Undara Volcanic National Park

This park is home to the vast and fascinating Undara lava tubes. Running as far as 160km underground, these are the world's longest molten rock tunnels. The huge basalt tubes are the result of a single volcano eruption, which took place around 190,000 years ago and lasted an estimated 3 months. As the lava flows drained towards the sea, the surface cooled and hardened, but hot lava continued to course through the centre, resulting in these incredible lava tubes.

The area is also renowned for gem fossicking and jewels which might be discovered there include topaz, quartz, garnet, aquamarine and gold.

There are a number of nearby accommodation options, including the Undara Lava Lodge, which offers guests the choice of staying in restored railway carriages, permanent tents, dormitory-style lodges or there is a basic camping ground in a bushland setting. There is also a restaurant in one of the restored railway carriages.

The park is located a 4-hour scenic drive inland from Cairns. There are also regular day trips operating out of Cairns, mainly by bus.