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Offered languages
- English
There is a whole world in these gardens that most people never see. Jumping spiders smaller than a fingernail. Caterpillars that look like twigs. Fungi that grow all around. Bridgette Gower and her team have spent over 2,000 hours in the Cairns Botanic Gardens finding them, and on this two-hour morning walk, they take you directly to them.
This is a photography-led exploration of the insects, spiders, reptiles, and fungi that live in the undergrowth and go unnoticed by most visitors. The routes are seasonal. Jumping spiders, mantids, butterflies, beetles, and moths are regular sightings. Bridgette and Ros help you identify each species and understand the ecosystems they are part of.
Photography guidance is built in for all skill levels. Whether you use a smartphone or a dedicated camera, you will leave with shots worth keeping. Camera hire is available from A$29 - $49 across beginner, intermediate, and advanced options. Reserve your preferred option after booking and pay on the day.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meeting Point: Cairns Botanic Gardens main entrance, Collins Avenue. Toilets and cafe available at the Visitor Centre. Meet your guide at 8:15am, or 8:10am if renting Camera equipment.
What to expect
Safety briefing – A short briefing at the meeting point covers the route, what to expect, and how to move quietly around wildlife.
Gardens walk begins – the walk follows a route chosen for the season, moving slowly through the gardens with stops at each significant find. Bridgette or a member of her bug spotting team will be leading.
Wildlife encounters – Each sighting becomes a photography opportunity. Common subjects include jumping spiders, caterpillars, mantids, beetles, moths, butterflies, lizards, and fungi. Bridgette provides species context and photography tips on the spot.
Identification and Q&A – As the walk progresses, your guides help you understand the relationships between species and the ecosystems they form part of. Questions are encouraged throughout.
Return – The walk returns to the main entrance at approximately 10:30 AM. Your guide are available for questions before you leave.
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not suitable for children under 8 years of age
- Not recommended for guests with limited mobility on uneven terrain
- Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, loose-fitting long-sleeve top and long pants (recommended)
- Bring hat, sunscreen and water
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not suitable for children under 8 years of age
- Not recommended for guests with limited mobility on uneven terrain
- Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, loose-fitting long-sleeve top and long pants (recommended)
- Bring hat, sunscreen and water
- Bring your own camera or phone, if not hiring equipment
- Tour departs at 8:30 AM. Meet at the Cairns Botanic Gardens main entrance, Collins Avenue, at 8:20 AM or 8:10 AM if renting equipment.
- Toilets and cafe available at the Visitor Centre.
- This tour books up weeks in advance. Early booking is recommended.
- Camera Rental must be reserved after booking. Contact the operator with your preferred option (beginner, intermediate, or advanced). Payment is on the day.
- Wear loose-fitting long sleeves and long pants. Helps with comfort in the gardens and around vegetation.
- Wildlife sightings vary by season and cannot be guaranteed.
- The route may be adjusted based on seasonal conditions.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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