What is the distance between Canberra and Cairns?

The distance separating Canberra and Cairns is 1284 miles (2071 km).

What are the best sights and things to do in Cairns?

Once in Cairns, you can start exploring the city and discover its surroundings. The top sights and things to do are Great Barrier Reef, Mossman Gorge, Kurunda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, White Water Rafting and Green Island.

Bus Canberra to Cairns from $527 | Refundable Tickets

Previously seen trips

Next departures for Canberra to Cairns on November 12
Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended
Bus	6:30am	Canberra	2d 13h	8:00pm	142 Bunda St, Cairns Train Station, Bus stop (Platform 1)	No tags
Bus	6:30am	Canberra	2d 13h	8:00pm	142 Bunda St, Cairns Train Station, Bus stop (Platform 1)	No tags
Bus	6:30am	Canberra	2d 13h	8:00pm	142 Bunda St, Cairns Train Station, Bus stop (Platform 1)	No tags
Bus	6:30am	Canberra	2d 13h	8:00pm	142 Bunda St, Cairns Train Station, Bus stop (Platform 1)	No tags
Bus	6:30am	Canberra	2d 13h	8:00pm	142 Bunda St, Cairns Train Station, Bus stop (Platform 1)	No tags

Get from Canberra to Cairns

This route is served by bus only

The journey takes about 2 days, 14 hours 30 minutes and with fares starting at just $553, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

1bus per day

2d 14hAverage Duration

1282 milesDistance

52kgCO₂ emissions

Compare bus companies

Greyhound Australia

4/52,346 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness3.9

Cleanliness4.7

Wifi3.8

Based on 2346 reviews, the company was rated 4.2 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the staff but often complained with the wifi. Greyhound Australia ticket prices on this trip start at $553

AU bus companies: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, ALSA, Greyhound, Intercape, Trenitalia, Sindbad

Frequently asked questions about traveling from Canberra to Cairns by bus

What is the distance between Canberra and Cairns?
What are the best sights and things to do in Cairns?

Find cheapest prices for buses

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found

11/11

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11/12

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Today

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11/14

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11/15

$527

11/16

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11/18

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The cheapest trip from Canberra to Cairns was searched and found on Nov 15, 2025 with a price of $527

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Canberra to Cairns, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $527 to $593 for a bus ticket from Canberra to Cairns based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $527 which is on 2025-11-15.