From A$452 per person
The Gondwana Rainforests offer incredible natural beauty just a short drive from the Gold Coast. This fully guided tour provides a personalised experience with door-to-door transfers from selected central locations. Visit the stunning Natural Bridge and enjoy a guided walk with an expert local guide.
Learn about the unique flora, fauna and geology of this ancient rainforest as you explore the basalt cave, where water cascades through the roof above. Continue to ‘Best of All Lookout’ for panoramic views across northern New South Wales and Mt Warning. The walk to the lookout passes through one of the few remaining pockets of ancient Antarctic Beech Forest. Along the way, take in the scenery of the Numinbah Valley and visit additional lookouts, including Canyon Lookout or Goomoolahra Falls (weather permitting).
On the return journey, keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies, often seen grazing in the late afternoon.
Elevate your adventure with an approximately 40–60 minute Hot Air Balloon Flight. Begin before sunrise, where you’ll watch the sky come alive with vibrant hues as you float gently over the picturesque Gold Coast hinterland or city. With Australia’s only “walk-in” basket for added comfort and safety, this flight promises unmatched views of the coastline, mountains, and beyond. Complete your experience with an optional 5-star buffet breakfast at the luxurious Sheraton Mirage Resort for just $30. Enjoy complimentary transfers to and from your Gold Coast accommodation for the balloon activity.
Comfortable shoes
Reusable water bottle
Camera
Hat
Warm jacket
Suitable for most ages and general fitness levels. The tour includes guided rainforest walks on formed tracks with steps, natural surfaces and gentle inclines. Comfortable enclosed walking shoes are recommended, and this experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Total Walk Approx: 2.85km
- Natural Bridge: 1.4km
- Purlingbrook Falls: 400m
- Best of all Lookout: 700m
- Canyon Lookout: 100m
- Goomoolahra Falls Lookout: 250m
Walking Grade 2: More information about the walking grades
This experience operates in most weather conditions, as rainforest environments are shaped by rainfall and waterfalls are most dramatic when the hinterland receives moisture. Springbrook’s ancient forests and lookout views are equally striking in light rain or sunshine.
However, for your safety and comfort, tours may be altered, rescheduled or cancelled if conditions such as severe weather, road closures or park access restrictions occur. Heavy rain, strong winds or approaching thunderstorms can impact national park access, and in those rare cases we will contact you with options to reschedule or offer a refund in line with our booking terms.
Please dress for changing weather — rain can enhance waterfalls but may also make tracks wet or slippery.
Plans can change, so we aim to keep things simple and flexible:
Full refund available for cancellations made 48 hours or more prior to departure
Cancellations within 48 hours incur a 100% cancellation fee
Reschedules are permitted up to 24 hours prior (subject to availability)
No changes are permitted within 24 hours of departure
Late arrivals and no-shows are treated as cancellations.
This is a family-friendly experience designed to be enjoyed together:
Infants (0–1 years) are welcome (subject to availability) and must be advised at time of booking
Infant fare is typically 50% of the child rate and does not include refreshments
Children (2–16 years) are welcome on tour
All children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult (18+)
Car seats and booster seats are available on request (limited availability)
Please note: due to the nature of the rainforest walk, prams and strollers are not suitable
Your safety and comfort are at the heart of the experience:
Guided by experienced local guides with expert knowledge of Springbrook National Park.
Transport is provided in professionally maintained vehicles with first aid kits on board.
Walks are conducted on marked rainforest tracks and designated viewing platforms.
Guests must remain with the guide at all times during rainforest walks and lookout visits.
Lookout and waterfall areas may include uneven ground and steps — care should be taken underfoot.
For comfort and safety, guests are encouraged to wear enclosed walking shoes, bring suitable weather protection and carry a light jacket as hinterland conditions can vary.
Southern Cross Tours may alter or cancel any section of any of the itinerary which may result from road closures, weather, suppliers or any other condition of an operational nature. Alternate vehicles may be used in the event that a Southern Cross vehicle is unavailable.
Warm clothing (early morning)
Camera
Closed shoes
Not suitable for pregnant guests or certain medical conditions.
Weather dependent — rescheduled if conditions unsuitable
Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before the tour departure. Cancellations made after this period, including no-shows, will incur a 100% cancellation fee.
Children under 3 years old cannot participate in Hot Air Ballooning.
Operated by certified pilots under strict aviation regulations
