Our History
Over four decades of sharing the extraordinary landscapes of Tropical North Queensland — and proudly leading Australian tourism into a more sustainable future.
Born in Cairns. Built on passion.
Tropic Wings was founded in Cairns in 1981, when a handful of passionate locals decided there was no better way to share the wonders of Tropical North Queensland than to take people directly into them — through the rainforest, along the coast, and into the heart of one of the most extraordinary ecosystems on the planet.
What began as a small fleet of coaches and a commitment to genuine local guiding has grown into Cairns' most established and trusted day tour operation. Over four decades, we've welcomed guests from every corner of the world, each one leaving with a deeper connection to the ancient landscapes of Far North Queensland.
Through every change in tourism, transport technology, and traveller expectation, one thing has remained constant: our belief that experiencing these places with a knowledgeable local guide is the single best thing you can do with a day in Cairns.
Four decades of Tropical North Queensland
Tropic Wings is founded
Tropic Wings is established in Cairns, beginning operations with day tours to Kuranda — the iconic rainforest village in the mountains above the city. From day one, our tours are led by locals who know and love this landscape.
Expanding across Tropical North Queensland
Growing demand leads Tropic Wings to expand its tour program beyond Kuranda. Day tours to the Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, and Port Douglas bring guests face-to-face with the world's oldest tropical rainforest and two UNESCO World Heritage Areas in a single day.
Joining the CaPTA Group family
Tropic Wings becomes part of the CaPTA Group — a family of Far North Queensland tourism experiences with deep roots in the region. Under CaPTA, Tropic Wings expands its fleet, refines its tour offering, and deepens its commitment to responsible tourism and local community.
Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame
Tropic Wings is inducted into the Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame — one of the highest recognitions in Australian nature-based tourism. The award reflects our long-standing commitment to minimal environmental impact, conservation education, and support for local ecosystems and Indigenous culture.
Australia's first 100% electric coach fleet
Tropic Wings makes history by becoming the first tour operator in Australia to operate an entirely electric coach fleet. Our Volkswagen ID. Buzz coaches produce zero direct emissions, bringing guests through the World Heritage rainforest more quietly and sustainably than ever before — a milestone for Australian tourism.
The CaPTA Group of FNQ experiences
Tropic Wings is proudly part of the CaPTA Group — a family of Far North Queensland tourism experiences that share a common passion for this extraordinary part of Australia and a responsibility to protect it for future generations.
Together, the CaPTA Group brings together some of the region's most beloved experiences, all committed to authentic, sustainable, and genuinely local tourism.
Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame
Inducted into the Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame — the peak body's highest honour for excellence in responsible nature-based tourism over sustained years of practice.
Australia's First Electric Coach Fleet
In 2024, Tropic Wings became the first and only tour operator in Australia to operate a 100% electric coach fleet — a landmark achievement in sustainable tourism.
40+ Years of Safe Operations
More than four decades of safe, reliable touring in Tropical North Queensland — an operational record built on our team's deep expertise and genuine care for every guest.
Leading Australian tourism into the future
In 2024, Tropic Wings took a significant step forward by becoming the first tour operator in Australia to convert to a fully electric coach fleet. Our Volkswagen ID. Buzz vehicles produce zero direct emissions — a world first in Australian day touring.
The switch to electric was driven by the same values that have always defined Tropic Wings: a deep respect for the natural environment we operate in, and a responsibility to protect these extraordinary places for future generations.
A quieter coach means a more immersive rainforest experience. A cleaner vehicle means a lighter footprint. And for over 40 years of caring about this landscape, it feels like the most natural next step we could take.
Read about our sustainability initiatives →Be part of the next chapter
Over four decades of passion, expertise, and care for Tropical North Queensland — and the best is still ahead. Book a day tour with Tropic Wings and experience the difference that 40+ years of local knowledge makes.