Public Transport in Mareeba
Getting to and around Mareeba on the Atherton Tablelands
Car Essential for Local Travel
Important: There is no local bus service within Mareeba town. Most residents drive, and having a car is essential for getting around Mareeba and accessing surrounding areas, attractions, and services in the shire.
How to Get from Cairns to Mareeba
By Bus
Trans North Bus & Coach operates regular coach services from Cairns to Mareeba as part of the Cairns-Atherton-Ravenshoe route. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Trans North also operates services on the Cairns-Karumba and Cairns-Cooktown routes. Check their website for current timetables, fares, and booking information.
By Car
The drive from Cairns to Mareeba is approximately 64km (1 hour) via the Kennedy Highway. This is the most flexible way to travel and allows you to explore the Atherton Tablelands region.
Route: From Cairns, head west on the Gillies Highway or Kennedy Highway through Kuranda, then continue on the Kennedy Highway to Mareeba.
Car hire is available at Cairns Airport and in Cairns city. Most visitors rent a car for exploring the Tablelands.
Fly to Cairns Airport
Cairns Airport (CNS) is the nearest major airport, located approximately 64km (1 hour drive) from Mareeba. Cairns Airport has domestic flights from all Australian capital cities and international flights from Asia and the Pacific.
From Cairns Airport, you can hire a car, arrange a shuttle transfer, or take a bus service to Mareeba.
Mareeba Airport is a small general aviation airport that does not handle commercial passenger flights. It's used for private aircraft, flight training, and charter services.
Transport Options Summary
| Transport Mode | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bus (Intercity) | Available | Trans North Bus - Cairns to Mareeba route |
| Bus (Local) | Not Available | No local bus service within Mareeba |
| Taxi | Available | Check local directories for operators |
| School Bus | Available | Queensland school bus services for students |
| Train | Not Available | Kuranda Scenic Railway goes to Kuranda only (tourist) |
| Airport (Commercial) | Cairns (64km) | Mareeba Airport is general aviation only |
| Car/Driving | Essential | Most flexible option, required for local travel |
Tourist Transport to the Tablelands
While these options don't go directly to Mareeba, they're popular tourist attractions for visiting the Atherton Tablelands region from Cairns:
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Historic train journey from Cairns to Kuranda through rainforest and spectacular scenery. This is a tourist attraction that terminates at Kuranda village (not Mareeba). From Kuranda, you would need alternative transport to reach Mareeba (approximately 25km).
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Cable car gondola service from Cairns to Kuranda over the rainforest canopy. Another tourist attraction that terminates at Kuranda. Not suitable for reaching Mareeba directly.
Getting Around Without a Car
While challenging, it's not impossible to visit Mareeba without a car. Here are some tips:
Stay Central
Book accommodation in central Mareeba within walking distance of shops, cafes, and services along Byrnes Street.
Use Taxis for Short Trips
Taxis can be used for getting around town and to nearby attractions, though this can become expensive for longer distances.
Book Tours from Cairns
Many Tablelands tours depart from Cairns and include transport. Some may pass through or visit attractions near Mareeba.
Bike for Local Exploration
A bicycle can be useful for getting around Mareeba town itself, though roads to surrounding attractions can be hilly and distances significant.
Reality Check: For exploring Mareeba Shire, Lake Tinaroo, and the wider Atherton Tablelands, having access to a car makes a huge difference in terms of flexibility, convenience, and ability to see multiple attractions. Consider hiring a car for at least part of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Cairns to Mareeba by bus?
Trans North Bus & Coach operates services from Cairns to Mareeba as part of the Cairns-Atherton-Ravenshoe route. Contact (07) 3036 2070 or visit transnorthbus.com.au for schedules and bookings.
Is there a local bus service in Mareeba?
No, there is no local bus service operating within Mareeba town. Most residents drive, and a car is essential for getting around.
What is the nearest airport to Mareeba?
Cairns Airport (CNS) is the nearest major airport, approximately 64km (1 hour drive) from Mareeba. Mareeba has a small airport for general aviation only.
Are there taxis in Mareeba?
Yes, taxi services are available in Mareeba. Check local directories for current taxi operators and contact numbers.
Can you get to Mareeba by train?
There is no passenger train service to Mareeba. The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs from Cairns to Kuranda (tourist service), but does not continue to Mareeba.