Discover Mareeba
Guests staying at the Jackaroo Motel Mareeba have easy access to a variety of natural attractions, scenic landscapes and unique experiences throughout Atherton Tablelands and the surrounding region. From waterfalls and national parks to lakes and wildlife parks, the area offers many opportunities for sightseeing, nature walks and outdoor activities.
Granite Gorge Nature Park
Granite Gorge Nature Park is located just a short drive from Mareeba and is known for its striking granite rock formations and native wildlife. Visitors can walk through the gorge, explore caves and swimming holes, and feed the friendly rock wallabies that live among the granite boulders. The park also offers bushwalking tracks and picnic areas.
barron falls
Barron Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Far North Queensland and is located within Barron Gorge National Park. Visitors can walk along rainforest boardwalks to viewing platforms overlooking the dramatic waterfall and gorge. The falls are especially impressive during the wet season when the water flow is strongest.
Davies Creek Falls
Davies Creek Falls is located a short drive from Mareeba and offers scenic views of waterfalls cascading through rocky woodland landscapes. A walking track leads to a lookout over the valley, making it a great spot for photography, bushwalking, and enjoying the natural scenery of the region.
Hot Air Ballooning
Hot air ballooning is one of the most iconic experiences in Mareeba, offering breathtaking sunrise flights over the wide-open landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands. Visitors float gently above farmland, bushland, and distant mountains, enjoying peaceful panoramic views as the region comes to life in the early morning light. Most tours depart around dawn and include a scenic flight followed by a relaxed return, making it a memorable highlight of any stay. Pick up and drop off point is across the road at the Mareeba Information Centre.
Heritage Museum & Visitor Information Centre
The Mareeba Heritage Museum & Visitor Information Centre is the perfect starting point for exploring the region’s rich history and culture. Featuring over 6,000 artefacts and dozens of interactive exhibits, the museum brings Mareeba’s past to life—from its gold mining roots to its multicultural heritage. Friendly staff are also available to help visitors plan their stay, with local tips, maps, and tour information all in one convenient location.
The Coffee Works
A unique attraction combining a coffee plantation, museum, and chocolaterie, The Coffee Works offers tastings, tours, and a deep dive into Australia’s coffee culture. It’s a popular stop for visitors wanting a relaxed and flavourful experience.
Golden Drop Mango Winery
Located near Mareeba, this boutique winery is famous for its tropical fruit wines, especially mango varieties. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and a true taste of Far North Queensland’s produce.
Convenient Location
The Jackaroo Motel Mareeba is conveniently located close to a range of attractions, towns, and essential services across the Atherton Tablelands and Far North Queensland. The motel provides easy access to local amenities, scenic natural attractions, and major transport routes.
Nearby Locations
- Cairns – approximately 1 hour drive east via the Kennedy Highway
- Atherton – approximately 35 minutes drive south, a major town on the Atherton Tablelands
- Kuranda – approximately 45 minutes drive, a rainforest village known for markets and arts
- Granite Gorge Nature Park – approximately 15 minutes drive, a popular wildlife and nature park
- Lake Tinaroo – approximately 40 minutes drive, well known for fishing, boating, and picnicking
- Barron Falls – approximately 50 minutes drive, located within Barron Gorge National Park
- Mareeba Heritage Museum – approximately 5 minutes drive from the motel
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway – approximately 45 minutes drive, offering scenic rainforest cableway experiences
Nearby Attractions
- Opposite the Mareeba Heritage Museum & Information Centre
- The Mareeba Rail Trail Parkrun is held every Saturday morning from behind the Jackaroo Motel
- Within walking distance to Pioneer Cemetery and Coffee Works
- Opposite the Hot Air Ballooning pick-up and drop-off point
- Opposite Mareeba Centenary Markets – held every second and fifth Saturday of the Month
- 30 minute walk to the centre of town
- Opposite Cafe Crema and Stewart’s Pies, Cakes & Sandwich mobile vans