you are not waiting at the pick-up point at the date and time specified in your booking, then you will forfeit 100% of the total price paid. At the discretion of tour operator, if you miss your coach departure you may be able to reschedule for another day subject to the payment of a rescheduling fee (this covers administration charges and the provision of meals where applicable).

What should I bring?

Please bring lace-up shoes (that WILL get wet), swim suit and towel (you will need to be wearing your swim suit at the time of pick-up), a spare change of clothes, and don't forget the sunscreen. You will be provided with safety equipment, including life jacket, helmet and spray jacket. Bring money for photos and levy BUT please do leave jewellery and valuables at home.

What is the Rafting Levy fee?

The rafting levy is a compulsory charge covering Land Management fees, government charges and taxes, dam water release and part recovery of public risk insurance. The amount is payable locally on the day of your tour, and is subject to change without notice.

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